Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach, FL
Daytona Beach is one of the last places in Florida where driving on the sand is still a mainstream part of the beach day, a tradition tied to the city's motorsports history. The 10 mph speed limit is strictly enforced, and headlights and an open front window are required the whole time a vehicle is on the beach.
The beach driving tradition is a genuine point of identity found almost nowhere else in the state, though the strict speed enforcement and no pets rule are real adjustments for first-time visitors.
How we score beachesNon-residents pay 30 dollars a day to drive on the beach, which also covers parking for the day, a real bargain if a group is splitting the cost across several people. Dogs aren't allowed on most of the beach, but Volusia County maintains four designated dog beaches elsewhere in the county for anyone traveling with a pet.
Driving and parking on the beach costs 30 dollars a day for non-residents; Volusia County residents can register for a free permit.
Beach ramps provide vehicle access; walk-up access is available at beachfront lots and approaches.
Pets aren't allowed on the beach except service animals; check Volusia County's four designated dog beaches elsewhere in the county.
Winter and spring bring mild, dry weather and Daytona's biggest event crowds, including Bike Week and Speed Weeks. Summer's heat and hurricane season, June through November, bring the warmest water.
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