13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

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People having coffee and planning trip with map 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Whether you’re traveling for vacation, for one of Daytona’s famous motorcycle events, road tripping around Florida, or visiting a friend, Daytona Beach is a fantastic home base for exploring the diverse and exciting destinations Florida has to offer. From wildlife encounters at state parks to theme parks in Orlando, Daytona’s central location makes it the perfect launching point for unforgettable experiences.

Our Top Recommendations for Day Trips Near Daytona Beach

Blue Spring State Park
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Canaveral National Seashore
St. Augustine
DeLand
Silver Springs State Park
Orlando
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Crystal River
Cocoa Beach
Gatorland
Old Town Kissimmee
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Looking for the experience of a lifetime? Consider renting a motorcycle (motorcycle license required) or Slingshot (no motorcycle license required) for your day trip with Riders Share! Explore all Daytona Beach and surrounding areas has to offer in the open air.

Blue Spring State Park

A female park visitor watching wintering Florida manatees from an observation deck at the Blue Spring State Park, Florida, USA 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Swim, kayak, see some manatees!

Travel Time: ~45 minutes by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Half-day trip
Highlights: Known for its crystal-clear waters, Blue Spring State Park is a winter refuge for manatees. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Visit between November and March for the best manatee sightings.
Recommendation: Arrive early to snag a good parking spot as the park can reach capacity quickly. Pack a picnic and enjoy a serene lunch by the water.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

USA, Florida, Merritt Island, National Wildlife Refuge, White Ibis, Great Egrets and Roseate Spoonbills 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Birdwatchers’ and nature-lovers’ paradise.

Travel Time: ~1 hour by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: Ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers, the refuge boasts over 1,400 species of plants and animals. Don’t miss the Black Point Wildlife Drive and the observation deck at the Visitor Center for spotting wildlife like alligators and bald eagles.
Recommendation: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and your camera for scenic shots. Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the warmer months.

Canaveral National Seashore

Beach at Canaveral National Seashore at Cape Canaveral Florida 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Do-not-miss beaches.

Travel Time: ~1 hour by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Half-day to full-day trip
Highlights: This protected coastline offers pristine beaches, hiking, and opportunities to explore Florida’s rich biodiversity. Popular for beachcombing, fishing, and kayaking.
Recommendation: Pack a beach towel and sunscreen, and spend a relaxing day by the water. For a quieter experience, visit the Apollo Beach side.

St. Augustine, Florida from Daytona Beach

The Castillo de San Marcos at sunrise, St Augustine, FL 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Nation’s oldest city.

Travel Time: ~1 hour by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine offers a mix of history and culture. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos, stroll down St. George Street, or take a trolley tour of the historic district.
Recommendation: Plan for lunch at a local seafood restaurant and visit the Lightner Museum or the St. Augustine Lighthouse for more cultural enrichment.

Let a Local Show You the Best Roads Around Daytona

Daytona sits in the middle of some of the best riding in Florida, from the A1A coastline to the back roads through the state parks. Riders Share offers motorcycle tours across Florida led by locals who know which routes connect these destinations and when to ride them. If you're already in the area for an event or vacation and want to see more of the state without planning every mile, a guided ride is an easy way to make it happen.

DeLand, Florida from Daytona Beach

evening photo of the historic Volusia County Courthouse and fountain pool in DeLand, Florida 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Charming downtown with a motorcycle rally to kick off Daytona Bike Week!

Travel Time: ~30 minutes by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Half-day trip
Highlights: DeLand is home to Stetson University and a charming downtown area. Visit the DeLand Museum of Art or the historic Athens Theatre, then explore local shops and cafés. If you’re here for Daytona Bike Week, DeLand offers a popular motorcycle rally normally in the beginning of Bike Week!
Recommendation: DeLand is perfect for a leisurely morning stroll through downtown followed by brunch at one of the local eateries.

Silver Springs State Park

America's largest spring sits untouched within Silver Springs State Park 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Glass-bottom boat tour capitol of Florida.

Travel Time: ~1.5 hours by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: Famous for its glass-bottom boat tours, Silver Springs offers beautiful views of crystal-clear springs and underwater wildlife. Hiking and kayaking are also popular activities.
Recommendation: Book a glass-bottom boat tour in advance and bring water shoes if you plan to explore the springs on foot.

Orlando, Florida from Daytona Beach

Cinderella Castle at Disney World appearing from the trees 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Disney World, Shopping, Restaurant Row.

Travel Time: ~1 hour by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: Orlando is home to world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. If theme parks aren't your thing, the city also offers shopping at the Mall at Millenia and dining at Restaurant Row.
Recommendation: Plan ahead for park tickets and reservations, as Orlando’s theme parks can be busy year-round.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Views while walking around Busch Gardens, Tampa, Florida, United States 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Roller coasters and wildlife exhibits?

Travel Time: ~2 hours by car
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: This African-themed park blends roller coasters with a vast array of wildlife exhibits, making it perfect for families and adrenaline junkies alike.
Recommendation: Purchase tickets in advance and aim for an early arrival to avoid long lines at popular rides.

Crystal River

Four Florida Manatees swimming in the water at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, USA 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

See manatees.

Travel Time: ~2 hours by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: The go-to spot for swimming with manatees, Crystal River also offers stunning springs and excellent snorkeling opportunities. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers.
Recommendation: Book a manatee tour ahead of time and bring your snorkel gear. The best time for manatees is during winter months.

Cocoa Beach

Pier in Cocoa Beach Florida 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

For the foodies.

Travel Time: ~1 hour by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Half-day to full-day trip
Highlights: This iconic beach offers great waves for surfing, fishing, or simply relaxing on the sand. Nearby, visit the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop or the Cocoa Beach Pier. GREAT food- seriously. If you’re a foodie-this is for you.
Recommendation: Rent surfboards or paddleboards for a fun day in the water and grab a bite at one of the restaurants along the pier.

Gatorland

Large alligator head at the main entrance to Gatorland theme Park and wildlife preserve located along South Orange Blossom Trail south of Orlando 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

“Alligator capital of the world”

Travel Time: ~1.5 hours by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Half-day trip
Highlights: Known as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland offers once-in-a-lifetime shows and ziplining over live alligators, plus the chance to see Florida's famous wildlife up close.
Recommendation: Arrive early for the best seats at the gator shows and consider booking the Screamin' Gator Zip Line for an adventurous experience.

Old Town Kissimmee

Old Town Ferris Wheel 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Charming retro town.

Travel Time: ~1 hour by car or motorcycle
Recommended Timeline: Half-day to full-day trip
Highlights: A charming mix of retro rides, shops, and classic car shows, Old Town Kissimmee is a great place to stroll and enjoy nostalgic fun.
Recommendation: Visit on a Friday or Saturday night to catch their classic car shows and live music.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Bluegill swim in the front of the platform in the flooded underground cavern at Devil's Den, Williston Florida 13 Day Trips to-and-from Daytona Beach

Travel Time: completely depends on how far you’d like to go!
Recommended Timeline: Full-day trip
Highlights: Florida offers several top-tier snorkeling and diving spots. Devil’s Den is an ancient underground spring in Williston, while Blue Heron Bridge in West Palm Beach offers excellent underwater marine life.
Recommendation: Book diving slots ahead of time, especially for Devil’s Den. For snorkeling at Blue Heron Bridge, check the tide schedules to plan your dive for optimal visibility.

Ready to Explore Daytona Beach?

Exploring the areas around Daytona Beach adds incredible variety to your trip, allowing you to experience Florida’s natural beauty, vibrant cities, and iconic attractions. Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature or seek out some high-energy fun, these day trips offer something for everyone. So, take advantage of Daytona’s central location and plan your perfect getaway today!