Mention Daytona Beach, and the first thing most people think of is NASCAR. Ask others, and they might mention Bike Week. Still others think of spring break, of driving cars on beaches, of the Ladies Professional Golf Association. Daytona Beach is all of this and so much more.

The events of Daytona can be broken down by month, filling an entire calendar year. Starting in February, NASCAR enthusiasts descend upon Daytona by the thousands to watch some of racing’s biggest events at the Daytona International Speedway, such as the Daytona 500 and its qualifiers. In March, college kids from all over the country head to Daytona Beach for a week of spring break parties. Also during March is Bike Week, famous as the largest annual convergence of motorcycle enthusiasts in the United States. In April, the LGPA holds its Sprint Titleholders Championship. In July the races start up again with the Pepsi 400, and in October, thousands of bikers ride on back to Daytona for Biketoberfest.

Much of Daytona Beach is dedicated to fast cars, fast motorcycles, and the people who worship them. This is evident in the dozen or so go-kart tracks sprinkled throughout the city, some of which top speeds of up to 75 mph. Historically the beaches themselves, which are wide and smooth, were used for high-speed testing and even car races. Nowadays, though, racing is no longer allowed, although Daytona remains one of the few places in Florida where driving is still permitted on the beach.

Daytona Beach is very much a beach town, with surf shops, carnival rides along the boardwalk, and water sports all along the coast. Charter boats are available to take anglers out to the deep seas in search of their quarry. Surfing is very popular in Daytona Beach, as are all forms of water sports. And for those who'd prefer to stay dry, a parade of exciting rides can be found in the area, as well as the Sky Surfer, a ride that takes you ski-lift style over the waters of the Atlantic.

For more information about attractions and accommodations in the area, see the site for the Daytona Beach Convention And Visitors Bureau.