Welcome to New Smyrna Beach, where the sun, sand, and surf come together to offer an excellent vacation experience. Our charming beach town is all about capturing a laidback, fun, and adventurous spirit. As local experts, we are always ready to recommend the top New Smyrna Beach activities and attractions to ensure you and your family have an unforgettable vacation.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best things to do in New Smyrna Beach, from activities to attractions to restaurants to family-friendly fun. Get ready to immerse yourself in our beachy fun culture!
Fun in the Sun – New Smyrna Beaches
If there’s one thing we’re famous for in New Smyrna Beach, it’s our beautiful beaches. From soft, sugary sand to crystal-clear waters, we have it all.
New Smyrna Beach
Prepare for a thrilling adventure as you step into the “Shark Capital” of the world. Our namesake beach, New Smyrna Beach, offers visitors expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and vast stretches of white sand. The beach is divided into zones to help visitors identify and respect wildlife areas. Be sure to follow the guidelines for marine animals’ safety, such as the unusual presence of sharks in the area. Despite this reputation, however, there have been no significant incidents here. Instead, visitors are thrilled to see sea turtles hatch or manatees feeding on seagrass!
Canaveral National Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore is not your average beach. It is a secluded 24-mile beach situated between NASA’s Kennedy Space Center and the Atlantic Ocean. This beach is an excellent spot to go sightseeing, surfing, or biking. With its natural beauty, unmatched tranquility, and ecological significance, it’s a must-visit.
New Smyrna Dunes Park
New Smyrna Dunes Park offers pet lovers a unique beach park adventure. This pet-friendly beach is perfect for those planning to bring their pups along and offers plenty of room to sniff and play! Leashes are required at all times, and visitors can walk the winding boardwalk through the sand dunes to an observation deck, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the beach and ocean. This is a must-visit spot for anyone staying in with their pups in our pet-friendly New Smyrna Beach rentals!
Spruce Creek Preserve
Discover a hidden gem in Spruce Creek Preserve, where lush trails and diverse wildlife create a captivating experience. Whether you love birdwatching, kayaking, or capturing the beauty of nature through your camera lens, this preserve has it all. Get ready to immerse yourself in the tranquility of Spruce Creek Preserve.
Top Attractions in New Smyrna Beach – Where Adventure Meets Entertainment
When it comes to family-friendly fun in New Smyrna Beach, we have a few tricks up our sleeve.
Flagler Ave
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Flagler Avenue. This bustling street is lined with unique shops, amazing restaurants, and fantastic entertainment options. Make sure to check out the events and festivals that bring this area to life. There’s always something happening on Flagler Ave.
The Disappearing Island
Experience a phenomenon like no other at the Disappearing Island. This sandbar appears and disappears with the tides, creating a magical and ever-changing landscape. Hop on a boat, kayak, or paddleboard to reach this secluded paradise and enjoy a day of sun, fun, and relaxation!
Smyrna Dunes Park Boardwalk
Take a stroll down Smyrna Dunes Boardwalk and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the beach and inlet. Capture Instagram-worthy photos and keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife that often makes an appearance. This boardwalk offers a serene and awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages!
Marine Discovery Center
The Marine Discovery Center is an eye-opening attraction that helps visitors explore the local marine environment. Fun activities offered include guided eco-boat tours, kayak rentals, and hands-on demonstrations. You won’t want to miss their touch tanks featuring some of the interesting marine life that inhabits our local waters.
Sugar Mill Ruins
If you enjoy history, make a point of stopping at the Sugar Mill Ruins. It is a 17-acre site containing the remains of an old sugar plantation from the early 19th century. Visitors can take a self-guided tour using the audio guide available. The area also has a quaint picnic area.
Restaurants and Bars – A Blend of Cuisines and Culture
New Smyrna Beach is the home to exceptional cuisine. We have some of the most delicious food venues known for their excellent service, friendly atmosphere, and great food.
Yellow Dog Eats Kitchen & Bar
Yellow Dog Eats features an extensive menu of inventive dishes and refreshing drink options. It’s named after the owner’s dog, who used to accompany her on business trips. They have both indoor and outdoor seating with a laid-back atmosphere the whole family will love.
Norwood’s
Norwood’s is a fine dining establishment that features outdoor seating surrounded by a botanical garden. Their menu offers a wide range of American and international cuisine and an excellent wine list. This is the perfect spot for a romantic date night or any intimate celebration!
Gnarly Surf Bar & Grill
Gnarly is a surf-themed beach bar located on the south side of New Smyrna Beach. They are famous for their fish tacos, beach atmosphere, and live music events. Visitors can watch surfers catching waves while enjoying their meal. Focusing on fresh local flavors, this is the ideal spot for any foodies in your group and the perfect addition to your NSB vacation plan!
The Garlic
The Garlic is New Smyrna Beach’s premier dining experience. This local restaurant was featured on Guy Fiere’s Food hit Food Network show ‘Diners, Drive-ins and Dives‘. The atmosphere inside The Garlic is unmatched. The seating layout is diverse, allowing you to sit in a formal dining area, outback in an Italian-themed garden, or along decorative walkways inside the restaurant. Of all the restaurants to choose from in NSB, you cannot skip a night out at The Garlic!
Book Your Getaway with New Smyrna Stays
Now that you know the best things to do in New Smyrna Beach, all you need is the perfect rental, and there’s no better place to find it than with New Smyrna Stays! With our wide selection of New Smyrna Beach vacation rentals, you’re sure to find the perfect home away from home. Our vacation rentals range from beach condos to waterfront holiday homes, ensuring that you are comfortable and have everything you need for the perfect beach escape.
New Smyrna Beach is an incredible vacation destination full of natural beauty, adventure, and fun for everyone. Whether you’re spending a day at the beach, exploring our top attractions, or indulging in our delicious cuisine, NSB has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Book your New Smyrna Beach rental with us today, and get ready to unwind and explore the best of NSB!