Planning a trip to the east coast of Florida? If so, you will not want to overlook the charming shores of New Smyrna Beach.
New Smyrna Beach is a quaint little surf town that is situated along the Atlantic ocean in Central Florida. New Smyrna Beach’s white sand beaches have won the hearts of many, while still remaining low key & void of high rise condos.
About New Smyrna Beach
Occasionally referred to as the second oldest city, right behind St. Augustine, New Smyrna Beach has a rich history.
New Smyrna Beach is also home to a diverse ecosystem, which makes it the perfect place for birding, fishing & viewing wildlife such as manatees & dolphins.
Where to Stay
Many people visit New Smyrna Beach to get away and slow down. One of the many charms of New Smyrna Beach is that it doesn’t feel like a tourist destination – it feels like home.
Riverside
Riverside drive is a scenic slice of New Smyrna Beach that is situated along the intercoastal waterway. A sunset stroll along the river will almost always score you a front row seat to dolphins.
Night Swan Inn is a bed and breakfast located at 512 S. Riverside Dr. in New Smyrna Beach, FL
You’ll love lounging in the Adirondack chairs beneath a live oak tree and soaking in the stunning river views.
Black Dolphin Inn is a bed and breakfast that offers delicious cuisine & breathtaking riverside views. Located at 916 S. Riverside Drive in New Smyrna Beach, FL. Come dock your boat and indulge in a lovely New Smyrna Beach getaway.
The Riverview Hotel & Spa is located at 103 Flagler Ave in New Smyrna Beach. Built in 1885, it has all of the historic charm without sacrificing any of the amenities. There is a delicious restaurant and a rejuvenating spa – all within steps of the hotel. You are also within walking distance to the beaches and Flagler night life.
Beachside
You can stay in the heart of the action, on Flagler avenue or feel a world away down toward Bethune Beach.
Springhill Suites by Marriott has a brand new location in the heart of it all at 512 Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, FL. It’s located right on the beach and walking distance to some of the best bars and eateries in New Smyrna Beach. The staff is friendly and the amenities are aplenty. Plus, they have a fantastic barista right in the lobby.
Ocean Walk Condos are located at 5300 S. Atlantic Avenue in New Smyrna Beach. Within walking distance of the no-drive beach, Ocean Walk Condos are spacious and perfect for families. It is a gated complex with incredible pools.
Vacation Homes are perfect for larger groups and are usually located on the car free beaches. To really get away from it all, check out the The Blue Pearl in Bethune Beach.
Where to Eat
New Smyrna Beach restaurants are just as beloved as its beaches. There are many infamous staples that visitors and locals just cannot get enough of.
Norwood’s Eatery & Bar has an adult treehouse bar, expansive wine selection and top notch seafood. Norwood’s is a New Smyrna Beach mainstay and an absolute must.
The Garlic has been featured on the Travel Channel because of it’s divine Italian entrees – and it’s eclectic atmosphere. It is in close proximity to Norwood’s eatery and it is also and absolute must.
Yellow Dog Eats can be found along historic Canal street. They serve up hip pulled pork wraps and a cool tie-dyed atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating is available; the pulled pork nachos are insanely tasty.
Halfwall has grown to be one of Central Florida’s most popular restaurants with an expansive craft beer selection and burgers that just cannot be overlooked.
Merk’s Bar and Grill is a great place to watch the game and indulge in some outstanding fried foods. It’s a lively place to hang out & eat wings.
The Corkscrew & That’s Amore are also both really delicious places to grab lunch or dinner. The lasagna at That’s Amore is spot on.
If you are looking for the best pizza in the area, drive a little further south. In Edgewater, Alberto’s Pizzeria is a local treasure. The pizza is mouth wateringly good and you can even attempt to devour a 28 inch pizza in 28 minutes to become a local pizza champion.
Our favorite breakfast spot is Jason’s Corner on Canal Street, they have a Blue Crab Eggs Benedict that is to die for.
Things to do
If you are looking for things to do in New Smyrna Beach then you won’t have to look far. Some popular activities include:
- Fishing
- Surfing
- Beach Driving
- Kayaking/SUP
- Bike Rides
- Galleries
- Art Festivals
- River Tours
Beaches
The white sandy beaches beckon to be enjoyed. You can take a drive along the ocean for $20 per vehicle. The main entrance is at Flagler Avenue and you can drive all the way down to the jetties/Ponce Deleon Inlet. Beach driving ends at dusk and they close it during high tides and during bad weather.
There is a great family beach located at 27th avenue park in New Smyrna Beach. You can enjoy a car free beach beyond this point, a new playground, picnic tables, bathrooms and showers.
On busy beach days, Bethune Beach and Canaveral National Seashore are both great ways to beat the crowds. The sand here isn’t white and powdery like farther north. These beaches are typically much more secluded and completely void of condos.
New Smyrna Beach also has a Dog Beach at Smyrna Dunes Park, which also has the best views and untouched sand dunes. You can visit Smyrna Dunes Park at 2995 N. Peninsula Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
History
I highly recommend visiting the Sugarmill Ruins ay 1050 Old Mission Rd to enjoy a nature trail and see a glimpse into New Smyrna Beach’s history.
I also suggest you visit the New Smyrna Beach museum of history at 120 Sams avenue and follow with a short walk to Old Fort Park. Old Fort Park is a neat little area to explore because its history is kind of a mystery.
Shopping
The best shopping can be found on historic Canal street and along Flagler Avenue. You will quickly realize why New Smyrna Beach has been named on of the top 100 art towns in the Country.
Be sure to pay a visit to The Hub on Canal Street to view local art exhibitions and check their event calendar for classes and workshops during your stay.
Kayaking
You can find many paddling tours that can guide you through New Smyrna Beach’s waterways. Popular kayak launches can be found at Callalisa Creek and Spruce Creek Park.
For Kayak/SUP rentals and tours, contact LayZboards at 386-872-8901
Fishing
Many people enjoy fishing from the dock at Riverside Park at 105 S. Riverside Drive. You can also find deep sea fishing excursions, like with Sea Spirit. Sea Spirit can be reached at 386-763-4388
Visit New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is perfect for a day trip during your trip to Orlando; or, a complete vacation that is far away from it all.
You will love being able to watch dolphins and enjoy spotless beaches while you soak in all that there is to enjoy about New Smyrna Beach.
All of the beautiful photos and content were written by Hinson Photography, while you are in New Smyrna beach, why not update those family photos?
