Daytona Beach is not just for Spring Breakers or bikers anymore. This southern destination offers luxurious spas and romantic hideaways with plenty of activity both night and day. The area offers so much for both the guys and the gals.

Daytona Beach has been hosting romantics since the 1800s, when the first hotel, The Palmetto House, opened its doors. The invention of the automobile started a new pastime….auto racing. NASCAR was born on this beach and the first Daytona race occurred in the early 1903. You can still drive on the beach too!

Where to Relax

Daytona Beach is becoming a spa destination. It offers a variety of choices for spa-seekers, with medi-spas, day spas, and resort spas.

SpaTerre at The Shores Resort and Spa – SpaTerre specializes in Indonesian and Thai treatments, with a Florida flare. I sampled the Margarita Pedicure, where my feet soaked while I enjoyed a cool, frothy margarita. I also nibbled on a special treat of chocolate key lime cookies. www.shoresresort.com

The Spa at The Hilton Daytona Beach – This spa is secluded from the rest of the hotel, with intimate lighting and treatment rooms. The Spa uses Pevonia Products and offers a variety of treatment options. I opted for the Silky Smooth Body Polish, which left my skin glowing for the evening’s dinner. www.daytonahilton.com

Vacation Therapy Spa – This spa s located at The Wyndham Ocean Walk, a family property that offers time away from the kids. This is a good choice for a family vacation, where Mom and Dad can leave the kids at the activity center while the adult enjoy some quality couples treatments. www.oceanwalk.com

Where to Play

For the adventure lovers, spend a day at the Speedway or bring in excitement to a relationship with surf lessons.

Daytona USA – This is the place if you have the need for speed. Take a tour of Daytona International Speedway, or get a seat for race day. The on-site museum offers visitors a chance to test their mettle in a mock race, or for the more adventurous, enjoy the Richard Petty Driving Experience. www.daytonausa.com

Surfari Surf School – Couple can take private surf lessons in a safe environment. The instructor will have you catching waves within the hour. I took lessons and the only advice I have is……bring on the Icy-Hot! Save the massage for after the surf lessons. www.surfarisurf.com

Where to Eat

Daytona Beach offers endless possibilities for meals around the clock. Here are a few of my favorites:

Breakfast: The Dancing Avocado
Lunch: Bubba Gump Shrimp Company at Ocean Walk Shoppes, Ocean Deck Beach Restaurant and Beach Club
Dinner: Ronin Sushi and Bar, Rain Supper Club, Baleen

Where to Stay

The Shores of Daytona is a good choice for couples. I didn’t see a child while I was there, the lobby is elegant and relaxing, and the grounds…..oh my gosh! The pool area offers a beachside campfire to toast smores. They will even arrange a S’mores Concierge for you.

The rooms are have an elegant “beachy” feel with a four poster bed, sitting area, and upscale bath. If you want a tub to soak in, be sure to request it. Most rooms are equipped with showers big enough for two.

The balcony of an ocean view room provided the perfect spot for the two of you. Couples can sit together, enjoying the waves lapping on the shore, and sip champagne hand in hand. www.shoresresort.com

To plan your visit to Daytona Beach, or to order your free vacation planner, visit www.daytonabeach.com.