cdntowdw -
Daytona Beach is my favorite Florida destination. I always visit Orlando and Daytona Beach (July will be my 10th time in 6 years.)
I prefer to stay in Daytona Beach Shores, like you are. It is quieter, newer and safer area.
I've stayed at the Days Inn Tropical Seas twice,(which is the only clean , nice Days Inn that I've seen in Florida and is my favorite Daytona motel.)
I've also stayed at the Quality Inn Ocean Palms three times. It used to be clean and nice but the housekeeping was bad the last time so I won't stay there again.
I've also stayed at Holiday Inn DB shores, it is about on par with the Days inn at a higher price.
Use Exit 85 off I 95 to get to the Shores, it has less traffic and is a prettier drive.
Other restaurants that I like :
Cracker Barrel on W. International Speedway Blvd. near the speedway.
Denny's on South A1A should be close to your motel and has good breakfasts. (avoid the timeshare lady sitting by the front door!)
There is also a supermarket on south A1A, I think it is a Publix, which is a good place to buy cheap snacks, soda, chips, etc.