An Insider's Guide to New Smyrna Beach

Welcome to New Smyrna Beach!

This seaside town is where you will find that irresistible mix of small-town charm, salty breezes, and a dash of creative spirit. From epic surf breaks and laid-back beach bars to quirky shops and coastal trails, New Smyrna Beach is as easygoing as it is unforgettable.

Curious about the best beaches, hidden gems, and local haunts worth checking out? Here's our guide to help you make the most of your New Smyrna Beach getaway.

At Great Ocean Condos, we're experts on all things New Smyrna Beach. At our destination blog, you'll find more expert insights on everything from the best restaurants and nightlife to fishing tips and hidden gems in New Smyrna Beach and around.

Ready to uncover New Smyrna Beach's best attractions? Let's explore!

Did you know?

• Shark Bite Capital of the World: NSB has more recorded shark bites than anywhere else. Don't worry too much. These are usually minor, from curious juvenile sharks.
  
  
• Oldest Settlement in Florida: Founded in 1768 by Dr. Andrew Turnbull, making it one of Florida's oldest European settlements.
  
  
• Surf Mecca: Consistently ranked among the top surf towns in the U.S., with steady waves year-round and a strong surf culture.
  
  
• Turtle Nesting Hotspot: From May through October, sea turtles nest along its beaches. Nighttime walks often reveal tiny hatchlings heading to the sea.
  
  
• Hidden History: The town has one of Florida's largest collections of coastal archaeological sites, including ancient shell mounds.
  
  
• Bike-Friendly Town: With 17 miles of beach you can drive on (and cycle on), it's one of the rare U.S. beaches where this is still allowed.
  
  

Natural Attractions & Outdoor Activities

Stroll, Surf, and Sun Your Way Across New Smyrna Beach's 17 Miles

Visitors' Favorite, Family-Friendly

New Smyrna Beach is a sun-soaked paradise with 17 miles of shoreline perfect for beach lovers of all kinds. Spend the morning surfing Flagler Avenue Beach, building sandcastles with the kids, or taking a quiet walk along the more secluded stretches. The vibe is pure coastal Florida, with plenty of free or budget-friendly fun waiting right on the sand. Stay through sunset for a sky that lights up in spectacular colors; it's a daily show worth catching.

⭐ Highlights

• Surf the waves at popular Flagler Avenue Beach.
• Find quiet escapes on less crowded stretches.
• Build sandcastles, toss a Frisbee, or play beach volleyball.
  
• Enjoy free, family-friendly activities along the shore.
  
• Watch a stunning Atlantic Ocean sunset to wrap up your day.
  
  

Drive on the Hard Sand

New Smyrna Beach offers something unique: you can drive along the hard sand on a designated stretch at the end of Flagler Avenue. When you find a quiet spot, park your car, set up your beach chair and umbrella, and enjoy a memorable day under the sun, admiring the emerald waters of the Atlantic.

Get Lost (in a Good Way) at Smyrna Dunes Park

Must-visit, Pet-friendly

Smyrna Dunes Park is a stunning inlet featuring not only miles of beaches but also a variety of ecosystems and nature trails for you to explore and spend a day in contact with the best of what nature has to offer in the Sunshine State.

⭐ Highlights

• Miles of beach with calm waters for swimming and sunbathing.
  
• Elevated boardwalks through dunes and coastal vegetation.
  
• Wildlife sightings, including the charming Gopher tortoise.
  
• Panoramic views of Ponce de Leon Inlet and its historic lighthouse.
  
• Covered picnic pavilions, restrooms, and rinse-off stations.
  
• Pet-friendly beach section where dogs can play on-leash.
  
• Fishing pier near the parking area for anglers.

Sink Your Toes into the Sand at Canaveral National Seashore

Must-visit

Just 20 minutes from New Smyrna Beach, Canaveral National Seashore is the perfect escape for nature lovers. This protected barrier island is home to an incredible mix of ocean, dunes, lagoons, salt marshes, and pine flatwoods. Spend the day exploring scenic trails, swimming in the Atlantic, or simply watching the sun dip into the horizon.

⭐ Highlights

• The longest stretch of undeveloped Atlantic coastline in Florida.
  Miles of uncrowded beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and strolling.
• Scenic walking trails through diverse habitats.
  
• Wildlife spotting opportunities, including manatees, sea turtles, and over 300 bird species.
  
• Peaceful picnic spots with ocean views.
  
• Stunning sunset photography opportunities.
• Clear views of NASA's Kennedy Space Center. You might even catch a rocket launch.
  
  

Historical & Cultural Attractions and Events

Sugar Mill Ruins

Off-the-beaten path

Tucked away in New Smyrna Beach, the Sugar Mill Ruins are a fascinating peek into Florida's past. These coquina stone remains date back to the early 19th century, when the site was a working sugar factory. Today, it's a quiet, open-air historic park where you can stroll, explore, and imagine life during the plantation era. It's a quick stop, but it feels like stepping into a history book.

⭐ Highlights

• Original coquina stone walls and iron machinery are still in place.
• Informative signs share the story of the 1835 Seminole attacks.
  
• Shady walking paths and a peaceful setting are perfect for exploring.
  
• Free entry makes it an easy and budget-friendly stop.
  
• Great spot for history lovers, photographers, and curious kids.

New Smyrna Museum of History

The New Smyrna Museum of History is the perfect place to get to know the city's fascinating past. Located on historic Canal Street, it takes you on a journey from the Timucua people and early European settlers to the town's role as a hub for railroads and citrus. Exhibits are colorful, interactive, and just the right size for an engaging afternoon.

⭐ Highlights

• Explore exhibits on the original 1768 Minorcan settlement.
• Learn about the Timucua people, the area's first inhabitants.
  
• See artifacts from the railroad and steamboat eras.
  
• Browse rotating exhibits on local art, surfing, and culture.
• Stroll Canal Street after your visit for cafés, shops, and murals.
  
  
  

Historic District

Must-visit

After visiting the New Smyrna Museum of History, step into New Smyrna Beach's past, exploring the Historic District. The district's charming streets are lined by 19th- and early 20th-century buildings that tell the story of the town's past. Canal Street is the centerpiece, blending old Florida charm with modern boutiques and cafés. It's a perfect place to wander, admire the architecture, and imagine the seaside town in its early days.

⭐ Highlights

• Stroll along Canal Street and spot restored brick storefronts and historic facades.
• Discover examples of early Florida cracker-style homes and classic coastal cottages.
  
• Admire the details on vintage bank buildings and old railroad-era structures.
  
• Stop into local galleries and shops that now occupy these historic spaces.
• Take photos under the large shade trees and colorful awnings that frame the streets.
  
  
  

Climb, Explore, and Marvel at Ponce de Leon Lighthouse

Must-visit

Climb Florida's tallest lighthouse and get rewarded with unbeatable views of the Atlantic and surrounding waterways. The Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse is a National Historic Landmark where history and adventure meet. After the 203-step climb, explore the grounds, restored keeper's dwellings, and fascinating exhibits that bring more than a century of maritime history to life.

⭐ Highlights

• 203-step climb to the top with sweeping ocean and river views.

• Restored keeper's quarters with authentic period furnishings.

• Museum exhibits on the lighthouse's 130-year history.

• Rare Fresnel lens collection, one of the largest in the world.

• Perfect photo spot for sunrise or sunset seekers.

Arts on Douglas

Off-the-beaten path

Arts on Douglas is a vibrant contemporary gallery in the historic district of New Smyrna Beach. Housed in a beautifully restored 1920s auto dealership, it offers 3,500 square feet of exhibition space filled with industrial character and rotating shows. Visitors can explore painting, sculpture, and mixed media from both local and nationally recognized artists.

⭐ Highlights

• Restored 1920s building with distinctive industrial charm.
• Regularly rotating exhibitions featuring fresh perspectives.
  
• Wide range of works: painting, sculpture, mixed media, and more.
  
• Focus on Florida-based emerging and established artists.
  
• Inspiring destination for anyone curious about the local creative scene.

Jane's Art Center

Locals' favorite

This is another creative hub in New Smyrna Beach for art enthusiasts. Known for its top-notch ceramics program and thoughtfully curated exhibitions, Jane's Art Center is the perfect spot to explore, learn, and get inspired. The space blends gallery, classroom, and studio, making it a go-to for those who enjoy viewing art and taking part in hands-on activities.

⭐ Highlights

• Rotating exhibitions featuring ceramics, painting, sculpture, and mixed media from local and national artists.
• Fully equipped clay studio with kilns, slab rollers, and pottery wheels.
  
• Popular community events like Raku nights, where anyone can try a firing session.
  
• Workshops and classes for all levels, from wheel throwing to glazing and experimental techniques.
  
• Guest artist workshops that attract participants from across Florida and beyond.

The Hub on Canal

Off-the-beaten path

Want to add even more art to your trip? Don't miss The Hub on Canal. This artist-run space brings together working studios, galleries, and hands-on workshops. It's the perfect place to experience New Smyrna Beach's thriving arts scene, meet local makers, and explore rotating exhibitions, all in one vibrant stop.

⭐ Highlights

• Over 70 artist studios featuring painters, photographers, jewelers, fiber artists, and sculptors.
• Founders Gallery with monthly exhibitions showcasing regional and national talent.
  
• Opportunities to watch artists work and chat about their creative process.
  
• Workshops for all skill levels in painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, and writing.
  
• Regular art talks, film screenings, and live music events for a full cultural experience.
  
  
  

Flagler Avenue

Must-visit

Beyond being a scenic spot in town that stretches from the river to the ocean, Flagler Avenue is home to a delightful mix of boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Quirky stores, local art, and many cafes where you can grab a bite await you.

Must-Visit Shops on Flagler Avenue

• Gyftz: Locally owned gift and décor shop with home décor, collectibles, wine accessories, and cosmetics.

• Wilde Side Beach & Surf: Go-to spot for beach essentials like swimsuits, boogie boards, and sunglasses.

• New Smyrna Beach Outfitters: Ideal for anglers and boaters, with gear for fishing and water adventures.

• Galleria di Vetro: Stunning gallery of custom glasswork, perfect for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
  
  

• Vintage Thang Boutique: Curated mix of modern and vintage clothing, plus jewelry and handbags.
  
  

• Galleria di Vetro: This gallery offers a selection of one-of-a-kind glasswork, with each piece meticulously custom-made in the shop. If you're looking for a truly unique souvenir in New Smyrna Beach, this is the perfect place to visit.
  
  

• Vintage Thang Boutique: Vintage Thang offers a curated collection of modern and vintage clothing. You'll also find a variety of items to complement any outfit, including jewelry, handbags, and more.

New Smyrna Beach Shuffleboard Courts

Shuffleboard fans will love the Mainland Shuffleboard Club, right at the corner of Flagler Avenue and Pine Street. This local favorite is home to 20 courts, including 8 that light up for evening matches. It's a perfect place to meet fellow players, work on your skills, and enjoy a little friendly competition.

⭐ Highlights

• 20 shuffleboard courts, 8 with evening lighting.
  
• Regular play sessions Monday–Saturday at 10:00 AM.
  
• Extra evening sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30 PM.
  
• Adjacent Coronado Civic Center with a kitchen, dining room, and dance hall.
  
• Welcoming atmosphere for casual and competitive players alike.
  
  

Food & Dining

Beacon Restaurant

Breakfast

For over 40 years, Beacon Restaurant has been serving up hearty breakfasts in true diner style. This family-owned spot is the go-to place to kick off a day in New Smyrna Beach. With a retro interior and a warm, welcoming vibe, it feels like breakfast the way it should be.

⭐ Highlights

• Famous Breakfast Favorites with pancakes, French toast, and biscuits and gravy.
  
• Standout Eastern and House Special omelets.
  
• Fresh bagels and classic diner coffee to pair with your meal.
  
• Retro décor that gives a cozy, nostalgic feel.
  
• Friendly service that makes you feel like a local.

Cafe Verde

Breakfast

Cafe Verde is a go-to spot for a fresh, feel-good breakfast in town. The menu is packed with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options that actually taste amazing. Think colorful plates, a cozy dining room filled with greenery, and a patio that feels like a secret garden.

⭐ Highlights

• Creative breakfast tacos with plenty of flavor.
  
• Fresh, bright salads like Mediterranean, Quinoa Cucumber, Tuna Poke, and Vegan Poke.
  
• Warm, inviting interior with lush plants and natural light.
  
• Outdoor seating under a charming gazebo, perfect for a sunny morning.

C's Waffles

Breakfast

C's Waffles is a New Smyrna Beach breakfast staple with two convenient spots, one on Canal Street and another just steps from the beach on South Atlantic Avenue. This is where you go for a no-fuss, feel-good morning meal that fuels your day. The menu is all about comforting classics, with friendly staff who make you feel right at home.

⭐ Highlights

• Waffles in every flavor: fresh strawberry, chocolate chip, apple cinnamon, and caramel pecan.
  
• Fluffy French toast and hearty egg plates.
  
• Omelets, breakfast wraps, and sandwiches are great for a grab-and-go bite.
  
• Crowd favorites: Crockpot Philly, Lil' Piggy Melt, and C's Deluxe Bacon Sandwich.
  
• Casual, welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for a perfect beach day.

Mom's Home Cooking

Breakfast

This is a cozy, family-owned diner serving up comfort on a plate. It's the ideal spot to start your day here, with big portions, friendly faces, and a menu full of breakfast classics that feel like they came straight from Mom's kitchen.

⭐ Highlights

• Fluffy pancakes stacked high and dripping with syrup.
  
• Waffles with fresh fruit and whipped cream (a must-try!)
  
• Loaded omelets and hearty breakfast sandwiches.
  
• Biscuits and gravy that hit the spot.
  
• Warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming back.
  
  
  

The Taco Shack

Lunch

What about some Latin specialties? From Puerto Rican mofongo to fish tacos, taco salads, quesadillas, nachos, burritos, you name it, The Taco Shack has it all, and they will have it for you in a cool window-serve setup with a patio.

⭐ Highlights

• Puerto Rican mofongo, fish tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and more.
  
• Colorful décor and a relaxed patio perfect for a casual meal.
  
• Friendly staff and family-run atmosphere.
  
• Generous portions at reasonable prices.
  
• Veggie-friendly options for plant-based diners.

Outriggers

Lunch & Dinner

Located right on the waterway, Outriggers is a breezy harborside tavern featuring great food and good vibes. The wraparound bar and waterfront patio set the scene for fresh seafood, great drinks, and a social, friendly crowd. It's a perfect stop for a relaxed lunch or a lively evening out in New Smyrna Beach.

⭐ Highlights

• Fresh, straight-from-the-ocean catches and Chairman's Reserve Certified Angus Steaks.
• Modern Southern classics with local ingredients.
  
• Must-try fish tacos, cooked to flavorful perfection.
  
• Wraparound bar and patio with waterway views.
  
• Live music and a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
  

The Garlic

Dinner

Feel like some authentic Italian flavors? The Garlic will bring you a taste of Tuscany right in beachside Florida! This lovely eatery combines Italian tradition with local flavors, making it your go-to Italian spot in the region. The menu is great, from the entrees to the wine list, and the atmosphere is on the casual side.

⭐ Highlights

• Signature garlic clove appetizer that's worth the trip.
• Il Forno-cooked New York Strip Steak with a garlic crust.
  
• Vegetarian-friendly Eggplant Tower and rotating daily specials.
  
• Garden-style outdoor seating with twinkling lights and a cozy fireplace.
  
• No reservations, but seating moves fast, and the wait is worth it.

The Baker's Table

Brunch (limited days) & Dinner

This charming bistro & bakery offers German specialties and other delicious food options. The setting is pretty relaxed, combining the beach experience with an intimate bistro feel: there are only nine tables available.

⭐ Highlights

• German specialties alongside creative bistro classics.
• Signature dishes like escargot, duck leg with risotto, and Alaskan halibut.
  
• House-made pastas such as basil ricotta gnocchi.
  
• Must-try desserts: Hummingbird Cake and Belgian Chocolate Cake.
  
  

Norwood's Restaurant & Treehouse Bar

Sunset Cocktails & Dinners

Norwood's is a New Smyrna Beach classic, serving guests for nearly 80 years in a converted 1920s gas station. Known for its fresh seafood, smoked meats, and inviting atmosphere, it's a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The treehouse bar, wrapped around a giant oak, makes it one of the most unique dining experiences in town.

⭐ Highlights

• Fresh seafood dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
• House-smoked meats like bacon-wrapped scallops and shrimp and grits.
  
• Handcrafted sauces and dressings made in-house.
  
• Treehouse Bar with a breezy deck and craft cocktails.
  
• Live music and entertainment on select nights.
  
• Great date-night spot or place to gather with friends.
  
  

Third Wave

Breakfast & Dinner

Drawing inspiration from different corners of the globe to fuse various cuisines with southern coastal traditions, Third Wave is a relaxed and cozy spot serving up gourmet coffee, sandwiches, and pizzas, as well as global wines and craft beers.

⭐ Highlights

• Global Menu featuring from short ribs on hummus to baked feta and artisan pizzas.
• Must-tries include the mouth-watering Burrata pizza, one of the stars of the menu.
  
• Tropical patio with a view of the kitchen and twinkling fairy lights at night.
  
• Specialty coffee, global wines, and local craft beers keep everyone happy.
  
• Committed to eco-friendly practices and sourcing.
  
• Warm, attentive team that makes you feel at home.
  
  

River Park Terrace

Dinner

A relatively new addition to New Smyrna Beach, this cozy cottage with a porch and a leafy garden serves all-American classics created with ingredients sourced in the immediate area.

⭐ Highlights

• Fresh seafood, free-range poultry, and antibiotic-free meats.
• Seasonal menus with house-made sauces.
  
• Vegetarian-friendly options and preservative-free ingredients.
  
• Cozy patio with fire pits, chandeliers, and lush greenery.
  
• Wine tastings, live music, and special events throughout the year.
  
• Perfect for a romantic dinner, group gathering, or casual night out.

JB's Fish Camp

Lunch & Dinner

JB's Fish Camp is an all-in-one spot: an eatery and water equipment rental spot. From its humble beginnings as a simple shack in the late 1970s, this place has become a local staple, offering not just delicious seafood but also some pretty nice cocktails.

⭐ Highlights

• Fresh seafood favorites: raw oysters, crab cakes, alligator tail, hush puppies, and fried shrimp.
  
• Famous frozen margaritas and refreshing cocktails.
  
• Huge outdoor deck with unbeatable river and sunset views.
  
• Live music that keeps the energy fun and social.
  
• Kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the nearby islands.
  
• Perfect combo of great food, drinks, and adventure in one spot.
  

Bars & Nightlife

Tayton O'Brians

Tayton O'Brians is an Irish pub that comes alive after dark. Guests stop in for hearty Irish fare, cold pints, and a lively social scene that keeps the evening rolling.

⭐ Highlights

• Classic dishes like Corned Beef and Cabbage, Shepherd's Pie, and Bangers and Mash.
• Impressive lineup of draft and bottled beers.
  
• Cocktails and spirits for those who want more than a pint.
  
• Energetic, welcoming vibe perfect for a night out with friends.
  
  

Flagler Tavern

Flagler Tavern is one of New Smyrna Beach's go-to nightlife spots, blending coastal charm with a buzzing evening scene. The venue spans multiple bars, an outdoor patio, and a cozy upstairs speakeasy, giving you options for how to spend the night. It's a place where locals, weekenders, and music lovers come together for drinks, dancing, and a great vibe.

⭐ Highlights

• Live music almost every night, from acoustic sets to energetic bands.
• Multiple bars serving cold beers, wine, and creative cocktails.
  
• The Bounty, an upstairs speakeasy with craft cocktails and a nautical vibe.
  
• Outdoor patio for breezy drinks and people-watching.
  
• Late-night food menu perfect for sharing after a few rounds.
  
• Central location on Flagler Avenue, making it easy to hop to other bars or grab dessert nearby.
  
  

Peanuts Sports Bar & Grill

Since 1987, Peanuts Sports Bar & Grill has been the go-to gathering spot for casual nights out. It's part sports bar, part live music venue, and fully committed to keeping the energy high. With plenty of TVs, tasty pub favorites, and nightly entertainment, this local favorite will have you coming back again and again.

⭐ Highlights

• 20+ TVs showing all the big games.
• Live music, karaoke nights, and weekly poker tournaments.
  
• Menu favorites like crispy chicken wings, juicy burgers, and cold beer.
  
• Friendly, buzzing atmosphere that makes it easy to meet new people.
  
• Great spot for groups or anyone looking to mix sports, food, and music.

Traders' Bar

Traders' Bar has been mixing good drinks and good company for years. This local favorite blends tasty drinks, live tunes, and casual bites into one irresistible package. Grab a table on the patio, order a round of shrimp tacos, and let the evening unfold.

⭐ Highlights

• Signature cocktails and rotating craft beer selection.
• Caribbean Shrimp Tacos, Tiki Wings, and other crowd-pleasing bites.
  
• Live music several nights a week featuring local performers.
  
• Outdoor patio seating for al fresco drinks and people-watching.
  
• Friendly staff and social atmosphere, great for groups or solo visitors.
  
  

Practical Info for New Smyrna Beach

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March–May)

Spring is one of the most enjoyable times to visit New Smyrna Beach. The weather is sunny and warm but not scorching, making it perfect for long beach days and early-morning surf sessions. Crowds are lighter, and you can spot dolphins on boat tours or kayak the Indian River Lagoon. Spring breakers show up mid-March through early April, but the vibe stays relaxed compared to bigger Florida party beaches.

Summer (June–August)

Summer is New Smyrna Beach at its liveliest. The Atlantic is warm for swimming and surfing, and events like outdoor concerts and Fourth of July fireworks keep the energy high. This is prime season for family vacations, so expect full beaches and higher accommodation rates. Book early for the best spots.

Fall (September–November)

Fall is New Smyrna Beach's underrated gem. Ocean temperatures stay warm through October, the big crowds disappear, and local events like art festivals and food truck gatherings take over Flagler Avenue. It's a great time to score lower rates, enjoy quieter beaches, and catch some of the best sunsets of the year.

Winter (December–February)

Winter brings mild days with temperatures in the 60s and 70s, perfect for beach walks, birdwatching at Canaveral National Seashore, and exploring historic downtown. Snowbirds start to arrive, giving the town a lively but not overwhelming buzz. While it's not peak swimming season, you'll love the serene atmosphere and lower rental prices.

Weather & What to Pack

• Spring/Fall: Pack layers; light sweaters for mornings, shorts and sandals for afternoons. Bring a light jacket for breezy nights and sneakers for exploring trails.
  
  
• Summer: Bring swimsuits, rash guards, sunscreen, hats, and airy clothing. Bug spray helps for evening events, and flip-flops are a must.
  
  
• Winter: Light sweaters, long pants, and a windbreaker will keep you comfortable. Good walking shoes are perfect for pier strolls or exploring nature parks.
  
  
• Year-Round: Always pack sun protection. UV rays reflect off the sand, so sunglasses, a hat, and a refillable water bottle are essentials.

Getting There & Around

Nearest Airports:

• Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB): Just 25 minutes from New Smyrna Beach, the most convenient option.
  
  
• Orlando International Airport (MCO): Around 1 hour and 15 minutes away, with a wider selection of flights.
  
  
• Sanford International Airport (SFB): About 1 hour away, a good option for budget airlines.

Transportation:

• Rental Car: Recommended. Public transport is limited, and a car makes it easy to explore beaches, parks, and nearby towns like Daytona and Titusville.
  
  
• Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are available but can be limited during peak hours or late nights.
  
  
• Bike & Golf Cart Rentals: A fun way to cruise Flagler Avenue or explore nearby beach neighborhoods.
  
  
• Parking: There are free and paid lots near most beach access points. Look for rentals that include private parking to save time and hassle.
  
  
  

Live Your Best Beach Life in New Smyrna!

Slip on your sunglasses, wiggle your toes in the sand, and let New Smyrna Beach work its magic.

Here at Great Ocean Condos, we're all about making your beach trip even better. Our condos and homes set the stage for a stay that feels effortless, and one you'll look back on with a smile.

Kick back, settle in, and soak up every moment in this stunning slice of Florida paradise.