By Stephen M. Wheeler

In Autumn, Daytona Beach turns over a new leaf to visitors. Gone are the vast crowds, the kids, the noise—even some of the heat—leaving behind cool white sands, the gently rolling Atlantic Ocean and a host of activities that are even more enjoyable now that summer has vanished.

Try an early morning stroll along Daytona Beach, when the air is cool and crisp and “shelling” is a pleasant pastime. Occasionally, beachcombers come across a distressed bird or turtle, which is when the Marine Science Center at Ponce Inlet springs to help. In its three-year history, the Marine Science Center has rescued some 3,500 turtles and more than 90 species of birds.

Of course, the main draw to Ponce Inlet is the historic Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse. Built in 1887, the lighthouse is the tallest of Florida lighthouses. Decommissioned in 1970 but reactivated in 1982, the lighthouse today serves as a beacon to seafarers and as a museum to visitors, offering a glimpse of Daytona Beach’s past.

The Ponce de Leon Inlet lighthouse is the tallest of all Florida lighthouses.

Aside from the sand and surf, one of the greatest outdoor draws to Daytona Beach is golf, and fall is when Florida golf is at its finest. With 17 world-class golf courses to choose from, there is ample opportunity to hit the links. In fact, this area is so conducive to great golf, the LPGA International moved its headquarters from Texas to Daytona Beach back in ’89 and has since opened two courses, the Legends Course and the Champions Course.

A select few of the other courses include the Daytona Beach Golf Club, Indigo Lakes Golf Club, and in nearby Palm Coast, the Jack Nicklaus-designed Ocean Hammock, featuring six holes overlooking the Atlantic.

Autumn, and even during the mild winter, is a great time to enjoy the Daytona performing arts. The Seaside Music Theater will host several productions this fall, and the Daytona Beach Symphony Society kicks off its 2006-2007 season with Orquestra de São Paulo, Brazil, in November, before commencing with the popular WinterFest 2007 in late January. Nearby museums include the Museum of Arts & Sciences and the Art League of Daytona Beach.

Central to all these happenings—plus attractions such as the Boardwalk Amusement Area and Pier and the 1937 Daytona Beach Bandshell—is the Boardwalk Inn & Suites. This AAA 3-Diamond resort offers charming guest rooms and spacious suites, continental breakfast and a heated pool.

The Plaza Resort & Spa

A little further south, the Acapulco Hotel & Resort is celebrating its grand re-opening after a major renovation. This 3-Diamond property features modern, airy guest rooms with oceanfront views and private balconies. It, too, has a large heated outdoor pool and twin Jacuzzis.

Other desirable properties along Daytona Beach include: The Plaza Resort & Spa, home to the renowned Ocean Waters Spa and Salon; the LaPlaya Resort & Suites, featuring the popular Bonkerz Comedy Club; the Plaza Ocean Club, home to Atlantic Jack’s on the Beach restaurant; and the Palm Plaza Oceanfront Resort, a Florida Certified Green Lodging. All are AAA approved and diamond rated, and autumn is when AAA members receive the very best rates.

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On track for fun with
AAA 3-Diamond Hotels.

AAA 3-Diamond Rated Hotels

The Plaza Resort & Spa
600 N. Atlantic Ave.
Rates range from
$119 – $159 

La Playa Resort & Suites
2500 N. Atlantic Ave.
Rates range from
$59 – $115 

The Plaza Ocean Club
640 N. Atlantic Ave.
Rates range from
$59 – $115 

The Boardwalk Inn & Suites
301 S. Atlantic Ave.
Rates range from
$69 – $125 

Acapulco Hotel & Resort
2505 S. Atlantic Ave.
Rates range from
$109 – $139 

Palm Plaza
Oceanfront Resort
3301 S. Atlantic Ave.
Rates range from
$69 – $125 

AAA Escapes NASCAR-Daytona 500
Special 3- & 5-night race packages including hotel, transfers, race tickets and more. For more information visit aaa.com/aaaescapes.

Call or visit your local AAA office for these exclusive member rates.

All prices subject to change. Rates for 1-4 persons, per room, per night, plus tax. Rates vary by date, day of week and season. Some restrictions/blackouts may apply.