The Best Things To Do In Ponce Inlet
If you love lighthouses, auto racing, and beautiful beaches, Ponce Inlet, Florida, is a hidden gem that you must visit.
Located at the southern tip of a barrier island, ten miles south of Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet is a quiet seaside town that is rich in history and beauty.
The Best Things To Do In Ponce Inlet
Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
Since 1887, the Ponce de Leon Lighthouse has been a beacon for mariners sailing along Florida’s East coast. The lighthouse is the tallest in Florida and the second tallest in the United States. Second behind Cape Hatteras Light, NC.
The surrounding buildings are all part of the museum and, here, you will learn the lighthouse’s history, about the grounds it stands on, and how mariners navigated the high seas back in the day.
Be sure to climb the 175 feet to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views, while your legs might feel like jelly after, it’s well worth the effort.
Like most attractions, you will enter and exit through the gift shop, but that’s okay, it’s air-conditioned! The gift shop is stocked with really cute gifts, T-shirts, artwork, and other trinkets to take back home with you.
Ponce Inlet Dog Beach
Our visit to Ponce Inlet included our furry friend, Spinnaker. We were thrilled that this community is very dog-friendly, so a trip to the dog beach was imperative.
The Ponce Inlet Dog Beach is at the southernmost tip of the island and parking can be a bit tricky. I recommend that you arrive as early as possible to get a spot, otherwise, you’ll be walking a great distance to the beach.
The dog beach is a friendly place with lots of folks bringing their furry companions for some fun in the sun and surf. We happened to visit the beach on a morning when a Space X launch happened down at Cape Canaveral. We could see a small pin light from the launch vehicle, and that was about all. It’s still cool, though.
In addition to the wonderful dog beach, make a visit to Ponce’s Happy Tails Dog Park. This furry friend playground has lots of shade and seating for the humans. Water stations and waste bags are also available. Spinnaker and Benji loved playing with their friends at the dog park!
Marine Science Center
Adjacent to the beautiful lighthouse is the Marine Science Center. They are offering an educational experience regarding the local wildlife including birds, turtles, and more.
The Marine Science Center accepts injured seabirds and turtles for rehabilitation from illness or injury. Come and learn about Volusia County’s wildlife and how to preserve the local resources for generations to come.
Ho Daddy O’s Surf Camp
Have you ever wanted to learn how to surf? Ho Daddy O’s Surf Camp offers a week-long surf camp for adults and young adults. The surf shop is across the street from the ocean with its waves galore just waiting for you to “hang 10”!
Racing’s North Turn
You’ll see this listed twice, here, and below for places to dine. If you are not looking to dine here, I mention it so that you can look at the vintage photographs and large amount of memorabilia on display from America’s first race course.
This is the exact location of the first NASCAR-sanctioned races, starting in 1948. The pictures from these races are phenomenal. If you choose, have a drink at the bar, which overlooks the Atlantic. It’s a very special place, especially if you love auto and motorcycle racing.
Ponce Inlet’s Historic Museum
If you love small and quaint museums, you will love Ponce Inlet’s Historic Museum. These two cottages were built in the late 1800s as fishing rentals and are 2 of the last 3 remaining cottages from the pioneers of Ponce Inlet.
The museum is dedicated to the preservation and education of the history of Ponce Inlet. The hours, here, are a bit odd, so please check the museum’s website before your visit. This is a great addition to your visit to the lighthouse and Marine Science Center.
Fishing Charter
Florida is the fishing capital of the world! There are so many different options for charters. Inshore, offshore, flats, deep sea, etc. I recommend using Captain Experiences to choose the outfit best for you and your fishing plans.
Captain Experiences puts the best “Damn Good Guides” together on one website so you can see reviews from other fisherpersons and make an informed decision.
Where To Stay In Ponce Inlet
Ponce Inlet is a residential community with no commercial accommodation options. I enjoyed this fact because it keeps the integrity of this seaside town at its best. Not to worry, however, just a few minutes drive north, you can find accommodations in Daytona Beach Shores, and beyond.
Use this interactive map to find accommodations near Ponce Inlet.
Dining Options in Ponce Inlet
Off The Hook at Inlet Harbor
We visited Off The Hook by boat, which added to our amazing experience. They have a long dock that’s easy to navigate to and from. Whether you come by bicycle, car, or boat, you will not be disappointed.
While Off The Hook specializes in the freshest seafood, their menu has meals other than fish to appease all diners. Plan on coming early or be prepared to wait during peak dinner hours.
Down The Hatch Seafood Company
Another sure bet for an amazing meal is Down The Hatch. This seaside establishment has been serving up fresh seafood dishes for nearly 50 years and is part of the Ponce Inlet history, dating back to the 1880s, as the original fish camp. Come for the weekly chef’s selections, the amazing view, and part of the history that makes Ponce Inlet the special place that it is.
Jerry’s Italian Grill & Tiki Bar
Every seaside community needs a neighborhood pizza joint. Cue Jerry’s Italian Grill & Tiki Bar. Not only does Jerry’s serve up the most delicious pizza, they also serve up a calendar full of live music, fresh pasta, and tiki snacks. The newest addition to Jerry’s is the gigantic, waterproof tiki roof. Che Buono!
Racing’s North Turn
As mentioned above, I must also include Racing’s North Turn in my list of places to eat. After you have admired the historical value of this establishment, let the kitchen satisfy your tastebuds with a delicious meal served, oceanside. Racing’s North Turn serves up delicious grouper, crab cakes and a variety fare for the entire family.
Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill
Located near the lighthouse is Hidden Treasure Rum Bar & Grill. Check out their daily specials, like all-you-can-eat shrimp, or their fish and chips, served on certain days of the week. Hidden Treasure serves up fresh Florida seafood and a daily happy hour from 2-5 pm.
Ho Daddy O’s Surf Cream
Alright, you’ve had a full day in the sun, and a delicious meal out and about, it’s time to top it off with some Ice Cream. Ho Daddy’s has a variety of ice-cold treats, including beer, to satisfy your taste buds. It’s a local favorite!
Visiting Ponce Inlet: FAQs
Q: What Makes Ponce Inlet Unique?
A: Ponce Inlet has a lot of historic value and is home to Florida’s tallest lighthouse. Ponce Inlet does not have commercial accommodations, which makes it a nice quiet beach community that is fun to visit for the day. The beaches are amazing and the food is superb.
Q: How Do I Get To Ponce Inlet?
A: The closest airport is Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB). The airport is located 14 miles from Ponce Inlet. You can reach Ponce Inlet by car, heading south on A1A, along the coast. You can also reach Ponce Inlet by boat, as most of the restaurants have public docks to use while you dine.
Q: Is Ponce Inlet Worth Visiting?
A: YES! I really enjoyed my visit to Ponce Inlet. The small, beach-vibe community is rich with history and friendly people. It’s very dog-friendly and the beaches are some of the best in the state.
Breakin’ It Down: Things To Do In Ponce Inlet
If you’re staying in or near Daytona Beach, do yourself a favor and make a day trip down to Ponce Inlet. There are lots of things to do in Ponce Inlet, like, visiting the tallest lighthouse in Florida and having a delicious, fresh seafood meal. Take your beach bag and spend the day in this historic paradise on Florida’s East Coast. You won’t regret it!
Having a hard time deciding where to go on your Florida vacation? Check out St. Petersburg and Crystal River, too!
Save Pin for later and share with a friend!