A layover in Daytona Beach is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Daytona Beach International Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by Votran Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Daytona Beach, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Daytona Beach is roughly 70 minutes from DAB via Votran Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Daytona Beach
You have two main options for getting from Daytona Beach International Airport into town:
- Votran Bus: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at DAB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Daytona Beach itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Daytona Beach, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What’s Worth Seeing in Daytona Beach
For a layover visit to Daytona Beach, we’d suggest Daytona International Speedway Tours and Daytona Beach Boardwalk & Pier. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DAB, you can spend time at Daytona Gifts or try Airport History Display. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Daytona Beach Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Daytona Beach: Houligan’s Irish Pub and Ocean Deck Restaurant & Beach Bar. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Daytona Taproom or Daytona Grille. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at DAB should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at DAB
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at DAB.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Daytona Beach is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Daytona Beach.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.