Need a chill beach town escape with surf, arts, and ocean sunrises? Head to New Smyrna Beach, FL! Located on Florida’s east coast just south of Daytona, New Smyrna Beach (NSB) offers a walkable downtown, drive-on beaches, vibrant art scene, and a welcoming surf culture. Whether you’re hitting the waves or enjoying fresh seafood, NSB blends natural beauty with small-town charm.
New Smyrna Beach, FL Highlights:
- Relax on the beach: Drive or walk onto miles of white sand—perfect for sunbathing, shell hunting, or playing in the surf.
- Explore Canal Street Historic District: Enjoy art galleries, boutiques, and bistros in this charming, walkable downtown area.
- Visit the Marine Discovery Center: Learn about local ecosystems, take guided kayak tours, and meet coastal critters.
- Surf at the Inlet: Catch waves at one of Florida’s most consistent surf spots near Smyrna Dunes Park.
- Walk the boardwalk at Smyrna Dunes Park: See dunes, ocean views, and wildlife along an elevated loop trail.
Best Time to Visit New Smyrna Beach, FL
The best time to visit NSB is spring and fall (March–May and September–November) when the weather is warm, crowds are lighter, and the water is great for swimming or surfing. Summers are lively and hot, while winters are mild and perfect for long walks on the beach.
How to Get to New Smyrna Beach, FL
- If you are traveling by car: NSB is located just off I-95 and U.S. Route 1, about 1 hour northeast of Orlando and 25 minutes south of Daytona Beach.
- By Air: Fly into Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), Orlando International Airport (MCO), or Sanford Airport (SFB), then rent a car for the scenic drive in.
- By Boat: NSB is accessible via the Intracoastal Waterway and has marinas for visiting boaters.
Where to Stay in New Smyrna Beach, FL
- Black Dolphin Inn – A luxury boutique inn on the Indian River with porches, water views, and Southern charm.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott – Modern, oceanfront hotel with pool, beach access, and walkability to Flagler Avenue.
- Smyrna Beach Club Condos – Great for extended stays and families wanting full kitchens and beachfront views.
Best Things to Do in New Smyrna Beach, FL
1. Hike to Sweeping Coastal Views and Explore Ancient History at Turtle Mound
The Turtle Mound National Historic Site is an archaeological site that extends along the Indian River shoreline and contains over 35,000 cubic yards of oyster shells and refuses from the prehistoric Timucuan people.
Located nine miles south of New Smyrna Beach, the shell midden dating back to between 800 and 1400 CE and now stands over 50-feet tall in the shape of a turtle.
Occupying a portion of the Canaveral National Seashore, the Turtle Mound archaeological site can be explored by following a scenic boardwalk that winds around the site, leading to an observation platform that boasts spectacular views of Mosquito Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.
7465 S Atlantic Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169, Phone: 386-428-3384
2. Shop, Dine, and Stroll Through the Charming Canal Street Historic District
The Canal Street Historic District is a pedestrian-friendly, tree-lined area that is home to a vibrant collection of historic buildings, cultural attractions, art galleries, specialty shops, bustling restaurants, and urban parks.
Based around Canal Street, which is the main artery for New Smyrna Beach, the bustling district is popular with both locals and tourists alike as it is the beating heart of the city and packed with things to see and do. The district is an arts epicenter with plenty of art galleries to enjoy, as well as being hosting a variety of events on First Saturdays like artists talks, gallery walks, beer and wine tastings, and more.
New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
3. Step Into the Past and Wander Through the New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins
The New Smyrna Sugar Mill Ruins is a historic site protecting the ruins of steam-operated sugarcane mill and a sawmill dating back to the 1830s.
Once part of the Cruger-dePeyster Plantation, the 17-acre historic site features the crumbling remains of the coquina sugar factory and mill that were raided and destroyed by warring Seminole Indians during the Second Seminole War in 1835.
The site is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open for the public to explore and enjoy the many nature trails and shady picnic spots around the ruins.
Phone: 386-428-4621
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. Discover Local Art, Studios, and Workshops at The Hub on Canal
The Hub on Canal is a non-profit organization that hosts a variety of arts-based events to support the local community.
Established to fostering art, education, and creative opportunities for the local community, the Hub on Canal hosts art exhibitions, educational classes and workshops, dance and musical performances, local community outreach programs, and cultural events throughout the years.
Rotating art exhibitions feature works by local and regional artists and The Hub on Canal holds special events that allow artists to collaborate with each and promote the arts.
The organization also aims to take art to the socially challenged through scholarship programs and educational classes.
132 Canal St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, Phone: 386-957-3924
If you love pizza and pasta, check out Panheads in New Smyrna Beach.
5. Feel the Thrill of High-Speed Racing at New Smyrna Speedway
New Smyrna Speedway (NSS) is a half-mile asphalt track with high banks five miles west of New Smyrna Beach that races the NASCAR Whelen All-American Series every Saturday night.
The venue also hosts Quarter midgets on Friday nights on a smaller track in the infield known as the ‘Little New Smyrna Speedway.’
Inspired by the world-renowned Daytona International Speedway, which is just 12 miles away, the New Smyrna Speedway has welcomed many famous NASCAR drivers such as Neil Bonnett, Donnie, Bobby, and Davey Allison, Richie Evans, and Kyle Larson, and is known for being the place where up-and-coming stars like Todd Gilliland and Harrison Burton began to show their skills.
New Smyrna Speedway hosts a variety of community-focused events throughout the year.
3939 FL-44, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
6. Explore Contemporary Art Exhibits at Arts on Douglas
Located in historic downtown New Smyrna Beach, Arts on Douglas is a commercial gallery that promotes the works of professional artists from the state of Florida.
Established in 1966 by artist Doris Leeper and artist and benefactor Ed Harris, the gallery is housed in a former 1930s-era Ford showroom and service center and features over 3,500 square feet of exhibition space.
The gallery hosts an ongoing exhibition program that presents 18 exhibitions a year that focus on a broad spectrum of artistic styles, mediums, contemporary genres such as digital media, conceptual art, video, and sculpture.
123 Douglas St, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, Phone: 386-428-1133
7. If You’re Passionate About Creative Collaboration, Explore the Atlantic Center for the Arts
The Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA) a Florida artist-in-residence program that supports and showcases the works of local and regional Floridian artists.
Founded by artist Doris Leeper in 1977, the residency program has paired internationally acclaimed artists from different disciplines with talented local artists to promote the arts through master classes, private studio time, and collaborations.
Located on the scenic shores of Turnbull Bay, the center exhibits a fascinating array of artworks and offers a temporary residence and studio for artists from around the world.
1414 Art Center Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168, Phone: 386-427-6975
Where to Eat in New Smyrna Beach, FL
- The Garlic – A lively Italian restaurant with string lights, outdoor patios, and big flavor in every dish.
- Norwood’s Treehouse Bar – Seafood and Southern fare served under the trees with a rooftop tiki bar experience.
- Corkscrew Bar & Grille – Popular downtown eatery for burgers, shrimp and grits, and craft cocktails.
- Wake Up Café – Argentinian-American breakfast gem with great coffee and hearty plates.
If you are interested in local events:
- IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts (January) – One of Florida’s top art festivals, held along historic Canal Street.
- New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival (September) – Live performances in venues all across town.
- Seaside Fiesta (June) – Classic NSB street party with vendors, music, and fun for the whole family.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of New Smyrna Beach, Florida:
- Ponce Inlet (20–25 min) – Climb Florida’s tallest lighthouse and explore the Marine Science Center.
- Canaveral National Seashore (20 min) – Untouched beaches, wildlife, and a tranquil alternative to busier beaches.
- Daytona Beach (25–30 min) – Visit the speedway, boardwalk, or beach driving hot spots.
- Edgewater (10–15 min) – Visit local parks or take a relaxing paddle through the Indian River Lagoon.
- Blue Spring State Park (30–35 min) – Spot manatees and enjoy swimming or tubing in this natural spring during warmer months.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
Where is New Smyrna Beach located?
- New Smyrna Beach is located on Florida’s Central Atlantic Coast, just south of Daytona Beach. It is a charming beach town and a renowned surfing hub.
-
What makes New Smyrna Beach special?
- The town is known for its spectacular beaches, great surfing waves, alluring coastal architecture, and plenty of charm.
-
What can visitors do in Downtown New Smyrna Beach?
- Downtown’s palm-lined Canal Street Historic District boasts eclectic art galleries and museums, quaint shops and boutique stores, as well as plenty of restaurants, cafés, and bars.
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect for beach activities. | The Ocean Trillium Suites – Relaxing beachfront accommodations with great views. | Visit the New Smyrna Beach Historic District – Explore local shops, galleries, and cafes. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for enjoying the beach, surfing, and festivals. | Black Dolphin Inn – A boutique hotel offering unique, cozy rooms along the Indian River. | Take a surfing lesson – New Smyrna Beach is famous for its great surfing conditions. |
| Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and local events. | The Shores Resort & Spa – A luxurious resort with a great spa and stunning beach access. | Explore the Canova Beach Dog Park – Enjoy a pet-friendly beach experience with your furry friends. |
| Winter (December-February) – Mild and quiet, perfect for a peaceful beach retreat. | Hampton Inn New Smyrna Beach – A comfortable stay near the beach, perfect for off-season getaways. | Visit the New Smyrna Museum of History – Discover the rich history of this charming coastal town. |
Map:
How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip