Hitchhiker’s* Guide to DeLand

The Jetty, Ponce Inlet

This is a perfect beach for those who want to get away from the tourists of New Smyrna and Daytona Beach and still get to experience the great waves that swell up off of the jetty. Like New Smyrna, it’s a surfer’s favorite spot. Within walking distance, you can find the Marine Science Center, which fosters sick and injured coastal creatures, and the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. 

Donnie’s Donuts, New Smyrna Beach

This local favorite was just featured on The Food Network show “The Extra Mile” for their amazing cake donuts. They have classic sugar coated donuts and modern donuts with toppings that Instagram influencers flock to see. My favorite flavors are Key Lime Pie, Death by Chocolate, and Piña Colada. 

Wave, Mt. Dora

Sushi fans, rejoice! These rolls are anything but traditional. They have sushi burritos, sushi donuts, sushi pizza slices, sushi hamburgers and even sushi hotdogs. The artisanal value of these rolls are beyond anything here in DeLand—their Instagram has over one-hundred thousand followers! It’s worth the forty-five minute hike, trust me. 

One Daytona, Daytona Beach

Across the street from the speedway is the new shopping center Daytona One, which meets the entertainment needs of you and all of your friends. There are shops and restaurants that meet a variety of hankerings, as well as a very nice theater and game arcade. For car and motorcycle fans, there are local meets that gather in the parking lots from time to time and the location is a great pit stop for anyone going to the races.