If you dream of riding the waves, you've come to the right place. The smooth sand and Atlantic surf combine to make this one of the premier surfing spots on the East Coast. In addition to surfing, you'll find a host of water activities including jet skiing, windsurfing, boating, river cruises, and parasailing. Try one of the scenic boat rides available in the area.

The Atlantic Ocean and the Halifax River provide anglers with a variety of fishing opportunities year-round. The excitement continues on the shore, which spans nearly 23 miles (37 km) and up to 500 feet in width, and the sand gently slopes to the water where tides and wave action have packed it hard. Driving is actually permitted in certain areas on the beach. All ages revisit their childhood while eating hot dogs and cotton candy, enjoying great rides and playing games at the Boardwalk's amusement park.

For those who want to shift into low gear . . . or even reverse, we suggest getting back to nature at a local park or perhaps taking a stroll down memory lane at a historical site or museum. The Opry brings audiences over two hours of high-energy family fun that includes country music, bluegrass, gospel and rock 'n roll. For the landlubber, "picking up the pace" may mean an exhilarating day of bargain hunting at an area shop, playing a round of golf or mini-golf, or perhaps a night out at a local nightclub. The LPGA International is a premier 18 hole golf course. Cruising in a car or rented "buggy" is fun and is a unique experience. No matter how you choose to spend your time, you will find some of the most exciting options on the east coast.

The city first gained an auto racing reputation in the early years of this century. Its gentle slope and long stretch of hard-packed sand were ideal for auto races. Between 1902 and 1935, no less than 13 auto racing records were set here. Today speeds up to 200 miles (322 km) per hour are common at the International Speedway where the internationally known Daytona 500 NASCAR race is held each year.

The world-famous Bike Week takes place the first 1 1/2 weeks of each March. The streets are filled with bikers wearing leather and riding Harleys. Bike Week draws colorful crowds of bikers from every walk of life. Spring Break is another exciting time of year when college students from the east coast, midwest, and Canada flock to "The World's Most Famous Beach" to celebrate their liberation. This event takes place early April, but primarily in the center of town.

Photos courtesy of DB Area Convention and Visitors Bureau