Best Travel Guide New Smyrna Beach, Florida

New Smyrna Beach, FloridaGuide was updated: 2025-01-01

The coastal barrier city of New Smyrna Beach is “Florida’s Secret Pearl” for good reason. Consistently given recognition on numerous “best surf town” lists, New Smyrna Beach was even ranked as "one of the world's top 20 surf towns" by National Geographic Magazine. Water sports remain its most popular feature, with swimming, scuba diving, kite-surfing, and surfing at the forefront. Outdoors enthusiasts have little fear, however: you’ll discover myriad opportunities to fish, sail, motorboat, golf, hike, and more at New Smyrna Beach.

Do & See

While New Smyrna Beach is best known for its stunning beaches, there’s so much more to explore beyond the shore. From serene nature preserves and wildlife refuges to historic landmarks and fascinating museums, the town offers a diverse mix of attractions that showcase its rich history and natural beauty.

Beaches and Surfing

New Smyrna Beach boasts 13 miles of white sandy beaches, the perfect backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water. Visitors can also bike or stroll along the shore, soaking in the coastal vibe. Known as one of the top surfing destinations on the East Coast, it’s a hotspot for catching waves, whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out.

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Canaveral National Seashore

Whether you’re fishing, boating, hiking, or just soaking up the sun, the Canaveral National Seashore offers endless ways to explore Florida’s natural beauty. This untouched gem boasts lagoons, pristine beaches, and historical sites like Turtle Mound and Seminole Rest. Camping is available for those who want to stay immersed in the wild.

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New Smyrna Museum of History

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.

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Marine Discovery Center

For a mix of relaxation and learning, the Marine Discovery Center offers wildlife and nature tours along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway. Their "River of History" tours add a fascinating historical perspective to the journey, while eco-tours provide up-close views of local marine life like dolphins, manatees, and birds.

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Smyrna Dunes Park

Surrounded by water on three sides, Smyrna Dunes Park offers stunning views of the Indian River, Ponce Inlet, and the Atlantic Ocean. Arrive by land or sea to explore its fishing spots, swimming areas, and scenic trails. Keep an eye out for wildlife—birds, reptiles, marine life, and native vegetation thrive here in their natural habitats.

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Indian River Lagoon Park

This 200-acre preserve offers a mix of uplands, wetlands, and serene waterways perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Stroll along nature trails, cast a line from the fishing piers, or enjoy a meal at the picnic pavilion. It’s a great spot for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife.

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United States

New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Do & See

Beaches and Surfing

Canaveral National Seashore

New Smyrna Museum of History

Marine Discovery Center

Smyrna Dunes Park

Indian River Lagoon Park