Just a short 30-minute drive from New Smyrna Beach, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge spans 140,000 acres of diverse habitats, from marshes to coastal dunes. It’s a sanctuary for Florida’s native wildlife, including over 500 documented species and 330 species of birds, along with several threatened and endangered species. The scenic Black Point Wildlife Drive, a 7-mile loop with numbered stops, is perfect for spotting animals and taking in the serene landscapes. Trails and observation decks offer even more opportunities to explore. For the best wildlife sightings, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Located next to the Best Western Lighthouse Suites Inn, Chenois Creek Horse Rentals has horses for beginners and experienced riders. They also provide guides to inform riders of the history of the trails. Chenois Creek Horse Rentals opens seasonally.

Dive into the rich history of New Smyrna Beach at the engaging New Smyrna Museum of History. It highlights the town’s founding by an intrepid group of Mediterranean colonists under the leadership of Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a Scottish physician and diplomat. Exhibits in the Interior Gallery provide a chronological journey through the area’s past, offering insights into its cultural and historical development. Don’t miss the upstairs exhibit, featuring early St. John’s pottery, projectile points, and other fascinating artifacts collected by local historian Zelia Wilson Sweett.

A cruise down the Gordon River rewards with mirror-calm reflections of World Heritage Area rainforest. Gordon River Cruises and World Heritage Cruises can take you down this ancient waterway stopping off at Sarah Island where you'll get a history lesson as you walk among the ruins of this once notorious convict settlement.