Every January, motorsports fans from around the world travel to Daytona Beach for one of the most iconic endurance races in the world—the Rolex 24 At Daytona. This legendary event transforms Daytona International Speedway into a 24-hour spectacle of speed, strategy, and excitement, anchored by a full week of events including the Roar Before the 24 and the celebrated Taste of the 24.
If you’re planning a trip to Daytona Beach during the Rolex Race, here’s everything you need to know—and why staying oceanfront at Max Beach Resort in Daytona Beach Shores makes all the difference.
What Makes the Rolex 24 at Daytona Unique
The Rolex 24 at Daytona is unlike any other motorsports event. This 24-hour endurance race challenges drivers, teams, and machines to compete nonstop—day and night—on one of the most distinctive tracks in the world.
A One-of-a-Kind Road Course
Daytona International Speedway’s road course combines the high-banked NASCAR oval with a technical infield road circuit. Drivers transition from tight, technical infield turns to the steeply banked tri-oval, reaching incredible speeds before diving back into precision driving zones.
For fans, this creates unmatched viewing opportunities and allows guests to explore the infield, get close to pit road, and experience the race from multiple perspectives—all within one venue.
The Cars of the Rolex 24: Multiple Classes, Nonstop Action
One of the most exciting aspects of the Rolex 24 is that multiple classes of cars compete on track at the same time, adding constant movement, strategy, and passing.
Car classes typically include:
- GTP (Grand Touring Prototype) – The fastest, most advanced cars in the field
- LMP2 (Le Mans Prototype 2) – High-performance prototype race cars
- GTD Pro & GTD – Production-based sports cars from top manufacturers like Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, Lamborghini, and more
With different performance levels sharing the same track, every lap delivers action from start to finish.
How Teams Race for 24 Hours Straight
Endurance racing is a true team effort. Each car is driven by multiple drivers, who rotate during scheduled pit stops. These stops include refueling, tire changes, mechanical adjustments, and driver swaps—often completed in seconds.
Teams carefully manage driver stamina, weather conditions, nighttime visibility, and vehicle durability. As darkness falls, headlights illuminate the Speedway, and the race takes on an entirely different energy—culminating in a dramatic sunrise and final push to the checkered flag.
Roar Before the 24: The Perfect Prelude
The excitement begins with the Roar Before the 24, a multi-day event held ahead of the main race. Fans can watch practice sessions, qualifying races, and support series while exploring the Speedway and getting an early look at teams and cars preparing for the big event.
For many race fans, the Roar is an essential part of the Rolex 24 experience.
Taste of the 24: Racing Meets Culinary Excellence
A highlight of Rolex Race is Taste of the 24, a premier culinary event held inside Daytona International Speedway. Guests enjoy an evening of incredible food, beverages, and live entertainment—all while overlooking the excitement of the Rolex 24 on track.
Taste of the 24 brings together favorite local restaurants and culinary partners in a vibrant, high-energy setting. Attendees can explore the Speedway’s infield, enjoy the race atmosphere, and experience one of Daytona Beach’s most unique events.
Best of all, Taste of the 24 benefits The NASCAR Foundation, helping make children’s medical needs a top priority. Proceeds support children’s hospitals and life-saving medical programs, making this event as meaningful as it is memorable.
Where to Stay for Rolex 24 Race Week
After long days and late nights at Daytona International Speedway, having space, comfort, and a peaceful place to unwind is essential.
Max Beach Resort, located oceanfront in Daytona Beach Shores, offers a relaxing retreat just minutes from the Speedway.
Guests enjoy:
- One-, two-, and three-bedroom condo-style residences
- Full kitchens and washer/dryers for extended stays
- Expansive private terraces with stunning ocean views
- A quieter beachside location away from the crowds
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Plan Your Rolex 24 at Daytona Getaway
From the Roar Before the 24, to the legendary Rolex 24 at Daytona, to the culinary celebration of Taste of the 24, The Rolex 24 Race delivers nonstop excitement both on and off the track.
Roar Before the 24: January 16–18
Rolex 24 At Daytona: January 24–25
Taste of the 24: January 24
Make your experience even better by staying somewhere that offers room to relax, recharge, and enjoy oceanfront living after a full day at the Speedway.
Book your Race Week stay at Max Beach Resort and experience the best of Daytona Beach during one of the world’s most iconic motorsports events.
