Spring break crowds are back at Daytona Beach

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Last March was not good for hotels in Daytona Beach area because many people were stuck at home due to lockdowns during the start of the pandemic. In fact, most hotels were only at 10% capacity in March of last year.

This year, local business owners and officials hope to see a big difference in turnout.

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Already, people have begun spreading out their towels and opening those umbrellas along the coast.

Appearing on Good Morning America, Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry stated that cities are limited on any restrictions they can impose because of the governor’s executive order.

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“It comes down to personal responsibility,” Henry added. “Our hope is that people will do the things we’ve asked them to do as it relates to masking up, backing up and washing up. Those are things we know that work.”

On Sunday, the county’s 80th Annual Bike week concluded, with early estimates suggesting that more than 300,000 people showed up this year. Typically, the 10-day motorcycle rally attracts nearly 500,000 people.

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Hard Rock Hotel general manager Androse Bell said nearly all 200 rooms were booked during bike week, and he expects the trend to continue for spring break, with many Central Florida families booking rooms.

“Great fresh air and sunlight,” said tourist Radiance Tally. “We really needed that because we’ve been cooped up indoors for a long time.”

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Cox Media Group