Just south of Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet is a small, laid-back city steeped in history, where visitors will find plenty to do on land and on water, from surfing some of the area’s best swells and fishing to exploring museums and archeological sites that teach about the community’s past.
While in Ponce Inlet, spending time on the award-winning beach, home to sea turtles and other endangered wildlife, is a must. Lighthouse Point Park features a dog-friendly swimming beach, 800-foot jetty deck, and elevated boardwalks, and at Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in Florida, guests can visit the museum and shop for souvenirs. On the south side of town, visitors can even experience the Daytona area’s time-honored tradition of driving on the beach.
Families of all ages will enjoy stopping for frozen treats at Lighthouse Ice Cream & Snacks and pet-friendly Ho Daddy O’s Surf Cream Shop. Ho Daddy O’s is also the place to find surf and sport camps for kids and young adults. The Marine Science Center, situated next to the lighthouse and museum, has a touch tank, daily presentations, and educational programs for children as young as 2. For more kid-friendly fun, the pirate ship-themed playground at Kay & Ayres Davies Lighthouse Park is a short walk away, as is the Ponce Inlet Veterans Memorial.
Outdoor excitement here can take a number of forms, from catamaran cruises and surfing to parasailing. Ponce Inlet inshore and offshore fishing charters bring anglers to some of the area’s best spots to reel in red snapper, mahi mahi, tuna, and more. At Timucuan Oaks Garden two miles north of the lighthouse and museum, visitors can fish, launch a canoe or kayak on Daggett Creek, and get a view of the wetlands from an elevated boardwalk. Ponce Preserve, home to Green Mound State Archaeological Site, an ancient Indian midden, spans 41 acres from the Halifax River to the Atlantic Ocean with trails, playgrounds, and opportunities for fishing and paddling
When it’s time to eat, the area’s restaurants offer plenty of variety and entertainment. Waterfront restaurants like Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill and Down the Hatch Seafood Company are popular choices for live music and seafood, and Jerry’s Pizzeria Tiki Bar & Grill has a full schedule of live entertainment and events.
Plan your trip at Daytona Beach Area VCB.
BEACHES & WATERWAYS
Spend time on the area’s beaches and waterways.
FAMILY FUN
Explore the beaches and playgrounds, go to the science center, and pick up some kid-friendly grub.
MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Visit the area’s historical sites, attractions, museums, and galleries.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Explore the parks, book a fishing charter, take a sunset cruise, and paddle or surf the Atlantic waters.
ACCESSIBILITY
Visit the area’s accessible beaches and attractions.
DINING
Find lively bars, live entertainment, fresh seafood, and family-friendly eats in and around Ponce Inlet.
SHOPPING
Ponce Inlet is within easy driving distance of the area’s shopping districts, farmers markets,
SPORTS
Catch race car action in nearby Daytona and tee off on the area’s scenic golf courses.
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Book a stay at a pet-friendly hotel or vacation rental and visit dog-friendly beaches and parks.
PLACES TO STAY
Choose from a wide variety of places to stay in Ponce Inlet and the surrounding areas.
