There is no better place than the shores of Daytona Beach, Florida, to kindle the romance and enjoy some time together with that special someone. Whether your days begin with a hand-in-hand sunrise stroll on the beach or celebrating with breakfast in bed or a couple’s massage at a luxury resort, there are a variety of ways to create that perfect romantic getaway.
On Florida’s east coast and just an hour east of Orlando, Daytona Beach is midway between St. Augustine and the Kennedy Space Center and is an easy destination to reach by car or air. Interstate 95 and Interstate 4 intersect here and the Daytona Beach International Airport (700 Catalina Drive, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-248-8030) has non-stop flights from select cities.
Date night options include taking in a concert at the popular beachfront Daytona Beach Bandshell (70 Boardwalk Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-671-8250) or seeing a show at one of the local theatres. Of course, you’ll also want to enjoy a special meal, and the options are plentiful. Many choose an intimate dinner at The Cellar (220 Magnolia Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-258-0011), located in Daytona Beach’s historic district and known for its exquisite Italian cuisine, excellent wine list and romantic atmosphere.
At Rose Villa Southern Table & Bar (43 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32176; 386-615-7673), the couples can dine inside and enjoy the character of this former bed and breakfast, or alfresco, on the porch. The menu features an eclectic mix of Southern inspired cuisine, craft cocktails and extensive wine list, all served in a one-of-a-kind setting.
For a luxurious atmosphere and a 360-degree sunset view, Top of Daytona (2625 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida 32118; 386-310-7849) delivers. Perched on the 29th floor of the tallest building along the Atlantic Ocean, this is a setting made for memorable meals.
Or start with specialty cocktails before having an amazing dinner amid the 1930s art deco décor at 31 Supper Club (31 West Granada Boulevard, Ormond Beach, Florida 32174; 386-275-1625) in Ormond Beach. For a more casual dinner and dancing, the food and views at the Ocean Deck (127 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386- 253-5224) will not disappoint. Nightlife at Mama Foo Foo (125 Basin Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-287-0180) includes a great cocktail list and creative eclectic menu can be enjoyed while taking in a lovely marina view.
The opportunities for soaking up the nightlife are varied. One favorite is the Sky Rooftop Bar (140 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-947-7470 ext. 5512) at the Streamline Hotel, with its beautiful ocean views. And of course, there are a host of fun experiences at ONE DAYTONA (1 Daytona Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114; 386-681-4816), the area’s premier lifestyle and entertainment center.
For daytime fun, spending time on Daytona Beach’s iconic boardwalk (12 South Ocean Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida, 32118; 386-253-0254) and pier (200 Main Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114) are a favorite way to make memories for many. And a day of kicked-back relaxation on just the right stretch of Daytona Beach’s 23 miles of white sand beaches is, as well.
There are many ways to enjoy taking to the water here, too. A parasail ride with Daytona Beach Parasail (4936 South Peninsula Drive, Suite A, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-547-6067) over the ocean gets the adrenaline rushing. Or a kayak excursion or eco cruise on the beautiful back bays with Ponce Inlet Watersports (4936 South Peninsula Drive, Ponce Inlet, Florida 32127; 386-405-3445) is a way to experience a more relaxing side of this diverse destination. The area’s variety of beachfront and state parks offer trails and picnic areas for time together amid natural beauty.
For some, an afternoon in the Historic Beach Street District brings just the right mix of activities. A walk along the mile-long Riverfront Esplanade (Magnolia Avenue & Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114) offers views of the Intracoastal Waterway and the perfect spot for waterfront shopping and dining. Two sweet spots along the way are Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory (154 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-252-6531) for a taste of fresh, homemade chocolates and Sweet Marlays’ (214 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-310-7817) for a coffee and dessert break. And some like to enjoy a beverage or two at McK’s Tavern & Brewery (218 South Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-238-3321) or Madeline’s Wine Bar (200 North Beach Street, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114; 386-492-7914), popular local spots.
Where to stay
There are lodging options perfect for any style romantic getaway, from spa treatments to get-away-from-it-all boutique accommodations.
Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach (918 North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-947-7300) offers 200 guest rooms and impeccable service at its Hard Rock Spa and oceanfront dining options.
The Shores Resort & Spa (2637 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores, Florida 32118; 386-767-7350) is a boutique hotel with private cabanas, beachfront fire pits and beach view.
The Max Beach Resort (1901 South Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118; 386-999-2555) in Daytona Beach Shores offers spacious vacation rentals for a more laid-back stay in a one- or two-bedroom unit.
River Lily Inn Bed & Breakfast (558 Riverside Drive, Daytona Beach, Florida 32117; 386-253-5002) sits among oak trees and overlooks the beautiful Intracoastal Waterway. The majestic 1895 riverfront home offers a variety of guest rooms with features like jetted tubs, skylights and a private veranda. The unique heart shaped pool adds to the charm and ambiance.
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