How to get to Daytona Beach

The renowned resort city of Daytona Beach, situated on the sunny Atlantic coast of the USA, is celebrated for its unique motorsport culture and expansive sandy beaches. Reaching this popular holiday destination is possible via various means: catching a direct flight, driving along scenic highways, or selecting an intercity bus.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the coast is to fly directly into Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB). This aviation hub is located just a few minutes’ drive from the resort area and accommodates flights from major airlines, allowing your holiday to begin almost immediately after landing.

If a direct flight is unavailable, excellent alternatives include the airports in the city of Orlando or St. Augustine, located approximately 80 kilometers from your destination. These transport hubs offer a wide selection of routes connecting the region with other parts of the country.

While there is no railway station within Daytona Beach itself, travelling to the region by train is entirely feasible. The nearest Amtrak station is located in the city of DeLand, just 30–40 kilometers from the coast, from where you can continue your journey by taxi or local transport.

Travellers can also reach the major railway hub in the city of Orlando, situated approximately 80 kilometers away. This is a popular option for those planning a combined route with a subsequent transfer to a bus or a rental car.

Bus services connect the resort with key cities in the region, offering an affordable travel option. The fastest and most comfortable route is from Orlando: the bus covers the distance of about 99 km in approximately 2.2 hours.

There are also services from the historic city of St. Augustine. However, it is worth noting that this route may be less direct and take around 5.6 hours (220 km), despite the geographical proximity of the locations.

Travelling by car is one of the most popular ways to reach the resort, offering freedom of movement. The drive from Orlando takes less than an hour — about 55 minutes (90 km), making this route ideal for short trips.

A journey along the coast also takes little time: the drive from St. Augustine (85 km) will take approximately 1.2 hours, while the trip from Cocoa Beach (129 km) requires about 1.4 hours. Car rental is particularly relevant here, as driving directly onto the sand is permitted on certain sections of the local beaches.

To ensure your holiday in Daytona Beach is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering a few practical nuances regarding local specifics and rules of stay.

1. Clothing and Gear. The climate here is subtropical and humid, so pack light clothing made from natural fabrics, sunglasses, and headwear. Even in winter, it can be warm, though a light windbreaker for evening walks by the ocean is advisable.
2. Transport and Driving. A main highlight of the city is the ability to drive a car directly on the beach in designated zones. Observe the speed limit (usually 10 mph) and keep an eye on the tides.
3. Finances and Tipping. The main currency is the US Dollar. Cards are accepted everywhere, but having some cash for small purchases or parking is useful. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill.
4. Water Safety. Always swim in zones monitored by lifeguards and pay attention to the coloured flags warning of ocean conditions and dangerous currents.
5. Hurricane Season. When planning a trip between June and November (peaking in August-September), monitor the weather forecast, as this is the official Atlantic hurricane season.
6. Event Tourism. The city is famous for its NASCAR races and biker festivals. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere and wish to avoid high accommodation prices, check the events calendar and avoid dates of major gatherings.

By following these simple recommendations, you can enjoy the atmosphere of speed and the ocean breeze while avoiding common tourist difficulties.