Vacation rentals in Ponce Inlet

Set on the southern tip of a barrier island on the coast of central Florida, Ponce Inlet is a small town known for its peaceful coastal atmosphere. It's only a 20-minute drive south of its more popular sister city, Daytona. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, unique attractions, boardwalk, and nature preserves, this lesser known gem is well-worth the visit. Ponce Inlet is a fantastic destination option for families, couples, and beach lovers seeking a laid-back, uncrowded coastal Florida getaway.

Enjoy a peaceful, laid-back beach getaway at Ponce Inlet where you can choose from a variety of vacation rentals. Several oversized rentals are available for large groups and families. Smaller groups and couples can opt for a cozy, intimate rental with a private garden. Enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean at a rental close to the beach or with balcony views. The majority of rentals in this area are designed with Florida-inspired decor, plenty of natural light, and modern furnishings. Pet-friendly rentals are available for people traveling with pets.

If you’ll be flying into Ponce Inlet, the closest major airport is Daytona Beach International Airport, just 10 miles away. From Daytona Beach, you can take a taxi or a bus to Ponce Inlet and the drive takes around 30 minutes. Uber and Lyft are also widely accessible throughout the region. Rental car companies are available at the airport and in the city of Daytona beach if you plan to rent a car during your trip.

Ponce Inlet is a small and walkable town. Renting a car during your trip will make it more convenient to get from place to place, but if you enjoy walking, it is totally possible to rely on your own two feet to get around. Renting bikes or a golf cart is also a popular option for getting around.

Enjoy a variety of fun and unique activities with your significant other at Ponce Inlet. Parasailing is a popular activity with many different packages available. You can take parasailing flights between 800 and 2000 feet in the air and enjoy spectacular views of Daytona and the surrounding region. Boat tours are also a popular activity and a great way to explore the coastal region. There are several boat tour operators offering different package options, from sunset cruises, to day trips, fishing trips, and more.

Ponce Inlet is a wonderful destination for a relaxing and memorable family getaway. Head to the Ponce Inlet Historical Museum to learn all about the history and cultural heritage of the local area. The museum is set inside of two historic Florida cottages called “cracker homes” with several informational plaques throughout the property. Explore the Ponce Preserve, which is the largest park in the town and sits on over 40 acres of coastline. The park is home to an archaeological Native American site, wetlands, and several species of native trees. There’s even a live oak that’s been estimated to be over 350 years old.

Climb 203 steps to the top of the 175-foot Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse. The tower is the tallest lighthouse in Florida and one of the tallest in the entire country. The inside of the lighthouse contains a spiral staircase with a panoramic viewing deck at the top. Spend a couple of hours walking around the grounds and exploring the museum. There are several informational plaques and points throughout the property where you can learn about the history of the lighthouse and local area.

One of the most popular attractions in the city, The Marine Science Center plays an important role in preserving the local marine ecosystems. The center regularly rescues, rehabilitates, and releases sick or injured sea turtles and birds in the area. During a visit here, you can visit the animals and learn about how they are cared for. There are hands-on exhibits for children to learn about some of the local marine life species, as well as a nature trail and an observation deck with views of the surrounding nature preserve.

This well-maintained beach park has it all. You could spend quite a few hours exploring the peaceful area, swimming, walking along the shores, fishing, or just enjoying the spectacular views of the lighthouse. A series of wooden walking ramps provide beach access at several different points along the coastline. There’s also a nature trail and a dog park. The park has restrooms with showers, and there are several trashcan points around the park.

Named one of the best beaches in the region, the white sands, wide shores, and calm waters at Ponce Inlet Park are not to be missed. Grab your beach gear and a cooler full of drinks and snacks and spend an entire day here.

Several restaurants around the inlet serve delicious, fresh, and locally caught seafood. Enjoy a meal at Down the Hatch Seafood Company, which offers a wide range of fresh seafood dishes. Off The Hook is another top-rated restaurant serving locally caught seafood.