Where to Stay in Daytona Beach, Florida: The Best Hotels & Areas

If you’re wondering where to stay in Daytona Beach, you should know: There’s more than meets the eye. Famous for beaches, nightlife, and racing, the coastal city is one of the top destinations for any trip through Northeast Florida.

The popular tourist town offers an abundance of accommodation, spread among a diverse array of areas & neighborhoods. The best hotels in Daytona Beach combine Atlantic Ocean views with local culture, giving you the full experience.

Not sure where to begin your Daytona Beach accommodations search? Find the perfect lodgings with this complete guide to the best places to stay in Daytona Beach, FL.

Best places to stay in Daytona Beach, FL

Despite having the moniker of “The World’s Most Famous Beach,” your travels to Daytona Beach don’t have to be a pure beach vacation. There’s more to the Atlantic Coast city than just powder white sand and epic ocean sunrises. Mix up your days on the sand with cultural experiences at local galleries and museums or explore the several nearby state and national parks.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach has a variety of areas & neighborhoods, each offering travelers something different. For those who wish to experience classic Daytona nightlife, beachfront theme parks, and bright lights, staying around the city center will do the trick. Areas like Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach Shores, on the other hand, provide a more relaxing experience. Still, you’ll find ample attractions and be a short drive from the downtown action.

If you enjoy history as much as seaside pleasures, get the best of both worlds in New Smyrna Beach. Or if you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan, stay around the Daytona International Speedway to get within walking distance of the iconic track.

The best areas to stay in Daytona Beach are:

Daytona Beach

✓ Best area to stay in Daytona for first-time visitors & beach bums

Combining attractions, sandy shores, and the best nightlife in town, Daytona Beach is the perfect spot for first-timers and beach bums. Crossing through the heart of the city center is Beach Street, a picturesque boulevard of palm trees, cafes, and local boutiques.

Daytona Beach Pier

Throughout the downtown area, you’ll find places to relax away from the crowds at Riverfront Park. For arts and culture, explore the likes of the Museum of Arts and Sciences or the Halifax Historical Museum.

One of the top tourist attractions in Daytona Beach can be found on the other side of the Intracoastal Waterway. Home to the 1.1 mile Daytona Beach Boardwalk, the city’s barrier island lets visitors stroll along the Atlantic Ocean where scenic views arrive in droves. There’s a flurry of attractions here, including the Daytona Lagoon, a family-friendly water park; and the Ocean Walk Village. Stop by for shopping, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort

Daytona Grande Oceanfront Resort

With exceptional ocean views, guests can wake up to the beautiful sunrise and hear the waves land on the sandy shores from their private balcony. You’ll be steps from the glistening white sand and can also enjoy a brief trip to the Ocean Center and Ocean Walk Village. For breakfast, sample the delectable buffet before venturing to the rooftop terrace and pool at one of the best hotels in Daytona Beach.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Oceanfront

Delta Hotels by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront

Enjoy ocean views from your own private balcony along the sandy shores of Daytona Beach. When not swimming off the coast, guests can make the most of the large flat screen, free WiFi, and the 24-hour fitness center. The hotel has a full-service on-site restaurant for breakfast, lunch, plus the delightful outdoor pool.

Hampton Inn Daytona Beach

Hampton Inn Daytona Beach Beachfront

With an outdoor pool, guests-only terrace, and continental breakfast, this family-friendly oceanfront hotel has everything you’re looking for. From your balcony soak in the oceanfront or city views, or switch off and enjoy some TV complete with HBO. The Daytona International Speedway, Ocean Center, and Ocean Walk are just a brief drive away.

Hard Rock Hotel

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach

Perfect for couples and families seeking some extravagance, the Hard Rock Hotel comes with exceptional ocean views and is one of the top Daytona Beach hotels. Wake up to the rising sun and begin the day right at the on-site restaurant. Forego the white sand for the rooftop pool where you can sip on tropical cocktails under the warm Florida sun.

Daytona Beach Shores

✓ Best neighborhood to stay in Daytona Beach for a quieter, more laid-back seaside vacation

Close to downtown for the top experiences, amenities, and nightlife but far enough away to escape the noise, Daytona Beach Shores is all about balance. Just ten minutes from downtown, bask in the peaceful atmosphere at one of the coastal city’s best places to stay.

Daytona Beach Shores

On the Atlantic barrier island, you’ll enjoy easy access to the beachfront for afternoons lazing in the sun or playing beach volleyball with friends. (That is if you aren’t sipping cocktails by your hotel pool with a view.)

A great option for friend or family gatherings is Frank Rendon Park. With playgrounds and picnic pavilions right on the shoreline, you can’t go wrong at this popular park.

There’s ample parking in Daytona Beach Shores, too. It’s one of the top spots to stay in town for those who are thinking of hiring a car. Make the most of the quick drive to local attractions, including the Daytona International Speedway, or venture even further afield up and down the coast.

Atlantic Shores Motel

Atlantic Shores Motel

Just a short walk from Ponce Inlet Beach, this central four-star hotel offers guests amazing value. Relax in your private seating area as you plan your day with all the fun activities available nearby. Within minutes, you’ll be at the shoreline, the lighthouse museum, or the Daytona Speedway.

Daytona Dream Inn

Daytona Dream Inn

Thanks to its Atlantic Ocean location, the Dream Inn comes with a dreamy view. The oceanside rooms come with a private patio to soak in some sun while surfing on the free WiFi. After a big day on the beach, or in town, kick back in your deluxe spa bath.

Days Inn by Wyndham Daytona Oceanfront

Days Inn by Wyndham Daytona Oceanfront

With room options for couples and large families, Days Inn comes with a heated swimming pool, sun terrace, and hot tub—not to mention stunning views of Daytona Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can enjoy a private balcony view and TV with HBO while being just a 10-minute drive to the Daytona Beach Boardwalk.

Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront

Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach Oceanfront

Soak in the ocean and river views from your cozy Daytona Beach accommodations. Start your day with a complimentary breakfast buffet before switching to the oceanfront pool area (kid’s pool included) for the afternoon. At night, choose between the seaside restaurant or your own fully equipped kitchen.

New Smyrna Beach

✓ Best place to stay in Daytona Beach for surfing & watersports

A charming beach town on the Atlantic Coast, New Smyrna Beach comes with 17 miles of uninhibited white sand beaches. It’s no surprise that the town is popular for surfers and those who love water sports.

New Smyrna Beach

The laid-back community has hidden adventures around each corner for a well-rounded itinerary. With an intriguing history, including the Canal Street Historic District, New Smyrna Beach is more than just your average beach vacation town. Among the top tourist attractions in New Smyrna Beach, you’ll jump between local boutiques, galleries, and museums.

For more adventure, head south and leave the world behind as you venture into the remote Canaveral National Seashore. Park your car by the ocean and soak in the serenity with ample swimming, hiking, and wildlife spotting on offer.

If you’ve brought along your dog, go to Smyrna Dunes Park for turquoise waters and dune walkovers.

Anchor Inn NSB Bed and Breakfast

Anchor Inn NSB Bed and Breakfast

With its great location and kitschy and colorful vibe, this fantastic bed-and-breakfast is ready to welcome you. Within the historic center, enjoy your uniquely decorated space within a beautiful home. Wake up to a brunch-quality breakfast and relax on the terrace before exploring the local town and Indian River.

The Riverview Hotel - New Smyrna Beach

The Riverview Hotel New Smyrna Beach

With the sparkling white sands just a nine-minute walk away, make the most of your quiet retreat at the Riverview Hotel. Start each day with the continental breakfast before choosing between the on-site pool, spa, and complimentary bicycles. At night, gather at The Grille for dinner and cocktails.

Inn on the Avenue

Inn on the Avenue

It’s only right to experience a historic building in New Smyrna. Complete with Art Deco furnishings, Inn on the Avenue brings that and more to the table. Enjoy daily breakfasts plus an outdoor terrace with BBQ facilities. Take in the views from your private balcony or walk just five minutes to the shoreline.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Smyrna Beach

SpringHill Suites by Marriott New Smyrna Beach

Staying at this top-notch hotel you’ll capture vibrant sunrises and sunsets from the terrace and outdoor pool. Before rushing off into the water, start your day with a continental breakfast or get the heart pumping in the fitness center. There’s a variety of rooms on offer, including family-friendly ocean-view suites.

Ormond Beach

✓ Recommended area to stay in Daytona Beach for nature lovers

A trove of sandy beaches, outdoor experiences, and community vibes, Ormond Beach takes resort vacations to another level. From your beachfront hotel, you could easily spend your time venturing back and forth between your cozy room and the sand, but you’d be missing out.

Ormond Beach

One of the most renowned attractions in Ormond Beach is the Tomoka State Park. Home to a former Native American settlement and a fragile, but beautiful, ecosystem, the park shows off the best of the local environment. Spend your time hiking along the nature trails or experience the Tomoka River Paddling Trail.

Another scenic spot for a hike is Bulow Creek State Park. Take your pick of the local trails but don’t miss out on seeing the oak trees, including the historic Fairchild Oak.

For cultural experiences, make your way to the Ocean Art Gallery or Arts on Granada. While it’s not as pumping as downtown Daytona Beach, you’ll have plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from after dark. 

Coral Sands Inn

Coral Sands Inn

With stunning ocean views and direct beach access, wake up to the Florida sunrise and be on the sands in minutes. For slow risers, make use of the free WiFi and bask in the room’s beachy tones. For dinner, skip the busy restaurants and enjoy a BBQ by the Atlantic.

The Maverick Resort Ormond Beach

The Maverick Resort Ormond Beach

In every tropically themed room at the Maverick Resort, you’ll appreciate the simple things, from the microwave to the refrigerator and coffee—not to mention the private balcony with breathtaking views of the shoreline. Each day pick between the ocean and the heated pool with a view or let the hotel arrange a fun-filled tour.

The Cove On Ormond Beach By Diamond Resorts

The Cove On Ormond Beach By Diamond Resorts

With fully equipped kitchens and rooms well-suited to couples, groups of friends, and families, The Cove has everything you need. Load up on groceries and skip the restaurant bill, all the while enjoying ocean views and direct access to a private beach. Guests will also have access to a BBQ area, fitness facilities, and two outdoor swimming pools.

Daytona International Speedway

✓ Recommended place to stay for NASCAR fans

The mecca of NASCAR racing, home to the Daytona 500, there’s no better place to stay in Daytona Beach for racegoers than around the Daytona International Speedway. Minutes from the Daytona Beach International Airport, race car fans can enjoy a short and sweet trip to their chosen accommodation. From there, you’ll be within walking distance of the famous track to forego any form of transportation on the big day.

Daytona International Speedway

If you’ve arrived outside of the iconic event, there’s still an abundance of activities to embark on. Those interested in motorsport can explore the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America for an incredible collection of exhibits. Or drive on the track with the Richard Petty Driving Experience.

If cars aren’t your thing, take the entire crew to Daytona Lagoon for a day at the water park with go-karts and laser tag or explore the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art.

Courtyard by Marriott Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport

Courtyard by Marriott Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport

If you’re wondering where to stay in Daytona Beach for the race, look no further. Fly into Daytona Beach Airport and enjoy a shuttle direct to your accommodation. Relax in your cozy room or private seating area with complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV plus tea and coffee making facilities. From there, you’ll enjoy easy access to the beach and the speedway or simply wander to your outdoor pool or the Bistro for breakfast and dinner.

Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport

Residence Inn by Marriott Daytona Beach Speedway/Airport

For those wanting to be close to the Daytona International Speedway, you’ll enjoy a three-minute drive to the iconic track from the Residence Inn. Each room & suite comes with a fully equipped kitchen, internet, seating area, a sofa bed, and two TVs with cable. Guests can also enjoy the fitness center, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.

The Daytona, Autograph Collection

The Daytona, Autograph Collection

Offering four-star accommodation within a retro-style hotel, The Daytona comes with just a brief walk to the racetrack. Guests can relax in the well-appointed rooms, with free WiFi, room service, and a flat-screen TV. If you aren’t exploring the track or shopping at Volusia Mall, kick back by the outdoor pool.

Treksplorer

Ryan O'Rourke is a seasoned traveler and the founder & editor of Treksplorer, a fiercely independent guide to mid-range luxury travel for busy people. With over 20 years of extensive travel experience, Ryan has journeyed through over 50 countries, uncovering hidden gems and sharing firsthand, unsponsored insights on what to see & do and where to eat, drink & stay. Backed by his travel experience and in-depth research, Ryan’s travel advice and writing has been featured in publications like the Huffington Post and Matador Network. You can connect with Ryan on Twitter/X at @rtorourke.

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