The city of Daytona Beach Shores, incorporated in 1967, is a 5.5 mile strip of high-rise condominiums, hotels, motels, townhomes, and single family residences located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Halifax River. The city's population has more than tripled in the last two decades, as greater numbers of people desire to live along the beach.

 With tourism as the chief industry, the city's daily  population in tourist season and during special events such as Bike Week and Speed Weeks often climbs to over 30,000. The majority of the city's residents live in condominiums and construction of new buildings remains strong. The city operates a Public Safety Department whose officers are triple trained as police, firefighters and EMTs. Residents enjoy a high quality of like, with amenities like a public tennis facility and Ocean side parks, while the city tax rate remains among the lowest in the county.

  The Town of Ponce Inlet is located on the southern tip of the peninsula, south of Daytona Beach and Daytona Beach Shores. The Ponce De Leon Lighthouse, constructed more than 100 years ago, remained in service until 1970. Since restoration as an 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 as one of the area’s prime fishing spots. The area is prized by residents for its relaxed lifestyle and natural, uncrowded beaches.