Hello From

Ponce Inlet!

“Where Florida Began”

Ponce Inlet

A Town in Volusia County, Florida

Ponce Inlet, Florida is a small, scenic coastal town located at the southern tip of the Daytona Beach peninsula in Volusia County. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, pristine beaches, and rich maritime heritage, Ponce Inlet offers a peaceful escape from the busier nearby cities. The town is best recognized for the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, one of the tallest and most historic lighthouses in the United States, offering panoramic ocean views.

With a population of around 3,400 residents, Ponce Inlet maintains a friendly, tight-knit community that values preservation of its natural beauty and history. Residents and visitors enjoy boating, fishing, surfing, and exploring the area’s parks and nature trails. Blending small-town charm with coastal elegance, Ponce Inlet is a haven for those seeking tranquility by the sea.

Aerial View of Ponce de Leon Inlet

Photo by folgt via Canva

Location & Size

Ponce Inlet is a coastal town in Volusia County, sitting at the southern tip of the barrier island just south of Daytona Beach in Central Eat Florida. It is part of the Deltona–Daytona Beach–Ormond Beach, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area

The town covers about 4.3 square miles of land

Founded

The history of Ponce Inlet, Florida dates back to the late 1700s when early settlers and sailors began navigating the area around the natural inlet at the southern end of the Daytona Beach peninsula. The inlet, originally known as Mosquito Inlet, was a vital passage for fishing and trade but was also notorious for shipwrecks due to its shifting sands and strong currents.

In 1887, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse was completed to guide mariners safely through the waters, becoming a focal point of the area’s growth and identity. The surrounding community remained small and largely undeveloped until the mid-20th century, when residential neighborhoods began to take shape.

The town of Ponce Inlet was officially incorporated in 1963, named after Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, who is believed to have sailed near the area. Today, Ponce Inlet retains its maritime roots and small-town charm while celebrating its history as a beacon of Florida’s coastal heritage.

PONCE INLET WEATHER

Population

As of 2023–2024, Ponce Inlet has roughly 3,300 to 3,400 residents.

Known For

The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, one of Florida’s tallest and most historic lighthouses
Scenic oceanfront beaches and coastal nature
Quiet, upscale residential community with many retirees
Waterfront views, maritime heritage, boating & fishing access
Strong environmental and historic preservation emphasis

Cost of living

Median Income: $100,313

Median Home Price: $502,100

Median Rent: $1,886/month

Things to do

Climb or tour the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
Relax on the beaches or stroll the shoreline
Visit Inlet Harbor Park or the Marine Discovery Center nearby
Enjoy boating, fishing, and wildlife spotting in inlet and ocean waters
Explore local shops, galleries, and the quieter residential side streets

Fun Facts

The median age in Ponce Inlet is very high — about 66 years — making it a popular place for retirees.
The town’s poverty rate is low, around 6.3%.
The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, originally built in the 1880s, is a major historic landmark in the region.
Many residents have lived in Ponce Inlet for long periods; the town has a relatively stable, close-knit community