Exploring Your Home: Daytona Beach and Beyond!

Jacob Rainerson Staff Reporter

New semester, new you! Whether you have lived in Daytona Beach for a few months or maybe even a few years, there are always new ways to explore the place we all call home. One of the best ways to get the full “college experience” is to have fun and head OFF campus.

Most people are jealous when you tell them you attend college in Florida, and for good reason! Use this article as a guide to ensure you fully experience all that the east-central Florida coast has to offer.

Ponce Inlet

Located about 30 minutes south of campus, Ponce Inlet holds something for everyone! Climb to the top of Florida’s tallest lighthouse and take a tour of the historic property afterwards. Visit Lighthouse Point Park and stroll down to the end of the jetty for some cool wave action, and great fishing! When you are done with that, head over to Hidden Treasure Bar and Grill for some great food and views of the New Smyrna Beach air traffic pattern.

One Hour to Saint Augustine!

Have you fully explored what Daytona Beach has to offer? Head up I-95 to Saint Augustine! A city for history nerds, restaurant enthusiasts, or aquatic admirers, Saint Augustine has something for everyone. Explore Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, an old Spanish fort circa 1695. Head over to Historic Downtown and you can find every kind of restaurant you would ever imagine. Visit Anastasia State Park, rent a kayak and watch the sunset to finish off your day.

One Daytona

A short drive from campus, One Daytona has something for almost anyone. Dine at Rock Bottom Brewery, 4-Rivers Smokehouse, or Tianos for some Italian flare. Study or just relax at Copperline Coffee and Café! Fill your sugar cravings at Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, and Donnie’s Donuts. One Daytona also boasts an arcade and a movie theater for those rainy spring days.

New Smyrna Beach

If you don’t want to drive hours to Orlando or Saint Augustine, New Smyrna Beach is a more localized option for those who want to explore somewhere new! Smyrna Dunes Park has miles of walking trails for you, your friends, and even your four legged friends as the park is pet friendly. After you hike around and hit the beach, you can stroll through town to Panheads Pizza for homemade gnocchi and great pizza.

Take a stroll down Beach Street right here in Daytona Beach, and you will find many shops and restaurants. One stands out as an affordable and tasty option for students: Tia Coris Tacos. More than a taco restaurant, Tia Coris serves everything from amazing burritos, snazzy quesadillas, and delicious cocktails for those of age.

If you are looking for something unique, The Dancing Avocado Kitchen provides avocado loving people a great and in-expensive meal, along with a unique atmosphere and outdoor dining.

Fire on the Beach!

Unknown to many residents of Volusia County, fires ARE allowed and even encouraged at the beach! You may bring your own self-contained fire pit provided it is not sea-turtle nesting season and enjoy a fire on those cool spring evenings. Be sure to check volusia.org for more information on rules and regulations regarding fires on the beach, but this is a great option to enjoy the beach after sunset!