New Smyrna Beach
· US

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, United States

New Smyrna Beach, located in Florida, United States, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and history. This charming coastal town is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches and laid-back …

#Beach town#Surfing hotspot#Historic district#Art community#Outdoor activities
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into New Smyrna Beach.

Top Hotels in New Smyrna Beach

Top Flights to New Smyrna Beach

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in New Smyrna Beach.

Tours

New Smyrna Beach Sightseeing

Explore the beautiful beach and scenic views of New Smyrna Beach, perfect for a relaxing walk or a day in the sun.

Shopping

Canal Street Historic District

Discover shops, dining, and art in the heart of New Smyrna Beach’s historic Canal Street.

Outdoor

Smyrna Dunes Park Outdoor Adventure

Experience a nature walk and stunning views at the Smyrna Dunes Park, where visitors can hike along the extensive boardwalk trail.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in New Smyrna Beach.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Not Available
Languages
English, English
Average weather
New Smyrna Beach
Jan
clear
20°10°
Feb
clear
21°11°
Mar
clear
23°13°
Apr
sun
26°16°
May
sun
29°19°
Jun
hot
31°22°
Jul
hot
32°23°
Aug
hot
32°23°
Sep
sun
31°22°
Oct
sun
28°19°
Nov
clear
24°15°
Dec
clear
21°11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on New Smyrna Beach.

What people love

New Smyrna Beach in Florida has several pros for travelers:

  1. Beautiful Beaches: New Smyrna Beach is known for its pristine sandy beaches that stretch for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and other water activities.

  2. Outdoor Activities: The area offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the region through various outdoor adventures.

  3. Arts and Culture: New Smyrna Beach has a vibrant arts and culture scene with art galleries, museums, and cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts community and enjoy performances, exhibitions, and workshops.

  4. Historic Downtown: The historic downtown area of New Smyrna Beach is charming and picturesque, with quaint shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Strolling through the streets of downtown allows visitors to soak in the local atmosphere and history.

  5. Close Proximity to Orlando: New Smyrna Beach is located within driving distance of Orlando, making it a convenient destination for those who want to explore the theme parks, shopping, and entertainment options in the Orlando area while also enjoying a beach vacation.

  6. Relaxed Atmosphere: New Smyrna Beach has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overall, New Smyrna Beach offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a beach getaway in Florida.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to New Smyrna Beach in Florida may include:

  1. Crowds: New Smyrna Beach is a popular destination, especially during peak tourist seasons. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, making it difficult to find a peaceful spot to relax.

  2. Traffic: Like many beach towns, New Smyrna Beach can experience heavy traffic congestion, especially on weekends and holidays. Navigating through the traffic can be time-consuming and frustrating.

  3. Weather: Florida's weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of sudden rain showers or thunderstorms. This can disrupt outdoor activities and beach plans.

  4. Wildlife: New Smyrna Beach is known for its diverse wildlife, including sharks. While shark attacks are rare, it's important to be cautious when swimming in the ocean.

  5. Budget: Traveling to New Smyrna Beach can be expensive, especially during peak seasons when accommodation prices are higher. Dining out and participating in tourist activities can also add up quickly.

  6. Limited public transportation: New Smyrna Beach may not have as robust public transportation options compared to larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to explore the area.

It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to mitigate these potential cons and ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to New Smyrna Beach.

New Smyrna Beach, located in Volusia County, Florida, has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era and is influenced by various cultural and historical events.

Early History

  • Pre-Colonial Era: The area was originally inhabited by the Timucua people, a Native American tribe. Evidence of their presence includes shell middens and other archaeological sites.

Colonial Period

  • 1768: The most significant event in New Smyrna Beach's early history was the establishment of the New Smyrna Colony by Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a Scottish physician and entrepreneur. He brought over 1,400 settlers, primarily from the Mediterranean regions such as Minorca, Italy, and Greece, to establish a plantation colony. This was one of the largest attempts at British colonization in the New World.

  • Challenges and Collapse: The colony faced numerous hardships, including poor living conditions, mosquito-borne diseases, and conflicts with the indigenous population. Due to these difficulties, the colony was abandoned by 1777, and many of the settlers relocated to St. Augustine.

19th Century

  • Post-Colonial Developments: After the decline of the New Smyrna Colony, the area became sparsely populated. Eventually, it grew again with the development of citrus and sugar plantations.

  • Civil War: During the American Civil War, the region was affected by the conflict, although it did not see significant battles. The Union blockade of the Confederate coast included the area around New Smyrna.

20th Century

  • Incorporation and Growth: New Smyrna Beach was incorporated as a town in 1887. The arrival of the Florida East Coast Railway contributed to its growth.

  • Tourism and Development: In the 20th century, New Smyrna Beach evolved into a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. It has maintained much of its historical charm while also expanding with modern amenities.

Landmarks and Historical Sites

  • Sugar Mill Ruins: These are remnants of a 19th-century sugar plantation and mill, offering a glimpse into the area's agricultural past.

  • Old Fort Park Archaeological Site: This site features coquina ruins of an unfinished structure, often mistakenly referred to as a Spanish fort.

  • Canal Street Historic District: This area includes a variety of historic buildings, shops, and cultural sites that reflect the town's heritage.

  • Smyrna Dunes Park: Located at the northern tip of the New Smyrna Beach peninsula, this park offers walking trails and views of the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse.

Cultural Influence

  • Mardi Gras and Festivals: New Smyrna Beach hosts various cultural events and festivals that highlight its diverse heritage, including an annual Mardi Gras parade.

Important Figures

  • Dr. Andrew Turnbull: Founder of the New Smyrna Colony, his efforts, although ultimately unsuccessful, were a significant part of the town's early history.

New Smyrna Beach today is known for its vibrant community, arts scene, and as a haven for surfers and beachgoers. Its history is celebrated and preserved through various museums and cultural events, making it a unique blend of past and present.