Daytona Beach to Jacksonville: A Guide to Your Next Road Trip

Planning Your Trip

Distance: 113 miles (approx. 2 hours, 15 minutes driving time)**

Route: Take I-95 North from Daytona Beach to Jacksonville.

What to See and Do

Daytona Beach: Home to the iconic Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach is a popular beach destination known for its hard-packed sand and crashing waves.

St. Augustine: Located just 40 miles south of Jacksonville, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States, with a rich history and charming historic district.

Jacksonville: The largest city in Northeast Florida, Jacksonville boasts a vibrant downtown, beautiful beaches, and a thriving arts and culture scene.

Where to Stay

Daytona Beach:
* The Shores Resort & Spa: Luxury oceanfront resort with multiple pools, a full-service spa, and fine dining.
* Holiday Inn Resort Daytona Beach Oceanfront: Affordable oceanfront hotel with a large pool, private beach access, and family-friendly amenities.

St. Augustine:
* Casa Monica Resort & Spa: Historic hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and a world-class spa.
* Aviles House: Boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic district, offering cozy rooms and personalized service.

Jacksonville:
* The Ritz-Carlton, Jacksonville: Five-star hotel with luxury amenities, stunning city views, and a convenient downtown location.
* Omni Jacksonville Hotel: Modern hotel with a rooftop pool, multiple restaurants, and spacious rooms.

Where to Eat

Daytona Beach:
* Ocean Deck Restaurant and Beach Club: Iconic beachfront restaurant serving up casual seafood and live music.
* Aunt Catfish's on the River: Popular seafood restaurant with a waterfront view and live entertainment.

St. Augustine:
* The Floridian: Award-winning restaurant specializing in modern American cuisine with a focus on local seafood.
* The Raintree Restaurant: Elegant restaurant serving classic Southern dishes with a modern twist.

Jacksonville:
* Black Sheep Restaurant: Upscale restaurant with a seasonally inspired menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
* Moxie Kitchen + Cocktails: Lively restaurant and bar known for its creative cocktails and shareable plates.

Tips and Tricks

• Visit during the shoulder seasons (March-April or September-October) for smaller crowds and more affordable rates.
• Book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season (May-August).
• Take advantage of free activities, such as strolling along the beaches or exploring the historic districts.
• Allow plenty of time for driving, especially during rush hour.
• Be sure to sample the local seafood, which is a culinary highlight of the region.

Activities for History Buffs

• Daytona Beach: Visit the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, or take a guided tour of the historic Beach Street Promenade.
• St. Augustine: Immerse yourself in centuries of history at the Castillo de San Marcos, the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
• Jacksonville: Explore the Museum of Science & History (MOSH), the Kingsley Plantation, and the Little Talbot Island State Park.

Activities for Nature Lovers

• Daytona Beach: Go for a bike ride along the hard-packed sand of Daytona Beach, or rent a kayak and paddle through the mangroves of the Tomoka State Park.
• St. Augustine: Take a sunset cruise on the St. Augustine Scenic Cruise, or hike through the lush trails of the Anastasia State Park.
• Jacksonville: Visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, or explore the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, a vast natural area with a diverse ecosystem.

Family-Friendly Activities

• Daytona Beach: Visit the Daytona Lagoon Waterpark, or spend the day at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier.
• St. Augustine: Take the kids to the Castillo de San Marcos, or go on a scavenger hunt through the historic district.
• Jacksonville: Explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, or visit the Museum of Science & History (MOSH), which offers interactive exhibits for children of all ages.

Table 1: Distance and Driving Time Between Major Cities

Table 2: Hotel Recommendations by Location and Price Range

Table 3: Activities for Different Interests

Table 4: Tips for a Budget-Friendly Road Trip