New Smyrna Beach, Florida - Do & See

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New Smyrna Beach, Florida

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North America United States New Smyrna Beach, Florida Do & See

Overview

Do & See The guide was updated: 2025-01-01

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

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.

Canaveral National Seashore

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.

New Smyrna Museum of History

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.

Marine Discovery Center

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.

Smyrna Dunes Park

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.

Indian River Lagoon Park

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.

Turtle Mound

Turtle Mound

Dating back to 2000 BC, Turtle Mound is a significant archaeological site that represents the Timucuan Indian civilization. Over several centuries, the Timucuan people built this large mound, a "kitchen midden" composed of oyster shells and other shellfish remains. Standing 50 feet tall and covering 2 acres, it’s a remarkable testament to the region’s early inhabitants.

Eldora State House

Eldora State House

Established in 1877, the Eldora community thrived along the Mosquito Lagoon, with a population of around 200 residents. The town's economy centered on citrus farming, fishing, and timber. However, the devastating freezes of 1894-1895 destroyed citrus crops, leading to the town's decline. Today, the Eldora State House, also known as the Moulton–Wells House, is the last remaining home from the Eldora community. Located within the Canaveral National Seashore, the house has been restored and now serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich history.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

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.

New Smyrna Speedway

New Smyrna Speedway

Experience the thrill of high-speed action at New Smyrna Speedway, a half-mile asphalt oval renowned for its Saturday night races. From March through December, the speedway hosts weekly events featuring various divisions that showcase both local talent and rising stars. Beyond the regular season, the speedway is famous for the annual World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing, a nine-night spectacle each February that attracts top drivers from across the country.

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