New Smyrna Beach is a charming beach town along the east coast of Central Florida. This coastal getaway is just an hour away from Orlando’s nightlife and offers over thirteen miles of pristine shorelines. NSB is widely viewed as the local Floridan’s favorite beach town. For those who crave adventure, NSB’s waterways offer ample opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The Indian River Lagoon and the nearby Canaveral National Seashore provide a natural habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species, making it a perfect spot for eco-tours.
Discover the Great Outdoors of Central Florida
New Smyrna Beach is home to around 23,000 residents. Venture into the expanse of Canaveral National Seashore and Smyrna Dunes Park, where over 57,000 acres await your exploration. These parks are perfect for peaceful getaways or adventurous hikes. Here, you can absorb the breathtaking views of the Indian River and immerse yourself in the presence of Florida’s wildlife. Keep an eye out for dolphins and manatees whenever you pass a body of water in New Smyrna Beach!
| Destinations Near NSB – Everything You Need for Vacation! | |||
| Disney World 80 Minute Drive | Universal Studios 90 Minute Drive | Kennedy Space Center 40 Minute Drive | St. Augustine 80 Minute Drive |
| Daytona Speedway 25 Minute Drive | Sanford Airport 40 Minute Drive | Orlando International 60 Minute Drive | Daytona Airport 20 Minute Drive |
New Smyrna Beach Public Beach Access
- Flagler Avenue: This area provides beach ramp access, allowing vehicles to drive onto the beach. The location is known for its ease of access and has over 100 parking spaces. The area is equipped with restrooms and offers pedestrian access as well. It’s a popular spot due to its proximity to various shops and amenities along Flagler Avenue.
- 27th Avenue Beachfront Park: This park also supports beach driving with a ramp for vehicle access. It features more than 100 parking spaces and includes amenities such as restrooms and showers. It’s a convenient access point for beachgoers looking for a day out on the sandy shores.
- Smyrna Dunes Park: Situated on the northern tip of the New Smyrna Beach peninsula, this park offers a different experience with its elevated boardwalks that provide stunning views of the Indian River, Ponce Inlet, and the Atlantic Ocean. The park has parking spaces and is known for its natural dunes landscape. However, it does not support beach driving. Smyrna Dunes Park is a great spot for those who enjoy nature trails and scenic overlooks.
- Grace Kenemer Park: This park offers around 20 parking spaces and includes amenities like restrooms and showers. It provides pedestrian access to the beach but does not have facilities for beach driving. It’s a smaller, quieter spot compared to Flagler Avenue and 27th Avenue Park, ideal for those looking for a more tranquil beach experience.
For more detailed information on beach access points, parking, and facilities, CLICK HERE.
Immerse Yourself in NSB’s Local Culture
Take a leisurely walk down the historical pathways of Flagler Avenue and Canal Street, lined with distinctive boutiques and local eateries that reflect the area’s rich cultural tapestry. The Atlantic Center for the Arts serves as a cultural beacon, drawing art enthusiasts and creators alike. Delve into New Smyrna Beach’s layered history by visiting its many historical sites, including the intriguing Sugar Mill ruins that whisper tales of a bygone era, and the Black Heritage Museum, which offers a profound glimpse into the past.
Local Events in New Smyrna Beach
Nestled along Florida’s picturesque east coast, New Smyrna Beach isn’t just another sun-kissed paradise; it’s a bustling hub of cultural celebrations and artistic flair. The town’s event calendar is brimming with a variety of festivals and events that draw locals and visitors into a vibrant tapestry of community and creativity. Here’s an exploration of the key events that paint New Smyrna Beach as a cultural hotspot.
IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts
Ranked an impressive number 16 in the nation for Fine Art Festivals by Sunshine Artist Magazine, IMAGES: A Festival of the Arts is a testament to New Smyrna Beach’s dedication to artistic brilliance. Held from January 26 to 28, this event transforms the city into a lively canvas of colors and creativity. Welcoming over 53,000 art enthusiasts annually, it features more than 237 artists exhibiting fine art, accompanied by live music, food trucks, and a spirit garden. A special highlight is the creative education tent, offering art activities for all ages. This free family event is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a world of artistic wonder.
New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival
As May blooms, the New Smyrna Beach Jazz Festival turns the town into a symphony of soulful melodies. This premier music event, a staple since 2001, is a three-day extravaganza that celebrates jazz in all its forms. From smooth classics to contemporary beats, the festival features performances across various venues, creating an unforgettable experience that resonates with both locals and visitors. It’s not just about the music; it’s about the community coming together to share in the joy of life, love, and jazz.
NSB’s Spring Art Fiesta
In February, Art Fiesta weaves a vibrant tapestry of creativity throughout New Smyrna Beach. This event brings together over 240 artisans and crafters from around the country, turning Old Fort Park, Sam’s Avenue, Julia Street, and Canal Street into a bustling marketplace of art and culture. As you stroll through, you’ll be serenaded by live music, adding to the charm of discovering exquisite art pieces. Free to the public, Art Fiesta is a celebration of artistic expression in a community setting.
New Smyrna Beach Shrimp & Seafood Festival
The New Smyrna Beach Shrimp & Seafood Festival, a highly anticipated culinary event, takes place annually, bringing together seafood lovers and culinary enthusiasts. On August 4th, from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Flagler Avenue transforms into a seafood haven, as the town’s best restaurants and chefs showcase their finest seafood dishes. This festival is a celebration of the rich seafood culture of New Smyrna Beach, offering a variety of sample-sized portions, priced between $5-$8, allowing attendees to savor a wide range of flavors.
Water Sports in New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach, with its stunning coastline and serene waterways, is a playground for water sports enthusiasts. From the gentle lap of waves along the shore to the expansive blue of the Atlantic, this beach town offers a plethora of water-based activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. Here’s a splash into the exciting world of water sports that New Smyrna Beach has to offer.
Paddleboarding in NSB
Paddleboarding in New Smyrna Beach is not just an activity; it’s an experience. Glide over the calm waters of the Indian River Lagoon or embark on a wildlife excursion along the Canaveral National Seashore. For those seeking a unique adventure, Pure Island Tours on S. Atlantic Avenue offers paddle boards with LED lighting systems, perfect for a night-time exploration. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned paddler, the tranquil waters provide the perfect backdrop for a paddleboarding adventure.
Jet Skiing in NSB
Jet skiing is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush. The expansive waters of the Indian River Lagoon offer an ideal playground for jet skiing enthusiasts, providing a perfect blend of open space and scenic beauty. Riders can zip across the water, enjoying a unique perspective of New Smyrna Beach’s stunning coastline and natural habitats. For those without their own equipment, several local rentals along the beach provide easy access to jet skis, along with safety instructions and guided tours. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time rider, jet skiing in New Smyrna Beach promises an exhilarating experience on the water.
Fishing in NSB
Fishing in New Smyrna Beach is a year-round activity that attracts anglers from all over. The waters here are rich with a variety of fish species, offering everything from inshore fishing in the Indian River Lagoon to deep-sea adventures in the Atlantic. Local charters like New Smyrna Fishing Charters provide expert guidance for those seeking the thrill of a big catch. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, the fishing experience in New Smyrna Beach is unparalleled.
Golf Along Florida’s Coastline
Just a brief journey from the coastline, the lush greens of the Sugar Mill Country Club call out to golf enthusiasts. Here, you can engage in a game of golf on a championship course spanning 27 holes, all set against a backdrop of verdant fairways and under the radiant Florida sun. It’s an idyllic golfer’s haven that promises both challenge and serenity, beckoning players to return to its greens time and again.
Become Part of Our Story – Plan Your Getaway to New Smyrna Beach Today
This historic city, one of the oldest in North America, extends a warm invitation to your party. New Smyrna Beach is a place of relaxation and a gateway to adventures that traverse through time. In this small Florida beach town, every restaurant, every shop, every wave, and every grain of sand has its own story to tell.
As evening approaches and the sun sets, casting a golden sheen across the Atlantic, the allure of New Smyrna Beach becomes undeniable. Consider securing a vacation rental here and allow the city’s serene beauty to transform your travel experiences into lasting memories. New Smyrna Beach, with its blend of natural wonder, cultural richness, and historical depth, offers more than a getaway—it offers a journey into a living story. Book a New Smyrna Beach vacation rental today!