Things To Do
in New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach is a laid-back Atlantic coast town in Central Florida known for its pristine beaches and classic Old Florida charm. The city blends relaxed beach vibes with a lively historic downtown centered around Flagler Avenue and Canal Street. It’s a haven for surfers, boaters, artists, and families seeking sun, sand, and something a little quieter than the bigger resorts.
Rich wildlife, stunning sunsets, and a friendly, walkable downtown make it a great base for a coastal Florida escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the New Smyrna Beach Historic District, where you can stroll along Flagler Avenue, admiring the charming architecture and quaint shops. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast featuring fresh pastries and locally brewed coffee. After breakfast, explore the Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the African American community in the area.
In the afternoon, head to Canal Street, where you can browse through unique boutiques and art galleries showcasing local artists. Don't miss the chance to grab lunch at a popular eatery that offers delicious seafood and Southern comfort food. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to enjoy the scenic views of the Indian River.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the outdoor restaurants along the river and enjoy a meal with a view. After dinner, consider catching a live music performance at a local venue, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach, feeling the cool ocean breeze and listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, followed by some time relaxing on the beautiful sands of New Smyrna Beach. Once you’re feeling energized, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Don't forget to keep an eye out for playful dolphins and other marine life as you paddle around.
After working up an appetite, enjoy lunch at a beachside grill, where fresh seafood is the highlight of the menu. Spend the afternoon engaging in more water sports, like jet skiing or parasailing, for an adrenaline rush as you soar above the waves. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, take a long walk along the shore or build sandcastles with the kids.
As evening approaches, find a beachside bar to unwind with a cocktail and watch the sunset over the ocean. Savor the beautiful colors painting the sky as you enjoy a casual dinner of fresh catch or a classic beach burger. End the night by gathering around a fire pit with friends or family, sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Grocery bill (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gas for a week | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry at a cafe | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed beach town vibe with easy access to nature
- Strong surf culture and friendly local scene
- Walkable downtown with galleries, shops, and dining
- Close to Canaveral National Seashore and wildlife viewing
- Seasonal hurricane risk and afternoon thunderstorms in summer
- Limited public transit beyond the downtown area
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- Parking can be challenging near the beach on peak days
Places to Visit in New Smyrna Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic long pier offering ocean vistas, sunrise silhouettes, and people-watching opportunities—great for wide-angle beach photos and long exposures.
Dune boardwalks with sweeping Atlantic views, dramatic shoreline lines, and sunset silhouettes over the water.
Colorful storefronts, murals, and lively street scenes ideal for lifestyle and travel photography.
Historic lighthouse with coastal panorama views, perfect for dramatic lighthouse and seascape shots.
Pristine beaches and wind-swept dunes offer expansive, uncluttered coastal photography and wildlife moments.
Food in New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Florida staple featuring fresh grouper, lightly breaded or blackened, served on a bun with slaw and tangy sauce at many beachside eateries.
Must-Try!
Seasonal delicacy popular in seafood shacks and fine coastal spots, often served with melted butter and lemon.
Florida’s iconic dessert—tart, creamy, and usually topped with whipped cream or meringue, perfect after a beach meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market showcasing local produce, honey, baked goods, and crafts, with fresh bites and live music in a friendly street setting.
Occasional food trucks and pop-ups along the waterfront and main drag offering quick bites and local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lifeguard instructions, avoid feeding wildlife, and clean up after yourself to protect local ecosystems.
Be mindful of residential areas during early mornings or late evenings; keep noise reasonable and respect private property.
Casual, beach-friendly attire is typical; modest dress in some shops and restaurants is appreciated, especially indoors.
Safety
Tipping in New Smyrna Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants; 10-15% for service at bars. Leave a few dollars for hotel housekeeping per night and tip tour guides or drivers accordingly.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is handy for small purchases and local markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with daily Atlantic breezes. Expect afternoon storms and peak beach crowds. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and watch for rip currents during water activities.
Warm days with cooler evenings; lower humidity and thinner crowds. Great for beach walks, surfing, and wildlife viewing along the coast.
Milder temperatures, comfortable outdoor exploring, and smaller crowds. Water remains cool but swim-ready for hardy beachgoers; coastal birds and wildlife are active.
Pleasant, sunny days with blooming flora; ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and photography of migratory birds and coastal landscapes.
New Smyrna Beach at Night
Hiking in New Smyrna Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails and boardwalks through dune and maritime scrub ecosystems with birding and wildlife viewing.
Dune ridge walks and scenic overlooks suitable for day hikes and photography.
Woodland trails and marsh habitats ideal for longer hikes and wildlife watching.
Airports
How to reach New Smyrna Beach by plane.
Nearby regional airport with domestic flights; convenient for a quick fly-in to the area.
Major hub about 1.5 hours by car; broad flight options and frequent service.
Another Orlando-area option with regional connections; typically a shorter drive from some destinations.
A larger airport to the north with extensive domestic and some international flights; longer drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly destination with kid-friendly beaches, parks, and casual dining.
Long-term residents plus snowbird arrivals enjoy the quieter pace and cultural activities.
A core community drawn to beaches, water sports, and outdoor recreation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Longstanding coastal tradition with beginner-friendly breaks and a thriving local scene.
Inshore and offshore options including pier fishing and charters.
Access to the Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic coast for day trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting New Smyrna Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer salads, veggie sides, and pasta; look for house-made veggie burgers or roasted veggie plates and ask about cheese or egg-free options when needed.