Going to Daytona Beach, suggestions? (rentals, good hotel, live in)

[JordanCarlson13]

So the girlfriend and I are going on vacation to Daytona Beach in July, and have a few questions.
First off, I am 25 and she is 22. We both live in Minnesota.

1) I've been looking at different resorts/hotels on the coast line. I'm looking to spend no more than $100/night there, for about 6 nights, and I've seem to come across a bunch of them. Are there any that you would recommend?! And certain ones in hot populated spots? Preferrably looking for a hotel with cool amenities (cool pool, cool stuff to do there)

2) What are some things to do in Daytona? We are going to go Para-sailing, and possibly find a place to swim with dolphins (she really wants to). We have those in mind so far, but that's about it. We don't mind traveling an hour or so to find something to do also.
What places/things would you recommend to do that would be fun? Stuff to do in the ocean/off the ocean. Which places to go to? Which places to eat/drink?

ANY information on cool stuff to do would be greatly appreciated.
(Money isn't a factor for things to do)

Thanks so much!
Jordan

[Roadkill1965]

Jordan, I live here in Daytona Beach. During July, you will be hard-pressed to find a good hotel next to the ocean for <= $100/night. Expect at least $150/night for basic ocean-view. However, there are a number of hotels across the street from the ocean that are pretty inexpensive. They tend to be much smaller, with less amenities, but you can go as low as $35-40 /night. Some are pretty ratty, so investigate them first, if that's the way you want to go. A good place to investigate hotels/restaurants is Reviews of Hotels, Flights and Vacation Rentals - TripAdvisor. If you do stay somewhere other than ocean-front, there are a lot of nice parks next to the ocean, plus you can drive on much of the beach. You can just drive right out there and pop a tent next to your vehicle. The ocean is very accessible in this area.