Things to do in New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach Florida is off the radar as far as Florida beach destinations go. It has beautiful beaches and is a small surf town just south of Daytona. The laid back vibe always has us always coming back for more – it was our second visit here so I thought I would share our favorite things to do in New Smyrna Beach!
We spent a week in New Smyrna Beach at the end of November with Cole’s family. We stayed at a time share, but filled our week with fun activities around town. Keep scrolling to see why you need to give this town a visit!
Get some sun on New Smyrna Beach
The beach is where we spent most of our time. Keep in mind cars are able to drive on the main beach, entering from Flagler Ave. But, the traffic isn’t heavy and there’s plenty of room on the beach! Also, if you’re not staying right on the beach, you can drive up and park on the sand for the day. We walked over to Wild Side to buy boogie boards for $15 at the beginning of the week and are so glad we did! They were so much fun!
Rent jet skis
If it’s a beautiful day and you’re in the mood for some fun, Action Jet Ski and Boat Rentals is a must do! We rented jet skis for $85 an hour (such a good deal!) and it was the highlight of our trip. We whipped around in the Indian River and literally rode the waves right along side dolphins! Such a dream!
Tour the lighthouse
The Ponce de Leon Inlet lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Florida and is full of history. If it’s a little rainy or chilly, climbing to the top of the lighthouse and visiting the museum and surrounding buildings is a perfect activity! Entrance fee is only $6.
Shop on Flagler Ave
Flagler Avenue is THE CUTEST beachside street in Florida. All the shops and restaurants are locally owned (no chains here!!). You’ll find everything from surf shops, food and drinks (more on this below), boutiques, and candy shops! My favorites are Look Charmed and Beachside Candy Co.
Walk around the Sugar Mill Ruins
Another little piece of New Smyrna Beach history lies at the Sugar Mill Ruins. Learn how sugar was made in the early 19th century and take a walk down the nearby nature trail which will make you feel like you’re in Jurassic park!
Taste test at Sugar Works Distillery
After visiting the Sugar Mill Ruins, take the short drive to the newly opened Sugar Works Distillery. We met the owner and distiller who gave us a tour of the space and taught us all about starting a distillery in Florida. We then went to the sample room to try the rum and moonshine. He even let us sample some new concoctions that are in the works, including a rum steeped in tea – YUM!
Ride bikes on the beach
Because cars are allowed on the beach, it makes for the perfect conditions for biking too! We rented beach bikes and rode all the way up to the inlet and sand dunes. For a bonus, walk around the sand dunes and look for turtles! There’s so many!
Ride around town
If bikes aren’t your thing, rent mopeds or a golf cart to ride around town and the beach. There’s lots of great spots in New Smyrna Beach that aren’t right on Flagler Ave, so take your wheels and stop by some of the fun ice cream and smoothie spots for a treat!
Try the Bounty speakeasy
All good towns have a Speakeasy, right?! Located on the second floor of Flagler Tavern (another great restaurant) is The Bounty, a fun speakeasy where you can sit inside or outside on their second-story balcony. The drinks are amazing and it was decorated for the holidays while we were there – how cute?
Eat, snack, and drink
One of the best things about vacation is trying new restaurants. New Smyrna Beach is full of locally-owned spots from lunch to snacks to drinks! We tried great smoothies, ate in a treehouse, and drank plenty of coffee. Click here for our favorite restaurants in New Smyrna!
Hopefully this gave you a snapshot into some fun things to do in New Smyrna Beach. We love this town and know you will too!
