With 23 miles of white sand, Daytona Beach is the perfect seaside spot. Whether you want to relax and unwind or you’re planning an adrenaline-fuelled day, there’s something for a range of ages and interests! With a fantastic selection of eateries serving mouth-watering foods, to exhilarating fairgrounds and so much in-between, Daytona Beach is a wonderful place to visit with family. If you’d like to pay a visit to the lesser-known activities and attractions in the area, then you’ve come to the right place, as we’ve taken a look at some of its hidden gems!

Reptile Discovery Center

Want the opportunity to get up-close and personal with snakes, geckos, alligators and more? The Reptile Discovery Center at Daytona Beach is a place where you can discover and learn about these fascinating cold-blooded creatures. Explore the nature trail and meet a variety of unusual animals from lizards and alligators, to tortoises and iguanas.

There are many incredible events and shows at the Reptile Discovery Center, possibly the most popular being the live Venom Extraction show. This thrilling event is both unique and educational; as attendees are invited to watch these powerful and poisonous snakes bite into the venom collectors. A fascinating demonstration, where both the snakes and the handlers remain safe and as stress-free as possible throughout. The Venom Extraction takes place at 11:30am and 3:00pm, from Thursday to Saturday, and then on Sundays at 11:30am. This extraction isn’t just to generate sheer amazement among viewers, but in fact, the venom collected travels across the globe to aid with the developments in science and the pharmaceutical industry.

Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Club

If you are looking for the perfect spot for a bite to eat, the Ocean Deck is certainly worth checking out! This family-owned restaurant has been around for over 50 years and is a favourite amongst the locals. You can expect to find live music, dancing and a fantastic atmosphere. If you think of yourself as the next Tom Jones or Whitney Houston, visit on a Saturday or Sunday to take part in the karaoke and showcase your vocal skills! Even if you can’t hold a note, you’re invited to relax, enjoy yourselves and create some treasured memories. Ocean Deck has a delicious variety of food on their menu, from fresh seafood dishes and award-winning burgers to homemade Key lime pie and Reese's peanut butter pie. With this mouth-watering menu, you’ll be spoilt for choice!

Daytona Lagoon Water Park

With the glorious Florida sunshine, a trip to Daytona Lagoon water park is the perfect way to cool down. New in 2019, it is packed full of fun and thrills with slides and rides for all of the family! The Shaka Halfpipe is undoubtedly one for the adrenaline-seekers; this two-person ride shoots its passengers straight up the halfpipe and then backwards over a 50ft drop! After the exhilarating rides, float around in the Treasure Lagoon as you enjoy the calming waters with the whole family. But be aware, when the buzzer rings, expect a big wave to come your way because this area also becomes a wave pool!

An area of the park that is perfect for children who enjoy a splash is Castaway. Giant buckets pour water onto the people waiting below! If you don’t want to wait for these buckets to fall, blast your family with the water features to get them soaked! For the younger ones, or those not so keen on a family water fight, the shallow waters will be more suitable. Those visiting in the morning, will discover there’s an hour with no water buckets, giving a calmer atmosphere for any tiny visitors!

Marine Science Center

If you take a trip to the Marine Science Center in Daytona Beach, you’ll come away having learnt something. Focusing on conservation and rehabilitation, it’s a fantastic cause to support. During your visit, you will get the opportunity to admire a range of marine life, with sea turtles, stingrays, lion horses, octopus and more all on their way to recovery at the centre.

Searching for even more family fun? Check out some things in Orlando that the kids will love to ensure you all have the best holiday! From swimming with dolphins to airboat tours, Orlando has a fantastic range of activities and attractions! If you are interested in visiting, treat yourself to a vacation in a luxury Orlando villa! When it comes to booking a villa holiday you want to be mindful of the tricksters, so we have set up a handy guide on how to be aware of villa holiday scams.