When people think of the east coast of Florida, Port Orange isn’t usually the destination that comes to mind. But this town just outside of Daytona Beach is a great day vacation destination if you are looking to relax and enjoy the perks unique to the Sunshine State. If you have any friends at Spruce Creek Property Owners Association, call them up – the flight into Spruce Creek Airport is just 98 statute miles. Otherwise, you can coast into Daytona Beach International Airport, just 104 statute miles from Ridge Landing.

Because we want you to make the most of your residency at Ridge Landing Airpark, we encourage you to use our convenient location to enjoy short trips to other areas of Florida, such as Port Orange. For those who aren’t familiar with the area, we did the research for you to gather some of the top to-dos in Port Orange. So rev up your engine and plan a day trip to Port Orange, with these points of interest in mind…

Have a Coffee and Crepe at Cinnamon Tree Café

Since the trip into Daytona/Port Orange is quick, rise early enough to enjoy a relaxing breakfast at quaint French bistro, Cinnamon Tree Café. Known for their mouth-watering crepes (which you can watch being made!) and gourmet coffees, this spot is a hit with locals and visitors alike, meaning it’s got our seal of approval, too.

port orange flying destination

Cinnamon Tree Café / yelp.com

See Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens

Both a historical site and beautiful botanical garden, Sugar Mill Gardens is a completely donation-run attraction spanning 10 acres. When you visit, you’ll have the chance to learn a bit about Florida history and all the roles this piece of land has played throughout the years.

Once you get your history fix, take in the nature – the gardens feature “azaleas, camellias, ivies, magnolias, native plants, palms, and succulents, as well as an Asian garden, master gardener demonstration area, ferns, and tropical collections,” according to the website.

Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens bridge

Sugar Mill Botanical Gardens bridge / tripadvisor.com

Stop in at The Pavilion at Port Orange

If your passenger happens to have an affinity for shopping, consider taking her to The Pavilion at Port Orange. The Pavilion is an outdoor mall equipped to satisfy a shopping appetite as well as a hunger for food. Here, you can find a variety of stores and eateries you’re familiar with, or you can take in the atmosphere simply by taking a stroll through the open-air plaza.

pavilian port orange

The Pavilion At Port Orange / thepavilionatportorange.com

Enjoy Waterside Lunch at Aunt Catfish’s On The River

You can’t be visiting a coastal city without checking out the coast. Inside of booking a scuba tour or fishing trip, consider getting your dose of waterside delight simply from the view of a restaurant. Enter Aunt Catfish’s, located on South River, which specializes in southern seafood, a true treat for an aviator looking to munch on sea level eats.

Per one TripAdvisor user, though, if you’re visiting during the summertime, call ahead for a reservation. This place gets packed, even during the weekdays. (386) 767-4768

Aunt Catfish’s On The River

Aunt Catfish’s On The River / aintdeadyet.net

Test Your Swing at Crane Lakes

Many of our Ridge Landing residents are avid golfers just as much as they are aviators. So we wouldn’t want to send you somewhere you can’t check out a new fairway! If you just want to hit a few balls or you’re looking for a full 18, try your luck at Crane Lakes Golf & Country Club. This semi-private course is short but “challenging,” as other golfers have noted in reviews. Think you’re up to par? Book a tee time by calling (386) 767-4653 or doing so online.

Crane Lakes Golf Course

Crane Lakes Golf Course, Hole 14 / blog.golfnow.com

Do you have a favorite spot in Port Orange? Share it with us in the comments!