Fantasy Island Resort, Daytona Beach Shores

The rooms are clean and spacious, but the bathroom fan is noisy and wired to the light. That's always a major pet peeve for me when I stay somewhere. The only designated smoking spot is a bench at the side of the parking lot, so if you're by the pool, you have to go all the way around to the front of the building.

The pool area's dusk closing rule was a real problem for us. It used to stay open until 10 or 11, but when about 20 of us gathered to use the grills and have a family dinner, they made everyone leave. Staff called it some kind of local ordinance, which sounded like nonsense to us. Maybe they just need lights and someone to lock up later. I hope they've fixed it, and I'll update this after we return to the area in 2026. The resort has gone through major renovations after the double hurricanes and rough surf damaged the Daytona beach shore's strip. This place even had AC units blown off the roof, with water leaking down all seven stories. The rooms are now fully updated, with modern shaker cabinets instead of the frumpy 1980s look. Most balconies have decent ocean views, but only the two-bedroom units are oceanfront. One-bedroom units sit at an angle, so you can see the water without facing it directly.

The two-bedroom was clean and spacious, with great views and a nice kitchen and living room. It was my first stay here, and I'd definitely consider coming back.

I like staying here in Daytona. The balconies are spacious, and you get a view from wherever you are.