Ormond Beach is a fantastic place to explore with a variety of tours that highlight its natural beauty, wildlife, and coastal excitement. While the area is famous for its broad beaches and scenic waterways, what truly sets it apart are the unique experiences you can enjoy — from watching dolphins and manatees from a boat to soaring over the coastline in a small plane, or paddling through calm waters to see local wildlife. Our favorite? The Daytona Beach: Small Group Champagne Sunset Cruise offers a serene, intimate way to end your day with spectacular sunset views and wildlife sightings.
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush or a new perspective, the From Ormond Beach: Daytona Beach Flight is a one-of-a-kind experience, giving you the thrill of piloting a plane and bird’s-eye views of the coastline. For those who love close encounters with nature, the Manatee and Nature Tour of Ormond Beach provides a peaceful paddle through scenic waterways filled with wildlife. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour to help you decide which adventure suits your interests and travel style.
1. Daytona Beach: Small Group Champagne Sunset Cruise
At number 1 on our list, this small-group sunset cruise is perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed, intimate experience on the water. For just $89 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway, where the views at sunset are simply stunning. The tour is limited to a small group, which means plenty of space to relax, take photos, and enjoy the tranquility of drifting past secluded islands while sipping a complimentary glass of champagne or your favorite drink.
What makes this cruise stand out is the chance to spot dolphins and manatees along the way — a common sight during the cruise, especially in the early evening. As the sun dips lower, the sky’s colors reflect off the water creating picture-perfect moments. Many guests mention how peaceful and scenic the ride is, with some describing it as a “magical way to unwind after a busy day.” The small group format also means you get more personalized attention from the crew, making it feel like a private tour.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers an elegant, serene experience with prime sunset views, wildlife sightings, and a touch of luxury, ideal for couples or anyone seeking a relaxing evening on the water.
2. From Ormond Beach: Daytona Beach Flight
For around $315, the Daytona Beach Flight provides a truly memorable way to see the coastline from above. This one-hour introductory flight is led by a professional flight instructor who helps you take the controls — yes, you get to pilot the plane! It’s a thrilling experience that combines adventure, education, and breathtaking views.
What makes this tour unique is the opportunity to fly over iconic sights like the Daytona International Speedway, the Intercoastal Waterway, and the beaches themselves. The pilot guides you through the experience, sharing insights about the area’s geography and wildlife, including the chance to spot dolphins, sharks, or whales from the sky. During the flight, you’ll also see the coastline from a perspective few get to enjoy. Many participants describe it as “exhilarating” and note that the pilot’s confidence and friendliness make the experience accessible even for nervous flyers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers or those interested in aviation, this flight provides unmatched views and a hands-on experience that’s hard to beat. It’s a fantastic choice for a special occasion or a memorable adventure.
$315 per person
3. Manatee and Nature Tour of Ormond Beach
Coming in at number 3, this paddle tour costs $65 per person and lasts about 2 hours. It’s designed for those who want to connect with Florida’s natural environment up close and personal. Paddling along the Tomoka River’s waterways, this tour offers a peaceful, immersive experience with abundant wildlife and scenic beauty.
Led by highly trained local guides with over 15 years of experience, the tour emphasizes education about the ecosystem and wildlife residents, including manatees, dolphins, and various bird species. The top highlight is the chance to see manatees in their natural habitat — often swimming nearby as you paddle quietly through the water. The high-quality equipment ensures a comfortable experience, even for beginners. Many past participants praise the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s relaxed pace.
Guests say, “We saw so many manatees and herons, and it was like paddling through a nature documentary.” The tour is ideal for families, eco-enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a slow-paced, intimate nature experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a calm, educational adventure into Florida’s waterways, making it perfect for wildlife lovers and those wanting a peaceful day in nature.
$65 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a romantic, scenic evening, the Champagne Sunset Cruise is a wonderful option. For thrill-seekers or those curious to see the coast from above, the Daytona Beach Flight provides an unforgettable perspective. If wildlife and nature are your priorities, then the Manatee and Nature Tour is perfect — especially if you enjoy paddling and wildlife spotting.
Think about your budget, physical activity level, and time constraints. The cruise and paddle tour are more laid-back, while the flight offers an adrenaline rush. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Ormond Beach’s tours showcase the natural beauty and excitement of this coastal area. Whether you prefer a relaxing cruise, an adventurous flight, or an intimate wildlife paddle, there’s something for all. For a romantic evening with sunset views, the Champagne Sunset Cruise is hard to beat. Those looking for a thrill should consider the Daytona Beach Flight, while nature lovers will find the Manatee and Nature Tour equally compelling.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and planning around the season will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. These tours are a perfect way to deepen your appreciation of Florida’s scenic coastline and wildlife — so go ahead and plan your adventure today.