With outdoor thrills and a 37-kilometre sandy shoreline, Daytona Beach has been a rite of passage for many snowbirds, who wish to snag some fun by the legendary Daytona International Speedway as they get a dose of vitamin D, basking in the sun along the world-famous Daytona Beach.

But Daytona Beach has so much more. Here are four unexpected surprises.

A Beacon of Fun

Head to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse for the ultimate 360-degree views of Ponce de Leon Inlet. The heritage landmark, which was established in 1887, has a fascinating piece of history. Revered as the tallest lighthouse in Florida at 53 metres high, it’s also the third tallest in the United States, and has saved countless lives. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase of the red-bricked lighthouse tower for selfie shots, and view rare artifacts at the on-site museum.

Outdoor Adventures

There’s a green bounty that dates back millennia. Known as the Tomoka State Park, this Florida classic is a birder’s paradise. It also happens to be where Native Americans once lived, living off the fish-filled lagoons. These days, wild critters call this state park home. Rent a canoe or kayak and see egrets and cranes. Bottlenose dolphins occasionally surface in the brackish Tomoka River, and then there are the American alligators, the endangered West Indian manatee, and the elusive, rarely seen bobcat. At dusk, the white-tailed deer and otters like to rear their heads in the wilderness.

Waterfront Walks

In the heart of Downtown Daytona Beach, there’s a new revitalized strip of green space that cuts a ribbon of outdoor fun for joggers, walkers, and even dog walkers. The former Riverfront Park has morphed into the Riverfront Esplanade, spanning a portion of the Intracoastal Waterway. The nine-hectare esplanade has public outdoor furniture ideal for gathering a moment of relaxation, green spaces filled with botanical gardens, and other park features like a dog park, swing sets, a splash pad and fountains.

Sweet Fantasies

Around since 1925, Angell & Phelps sends chocolate lovers to sweet-tooth heaven. Watch these Willy Wonka-types making chocolate creations the old-fashioned way. As you watch them you can munch on free chocolate samples at this local favourite confectioner’s shop.

Travel Planner

For special offers on the perfect Daytona Beach getaway, check out the Canadian Sun & Sand Deals program. More info DaytonaBeach.com