New Smyrna Beach Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Learn about its local customs and culture, where to stay, and how to get there.


Introduction to New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is a charming seaside town located in Volusia County, Florida, in the United States. Known for its white sand beaches, tranquil waters, and a wide range of recreational activities, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state.

The town is also steeped in history and culture, with plenty of museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks. Apart from these, visitors can indulge in outdoor adventures such as swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking and more. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, New Smyrna Beach offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in New Smyrna Beach

Discover the top attractions and places to visit in New Smyrna Beach.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The New Smyrna Museum of History is housed in a restored, 100-year-old bank building, and houses exhibits on the town’s history and culture.

  • The Eldora State House is a preserved 19th-century house offers a glimpse into the life of early settlers.

  • The Sugar Mill Ruins at Dunlawton Plantation and Gardens offers visitors a look at a 19th-century sugar mill and an insight into early plantation life.

Natural Attractions of New Smyrna Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area with over 24 miles of unspoiled beaches, nature trails, and lagoons. Visitors to the park can fish, swim or take a guided tour to spot manatees and dolphins.

  • Smyrna Dunes Park is a dog-friendly park offering scenic views of the ocean, river and the nearby Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Visitors can take a walk along the boardwalk that wraps around the dunes and spot native flora and fauna.

  • The Turnbull Hammock Conservation Area spans over 12,000 acres and offers hiking trails through salt marshes, hardwood hammocks, and sand pine scrub. Birdwatchers can spot over 150 species of birds, including bald eagles and swallow-tailed kites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Smyrna Beach

  • The Spruce Creek Trail is a 4.7-mile trail that crosses several habitats, including pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and salt marshes.

  • The Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve offers over 2,500 acres of natural landscape for hiking and biking. The preserve’s trail system features scenic overlooks, wetlands, and several birding hotspots.

Best Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach: Activities and Tours

  • Take a scenic riverboat tour along the Indian River Lagoon, where you can spot dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

  • Enjoy a sunset sailboat or catamaran tour from Ponce Inlet, where you can take in the stunning views of the lighthouse and surrounding area.

  • Try your hand at fishing with a guided fishing tour. The guides will take you to the best fishing spots in the area, where you can reel in species such as redfish, snook, and tarpon.

Week-Long Itinerary for New Smyrna Beach

Day 1: Spend the day at the beach, sunbathing, and swimming. Try the local seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

Day 2: Take a guided kayak tour through the mangrove tunnels in the Indian River Lagoon.

Day 3: Explore the Canaveral National Seashore and take in the breathtaking views. Enjoy a picnic at the beach.

Day 4: Visit the Sugar Mill Ruins at Dunlawton Plantation and Gardens and learn about the history of Florida’s sugar industry.

Day 5: Take a hike through the Turnbull Hammock Conservation Area and spot some native wildlife.

Day 6: Learn about New Smyrna Beach’s rich history at the New Smyrna Museum of History.

Day 7: Relax at Smyrna Dunes Park, stroll along the boardwalk and take in the beautiful views.

Food and Drink Scene of New Smyrna Beach

Explore the unique flavors and tastes of New Smyrna Beach’s food and drink scene.

Must-Try Dishes

  • The seafood gumbo at The Garlic is a must-try for seafood lovers.

  • The Beachside Tavern’s famous smoked fish spread is a delicious appetizer to enjoy with a cold beer.

  • The Italian sausage and peppers sandwich at The Breakers is a local favorite.

Local Beverages

  • The local brewery, New Smyrna Beach Brewing Company, offers a selection of craft beers brewed locally, including the famous beach blonde ale.

  • The Corkscrew Bar & Grille is known for its extensive wine list, featuring a variety of wines from all over the world.

  • The Daiquiri Deck at Flagler Avenue is a popular spot for fruity, frozen drinks on a hot day.

Where to Stay in New Smyrna Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

New Smyrna Beach offers visitors a range of accommodation options, from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels.

  • The Black Dolphin Inn offers a luxurious stay in a restored historic building with stunning views of the river.

  • The Best Western New Smyrna Beach Hotel and Suites offer comfortable accommodations, with easy access to the beach.

  • The Ocean Trillium Suites on Flagler Beach offer apartment-style accommodations, with an excellent beachfront location.

What to Buy in New Smyrna Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • The NSB Seashack is a charming shop that offers a range of beach-themed souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and seashells.

  • Inlet Charms is a jewelry store that sells unique pieces made from local sea glass and seashells.

  • The Outback Emporium is a gift shop that offers a range of souvenir items made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is a welcoming and friendly town, with a strong sense of community. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting local places of worship or historic landmarks.

  • Be mindful of the environment and dispose of waste responsibly.

  • Respect the local wildlife and do not disturb the animals.

Best Time to Visit New Smyrna Beach

The best time to visit New Smyrna Beach is from March to May when the weather is warm and the crowds are smaller. September to November is also a great time to visit when the temperatures are milder, and the beaches less crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Smyrna Beach

Do:

  • Do take a sunscreen and apply regularly, especially when swimming or hiking.

  • Do try the local seafood, especially the oysters.

  • Do check out the local farmers’ markets, which offer fresh produce and handmade products.

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or in your car.

  • Don’t litter on the beach or other public spaces.

  • Don’t go swimming alone, especially at night.

Safety and Health

Ensure your safety and maintain good health while visiting New Smyrna Beach.

Safety in New Smyrna Beach

  • Be careful when swimming, as the currents can be strong.

  • Watch out for jellyfish and other sea creatures.

  • Avoid going out alone at night, especially on the beach or in secluded areas.

Health in New Smyrna Beach

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated in the hot and humid weather.

  • Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito and tick bites.

  • Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or sunstroke.

Getting to New Smyrna Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

New Smyrna Beach is easily accessible by road, air, and bus.

Airports Near New Smyrna Beach

  • Daytona Beach International Airport - 25 miles away

  • Orlando International Airport - 77 miles away

  • Jacksonville International Airport - 125 miles away

Bus Stations Near New Smyrna Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Daytona Beach - 20 miles away

  • VOTRAN Bus Station, Daytona Beach - 20 miles away

Other Options

  • Rent a car from one of the many car rental companies in the area.

  • Use ridesharing services such as Uber or Lyft.

How to Get Around in New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is an easy town to navigate, with several transportation options available:

  • Walking: Many of the top attractions are located close to each other, and it’s easy to walk around the town.

  • Biking: There are several rental shops that offer bike rentals, and the town has several bike lanes and paths.

  • Public Transportation: VOTRAN, the local bus company operates several routes through the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from New Smyrna Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Daytona Beach: Home to the famous NASCAR Daytona 500, this town is a popular beach destination with plenty of attractions.

  • St. Augustine: The oldest city in the United States, famous for its historic landmarks and attractions.

  • Blue Spring State Park: Famous for its crystal-clear waters and the opportunity to spot manatees.

Conclusion

New Smyrna Beach is a great destination for a peaceful getaway, with a perfect mix of natural attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks. With a wide range of accommodation options, travel is easy, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple or a family. Take a trip to New Smyrna Beach and enjoy the local flavor, stunning views, and friendly people.

Aerial view of the New Smyrna Beach coastline from the top of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, which is north of the city Aerial view of the New Smyrna Beach coastline from the top of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, which is north of the city Boardwalk constructed at the Turtle Mound site in Canaveral National Seashore Boardwalk constructed at the Turtle Mound site in Canaveral National Seashore Turnbull Canal Turnbull Canal Ruins of the Fort Ruins of the Fort Subtropical rainforest in New Smyrna Beach Subtropical rainforest in New Smyrna Beach View of New Smyrna Beach View of New Smyrna Beach North Causeway, looking northwest North Causeway, looking northwest Part of the Sugar Mill site Part of the Sugar Mill site The beach, looking south The beach, looking south New Smyrna Beach is a good place to visit for those interested in boating New Smyrna Beach is a good place to visit for those interested in boating New Smyrna Dunes Park New Smyrna Dunes Park Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve Downtown Canal Street area; Canal Street is behind this image Downtown Canal Street area; Canal Street is behind this image