Best Things to Do in Daytona Beach with Teens: A Meaningful Family Getaway Before College

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If you’re looking for the best things to do in Daytona Beach with teens—and want a trip that blends connection, quiet moments, and a little adventure—I have some thoughtful recommendations. But more than that, I want to share how this vacation became a quiet celebration of time with my almost-grown kids. Not just planning for them, but being with them.

We’ve been to Daytona Beach before—back when our beach bags were filled with shovels, juice boxes, and sticky sunscreen. When the only goal was to keep the kids entertained, safe, and smiling. But this trip was different.

My son just graduated, and my daughter is close behind. This might be the last summer we travel like this, all together, before college pulls us in different directions. So this wasn’t just another beach trip. It was a way to slow down and soak in what we still have, to hold on to late-night conversations, early-morning sunrises, and the kind of unspoken understanding that grows with time.

And while I’ll be sharing plenty of ideas for what to do in Daytona Beach with teens—from dolphin tours to beachfront dinners—what stayed with me most were the quiet in-between moments. Like walking barefoot with my son under a sky full of stars. Or sipping coffee alone on the hotel balcony, watching the first hint of golden light stretch across the cinnamon-colored sand.

If you’re planning a Daytona Beach itinerary or dreaming of a trip with your own teens, I hope this guide helps you find the fun—but also leaves room for the moments that make a place unforgettable.

Daytona Beach Beaches: Finding the Best 

Daytona Beach is famous for its wide, hard-packed shoreline, but what struck me most this time was the color—a soft cinnamon hue that seemed to glow at sunrise and blush at sunset.  It’s subtle, but it gives the beach a warmth that makes every photo feel like it has a built-in filter.

Most mornings, I’d step out onto our balcony at The Shores Resort & Spa and watch the first light spill across the water. We loved the cinnamon-pink hues, and now I understand why everyone asks: why is Daytona Beach sand pink? It’s that soft coquina that gives it its blush tone and unique feel.

The air was cool and salty, the waves rhythmic and steady. From up there, I could see pelicans gliding just above the surf, their wings nearly skimming the water. A few early risers were already out walking, their footprints trailing behind them like soft shadows in the damp sand.

Walking here is a joy—especially compared to our shell-strewn Southwest Florida beaches. The sand is firm and smooth, making it easy to stroll barefoot for miles without wincing. No sharp ridges of shells to navigate, no need for water shoes. Just cool, packed sand beneath your feet and the steady hush of the ocean beside you.

But my favorite beach memory wasn’t in the daylight at all. One night, after dinner, my daughter went to bed early, and my son and I decided to walk down to the water. The air was thick with the scent of salt and distant grills from the restaurants along A1A. The sand was cool and slightly damp, and the waves lapped at our ankles as we walked. Normally, beaches lined with condos feel too bright at night, but during sea turtle nesting season, the hotels keep their lights low and red—just enough to see where you’re going while still letting the stars shine.

We talked about everything and nothing: his plans for the next year, the idea of moving away, how small your worries feel when you’re looking up at an ocean of stars. The horizon was so dark that the sea and the sky seemed to melt together, dotted with pinpricks of light. It was simple. It was perfect.

Maybe it was the softness of the sand, or maybe it was how much I needed that time, but I don’t remember the beach ever feeling this easy.

Why Is the Sand in Daytona Beach Cinnamon-Colored?

One of the first things I noticed, stepping onto the beach that first morning, was the warm tone of the sand. It wasn’t the pale white I’m used to on the Gulf Coast—it had this subtle, cinnamon-pink tint that glowed in the early light. The color comes from tiny crushed coquina shells mixed into the sand over time, giving it that soft, rosy hue. It made everything—our photos, our walks, even the waves—feel just a little warmer, like the beach had its own filter. And under our bare feet, it felt cool and dense, perfect for long walks without shoes.

Best Beaches in Daytona Beach for Families

With 23 miles of Atlantic shoreline, the Daytona Beach area—including Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, and Ponce Inlet—ranks among the best beaches in Florida. Known as the “World’s Most Famous Beach”, Daytona Beach draws crowds for good reason: wide, hard-packed sand where you can even drive on the beach in designated areas. 

As a parent traveling with teens headed for college, I felt every sunrise and tide shift differently—knowing these were moments we’ll soon look back on. We rolled our car onto the sand along select zones (yes, beaches in Florida where you can drive), and my teen son took the wheel quietly, feeling both in control and small against the ocean.

Looking for the least crowded beach in Daytona Beach? We found that Ponce Inlet and the quieter stretch of Daytona Beach Shores offered more peace. To me, those spots provided the backdrop we needed: fewer voices, more space to walk and talk—finally uninterrupted.

For more active teens, the best beaches in Daytona Beach for surfing include the areas near Main Street Pier and the Ponce Inlet jetty, where small but consistent breaks and salty breezes create that perfect surf-ready vibe.

Whether we were breathing in cinnamon-hued sand at dawn or chasing waves at sunset, these beaches gave us more than scenery—they gave us time. Time to connect before everything changes.

Driving on the Beach at Daytona Beach

One of the most iconic—and uniquely Daytona—experiences is driving on the beach. In designated areas, you can actually drive your car right onto the sand, which is packed hard and flat enough to feel almost like a salt-sprayed highway. The posted speed limit is a gentle 10 mph, but it’s not about speed—it’s about the feeling of rolling down your windows, hearing the waves crash beside you, and becoming part of a tradition that goes back to the early days of beach racing.

For us, this moment was especially meaningful. My son had just gotten his driver’s license three months earlier, and this was his first time ever driving on sand. I still remember the look on his face—equal parts excitement and awe—as he eased the car past the beach access ramp and the tires crunched over the sand. The breeze coming in through the windows, the shimmer of the sun on the water, —it was one of those surreal experiences you don’t forget. Here are some quick driving on Daytona Beach tips that made it easy and fun for our teen driver.

Tips for Driving on the Beach (what worked for us):

• Check tides and open/closed ramps before you go; access points and driving zones change with conditions. 
• Stay on the hard-packed, damp sand inside the traffic lanes; avoid soft, dry sand so you don’t get stuck. (Standard vehicles are fine when you stay in-lane.) 
• Go slow (10 mph) and keep an eye out for pedestrians—families cross between parked cars and the water.
• Bring cash or card for the gate. Beach driving costs $20 per day (if you don’t have a pass) and know that there are also car-free beach sections if you prefer a vehicle-free vibe.

Top Daytona Beach Attractions and Must-See Spots

We weren’t trying to check off a list—we just wanted to spend time together, soaking in this in-between season before everything changes. What we found were experiences that blended fun, reflection, and a little adventure. From must-see attractions in Daytona Beach to family-friendly activities that surprised us, here are some of the places that made this trip unforgettable.

Aquarium & Rainforest Adventure: Surprisingly Engaging

I’ve noticed that now that my kids are older, their attention spans are shorter when it comes to museums or educational attractions—but when something clicks, they’re all in. That’s exactly what happened at the Daytona Beach Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure, one of the best teen-friendly attractions in Daytona Beach, and honestly one of the most unexpected highlights of our trip.

From the moment we stepped in, it felt fresh and immersive—like a place created with both kids and adults in mind. My son was immediately drawn to the reptiles. He hovered near the glass of a large lizard exhibit, pointing out details I never would’ve noticed. “This one’s a Philippine sailfin dragon,” he said, quietly geeking out.

A staff member from a local bird rescue walked over and offered to introduce us to a few of the birds. Before I knew it, my son had one parrot on his hand, another perched on his shoulder, and a third fluttering in to land on his chest.

“They really like you,” the handler said.

The rainforest exhibit had just recently opened, and it added so much to the experience—lush, colorful, and filled with life. We wandered past sloths, tamarins, and bright toucans, but it was the otters that completely stole the show. My kids could’ve watched them for hours, darting through the water and playfully pressing their paws to the glass. It was one of those moments where you forget you’re in a building and feel completely pulled into their world.

We’ve been to a lot of aquariums over the years, but this one stood out—not because it’s the biggest, but because it felt thoughtfully designed. Clean, well-run, and engaging without being overwhelming.

There’s something beautiful about watching your teens connect with animals—not in the way they did as little kids, but with curiosity that runs deeper.

Tip: Don’t skip the stingray touch pool, and be sure to buy some food (about $3). Feeding the rays was a hit with both kids—gentle and slightly slimy, but surprisingly calming. And check the aquarium’s website or signage for rainforest exhibit hours or feedings; some exhibits rotate or close briefly throughout the day.

Dolphin & Manatee Tour in Daytona Beach: Birds, Breezes, and Quiet Wonder

One of my favorite parts of traveling with older kids is that we don’t need to pack the day with back-to-back activities. We can slow down, savor, and just be in the moment together. That’s exactly what we did during our dolphin and manatee boat tour with Ponce Inlet Watersports, and it was one of the calmest, sweetest memories of our trip.

Before we even boarded the boat, we picked up ice cream at the little shop near the dock—because when you’re traveling with teens, food is never optional. We stepped onto the shaded boat with cones in hand, the sun already climbing, and the breeze off the inlet was immediate relief.

The captain and guide were friendly and full of knowledge, pointing out homes, little inlets, and even a small island where we stopped for shelling and lighthouse views. We saw Indian River dolphins, which are smaller than the bottlenose dolphins we usually see back home, and even caught a glimpse of a manatee. If you’re looking for calm experiences, the Ponce Inlet dolphin and manatee boat tour is easily one of the best outdoor activities in Daytona Beach for families.

But for us, it was the birds that stole the show. My daughter, who’s always been drawn to animals, especially birds, started naming the species she recognized from ospreys and white ibises to little blue herons and laughing gulls. The guide caught on quickly and began pointing out every winged visitor we passed. “That’s a great eye,” she told her.

My daughter’s face lit up. It turned into this quiet, unspoken moment of connection—not just with the guide, but with the landscape itself. That’s what I notice most now that my kids are older: the way they experience the world with more depth. They don’t just see animals—they notice behavior, habitat, story.

We’ve been on dolphin tours before, but this one stood out—not for how many animals we saw, but for how connected we felt the entire time.

Tip: Go in the morning or late afternoon for the most comfortable weather. Bring sunscreen, water, and a camera for the island stop—those lighthouse views are worth capturing. If you’ve got a budding birder in your family, let the crew know—they’re great at tailoring the experience to your interests.

Marine Science Center: Where the Real Work Happens

As much as I love aquariums and exhibits, there’s something different about being in a place where you can actually feel the work being done. That’s how it felt at the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet—not just another attraction, but a space where animals are healed and real conservation happens behind the scenes.

We walked through the front exhibits first, where we fed stingrays and watched lionfish and seahorses being fed, but what really stood out was what came next: a peek into the turtle rehabilitation area. This wasn’t a show. There were no performances or photo ops—just tanks, charts, and staff quietly going about the business of helping injured sea turtles recover.

I stood there watching for a while, pressed against the glass, imagining what it must be like to care for something so fragile and so wild. My kids joined me, quieter now. It’s different traveling with teens—they’re more reflective. But when something hits, you can see it in their eyes. This hit.

In the bird rescue area, we met an educator who asked us to pick a bird we’d like to meet. We chose a horned owl—curious and majestic—and the staff member brought it out while telling us its rescue story. It wasn’t just an info dump—it was a conversation. We talked about our own love for owls, how we do local outreach work back home, and swapped stories about burrowing owls and environmental programs.

The Marine Science Center recently reopened after a $4.2 million renovation, and the upgrades are impressive. New additions like the living reef exhibit, the John Crisp Artificial Reef display, and a working coral lab make the space feel more immersive and educational, while the expanded public areas offer even more opportunities for learning and connection.

For us, this wasn’t just a stop on the itinerary—it was a reminder of why we care so much about the natural world in the first place.

Here’s our honest Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet review: it’s engaging, meaningful, and leaves a lasting impression.

Tip: This spot is perfect for families who care about conservation. Allow extra time—there’s a nature trail, educational displays, and raptor programs you won’t want to rush through. The stingray feeding is interactive and fun, but the deeper impact comes from seeing the real work behind the glass.

The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse: Beautiful Views And Local History

Visiting the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse felt like stepping back in time, but what surprised me was how much it resonated with my kids—even as teens. It’s the tallest lighthouse in Florida, and the 203-step climb isn’t exactly easy in July heat. But when we made it to the top, panting and laughing, the view was worth every step. We didn’t expect it, but climbing Ponce Inlet Lighthouse with teens was such a memorable experiencd.

From the top, you can see the Atlantic stretching out on one side, and the quiet waterways curling inland on the other. Boats dotted the horizon, and the wind whipped around us as we leaned against the railing and took it all in. We didn’t say much. We just stood there, sharing the view and the silence.

Inside, the museum offered more than I expected. We explored the lens exhibit, which displayed some of the original lighthouse lenses—huge, gleaming pieces of history that caught the light in every direction. Across the street, the Pacetti Hotel Museum, newly opened, gave us more context on the area’s past. Even my son, who usually rushes through museum displays, lingered over the old maps and photographs.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring water and visit early in the day—the lighthouse is tall and there’s no elevator. If you have time, pair your visit with the Marine Science Center nearby for a full afternoon in Ponce Inlet.

There’s something grounding about climbing something that’s stood for over a century—especially when you’re trying to find your footing in a season of change.

Daytona International Speedway: A Surprising Favorite

We’re not exactly race car fans—none of us follow NASCAR, and we didn’t come to Daytona Beach expecting to fall in love with a speedway. But the Daytona International Speedway tourcompletely exceeded our expectations and ended up being one of the most memorable experiences of the trip.

The moment we stepped into the stadium, you could feel how iconic this place is. The scale is massive—the stands seem to stretch endlessly, and the steep curves of the track are more dramatic in person than any photo can capture. Our guide brought the whole space to life with stories about early beach racing and the evolution of Daytona into the “World Center of Racing.”

It didn’t matter that we weren’t motorsports experts. The energy, the history, and the sheer spectacle of it all was exciting in a way we didn’t expect. My son was fascinated by the engineering of the track and the banking angles, and my daughter loved the behind-the-scenes look at how the events come together.

Inside the museum, the exhibits are thoughtfully curated, with historic cars, championship trophies, and interactive displays that even I found myself lingering over. It gave us all a deeper appreciation—not just for the sport, but for how deeply it’s woven into Daytona Beach’s identity.

Whether you’re a racing enthusiast or not, the Daytona International Speedway is a place that impresses you—and leaves you with more curiosity than you came in with.

Tip: Definitely take the guided tour. It’s informative, fun, and mostly shaded or indoors, which makes it a great way to escape the heat for a couple of hours.

Daytona Lagoon Water Park: Beating the Heat With Fun Water Slides

One of the best ways we found to cool off was spending the day at Daytona Lagoon water park. I was excited to have found a waterpark in Daytona Beach as waterparks are always such a faun activity.

My son, always the thrill-seeker, headed straight for the slides—especially the Kraken’s Revenge mat racer and the giant pendulum slide that swings you out over the park like a ride at a fair. I could hear his laughter before I even spotted him, soaked and beaming from the rush. My daughter, on the other hand, was all about the lazy river and the wave pool, floating calmly, her eyes half-closed behind her sunglasses.

That’s what I appreciated most about Daytona Lagoon—it had something for each of them. And for me, it was the fact that once the afternoon heat hit its peak and even the water started to feel warm, we could step inside the air-conditioned arcade and cool off while playing air hockey and my son enjoyed the indoor ropes course.

Daytona Lagoon is one of the best Daytona Beach activities for older kids, especially if you’re looking for variety and a break from the sand. It’s a great way to make everyone happy for a full afternoon—something that’s not always easy with teens.It’s more than just a water park; it’s a full family fun center, with mini golf, go karts, a ropes course, a zipline and aracade games. 

Tip: If you’re planning to go, try to visit on a weekday if possible. The crowds were definitely heavier over the weekend, and shaded seating fills up fast. Bring your own towels and plenty of sunscreen, reapply often, and don’t forget water shoes if your kids plan to explore the whole park barefoot. Also, don’t overlook the indoor activities—it was a relief to break up the day and cool off without leaving the fun behind.

Where to Stay in Daytona Beach: The Shores Resort & Spa

After long days in the heat and sun, coming back to The Shores Resort & SpaThe Shores Resort & Spa felt like a breath of fresh air. We stayed in a spacious oceanfront double room with a balcony, and that view, waves rolling in, pelicans flying low, the horizon slowly shifting from gold to blue, set the tone for our mornings and our nights.

We’ve stayed at plenty of hotels over the years, but not many felt quite like this. If you’re looking for Daytona Beach oceanfront hotels that give families both comfort and space to reconnect, The Shores hits the mark. It’s quiet without being too quiet, upscale without being stuffy.

The beds were incredibly comfortable, and the layout gave all of us just enough room to stretch out without stepping on each other’s toes—something I appreciate more and more when traveling with teens.

Early mornings became my favorite time. I’ve always been more of a sunrise person than a sunset one. There’s something quieter about it. More personal. While the kids were still sleeping, I’d go down to the pool area and just watch the sun rise over the horizon.

The Shores Resort & Spa Daytona Beach Review: Why It Worked So Well for Us

The resort had everything we needed—and a few surprises that made the stay even better. The pool and hot tub were perfect for cooling off in the afternoons, and the deck had games like cornhole set up, which turned into fun mini competitions. At night, the firepits became our family hangout. We picked up complimentary s’mores kits at the front desk and roasted marshmallows together under the stars. That simple tradition—firelight, chocolate, laughter—was a memory I didn’t expect but won’t forget.

If you’re researching the best family hotels in Daytona Beach, this one stands out not because it’s flashy, but because it’s thoughtful. The vibe isn’t about constant activity—it’s about giving families the space to be together.

One of the sweetest surprises was Shorely Sweets, the resort’s brand-new beachfront ice cream shop. Just steps from the sand, it’s a cheerful spot stocked with candy, snacks, coffee, and—of course—ice cream. We loved stopping in for a scoop after dinner and catching their happy hour, when they add free toppings to every cone.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Daytona Beach with teens, The Shores felt like a soft landing each night. It gave us the comfort we needed without ever feeling over-programmed or crowded.

Beyond all the amenities, what makes The Shores so great for families with older kids is that it doesn’t feel over-programmed or crowded. We’ve stayed in places where we felt like we had to entertain the kids every moment—but here, they entertained themselves just by being present. Watching the waves, playing cornhole, reading by the pool—it wasn’t about being busy. It was about being together.

One of the Best Beach Resorts in Daytona Beach

If you’re browsing the best beach resorts in Daytona Beach or even just trying to figure out which areas offer the right blend of fun and calm, this is it. We could hear the waves at night, see the stars from our balcony, and truly relax in between adventures.

So many people ask about the best hotels in Daytona Beach for families, and I think the answer depends on what kind of trip you want. If your goal is connection, presence, and ease—The Shores is a strong yes.

Tip: Ask for an oceanfront room with a balcony—it truly makes a difference. Bring snacks for late-night cravings (especially with teens), and plan to enjoy both the sunrise and the firepit s’mores. This is a hotel that encourages presence, not just play.

Where to Eat in Daytona Beach

When it comes to finding the best waterfront restaurants in Daytona Beach, we quickly realized we were spoiled for choice. As much as the sunrise views and ocean breezes made our mornings unforgettable, I’ve come to realize that food has become its own kind of anchor on our trips. Not just because teens are always hungry (they are), but because meals give us those little pauses in the day to connect.

 

If you’re wondering where to eat in Daytona Beach, there’s no shortage of options from casual beach bars to spots with fine views and fresh seafood. We were lucky enough to dine at several waterfront spots, each with its own vibe, view, and memory attached. From beach bars to piers to tucked-away patios near the mangroves, every meal felt like a scene in our story.

One thing I loved about eating in Daytona Beach was how many of the restaurants were right on the water—but each felt completely different. Some overlooked the ocean, others sat on piers or faced quiet stretches of the Intracoastal. You’ll find everything from the best beachfront restaurants in Daytona Beach to hidden gems locals love. And while the food was great, it was the mix of conversations, laughter, and shared bites that made each meal feel like more than just another stop.

Here are some of our favorite restaurants in Daytona Beach. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, I can assure you that all of these restaurants offer plenty of gluten-free choices on their menus, making them perfect for my daughter, who follows a gluten-free (Low-Fodmap) diet. 

Ocean Deck Restaurant Daytona Beach Review: Sunset, Seafood, and Gator Bites

Ocean Deck had that beachy, toes-in-the-sand vibe you hope for on a coastal vacation. We arrived just before sunset and were seated with a front-row view of the water, salty breeze in our hair, reggae playing softly in the background.

My son ordered the gator bites—because how could he not? I had the grilled tuna, and my daughter went for the steamed shrimp. If you’re looking for the best seafood restaurants in Daytona Beach, this one should be near the top of your list. Everything was flavorful and fresh, but honestly, it was the atmosphere that stayed with me: the dimming sky, our plates nearly licked clean, and dessert (including the wildly indulgent Fudge Brownie Peanut Butter Dream Pie) arriving just as the sun slipped under the horizon.

Tip: No reservations needed, but go early for the best seats outside.

Crabby Joe’s Deck & Grill Daytona Beach Shores: Breakfast with a View

Eating breakfast over the water was something new for us. Crabby Joe’s is built right on Sunglow Pier, and from our table, we watched surfers catch morning waves just below.

I ordered the crab cake eggs benedict—rich, savory, perfectly cooked. My son devoured chocolate chip pancakes, and my daughter had a classic plate of eggs, bacon, and crispy potatoes. We lingered a bit longer than usual, sipping coffee, watching the light shift on the ocean.

If you’re searching for the best breakfast in Daytona Beach, this one delivers both flavor and unbeatable views.

Tip: This is a perfect breakfast stop before it gets too hot. The morning breeze is refreshing, and the views are unbeatable.

Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill Ponce Inlet: Nesting Birds and Mahi Tacos

Hidden Treasures Rum Bar & Grill is a quirky, waterfront spot that has such a fun vibe—indoor and outdoor seating under a canopy of trees, mangroves and a sandbar lining the view. As we sat down, we noticed dozens of shorebirds nesting in the mangroves right across from our table.

I had mahi mahi tacos, my daughter had a burger, and my son chose his usual: chicken fingers.

For families searching for where to eat in Daytona Beach after a day of exploring, this one is perfect. The food hit the spot, but the atmosphere made it memorable. It felt laid back and lively all at once, with colorful decor and just the right mix of casual and thoughtful service.

Tip: Great stop after the dolphin tour or lighthouse visit—it’s nearby and perfect for cooling off with frozen (non-alcoholic) drinks and shaded seating.

Our Deck Down Under Port Orange Review: Laid-Back with a River View

Our Deck Down Under was different from the oceanfront spots—tucked just under a bridge, overlooking the river and a sandbar teeming with birds. The vibe was ultra-casual, no frills, but the view? Stunning.

We all went simple here—shrimp, grilled tuna, and a grilled cheese for my son. It was the kind of meal where the food was comforting, but the real star was the peaceful setting. As the sun dipped lower, the golden light stretched across the water and lit up the birds in the distance.

Tip: Come for sunset if you can. It’s not fancy, but it’s honest—and the view makes everything taste better.

Breakfast at Azure Oceanfront Kitchen: Calm, Coastal, and Delicious

Located inside The Shores Resort, Azure served one of our favorite breakfasts of the trip. We sat by the window looking out at the pool and ocean, wishing it wasn’t so hot so we could dine outside.

I had the banana French toast—crispy-edged and caramelized just right. My son ordered the red velvet waffle, and my daughter had an egg, bacon, and cheese sandwich with gluten-free bread, a huge plus since we’d researched gluten-free restaurants in Daytona Beach beforehand. 

Tip: If you’re staying at The Shores, don’t skip breakfast here. It’s a calm, delicious start before heading out to explore.

Ford’s Garage Daytona: Burgers, Garage Doors, and a Strong Finish

This was our last stop before heading home, and it brought our energy back up. Ford’s Garage is styled like a vintage auto shop—garage doors, tire sinks, even a Model T hanging above the bar.

We chose it because they have some of the best burgers in Daytona Beach (we know this firsthand, since we have one close to home). But the best thing for us is that they also have the best gluten-free burgers in Daytona Beach. Their gluten-free buns are really good, which just made my daughter’s day!

The kids loved the atmosphere, and the burgers lived up to the hype. They also have some of the best chicken tenders, which is always a big plus for my son, who is a chicken tender connoisseur. 

Tips for Visiting Daytona Beach with Teens: Daytona Beach vacation tips for families

Every family is different, but traveling with older kids—especially teens on the edge of adulthood—means shifting how you plan. It’s less about keeping them busy every second and more about finding the balance between freedom, connection, and comfort. Here are a few things that helped make our trip smoother and more meaningful:

Plan Around the Heat

Florida summers can be brutal, and we visited during a record-breaking heat wave. Early mornings and evenings were the sweet spot—perfect for beach walks, dolphin tours, or even a quiet breakfast on the pier. Save indoor activities like the aquarium, arcade, or shopping for mid-day when the sun is at its worst.

Mix Fun with Purpose

One of the things we valued most were the educational and conservation-based attractions. Visiting the Marine Science Center and learning about wildlife rehab sparked conversations we wouldn’t have had otherwise. Teens may not say much in the moment, but trust me—it sticks.

Let Them Lead (Sometimes)

As kids get older, they’re forming their own relationship with the world. Letting them choose a restaurant, take the lead on navigation, or plan a part of the day gives them ownership—and helps you all see things through a new lens.

What to Pack for a Family Trip to Daytona Beach

• Reef-safe sunscreen (and lots of it)
• Refillable water bottles
• Lightweight layers
• Beach sandals or water shoes
• Snacks (because teens are always hungry)
• A loose plan—with room for spontaneity

Traveling with teens isn’t about doing everything—it’s about making space for moments that matter.

Holding On While Letting Go

This trip reminded me of something I keep learning as a parent: that family vacations aren’t really about what you do—they’re about how you feel while you’re doing it.

With little kids, the memories are loud: beach toys, meltdowns, sunscreen battles. But with teens, it’s quieter. It’s watching your son gaze at stingrays a little longer than expected. It’s sharing a plate of tacos by the water while your daughter points out nesting birds. It’s walking under the stars together, not saying much, but feeling everything.

From cinnamon-colored sunrises to lazy rivers and lighthouse climbs, our weekend in Daytona Beach wasn’t just a getaway—it was a pause. A chance to be together in this in-between space, before life shifts again.

If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Daytona Beach with teens, I hope you leave room for connection. For silence. For things that can’t be captured in an itinerary but linger long after you’ve unpacked your bags.

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Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

Paula moved from her native Guatemala to SW Florida with her husband and two children and together they are discovering what it means to live life between two languages.

Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .

When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.

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