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Lean against the wooden rail, and enjoy the view while you sip a cold one.

Lean against the wooden rail, and enjoy the view while you sip a cold one.

Photo by Russel Chiodo

River Grille on the Tomoka, Ormond Beach, FL

Relax. You're on Tomoka time

by Russel Chiodo | January 26, 2012

Enjoy a waterfront sunset dining experience shaded by oak trees on a Tomoka river bluff steeped in history. The River Grille sits atop Buckhead Bluff, the former location of Oswald's Ferry Crossing Plantation. Old King's Road, linking St. Mary's, GA and New Smyrna Beach, FL, crossed the Tomoka at this spot. The location became a local gathering place, and the River Grille carries on this friendly tradition today. 

The Tomoka River is …


The reason you came to Florida.

The reason you came to Florida.

Photo by Russel Chiodo

Wilbur Rose Blueway, Wilbur-by-the-Sea, FL

Bronze water, golden sunsets, and a kaleidoscope of migrating birds

by Russel Chiodo | January 21, 2012

Every stroke along the Wilbur Rose Blueway brings another breathtaking vista. Paddlers pierce the veil of Florida's natural wonder in this stretch of easily navigated wilderness between bustling US 1 and well-trodden S.R. A-1-A.

The Wilbur Rose Blueway is not your average, packaged tour. Some effort and total responsibility must be burdened solely by the traveler(s), but the opportunity to explore a remaining bit of the Florida that was certainly makes the …


Just look for Salty Dog himself. Like Maui Nix, he's a sign of surf shop authenticity.

Just look for Salty Dog himself. Like Maui Nix, he's a sign of surf shop authenticity.

Photo by Russel Chiodo

Salty Dog Surf Shop, Daytona Beach, FL

This dog defines cool

by Russel Chiodo | January 17, 2012

Since the earliest days of Florida's surfing boom, the Miller family has served the needs of waveriders, sun worshippers and laid back beachcombers. These folks know surf culture, and their mascot Salty Dog embodies the spirit of the surfing lifestyle. 

Salty Dog Surf Shop has its roots in Daytona Beach, but has grown to include several locations around town and one in Panama City Beach. The prime shopping store in Daytona is …


Smile! You're holding one of the world's largest living reptiles.

Smile! You're holding one of the world's largest living reptiles.

Photo by Russel Chiodo

Congo River Golf, Daytona Beach, FL

Feed and hold a live alligator!

by Russel Chiodo | January 10, 2012

Get up close and personal with one of Florida’s most famous residents, the American alligator! Congo River Golf is open every day of the year with a live alligator exhibit right out front.

For a small fee, guests can obtain a container of alligator food and interact with the impressive reptiles. Suspend tidbits of food from the provided feeding sticks to get just close enough to those snapping jaws. The whole family …


After your meal, browse the shop and take home a piece of the eclecticism

After your meal, browse the shop and take home a piece of the eclecticism

Photo by Russel Chiodo

The Dancing Avocado Kitchen, Daytona Beach, FL

Step right in for real food with a twist

by Russel Chiodo | January 06, 2012

Just like the fabulous food chefs who spin daily in this unique eatery and feel-good joint, the colorful signage and decor of The Dancing Avocado Kitchen stand out amongst the classic style and architecture of Beach Street's historic buildings. Since 1998, locals have referred hungry vegans and foodies to this restaurant, one of the area's most unique dining experiences. 

Although it began as a vegan and vegetarian spot, The Avocado Kitchen now caters to …


Pose for a photo with Maui Nix—don't worry, he won't blink.

Pose for a photo with Maui Nix—don't worry, he won't blink.

Photo by Russel Chiodo

The Original Maui Nix Surf Shop, Daytona Beach, FL

Browse two floors of surf culture and Daytona Beach souvenirs

by Russel Chiodo | January 05, 2012

Don't miss The Original Maui Nix on your next trip into town. This two story surf shop and souvenir source is a Daytona staple and offers one of the best photo opportunites on A-1-A.

The Maui Nix mascot stands tall for passing cars with his surfboard proudly displaying the store's name. Unashamed of his somewhat round beach bod, Mr. Nix peers out beneath the shade of his straw hat. He's into his …


Russel Chiodo's photo

Meet the Daytona Beach, FL Insider

Russel Chiodo

Throughout the year in Daytona Beach I’ll wear board shorts, a NASCAR t-shirt, a motorcycle… more



  • What's going on in Daytona Beach


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