South Daytona, FL

County: Volusia

History

South Daytona, Florida

South Daytona, Florida is a city located in Volusia County. The area that is now South Daytona was originally inhabited by the Timucuan Indians, a Native American tribe.

European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and in the early 19th century, a man named Patrick Dean received a Spanish land grant for the land on the west side of the Halifax River and settled in the area. At that time, the area was known as Blake. In the 1870s, another settler, Samuel Williams, established a large dairy farm on the east side of the Halifax River and named it Daytona.

In 1926, the area officially became incorporated as a town and was named South Daytona, differentiating it from the nearby city of Daytona Beach. The town grew steadily, mainly due to its proximity to Daytona Beach and the opportunities for beach access and tourism.

During World War II, the City Island Naval Air Station was built in South Daytona. It trained naval aviation personnel and played a significant role in the war effort. After the war, the city continued to grow as a desirable residential area, attracting families and professionals.

In 1951, South Daytona officially became a city. Over the years, the city has developed and expanded its amenities and infrastructure, including parks, recreational facilities, schools, and businesses.

Today, South Daytona is a vibrant community with a diverse population. It offers residents and visitors numerous amenities and attractions, including beautiful beaches, parks, and access to the Halifax River. The city also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, which contribute to its rich cultural and recreational offerings.

Overall, South Daytona's history reflects its transformation from a settlement on the banks of the Halifax River to a thriving city known for its quality of life and its contributions to the region.

Attractions

Reed Canal Park

Reed Canal Park

A recreational park offering nature trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields.

Go-Kart City

An outdoor go-kart racing track for thrill-seekers.

Cinematique Theater

A small independent cinema showcasing art-house and foreign films.

Sugden Park

A waterfront park providing fishing piers, picnic areas, and a playground.

Halifax Harbor Marina

A marina offering boat rentals, fishing charters, and waterfront dining.

Second Avenue Fishing Pier

A public fishing pier with scenic views of the Halifax River.

Speed Park Motorsports

An amusement park featuring go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade games.

The Pavilion at Port Orange

A shopping complex with various stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Spruce Creek Park

A nature preserve offering hiking trails and kayaking/canoeing opportunities.

Daytona International Speedway

Although technically located in neighboring Daytona Beach, this iconic racetrack is easily accessible from South Daytona and hosts major NASCAR events such as the Daytona 500.

Climate

South Daytona, FL experiences a humid subtropical climate, which is typical for much of Florida. The city enjoys warm and mild winters, hot and humid summers, and a lengthy warm season.

During the winter months, from December to February, temperatures range from the upper 40s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (8-24 degrees Celsius) on average. Frost is rare, and snowfall is virtually unheard of. It is a pleasant time to be outdoors, with plenty of sunshine and low humidity.

Spring, which spans March to May, brings warmer temperatures between the 60s and 80s Fahrenheit (15-27 degrees Celsius). Humidity starts to build up during this season, and occasional rainfall is common, often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms.

Summer, from June to August, is the hottest and most humid time of the year in South Daytona. Temperatures can reach into the mid to upper 90s Fahrenheit (32-37 degrees Celsius), and the heat index can make it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are frequent and can be intense, providing temporary relief from the heat.

Autumn, from September to November, sees temperatures dropping back down to the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (24-32 degrees Celsius). Humidity remains high, but the rainfall tends to decrease as the season progresses.

Overall, South Daytona has a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it appealing for those who enjoy warmer weather throughout the year.

Neighborhoods

South Daytona is a small city in Volusia County, Florida, located on the eastern coast of the state. While it may not have distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, it does have different areas that offer unique features and amenities. Here are some of the notable sections of South Daytona:

Golfview

This is a residential area located near the Daytona Beach Golf Club. It offers quiet streets and easy access to golf amenities.

Big Tree Shores

Situated along the Halifax River, Big Tree Shores is known for its waterfront properties, offering beautiful river views and convenient boating access.

Palm Grove

Located north of Reed Canal Road, Palm Grove is a well-established residential area with a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It provides easy access to schools, parks, and shopping centers.

Reed Canal

This area is primarily residential, offering a variety of housing options such as single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It is situated around Reed Canal, a waterway that provides residents with water views and recreational opportunities.

Central Park

Located near the South Daytona Community Center and Reed Canal Park, this neighborhood is ideal for families. It features a mix of residential properties and offers easy access to sports fields, playgrounds, and community events.

South Daytona Shores

Situated along the Atlantic coast, South Daytona Shores offers a mix of residential and beachfront properties. It is a popular area for tourists and residents who enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Orange Grove

This residential area is located near Nova Road and features a combination of single-family homes, apartments, and mobile homes. It provides convenient access to restaurants, shopping centers, and major roads.

Overall, South Daytona is a diverse city with a range of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles, from those looking for waterfront living to those who prefer a more suburban setting.

Nearby Cities