Coordinates: 29.2108° N, 81.0228° W
Distance from Baton Rouge: 690.8 miles
Flying Time: 3 hours, 39 minutes
Driving Time: 9 hours, 57 minutes

There are several reasons why Daytona Beach is called the “World’s Most Famous Beach.” Aside from the bright blue waters and the white, sandy shores, Daytona Beach has endless entertainment for the whole family. You can dance to some live music, spend an hour (or two, or three) in an arcade on the boardwalk, and slip down the awesome water slides at the Daytona Lagoon. Speaking of music, your experience will begin at Hard Rock Hotel, where even your pet can rock out with you. Daytona Beach is also known for its Daytona International Speedway, which hosts tons of other events you won’t want to miss. 

WHERE TO STAY
The sound of Daytona Beach is waiting for you at the luxurious, one-of-a-kind Hard Rock Hotel. Here, you will take in beautiful ocean views as you wake up and smell the ocean before you start your day at Daytona Beach. Your stylish stay will include countless amenities, VIP services, and access to tons of food and entertainment. You’ll also have access to playlists specially designed for your stay, and you can even get vinyl records and a Fender guitar delivered to your room. Even better, Hard Rock Hotel has a pet-friendly Unleashed Pet Program, so you’ll be able to bring your furry friend on vacation. With services catered toward four-legged guests, Hard Rock Hotel ensures each member of the family will have a rockin’ experience.

WHERE TO EAT
Don Vito’s Italian Restaurant
After you visit historic downtown Daytona Beach, grab a bite to eat at Don Vito’s Italian Restaurant. This family-owned-and-operated restaurant serves the freshest Italian dishes made from scratch. Try the family favorite, the Boscaiola Ala Don Vito with pasta, delicious meat sauce, and fresh mushrooms and peas, or any of your favorite Italian dishes such as baked ziti and shrimp scampi. All the pizzas and calzones are made with homemade dough and baked in a brick oven, too.

Dancing Avocado Kitchen
Is your family a mix of carnivores and herbivores? Dancing Avocado Kitchen has a menu that will satisfy every diet. While meat-eaters will love the “Dave” Q quesadilla or the da Philly Steak Wrap, vegetarians and vegans can enjoy the signature “Original Dancer” sandwich, and the avocado hummus wrap. That way, everyone in your family can enjoy the meal.

Caribbean Jack’s
If you’re looking for a waterfront restaurant, the best one in Daytona Beach is Caribbean Jack’s. Start with the crispy Pina Colada Shrimp before you try the savory Mahi BLT, spicy Voodoo Burger, or the melty Fish Reuben. Check out the calendar on their website to see if you’ll be able to catch any live music while you’re enjoying your delicious meal by the river.

WHAT TO DO
Home of the Daytona 500, the iconic Daytona International Speedway is one of the most exciting destinations in Daytona Beach. Step behind the scene with a tour of the World Center of Racing, experience an exciting race such as the Daytona 500 and the Lucas Oil 200, or visit the speedway for Bike Week, a free event that showcases awesome motorbikes with vendors and displays. Be sure to check out their events calendar online so you don’t miss out on any of the high-speed action.

Make a splash at the Daytona Lagoon! Here, you can slip, slide, and drift through the water park on tall, winding slides or in a lazy river. If you don’t want to get wet, no problem. Daytona Lagoon’s Family Entertainment Center has bumper cars, laser tag, mini golf, and an arcade for your family to enjoy indoors.

Across from the Lagoon is the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, a family-friendly entertainment center just steps away from the ocean. You can grab some lunch, go souvenir shopping, and even play in an arcade–all in one place. And, if you visit Daytona Beach any Saturday night from May 29 to September 25, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the Daytona Beach Bandshell Concerts and Fireworks at the historic Coquina amphitheater.