Top 11 Things to do in New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach, Florida is the perfect getaway destination.  Located right next to the Atlantic Ocean and just over one hour east of Orlando, New Smyrna Beach has a great food scene, incredible scenery, a fun beach environment and plenty of activities. New Smyrna Beach has a small town vibe but with so much to explore. Whether you have an entire week or just a quick weekend like we did, it’s a destination worth exploring. Check out the Top 11 Things to do in New Smyrna Beach below.

Note: this visit was in partnership with Visit Florida and Visit New Smyrna Beach. All words and opinions are my own.

Where to stay: Springhill Suites by Marriott New Smyrna Beach

We had a fantastic stay at the modern and stylish Springhill Suites right on the beach. We loved our ocean view suite and the beautiful pool that overlooked the beach.  The hotel includes a great breakfast in the lobby each morning. There’s also direct beach access, fire pits on the back patio and an underground garage with elevator access right to the room floors.  Perfect stay! 

1. Enjoy a beach day (and park right on the beach!)

New Smyrna Beach is one of only three places in Florida you can drive on the beach! It’s super convenient for a beach day since you can access everything right in your vehicle.  

2. Check out the many great restaurants

New Smyrna Beach is a great foodie destination! Fun Fact: New Smyrna Beach hardly has any chain restaurants so there are tons of local options to try. The staff at every place we visited was so personable, we felt like we were visiting a friend’s restaurant.  We made the most of our two days in New Smyrna Beach exploring foodie spots and can’t wait to return. Check out our top 5 favorite restaurants here.

3. Grab a drink at Sugar Works Distillery

Sugar Works Distillery is a gem family owned and operated spot with fantastic drinks. We visited over Derby weekend and enjoyed refreshing mint juleps. All of their cocktails sound delicious.

4. Walk the boardwalk at Smyrna Dunes Park

Smyrna Dunes Park has over two miles of walkable paths overlooking beautiful dunes, wildlife (we saw a few turtles) and the ocean.  Perfect spot for a morning stroll or run. There’s also beach access.  Parking is $10 per vehicle.

5. Attend a Sip & Stroll

One of New Smyrna Beach’s signature events, the Sip & Stroll occurs on the first Saturday of each month.  The event is a fun way to sample a variety of drinks and get to know the canal street historic district. 

6. Visit an Art Gallery

New Smyrna Beach has a really creative community and quite a few beautiful art galleries.  We enjoyed visiting Jane’s Art Center.  I especially loved all the pottery for sale.

7. Relax at The Riverview Spa with a treatment

One of the most gorgeous spa settings I’ve been to is The Riverview Spa. Tucked away in a gorgeous oasis, the spa has outdoor hot tubs, including one with a waterfall, you can relax in before or after a treatment.  I enjoyed a 50 minute massage and then soaked in the pools afterwards. They even have chilled cloths with cucumbers to put on your face while poolside.  Ultimate relaxation! 

8. Enjoy an acai bowl at GoJuice

A perfect treat when strolling the shops on Flagler Avenue is a smoothie or smoothie bowl from GoJuice.  The setting around the food truck is really fun too.

9. Do sunrise yoga on the beach

The best and most relaxing way to start the day in New Smyrna Beach is with Beach Yoga NSB. Bring your own towel to class and a donation since classes are donation based.  I loved the instruction and flow of the class.

10. Try a local brew at NSB Brewing Co.

We loved this local brewery. With seating both indoors and out, you can enjoy a couple different atmospheres.  We tried both the The Irish Stout and a cider and both were delicious.

11. Dine on the water at Outriggers

Located right on the waterway, Outriggers is both scenic and fun.  We visited for dinner when a live musician was performing and it made the whole evening enjoyable.  We dined on fish tacos (the mahi was delicious), a fried sea food platter, walnut encrusted fresh catch and a slice of cheesecake for dessert.

Ready to visit New Smyrna? Check out a couple other incredible Florida destinations: Ocala and Crystal River. Plus check out a fun Savannah itinerary – under a four hour drive away.