Ponce Inlet’s history began in 1513, when Spanish explorer Juan Ponce DeLeon claimed the region. Florida changed hands several times throughout the next three centuries, and in 1821 it became part of the United States. The famous Ponce Inlet Lighthouse began service in 1887 and is one of the best-kept and most complete lighthouses in the country. At 175 feet, it is the tallest working lighthouse in Florida and the second tallest in America. In 1975 it became open to the public, and the old lighthouse keepers’ residences have been converted into museums for visitors.
Ponce Inlet is a mere 7 mile long southern tip of a barrier Island. that projects as an extension from Daytona Beach. There is the beautiful Atlantic Ocean one the East side and the Halifax River on the other side. There are a number of fishing charters in the Ponce Inlet region for such varied species as Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, Grouper, Snapper, Amberjack, Kingfish, Mackerel, Tuna, and Barracuda. Groups of all sizes can be accommodated for half- or full-day trips. After a day on the water, head over to the marina eatery Inlet Harbor Restaurant, where you can dock your boat and stop in for a meal of fresh seafood while a live band entertains. Within minutes’ drive is Racing’s North Turn Restaurant, which in the early days of motorsports served as the northerly turning point for the NASCAR Daytona 500. At Racing’s North Turn Restaurant, you can indulge in fresh seafood on the oceanfront dining patio as the live band plays. Just ten minutes away from Ponce Inlet is downtown Daytona Beach.
As a residential neighborhood, Ponce Inlet is set back from the tourist sections of the region and will provide a calming home-away-from-home atmosphere after a day of fun and excitement, free from commotion and crowd.
At the southern tip of the peninsula is the scenic fishing village of Ponce Inlet. Local charter fishing boats are located here, along with several of the area's best seafood restaurants. No hotels or motels, no road going through, no transients, the last sizable gated development - Harbour Village with over 700 condos and town homes - is completed and there is now a height limit of 35'. With only a few scattered vacant lots, properties in this quaint small town will see a very strong appreciation.
The Town of Ponce Inlet is located on the southern tip of the peninsula, south of Daytona Beach and Daytona Beach Shores. The Ponce DeLeon Lighthouse, constructed more than 100 years ago, remained in service until 1970. Since restoration as a historic monument and museum, the lighthouse still marks the entrance to the inland waterways through Ponce Inlet.
Several marinas are located in Ponce Inlet, which is considered one of the area’s prime fishing spots. The area is prized by residents for its relaxed lifestyle and natural, uncrowded beaches.
