Daytona Beach: A Modern Fountain of Youth for Canadian Snowbirds

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When Spanish explorer and conquistador Juan Ponce de León set out in 1513 for the fountain of youth, he reportedly discovered DeLeon Springs, located west of Daytona Beach, Florida. Although the story of Ponce de León and the fountain of youth is supported by very little historical evidence, it’s not hard to see why people link the Daytona Beach area to that idyllic, mythical location.

Daytona Beach is the perfect place for the young at heart with first-class shopping, dining and golf nestled along an area that’s been recognized since the 1920’s as the “world’s best beach.” At Daytona Beach visitors can choose speed, nature, exploration or relaxation – with something for every personality, it’s the perfect spot for Canadian snowbirds to spend the winter months.

The Daytona Beach area consists of several cities and towns including Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, Ponce Inlet, Port Orange, South Daytona and Holly Hill. And while the beach is reason in and of itself to visit, it’s not the only reason to choose to winter in Daytona Beach.

The Daytona International Speedway

Stretching for miles, the hard packed sand makes it possible to drive on the beach. Before the Daytona International Speedway was built, professional drivers would race on the thinkstockphotos-594939260Daytona Beach Road Course – a course that was part beach, part highway. Today the Daytona 500 has moved to the Speedway, but cars are still allowed to go through the beach during the day (but not faster than 16 km/hour). For anyone looking for a faster pace, the Daytona 500 and Daytona International Speedway are attractions that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

A Scenic Ocean Drive for History Buffs

In search of more than just a warm place to spend the winter? Snowbirds interested in history can visit the city of St. Augustine, home to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The scenic route from Daytona Beach to St. Augustine along state road A1A  is a drive of about 50 miles that hugs the coast, which means you’ll be able to see and hear the Atlantic Ocean the whole way. If you don’t have a convertible, consider renting one for the day – you’ll be glad you did.

An area steeped in deep maritime and American history, other Daytona historical attractions worth visiting include:

Nature Lover’s Paradise

thinkstockphotos-91057461-1If you love nature, then Daytona Beach won’t disappoint. Manatees are known to swim in the area’s rivers and canals, endangered sea turtles lay their eggs on the beaches and migrating whales can be seen from the shores during the winter months.

 

Avid birders might catch a glimpse of a wood stork, bald eagle, or American oystercatcher on one of these popular nature trails:

Whether you want to go fishing, or are happy to watch the wildlife from the shore, you’ll find plenty of unique opportunities to get up close with nature at Daytona Beach.

Places to Stay in Daytona Beach

Although Daytona Beach has plenty of motels, hotels, cottages and B&B rentals, for Canadian Snowbirds looking to stay the entire winter, or even a few weeks, a RV resort is the most economical option. There are three beautiful Encore RV resorts in the area just waiting for you. 

Sunshine Holiday Daytona RV Resort is just minutes away from the famous Daytona sunshine-holiday-swimming-poolSpeedway. Known for it’s friendly community, this beautiful RV park is the perfect place to retreat from winter, relax, have fun and make lasting friendships. Central to the beach and close to historic St. Augustine this RV resort is a popular North Daytona choice.

Rose Bay RV Resort is known as a tropical camping paradise. This community is perfect for anyone who loves to fish. The ocean fishing here is fantastic and the resort is located next to Daytona’s famous white, sandy beaches. Whether you relax by the pool, explore, or visit local attractions, at Rose Bay you’ll love to come home at the end of a fun-filled day to the countless amenities that will make your stay comfortable and _mg_1798-1relaxing.

Friendly neighbors and an on-site shop, bar and activities centre makes Bulow RV Resort feel like a small-town community, which is why it’s a popular winter home for many Canadian snowbirds. Golfers will love Bulow RV Resort which provides incredible access to a number of outdoor recreational activities in Flagler Beach, Daytona Beach and St. Augustine – including six golf courses. If you’re looking to experience nature, then you’ll appreciate the opportunities to boat, fish, hike and cycle at this community._mg_3248-1

For the young at heart, Daytona Beach is the perfect place to spend the winter. No matter where you stay there’s something nearby that will suit your interests, mood and hobby. Whether you’re looking to play, relax, or explore you’ll make lasting memories at Daytona Beach.

Interested in visiting Daytona Beach? Let us know by leaving a comment!