Everyone loves the beach, but it’s even better when there’s a wonderful little town to explore nearby. If you want to visit a quiet Florida beach town and still vacation like a Rockefeller, we have the perfect destination for you.

Ormond Beach is a charming town on Florida’s east coast, conveniently located just north of Daytona Beach and an hour’s drive from Orlando. Next time you’re visiting one of these big attractions, consider staying here for a more relaxing trip.

Flickr/Sean Munson

Besides being close to some of Florida’s action-packed cities, this town has plenty to offer on its own. In fact, this was once a retreat for John D. Rockefeller, where he entertained famous friends such as Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. His impressive winter home, The Casements and its beautiful grounds sit right on the Halifax River. The home offers both guided and self-guided tours six days a week.

TripAdvisor/DougFaber

For a leisurely scenic drive, take the Ormond Scenic Loop, more than 30 miles of some of Northeast Florida’s most beautiful scenery, including tree tunnels, marshes, beaches, and historic buildings.

TripAdvisor/MrEdnWilbur

If you enjoy the outdoors, you can stop at one of the excellent state parks along the route. At Bulow Creek State Park, you can view the ancient Fairchild Oak and take a seven-mile hike to these historic sugar mill ruins.

Flickr/Rain0975

For shorter hikes or excellent boating and fishing opportunities, visit Tomoka State Park, also on The Loop. This park is also a wonderful spot for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching.

Flickr/Moultrie Creek

With all of this adventure, you’re sure to work up an appetite, so we recommend heading to Crabby Chris Beachside BBQ and Sweets, located at 1760 Ocean Shore Boulevard, in nearby Ormond-by-the-Sea.

TripAdvisor/Justin B

Delicious barbecue, burritos, tacos, soft serve ice cream, popsicles and Italian ice, with an ocean view. What more could you ask for?

TripAdvisor/Dominik H

What are your favorite things to do in Ormond Beach? Do you have any other favorite Florida beach towns?

Flickr/Sean Munson

TripAdvisor/DougFaber

TripAdvisor/MrEdnWilbur

Flickr/Rain0975

Flickr/Moultrie Creek

TripAdvisor/Justin B

TripAdvisor/Dominik H

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.