Ormond Beach, Florida: Where Fun and Adventure Meet – The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!
Winter and early spring are when Ormond Beach works. The water is still swimmable and the beaches are wide and quiet. The state parks can be walked in the middle of the day without suffering for it. Summer brings the heat and the crowds, so move the outdoor half to early morning and keep the afternoon for the museum or the brewery. Fall is the compromise: warm water, thinner company.
Planning a trip to Ormond Beach, Florida is a good decision. The town sits on the east coast of Florida and carries more than the size of it suggests. Outdoor adventures, historic sites, arts and culture, food and drink, shopping and somewhere to sleep are all properly covered.
The beaches are the main draw. Over 80 miles of continuous beach run from Matanzas inlet in St. John’s County to Ponce Inlet, which leaves room for swimming, sunbathing and water sports without anyone crowding you. Ormond Beach is not only beaches, though. The parks take a long walk, the boat tours take an afternoon, and the historic sites take the rest.
Whatever the interest, Ormond Beach delivers a proper break. Pack the bags and get out in the sun.
Key Takeaways
- Ormond Beach offers a variety of activities for all interests, including outdoor adventures, historic sites, arts and culture, food and drink, shopping, and accommodation options.
- The beaches are a major attraction, but there are also plenty of other things to do, such as visiting parks, going on boat tours, and exploring historic sites.
- Ormond Beach provides a great vacation experience for all ages, so pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun!
The Beaches of Ormond
On beaches, Ormond Beach is well supplied. Over 80 miles of continuous beach run from Matanzas inlet in St. John’s County to Ponce Inlet, so finding your own stretch of sand is not the problem it would be elsewhere.
Andy Romano Beachfront Park
For a family beach day, Andy Romano Beachfront Park. The amenities do most of the work: a splash pad, a playground and volleyball courts. There is enough shade for a picnic lunch, which matters here. Bring sunscreen and beach toys.
New Smyrna Beach
For a quieter beach, New Smyrna Beach. It is the more secluded option and it suits swimming, sunbathing and surfing equally. The clear water makes it the better choice for snorkeling and scuba diving. Dolphins turn up in the waves often enough to be worth watching for.
Whichever beach you pick, bring sunscreen and water. The sun here is stronger than it feels.
Outdoor Adventures
For outdoor time in Ormond Beach, the options run to state parks, kayaking and fishing. These are the best outdoor adventures in the area:
Tomoka State Park
Tomoka State Park is the one to give a full day. Hiking, fishing and picnicking are all here, and a canoe or kayak on the Tomoka River is the better version of the afternoon. Watch for the local wildlife, birds especially.
Bulow Creek State Park
Bulow Creek State Park is the other state park worth the drive. It suits hiking and slow exploring, with fishing in the creeks and picnic spots through it. Kayaking and canoeing are available for anyone wanting more.
Paddle the Tomoka River
For an unusual outdoor day, paddle the Tomoka River. It puts you level with the wildlife and gives you the scenery from the water, which is a different trip entirely. Bring a kayak or rent one from a local outfitter. Carry sunscreen and plenty of water.
A relaxing day in the park or a harder one on the water, Ormond Beach carries both. Grab the gear and go.
Historic Sites
History readers get a proper list in Ormond Beach. It runs from the winter home of John D. Rockefeller to the ruins of an old plantation.
The Casements
No account of historic sites in Ormond Beach starts anywhere but The Casements. It was the winter home of John D. Rockefeller and it is now a museum open to the public. What you get is how one of the world’s wealthiest men actually lived in the early 1900s. It also runs as a venue for weddings and events.
Addison Blockhouse Historic State Park
This park is named after John Addison, who built a blockhouse here during the Seminole Wars. A replica of the blockhouse stands on the site now. Picnic areas, hiking trails and a playground make it work as a family day.
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park
The Bulow Plantation was one of the largest plantations in Florida before it was destroyed during the Second Seminole War. The ruins of the sugar mill, the slave quarters and the spring house are all still there. The park also carries hiking trails and picnic areas.
Three Chimneys Historical Site
Three Chimneys is off the usual route and worth the drive. It was a stopping point for travelers in the 1800s and is now a historic site, holding the remains of the old hotel, the post office and the general store. It gives you the early version of Ormond Beach more clearly than anything else on this list.
Those are the historic sites in Ormond Beach worth the time. John D. Rockefeller or the Seminole Wars, both threads run through them.
Arts and Culture
For culture in Ormond Beach, two places carry it. Art lovers and nature lovers are both looked after:
Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens
The Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens is the one art enthusiasts should not walk past. The collection runs to over 2,000 pieces, covering paintings, sculptures and mixed media. Rotating exhibits mean a second visit is not a repeat.
The art is not the only reason to come. The gardens run to over 2 acres of landscaped grounds, holding butterfly gardens and a koi pond. It is the right place for a slow afternoon.
Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center
Nature lovers should go to the Ormond Beach Environmental Discovery Center. The centre exists to explain the local ecosystem and the conservation work going on in the area.
Inside, the interactive exhibits cover the flora and fauna of the region alongside displays on local history and geology. The outdoor area is the better half, with a boardwalk and an observation tower over the Tomoka River.
Art aficionado or nature lover, Ormond Beach has something for you. Take a break from the beach and see the cultural side of this charming town.
Ormond Beach runs along the coast north of Daytona with the Halifax River behind the barrier island. The beach side holds Andy Romano Beachfront Park, the boardwalk and the splash pad. The Casements and the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens sit on the river, close enough to walk between. The mainland side carries the restaurants, the brewery and the shops. Tomoka State Park is north up the river, with Bulow Creek State Park, the Bulow Plantation Ruins and Three Chimneys further on. New Smyrna Beach is a drive south. Most visitors take the beach and never cross the bridge.
Food and Drink
The food and drink in Ormond Beach are worth planning around. These are the best places to satisfy the cravings:
Ormond Brewing Company
Beer drinkers should go to the Ormond Brewing Company. The craft selection is good and they keep adding new flavors to it. The room is relaxed, which makes it the right place to sit with friends.
La Gourmandise French Bakery & Pastry
For something sweet, La Gourmandise French Bakery & Pastry. The pastries, cakes and breads are all made fresh daily. The room is small and comfortable, so eating in beats taking it away.
Local Restaurants and Bars
Ormond Beach carries a strong list of local restaurants and bars. Seafood, pizza and most things between are covered. Some of our favorites:
Grind Gastropub & Kona Tiki Bar: This spot has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails, plus delicious gastropub-style food.
The Black Sheep Pub & Eating House: If you’re in the mood for some British-style pub fare, this is the spot for you. They have a great selection of beers on tap, plus classic dishes like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.
Peach Valley Cafe: This spot is great for breakfast or brunch, with a wide selection of dishes like omelets, pancakes, and breakfast burritos.
Wherever you eat in Ormond Beach, you will do well. Go ahead and indulge. You are on vacation.
Shopping and Souvenirs
For retail therapy or souvenirs from Ormond Beach, the shopping here holds up. A few suggestions to start with:
Local Shops
For one-of-a-kind items, work through the local shops in Ormond Beach. Handmade crafts and vintage finds both turn up, and the stock changes constantly. Some of our favorites:
Big Shark: This eclectic shop has a little bit of everything, from vintage clothing to quirky home decor. You never know what you might find at Big Shark, so be sure to stop in and take a look around.
Art Among the Flowers: Looking for a beautiful floral arrangement or a unique piece of art? Look no further than Art Among the Flowers. This lovely shop offers a wide selection of flowers, plants, and artwork from local artists.
Flagler Beach Gift Shop: Just a short drive from Ormond Beach, this charming shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs, including t-shirts, postcards, and beach gear. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento of your trip to the area.
Jewelry and Gifts
For jewelry or gifts, Ormond Beach has the shops. A few to check:
Emily’s Gift Shop: This lovely shop offers a wide selection of gifts and jewelry, including many handmade items. From candles to scarves to unique pieces of jewelry, you’re sure to find something you love at Emily’s.
Salty Turtle Gift Shop: Located right on the beach, this fun and funky shop offers a wide selection of beach-themed gifts and souvenirs. From seashell jewelry to beach towels to t-shirts, you’ll find everything you need to remember your trip to Ormond Beach.
Gaslamp Gift Gallery: This unique shop offers a wide variety of gifts and home decor items, including many handmade and one-of-a-kind pieces. From pottery to jewelry to wall art, you’re sure to find something special at Gaslamp.
Jewelry or an unusual piece of home decor, Ormond Beach has the options. Happy shopping.
Accommodation Options
Hotels
Ormond Beach covers accommodation from luxurious to budget-friendly. Some of the best in town:
The Casements: This historic hotel was once the winter home of John D. Rockefeller and is now a cultural center for the city. With its beautiful location on the Halifax River and close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, The Casements is truly a gem in Ormond Beach.
Coral Sands Inn & Seaside Cottages: This hotel is perfect for those looking for a beachfront stay. With its private beach access and cozy cottages, Coral Sands Inn is a great option for families or couples.
Lotus Boutique Inn & Suites: For a more boutique experience, check out Lotus Boutique Inn & Suites. This hotel offers stylish rooms and a great location near the beach and local attractions.
Campgrounds
For something more outdoors, Ormond Beach has good campgrounds. The best in the area:
Tomoka State Park: This beautiful park offers RV and tent camping, as well as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. With its stunning natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Tomoka State Park is a great option for nature lovers.
Bulow RV Resort: For a more luxurious camping experience, check out Bulow RV Resort. With its pool, hot tub, and clubhouse, this campground offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay.
Volusia County Parks: Volusia County offers several campgrounds throughout the area, including North Beach Camp Resort and Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area. With their beautiful locations and affordable rates, these campgrounds are a great option for those looking to explore the outdoors on a budget.
Whatever kind of accommodation you want, Ormond Beach has it. Pack the bags and book the stay in this charming Florida town.
Fun for the Whole Family
For family activities in Ormond Beach, Florida, these are the best in the area:
Splash Pad
To cool off on a hot day, the Ormond Beach Splash Pad. The water features and sprinklers keep children running until they are soaked and worn out. It costs nothing to use.
Playground
To let children burn off energy, the Ormond Beach Playground. Swings, slides and climbing structures cover most ages. Benches and picnic tables nearby mean you can sit while they do it.
Equestrian Adventures of Florida
For an unusual family day, Equestrian Adventures of Florida. The guided horseback ride goes through the trails of the Tomoka State Park, and no experience is needed. The guides keep it safe and unhurried, and Ormond Beach looks entirely different from the saddle.
A splash pad, a playground or a horseback ride, Ormond Beach covers the family day. All three will fill an afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to spot dolphins in Ormond Beach?
Take a dolphin watching tour. It is the reliable way to see them in Ormond Beach, and it puts you close enough to watch them swim and play in their own water. Most people remember it longer than the beach day.
Is Ormond Beach nicer than a free day at the museum?
That depends on the weather and your mood. For a slow day, Ormond Beach itself is the answer. For culture and history, the Ormond Beach Memorial Art Museum and Gardens is where to go.
What’s the most fun thing to do in Ormond Beach this weekend?
Plenty. Ride the Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail, take a surfing lesson, or kayak the Tomoka River. For something slower, work through the restaurants and bars around Ormond Beach.
Can you find any hidden treasures while shopping in Ormond Beach?
Yes. The local shops and boutiques in Ormond Beach carry things you will not find elsewhere. Handmade jewelry, vintage clothing and one-of-a-kind home decor all turn up if you look.
Which is better: a stroll on the Ormond Beach Boardwalk or a visit to the Memorial Art Museum & Gardens?
That is a close call. The Ormond Beach Boardwalk gives you a slow walk and the ocean. The Memorial Art Museum & Gardens gives you the history and culture of the area. Do both if the day allows it.
What makes Ormond Beach famous besides being the home of the world’s coolest AI assistant?
Ormond Beach is known as the “birthplace of speed” for its history with automobile inventors and drivers. It also has some of the best beaches in Florida and a cultural heritage to go with them. And, apparently, the home of the world’s coolest AI assistant.
Frequently asked questions about Ormond Beach, Florida
Which beach is best in Ormond Beach, Florida?
Andy Romano Beachfront Park if you have children, on the strength of the splash pad, playground, volleyball courts and shade. New Smyrna Beach wins when you want quiet, since it is more secluded and better for snorkeling and scuba diving. Skip the drive south unless the day is clear. The water there is the whole point.
Which park is worth a day near Ormond Beach?
Tomoka State Park, because it does the most: hiking, fishing, picnicking and a canoe or kayak run on the Tomoka River. Bulow Creek State Park is the better pick if hiking is the only thing you came for. Addison Blockhouse Historic State Park is the family compromise, with picnic areas, trails and a playground.
What can you see at the Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens?
Over 2,000 pieces of art covering paintings, sculptures and mixed media, plus rotating exhibits that keep changing what is on the walls between one visit and the next. The gardens are the other half, with over 2 acres of landscaped grounds, butterfly gardens and a koi pond. Do the museum first. Take the gardens when the light drops.
