Beach Hotels in Daytona Beach Shores, FL

If you're heading down to Florida and looking for a quiet vacation spot, Daytona Beach Shores checks all the boxes. Located just a few miles south of its famous neighbor Daytona Beach, this small city offers a slower pace, quieter beaches and less traffic.

A drive down A1A offers views of the sprawling ocean surf amid rows of towering condominiums. The beaches here are less populated than neighboring Daytona Beach, so if you’re craving some alone time, you’ll find it here.

As Daytona Beach is known for its storied history in racing, a little-known fact is that it actually all started here. Easily accessible from beach hotels in Daytona Beach Shores, the site of the first races in 1935, just after World War II. They continued each year until 1958 when NASCAR relocated to the Speedway of today. If you’re visiting town in late January, be sure to attend the Rolex 24, which is a 24 hour endurance race held every year, featuring Porsches, Lamborghinis and other European models. February marks the Daytona 500, the area’s most popular race, drawing tens of thousands of spectators every year.

If you’re into fishing, you’re in the right place. Known as “surf fishing” fishing from the beach is totally okay here, and with over 23 miles of coastline, you can catch a variety of fish, including redfish, flounder, trout, snook and more. If you're new to fishing or don't have a boat of your own yet, there are plenty of charters available. You can also head a few miles north into Daytona Beach proper and fish from the Sunglow Pier.

Regarded as Daytona Beach Shores’ best kept secret, head just two miles south and you’ll be in the small town of Ponce Inlet. Even more secluded than Daytona Beach Shores, this quaint town is known for its many nature preserves, tranquil beaches and peaceful surf. While there, be sure to check out the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse.

Named after Ponce de Leon, it was built in 1887 and at 175 feet, is the tallest lighthouse in all of Florida. The lighthouse is located on the east side of Ponce Inlet, near the Road to Nowhere bridge. After a steep 203 steps up, the views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding Daytona Beach Shores area are impeccable. Best of all, these views are within a few miles from the top Daytona Beach Shores beach hotels.

If you want a break from the ocean surf, take time to explore the Halifax River with kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding. Part of the intercostal waterway, there’s some great wildlife viewing opportunities here. Keep your eyes peeled for manatees (who love fresh lettuce) and be weary of alligators. Plenty of riverside eateries offer places to dock a boat or canoe for a quick bite while you’re out exploring. Discover all this and more when you book your stay at Daytona Beach Shores Beach Hotels.

Don’t forget to check out our hotels nearby in Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach!