Best Day Trips from Daytona Beach
Best Day Trips from Daytona Beach for Every Kind of Traveler
Daytona Beach is a great home base for exploring more of Florida. Whether you are interested in natural springs, space launches, old cities, or theme parks, these are the best day trips from Daytona Beach that offer adventure without needing an overnight stay.
Each location is within a short drive and gives you a full day’s worth of exploring, sightseeing, or relaxing.
Blue Spring State Park – A Nature-Lover’s Day Trip from Daytona Beach
Located about 45 minutes west of Daytona Beach, Blue Spring is one of Florida’s most beautiful natural springs. Known for its crystal-clear waters and manatee sightings, it’s a top pick for those who love outdoor activities.
What to do: Swim, snorkel, kayak, or hike the boardwalk trail
Best time to visit: November to March for manatees or summer for tubing
Pro tip: Get there early on weekends — the park fills up fast
Learn more about Blue Spring State Park
St Augustine – A Historic Day Trip from Daytona Beach
Just over an hour north, St Augustine is America’s oldest city and full of colonial charm. Cobblestone streets, ancient forts, and beautiful bay views make it one of the best day trips from Daytona Beach for culture and history.
What to do: Tour Castillo de San Marcos, ride the trolley, explore museums
Great for: Couples, history lovers, families
Food tip: Grab lunch at The Columbia or a waterfront café
Orlando – A Family-Friendly Day Trip from Daytona Beach
Only about an hour west, Orlando is filled with attractions for all ages. While theme parks are the big draw, there are plenty of budget-friendly options too.
What to do: Visit Disney Springs, walk through ICON Park, shop and dine at CityWalk
Best for: Families, thrill seekers, shoppers
Budget tip: Disney Springs and ICON Park have free entry and great dining
Cape Canaveral – A Space-Filled Day Trip from Daytona Beach
For a mix of science, beaches, and rockets, head to Cape Canaveral. Kennedy Space Center is one of the most popular day trips from Daytona Beach and a hit with both kids and adults.
What to do: Tour the Atlantis exhibit, check the rocket launch calendar, walk Jetty Park Pier
Good to know: Launch days can get busy, so plan ahead
Canaveral National Seashore – A Peaceful Coastal Day Trip from Daytona Beach
Just south of Cape Canaveral, this undeveloped shoreline is perfect for those who want a quiet day surrounded by nature. It’s one of the most underrated day trips from Daytona Beach for natural beauty and solitude.
What to do: Walk the dunes, relax on the beach, spot dolphins and birds
Wildlife: Manatees, sea turtles, and over 100 species of birds
Learn more about Canaveral National Seashore
Where to Stay for the Best Day Trips from Daytona Beach
All of these spots are less than two hours from Daytona Beach, so you can take a day trip and be back in time for dinner. Our vacation rentals are perfectly located for exploring Florida by day and relaxing by the ocean at night.
Plan the Best Day Trips from Daytona Beach Today
From swimming with manatees and exploring historic forts to watching rockets launch and discovering quiet beaches, the best day trips from Daytona Beach give you more ways to explore Florida without going far.
Want to stay local too? Check out our guide to Family-Friendly Things to Do in Daytona Beach for more adventures right around the corner.
