Located just 15 minutes south of famous Daytona Beach, Port Orange is known for its small town feel, but also for its close proximity to the big city amenities that residents can enjoy up in Daytona Beach, as well as in nearby Orlando.
Longtime readers know that I used to live in Port Orange, and even though I live on the beachside now, we spend the majority of our time and eat most of our meals in Port Orange.
We love it because Port Orange is laid back and quiet, while still providing all the amenities one could possibly want.
Let's take a closer look.
Port Orange History
The history of Port Orange dates back to 1804 when Spain granted 995 acres to Patrick Dean. Prior to that time, the area was home to Timucuan and Seminole Indians. Dean built a large plantation along the Halifax River, but his entire community was destroyed by the Seminole Indians.
Following the Civil War, a second attempt was made to settle the area by an abolitionist named John Milton Hawks, who was looking to create a home for 500 freed slaves. The area came to be known as Freedmanville, but was officially named Orange Port by Hawks. In 1867, the name was changed to Port Orange, and the city as incorporated in 1926.
Port Orange Demographics
From a population of only 380 in 1920, the community of Port Orange had grown to boast a population of 56,048 during the 2010 census. Today, that number is estimated to have further grown to more than 60,000.
Port Orange Lifestyle
Like many of the small towns along the Atlantic Coast, the lifestyle you will find in Port Orange places a heavy emphasis on enjoying the outdoors, and particularly the beach.
Local parks like Spruce Creek Park offer great ways to enjoy the fabulous year-round climate.
In addition to the local parks, Port Orange is also home to some excellent golf courses in Crane Lakes Golf and Country Club, Spruce Creek Golf and Country Club, and The Golf Club at Cypress Head.
And if golf isn’t your thing, there are also plenty of great options for fishing both from the shore and from local boat charters.
Port Orange Culture
The local culture in Port Orange is strongly fixed on the area’s rich history. One of the most popular cultural attractions are the Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens, which is the last remaining portion of Patrick Dean’s original plantation. History buffs will also enjoy a visit to Gamble Place Historic District.
Local concerts in Port Orange are typically held at the Kenneth Parker Amphitheater, but the community is also located just minutes from nearby Daytona Beach and only about an hour from Orlando, so there are plenty of additional cultural attractions nearby.
Port Orange Shopping
The primary shopping destination in Port Orange is The Pavilion at Port Orange. This open-air shopping mall opened in 2010, and is anchored by a Belk department store and a 14-screen Hollywood Theaters, which are supported by dozens of other stores and restaurants.
There are also a number of smaller shopping plazas located throughout Port Orange, and local residents have access to more high-end options that are located in the nearby Daytona Beach and Orlando areas.
Pick the Right Place for YOU!
Do you dream of finding the perfect location, community, and home for you? It’s easier than you think! In my book called Pick the Right Place, I show you exactly how to do it, step-by-step. Click Here to get started.Port Orange Dining
When you are looking for a classic waterfront restaurant in Port Orange, it is hard to do any better than DJ’s Deck. They serve up a great selection of seafood with fantastic raw bar options, and you will have the pleasure of enjoying their spectacular view of the marina during dinner.
Aunt Catfish's on the River is another popular option, and they are best known for their Sunday Brunch, during which the line can usually be seen snaked around the front and side of the restaurant.
Great options further inland include San Diego Grill, Stonewood Grill & Tavern, and if you're in the mood for Mexican, you can't go wrong with La Fiesta.
Port Orange Area Communities
Just north of Port Orange is where you'll find Latitude Margaritaville.
Minto Communities and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville brand made waves in 2017 when they first announced Latitude Margaritaville, a 55+ retirement community in Daytona Beach, Florida.
I’ve partnered with a real estate agent who actually lives in Latitude Margaritaville to provide you with the most up-to-date information.
Click here to request more information.
If you are in search of a great small town community that is located right on the water, is close (but not too close) to big city amenities, and also offers some amazingly talented local chefs, Port Orange is one of the places you should be looking.
You won’t be disappointed here, and maybe I’ll see you around town!
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