Port Orange Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, food, and drink scene, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, best time to visit, and safety and health tips in Port Orange, Florida.


Introduction to Port Orange

Located in Volusia County, Florida, Port Orange is a coastal city with a population of over 63, 000 residents. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, scenic views, and water activities. This guide aims to provide travelers with a comprehensive list of places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and safety tips while exploring Port Orange.

List of Places to Visit in Port Orange

Port Orange has diverse cultural and natural attractions for travelers to explore. The following are some of the top places to visit in Port Orange.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gamble Place

Located at 1819 Taylor Road, Gamble Place is a historic property that was a winter retreat for James N. Gamble, the co-founder of Proctor and Gamble. The property has historic outbuildings, including a sugar cane mill and syrup kettle, a fruit drying kiln, and an orange grove. Visitors can take guided tours of the village, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

Built-in 1887, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Florida at 175 feet. The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the coastline, Halifax River, and the surrounding inland waterways from the top of the tower. The museum features exhibits on lighthouse life and local history.

Natural Attractions of Port Orange: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens

Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens is a 12-acre property that was once a sugar plantation. The property features botanical gardens, nature trails, and a museum. Visitors can explore the restored 19th-century ruins of a sugar mill and admire the beautiful gardens that are home to over 5,000 plant species.

Spruce Creek Park and Campground

Spruce Creek Park and Campground is a 1,600-acre park that offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. The park has over five miles of hiking trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and a playground. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore Spruce Creek, a designated scenic river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Port Orange

Port Orange has several trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include

Port Orange Trail (17 miles)

The Port Orange Trail is a 17-mile trail that runs through the heart of Port Orange. The trail is ideal for hikers and bikers, with scenery ranging from suburban neighborhoods to natural settings.

Crane Lakes Loop (4.4 miles)

The Crane Lakes Loop is a 4.4-mile trail located in the Town Center area of Port Orange. The trail follows the shoreline of Crane Lakes and offers scenic views of the golf course and wooded areas.

Best Things to Do in Port Orange: Activities and Tours

East Coast Paddle

East Coast Paddle offers tours of the Halifax River, Spruce Creek, and Mosquito Lagoon. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and go on guided tours to explore the extensive waterways around Port Orange. The tours are suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Daytona International Speedway

Located just a short drive from Port Orange, the Daytona International Speedway is a must-visit attraction for any race fan. Visitors can take a guided tour of the famous racetrack, explore the Daytona 500 Experience, and even drive a NASCAR race car.

Week-Long Itinerary for Port Orange

Day 1: Visit the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum Day 2: Explore Gamble Place and Sugar Mill Gardens Day 3: Take a paddleboard tour of the Halifax River with East Coast Paddle Day 4: Hike the Port Orange Trail Day 5: Visit Daytona Beach and the Daytona International Speedway Day 6: Relax on the beach and enjoy the water activities Day 7: Go on a guided fishing trip on Spruce Creek

Food and Drink Scene of Port Orange

Must-Try Dishes

Crab and Seafood Shack

The Crab and Seafood Shack is a must-visit restaurant that offers a range of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, shrimp scampi, and lobster tails.

DJ’s Deck

DJ’s Deck is a waterfront bar and grill that offers a range of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy outdoor seating and live music.

Local Beverages

Beachside Brew Pub

The Beachside Brew Pub is a local brewery that offers a range of craft beers and seasonal brews. The brewery has a relaxed atmosphere and offers indoor and outdoor seating.

Where to Stay in Port Orange: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Port Orange has a range of accommodation options for travelers, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly guesthouses, and hostels. Some of the popular options include

The Shores Resort and Spa

The Shores Resort and Spa is a luxury hotel located on the beachside. The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool. The rooms have balconies with breathtaking views of the ocean.

La Quinta Inn and Suites

Located near the airport, La Quinta Inn and Suites is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and amenities like a swimming pool, fitness center, and free breakfast buffet.

What to Buy in Port Orange: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Port Orange has several boutiques, gift shops, and specialty stores that offer unique products to take home as souvenirs. Some of the popular products include locally made jewelry, handmade pottery, artisanal chocolates, and home decor items.

Local Culture and Customs of Port Orange

Port Orange has a laid-back and friendly culture that reflects the spirit of Florida. Visitors are advised to be courteous to locals and respect the state’s customs and traditions, which include a love for outdoor activities and beach culture.

Best Time to Visit Port Orange

The best time to visit Port Orange is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. The summer months, from June to August, can be hot and humid with heavy rainfall. Winter months, from December to February, are relatively mild but may have occasional cold snaps.

Do’s and Don’ts of Port Orange

Do:

  • Visit the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse and Museum
  • Take a paddleboard tour of the Halifax River with East Coast Paddle
  • Try the seafood dishes at Crab and Seafood Shack
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety tips when exploring nature trails or waterways
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals
  • Litter or pollute the natural environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Port Orange

Port Orange is a relatively safe city, but visitors are advised to take precautions like locking their cars, securing their valuables, and avoiding isolated areas at night. Travelers should also follow safety guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Port Orange

Travelers to Port Orange are advised to drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, and protect themselves against insect bites to avoid health problems. Visitors should also carry their prescription medications and avoid exposing themselves to extreme weather conditions.

Getting to Port Orange: Transportation Options and Logistics

Port Orange is easily accessible by air, car, and bus. The following are some of the transportation options available.

Airports Near Port Orange

The closest airport to Port Orange is Daytona Beach International Airport, which is approximately six miles from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Port Orange

The Greyhound bus station is located in Daytona Beach, which is a short drive from Port Orange.

Other Options

Travelers can also rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get around Port Orange.

How to Get Around in Port Orange

Port Orange has several transportation options for visitors, including rental cars, taxis, and rideshare services. Biking and walking are also popular options for exploring the city, with many trails and paths available for hikers and bikers.

Where to Go Next from Port Orange: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Port Orange is located near several popular destinations in Florida, including Daytona Beach, Cape Canaveral, and St. Augustine. Visitors can also explore nearby state parks and hiking trails, including the Tomoka State Park and Bulow Creek State Park.

Conclusion

Port Orange is an excellent destination for travelers looking to enjoy the beach, nature, and adventure. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can explore the city’s top attractions, enjoy its diverse food and drink scene, and learn about local customs and traditions. Remember to follow safety guidelines and respect the natural environment while exploring Port Orange.

Map of Port Orange, relative to Volusia County and Florida, with locations of nearby Cities. Map of Port Orange, relative to Volusia County and Florida, with locations of nearby Cities. Spruce Creek Spruce Creek