Also known as “The World’s Most Famous Beach” and the “World Center of Racing”, Daytona Beach is a unique destination for visitors seeking a thrilling race, or a beach getaway. By booking with Wimdu, whether it is an apartment or a holiday home you are looking to rent, we have you covered. Daytona Beach is frequented for 2 main reasons: the races that take place at the Daytona International Speedway, and the legendary (albeit less so nowadays) beach parties during spring break. This racing mecca has much more to offer than just squealing tires and springtime revelers, however. It is a great place to enjoy water sports, observe wildlife, golf, take part in one of the many festivals, and experience true speed. Its warm subtropical climate draws visitors year round, looking from an escape from the cooler north. Our Daytona Beach rentals range from apartments near the action at the speedway, to more beachside apartment and holiday home options.
Where to Stay
Say goodbye to the price and impersonality of the hotel scene and rent an apartment or holiday home to really make the most of your time. Whether in town for the races, for spring break, or just for a relaxing getaway, there are options for everyone. Why be confined to a basic hotel room? Wimdu apartment rentals in Daytona Beach offer the possibility for ultimate privacy. You will feel right at home living among the locals of this festive city. The ability to self-cater results in even more savings, keeping more money in your pocket to really experience all the area has to offer.
Fun Facts
- NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) was founded in Daytona Beach.
- In the summer, the canals and rivers around Daytona Beach are home to hundreds of manatees.
- Daytona Beach is home to the tallest lighthouse in Florida.
- In keeping with its history, cars are still allowed on the beach.
- The first racially integrated spring training Major League Baseball game happened in Daytona Beach in 1946. Jackie Robinson played for the Montreal Royals.
Things to See and Do
The Daytona International Speedway
This famous racetrack plays host to a huge number of races throughout the year, the most famous being held during Daytona Speedweeks in the first 2 weeks of February. This is when events such as the Rolex 24 Hour Race take place, the weeks culminating in the Daytona 500, a 500 mile, 200 lap contest, and the most prestigious race in NASCAR. Over 200,000 people descend on Daytona Beach for the events, so be prepared for crowds! For a real treat, you can even head to the track for a white-knuckled ride along with a professional driver.Of course, aside from the races, Daytona attracts flocks of visitors to its famous beach which runs along Florida’s Atlantic coast for 23 miles. It is here that huge numbers of young people come to let loose during their university break in March. It is a great spot year-round, though. Visit the boardwalk and pier, home to an amusement park, restaurants, and a classic arcade. Ride the roller coaster for a thrilling experience, or enjoy the views more lazily from the ferris wheel. Visitors are even treated to a fireworks display every saturday during the summer.The area also has a rich history going back to its Native American heritage which can be explored on a walking and biking tour. Nature lovers can go fishing, horseback riding, or boating on the Halifax River. Daytona Beach also has a wonderful Marine Science Center, with fascinating exhibits on sea turtles and whales. The Museum of Arts and Sciences has permanent exhibits with art from around the world, and hosts travelling exhibits as well. The whole family will love going to the planetarium to learn about the cosmos or take in a laser show.
Getting Around
Getting around Daytona Beach is best done by car, naturally. During events, traffic jams have a tendency to build up at major intersections and near the tourist areas, but nothing out of the ordinary. Take the car down to the beach and participate in a local pastime dating back to the very first automobiles. Buses offer a cheap and easy way to get around as well, servicing most major areas. During the Daytona 500 and Coke Zero 400 races, the local transit company provides shuttles to and from the racetrack. If you’re in town during a motorcycle rally and hold a valid licence, it is also worth renting a bike and joining the fun.