cwnhokie said:
Grandma wants to go check out Daytona to get a beach fix in since we won't be doing that vacation because of the Disney one.
What does she love about the beach the most?
If it's the salt air, the deep sea fishing, taking 3-mile walks in the shallow surf, shelling or sailing on the open ocean, then no stay at a WDW hotel would do it for her. My DH loves these things and any trip to Orlando is made better by a visit to a real beach.
OTOH, if she just likes relaxing on a sandy beach with a pretty waterview and tiki torch lined paths, while the kids play in the sand nearby, maybe a boat ride too, then she may enjoy a stay at the Polynesian. With less of a view and without tiki torches, but still quite pretty, is the Caribbean Beach.
If she just likes a pretty waterfront walkway/boardwalk for strolling, shopping and eating, then the BoardWalk, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Swan or Dolphin would work too.
If you stay in the area, do consider a visit to the water park, Typhoon Lagoon. It's got lots of sandy beach, a huge fun wave pool, shady meandering paths and a festive atmosphere that nearly anyone who loves the beach would enjoy. In fact, the kids would probably love it too. Ketchakiddie Creek is a very nice children's water play area within TL.
One popular Daytona location is Ocean Walk, a Fairfield/WorldMark resort with studios, 1-,2-,3- and 4BRs. It's oceanfront by the boardwalk, on a stretch of beach that does not permit cars, with indoor & outdoor pools, lazy river, waterslide and more. The area has tons to do. From all I've read, this would be my first choice for a Daytona stay. HTH - enjoy your trip whatever you decide!