Ormond Beach Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat, and how to get around in Ormond Beach with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach is a charming coastal town located in Volusia County, Florida. Known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures, Ormond Beach is a must-visit destination for people of all ages. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo trip, Ormond Beach has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Ormond Beach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Casements: Built in the early 1900s, The Casements is a historic mansion that was once the winter home of John D. Rockefeller.
  • Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens: Featuring local and regional artwork, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens is a popular cultural attraction in Ormond Beach.
  • Ormond Beach Historical Society and Museum: The Ormond Beach Historical Society and Museum showcases the rich history and culture of the town through exhibits and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Ormond Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tomoka State Park: Covering over 2,000 acres, Tomoka State Park is a popular destination for hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
  • Bulow Creek State Park: Featuring old-growth forests and pristine waterways, Bulow Creek State Park is a great spot for canoeing and kayaking.
  • Ormond Beach: With over 23 miles of white sand shoreline, Ormond Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Loop Trail: A 15-mile loop through Tomoka State Park, featuring scenic views of the Tomoka River.
  • Bulow Woods Trail: A 5-mile trail through old-growth forests in Bulow Creek State Park.
  • Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail: A 30-mile scenic drive through the natural beauty of Ormond Beach, featuring options for hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Ormond Beach: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking with the Manatees: Take a guided kayak tour through the waterways of Tomoka State Park and get up close with Florida’s gentle giants.
  • Ormond Beach Segway Tour: Explore the town’s historic sites and scenic views with a guided Segway tour.
  • Ormond Beach Food and History Tour: Sample some of the town’s best cuisine and learn about its rich history on this walking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ormond Beach

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Ormond Beach, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Relax and unwind on the beach.
  • Day 2: Explore the cultural attractions of Ormond Beach, including The Casements and the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens.
  • Day 3: Take a guided tour of Tomoka State Park and go kayaking with the manatees.
  • Day 4: Experience the thrill of racing at the Daytona International Speedway.
  • Day 5: Hike or bike the Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail.
  • Day 6: Sample the town’s best cuisine on a food and history tour.
  • Day 7: Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs and exploring the local parks and forests.

Food and Drink Scene of Ormond Beach

Must-Try Dishes

  • Florida Shrimp and Grits: A classic Southern dish featuring fresh shrimp and creamy grits.
  • Key Lime Pie: A refreshing dessert made with tangy key lime juice.
  • Rockin’ Ranch Burger: A juicy hamburger topped with crispy onion rings and zesty ranch sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Cigar City Brewing Jai Alai IPA: A popular local craft beer with hints of citrus and tropical fruit.
  • Flagler Avenue White Sangria: A refreshing cocktail made with white wine, vodka, and fresh fruit.

Where to Stay in Ormond Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ormond Beach offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the best hotels in town include:

  • The Cove on Ormond Beach: A family-friendly resort with an oceanfront pool and spacious suites.
  • Best Western Castillo Del Sol: A beachside hotel with a private balcony in every room.
  • The Black Dolphin Inn: A luxurious bed and breakfast located on the Intracoastal Waterway.

What to Buy in Ormond Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Ormond Beach T-Shirts and Hats: Show off your love for Ormond Beach with a stylish t-shirt or hat featuring the town’s name and logo.
  • Local Artwork and Crafts: Take home a piece of Ormond Beach’s creative culture with handmade pottery, paintings, and other unique items.
  • Fresh Seafood: Pick up some fresh shrimp, fish, or crab from one of the town’s many seafood markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach has a rich cultural history that is reflected in its art, music, and cuisine. Locals take pride in their town’s natural beauty and often spend their free time outdoors, hiking, biking, and enjoying the beach. Visitors are encouraged to respect the town’s natural resources and to practice good environmental stewardship during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Ormond Beach

The best time to visit Ormond Beach is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller. Summer is the busiest season, with high humidity and frequent thunderstorms. Winter is the coldest season, but still sees plenty of visitors looking to escape the cold temperatures up north.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ormond Beach

Do:

  • Respect the town’s natural resources by not littering or disturbing wildlife.
  • Enjoy the town’s outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
  • Try some of the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Southern classics.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on the beach or in your car.
  • Engage in any activities that could harm the environment, such as picking flowers or disturbing animal habitats.
  • Drive on the beach or park in non-designated areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still exercise caution and common sense while exploring. Some tips for staying safe in Ormond Beach include:

  • Always lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Beware of rip currents when swimming in the ocean.
  • Stay away from wild animals and their habitats.

Health in Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach is home to several medical facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers. Visitors should also take precautions to protect themselves from the sun and heat by wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, and taking frequent breaks in the shade.

Getting to Ormond Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ormond Beach is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus.

Airports Near Ormond Beach

  • Daytona International Airport (DAB): Located just 10 minutes from Ormond Beach, DAB offers several daily flights from major U.S. cities.
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO): About 90 minutes from Ormond Beach, MCO is a major international airport serving millions of passengers each year.

Bus Stations Near Ormond Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in nearby Daytona Beach, the Greyhound station offers daily bus service to major Florida cities and beyond.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station: The closest train station to Ormond Beach is in nearby DeLand, about 30 minutes away by car.
  • Rental Car: Several major car rental companies have locations in Ormond Beach.

How to Get Around in Ormond Beach

Ormond Beach is a walkable town, with many restaurants, shops, and attractions located within easy walking distance. Visitors can also get around town by bike or by car.

Where to Go Next from Ormond Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Daytona Beach: Just a 15-minute drive south of Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach is home to the famous Daytona International Speedway and a vibrant beachfront scene.
  • St. Augustine: About an hour north of Ormond Beach, St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
  • Kennedy Space Center: About an hour south of Ormond Beach, the Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit destination for space enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Ormond Beach is a wonderful destination for anyone looking for a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and relaxation. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant food and drink scene, there’s something for everyone in Ormond Beach. We hope this guide has helped you plan the perfect trip to this gem of a town on the Florida coast.

Sunrise at Ormond Beach Sunrise at Ormond Beach