Apollo Beach is located just north of the Canaveral National Seashore in New Smyrna Beach. It’s just one of the many top attractions to visit in the area while you are on vacation, and you’ll be sure to have a fun day exploring this beach.
The Canaveral National Seashore is known for having some of the most pristine and unique beaches in the New Smyrna Beach area. Many locals call Apollo Beach one of New Smyrna’s hidden gems. Because the beach is one of the more secluded spots to visit there are a few things you should know.
About the Beach
The sands of Apollo Beach are made up of crushed coquina shells. The nearly 5 miles long stretch of beach is beautiful, and it’s only made lovelier by the sparkling waters. Even though the water is gorgeous, there is the potential for rough surfs and strong ocean currents, so if you’re planning to jump in just be aware.
Access
You can drive right to this beach easily, but when you’re looking up directions or popping it into your GPS make sure to be careful. There’s also a City of Apollo on the west coast of Florida, however Apollo Beach is located near New Smyrna into the northern part of the Canaveral National Seashore.
The beautiful beach is sure to fill up fast, especially during the summer season. That’s why you should plan to get to Apollo Beach early in the day. When the parking lot is full, the gates will close, and no one else will be allowed on the beach.
It’s also several hundred yards from the parking lot to the beach area. That means anything you plan to bring along with you needs to be carried in.
Cost
Anyone over 16 years old will have to pay a $3 access fee to Apollo Beach. During summer hours, the shores are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and during the winter its open until 6 p.m.
Amenities
Restrooms are available at Apollo Beach, but that’s about it. So make sure to bring water, snacks, and anything else you think you might need for your day on the beach.
What not to do
Although Apollo Beach is a secluded, beautiful spot with lots of great options for a day in the sun, there are some things that are absolutely not allowed here or on any other of the Canaveral National Seashore beaches. You cannot drive your car or truck directly onto the beaches or have any pier parties. To keep the area natural and beautiful there are no big condos, surf shops, or motels.
Clothing optional
Something you definitely want to be aware of is that part of Apollo Beach is that there are parts considered a nude beach. Nudity is only allowed south of the very last parking lot labeled #5. This is the most northern end of the beach, and there are signs that will let you know when you’re about to enter the nude part of the beach.
Nearby attractions
Close by there are also some hiking trails, fishing spots and popular areas to see marine life. You can take a hike on the Canaveral National Seashore’s Castle Windy Trail or the Eldora Hammock Trail. Plus, you can book a guided fishing trip to Mosquito Lagoon—known as one of the best fishing spots in the area.
Additionally, as another one of the top outdoor activities for the area, you’ll be able to spot some sea turtle nesting grounds and may even be able to see some tiny hatchlings!
You can also take a quick trip over to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge where you can arrange a tour to see the turtles lay their eggs. The refuge also houses 13 species of endangered or threatened wildlife including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and manatees.