Ormond Beach
Discover Ormond Beach, Florida, known for its unique red sand, affordable beachfront stays, and historical charm. A relaxed coastal escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful beach
Ormond Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful beach
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ormond Beach, Florida, known for its unique red sand, affordable beachfront stays, and historical charm. A relaxed coastal escape.
"Experience the unique red sand and affordable beachfront bliss of Ormond Beach, a charming Florida coastal gem."
🚗 Drive on the Beach
Enjoy the unique experience of driving and parking directly on Ormond Beach for a fee.
☕ Support Local Coffee Shops
Skip the chains and try local favorites like Happy Co. Surf & Coffee or Gold Leaf Coffee.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Red Sand Beach
Ormond Beachfront
Experience the distinctive red-hued sand, a natural wonder formed from coquina shells. A truly unique Florida beach experience.
The Casements
Rockefeller Gardens
Explore the historic winter estate of John D. Rockefeller, featuring beautiful gardens and Spanish-style architecture.
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Andy Romano Beachfront Park
839 S Atlantic Ave
A dog-friendly beach with amenities like bathrooms, showers, a playground, and grill area. Perfect for families and pet owners.
Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens
21 S Beach St
A serene sanctuary dedicated to art and nature, honoring veterans. Free admission with donations accepted.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Red Sand Charm
Affordable Beachfront Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive on the Beach
Enjoy the unique experience of driving and parking directly on Ormond Beach for a fee. +1
☕ Support Local Coffee Shops
Skip the chains and try local favorites like Happy Co. Surf & Coffee or Gold Leaf Coffee.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends to Andy Romano Beachfront Park, a designated dog beach.
💰 Affordable Stays
Find beachfront vacation rentals and hotels without the high price tag.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive on the Beach
Enjoy the unique experience of driving and parking directly on Ormond Beach for a fee. +1
☕ Support Local Coffee Shops
Skip the chains and try local favorites like Happy Co. Surf & Coffee or Gold Leaf Coffee.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends to Andy Romano Beachfront Park, a designated dog beach.
💰 Affordable Stays
Find beachfront vacation rentals and hotels without the high price tag.
📚 Discover Hidden Gems
Explore charming spots like Fern & Fable Books for a unique local experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Ormond Beach for its unique red sand, affordable beachfront accommodations, and family-friendly atmosphere. It's seen as a more relaxed and budget-conscious alternative to some of its more bustling neighbors. Some find the sand coarser than expected, and like any beach town, it can get busy during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ormond Beach is located on Florida's east coast, easily accessible by car via I-95. The nearest major airport is Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), about a 15-20 minute drive away. For those flying into Orlando, Groome Transportation offers a more affordable option than ride-sharing services to reach Ormond Beach.
Yes, Ormond Beach offers free public parking areas, and you can also drive and park directly on the beach for a fee. +1
Absolutely! Ormond Beach allows you to drive and park on the beach for a fee, offering a unique way to experience the coastline. +1
While a car is recommended for exploring the wider area, within the main beach town, walking and biking are pleasant options. Ride-sharing services are also available.
Yes, Ormond Beach is located just north of Daytona Beach, making it easy to visit both destinations during your trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The beach itself is generally free to access. However, there is a fee for driving and parking directly on the beach. +1
The beach is accessible at all hours, though amenities like restrooms and parking facilities may have specific operating times. Driving on the beach typically has designated hours.
For most natural attractions like the beach and parks, no advance booking is needed. For specific museums or tours, it's always a good idea to check their individual websites. The Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens is free but accepts donations.
Yes, the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens offers free admission, and many parks like Rainbow Park (Magic Forest Playground) are also free to enjoy.
The fee for driving and parking on Ormond Beach can vary, but it's generally an affordable option for a unique beach experience. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Ormond Beach is famous for its unique red sand, which gets its color from pulverized coquina shells. It offers a different texture and appearance compared to typical white sand beaches.
Enjoy beachcombing, swimming, sunbathing, driving on the beach, and visiting nearby parks like Andy Romano Beachfront Park. You can also explore historical sites like The Casements and the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens.
Yes, Andy Romano Beachfront Park is a designated dog beach where your pets can enjoy the sand and surf.
Popular parks include Andy Romano Beachfront Park for its amenities and dog-friendliness, and Rainbow Park (Magic Forest Playground) for family fun. Rockefeller Gardens offers a historical and scenic experience.
Key historical sites include The Casements, the former winter home of John D. Rockefeller, and the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, which has a rich history dating back to post-WWII.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ormond Beach offers a variety of dining options. For local favorites, check out Jimmy Hoolas, Oceanside Beach Grill, and RiverGrille on the Tomoka for seafood with a Cajun twist. The Uncommon Grain is a great local bakery and cafe.
Yes, RiverGrille on the Tomoka is highly recommended for fresh seafood with a Cajun twist, and Oceanside Beach Grill offers great oceanfront dining.
Instead of Starbucks, try local spots like Happy Co. Surf & Coffee or Gold Leaf Coffee for a taste of the local scene.
The Beach Bucket is a recommended spot for breakfast, and The Uncommon Grain offers bakery and cafe options.
RiverGrille on the Tomoka offers scenic views of the Tomoka River, and Oceanside Beach Grill provides a memorable beachfront dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the red sand beaches, the historic Casements estate and its gardens, and the scenic Tomoka River. Drone photography is also popular here.
Yes, many visitors enjoy using drones to capture aerial views of the unique coastline and beach landscapes in Ormond Beach. +1
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for beach photography, while early mornings provide a serene and less crowded scene.
The gardens at The Casements and the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens are both beautiful and offer excellent photo opportunities.
Look for the Ormond Beach Mural for a colorful backdrop, or capture the historic architecture of The Casements. The red sand itself is a unique photographic element.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The ability to drive and park directly on the beach also makes it easier to manage gear and keep an eye on little ones. Consider packing beach toys and snacks for a full day of fun. 💰 Budget Travelers
Enjoy free activities like beachcombing, swimming, and exploring parks like the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens, which offers free admission. Opt for local eateries and coffee shops over national chains to save on dining costs. 🐶 Pet Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Ormond Beach's Red Sand
While the red sand is a visual treat, it's worth noting that it can be a bit coarser than fine white sand. However, many find the unique color and texture to be a worthwhile trade-off for a less crowded and more distinctive beach day. It's a natural phenomenon that adds to the charm and character of Ormond Beach, making it a memorable stop for any Florida coastal tour.
Exploring Ormond Beach's Historical and Cultural Gems
+1Another significant cultural landmark is the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens. Founded in 1946, it serves as a sanctuary dedicated to inspiring the community through art and nature, while also honoring those who fought for freedom. The museum and its surrounding gardens are free to enter, making it an accessible and enriching experience for all visitors.
For those interested in local art and community spirit, keep an eye out for public art installations like the Ormond Beach Mural. These elements add layers of discovery to Ormond Beach, offering more than just sun and sand.
Family Fun and Dog-Friendly Adventures
For younger children, Rainbow Park, also known as Magic Forest Playground, provides an engaging and free play space. Its whimsical design is sure to delight little ones.
The ability to drive and park on the beach also adds a unique convenience for families, allowing easy access to the shoreline with all your gear. This flexibility enhances the overall family beach experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit