Sandy Shores and Sunshine: A Perfect Weekend Getaway to New Smyrna Beach
Introduction
If you’re looking for a picturesque coastal escape that blends relaxation with adventure, look no further than New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Known for its charming atmosphere and stunning sandy shores, this destination captures the essence of a perfect beach getaway. With a vibrant community, plenty of outdoor activities, and delicious dining options, New Smyrna Beach offers something for everyone.
We love living in The Villages, FL, but the one thing we do not have is a beach. We wanted a relaxing weekend getaway that was an easy drive from The Villages.
New Smyrna Beach is conveniently located about 30 miles south of Daytona Beach and 60 miles east of Orlando. The most common route from Orlando is to take I-4 East to US-92 East, which leads directly to the beach. The scenic drive offers glimpses of Florida’s natural beauty, making it a pleasant journey. We decided to take the back roads and not travel on the Florida Turnpike or I-4. We left The Villages and headed out NorthEast towards Mt. Dora. We traveled all the way down 44 that led us straight into New Smyrna Beach! It was an easy, enjoyable 79 mile ride.
In this article, let’s dive into what makes New Smyrna Beach a delightful destination for a weekend escape.
Best Time to Visit New Smyrna Beach
To enjoy the best of what New Smyrna Beach has to offer, timing your visit is key.
Ideal Seasons: The most pleasant months to visit are from March to May and September to November. During these months, you’ll find fewer crowds and moderate temperatures, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The summer months can get hot and humid, while winter attracts many visitors seeking warmth, but can also bring larger crowds. Keep in mind that hurricane season lasts June through November and it’s not unusual to get a hurricane in September or October.
The town will also be much busier if there are any special events in that area or even in Daytona. Visit their tourism site to check out local event calendars.
Where to Stay in New Smyrna Beach
Accommodation Options
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, New Smyrna Beach boasts a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.
Family-Friendly Hotels and Resorts: If you’re traveling with family, consider booking a stay at places like the Ocean Trillium Suites or the Hampton Inn New Smyrna Beach. Both offer spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities, and are just a short walk from the beach. The Springhill Suites New Smyrna Beach is located steps from the beach!
Cozy Beachfront Rentals and Vacation Homes: For a more personalized experience, consider renting a beach house or condo. Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer plenty of options, from charming cottages to luxurious beachfront properties, giving you a home-away-from-home feel. We chose to stay in an Airbnb on the non-driving part of the beach. See our review in this video:
Budget-Friendly Motels: If you’re traveling on a budget, there are also several motels available. The Seahorse Inn, The Beachside Motel and The Night Swan Intracoastal Bed and Breakfast offer comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank.
Recommendations
For a truly memorable stay, here are a few highly-rated options to consider:
The Briny Breeze: A delightful beachfront hotel known for its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere. Perfect for families or couples looking for a quiet retreat.
The New Smyrna Beach Hotel & Suites: A great option for those seeking a balance between luxury and affordability, offering stunning ocean views and easy beach access.
The Inn on the Avenue: This charming bed and breakfast provides a unique, homey experience with beautifully decorated rooms and a fantastic breakfast. Be sure to ask-they usually have discounts for residents of The Villages!
Fun in the Sun
The heart of any trip to New Smyrna Beach is, of course, the beach itself. Here’s how to make the most of your time by the ocean:
Swimming, Sunbathing, and Beachcombing: With miles of soft, white sandy beaches, there’s plenty of space to lay down your towel, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. The waters are typically calm, making it ideal for families. Cars are allowed to drive on the beach. There is an entrance at the end of Flagler Avenue. While we were there, the line was all the ways to the other end of Flagler waiting to get on the beach. Tip: Wait for low tide before heading to the entrance. They can only let so many cars on while it is high tide. If you are not interested in being on the driving part of the beach, head a little over 1 mile south to find some public access points where there will not be any traffic on the sand.
Water Sports: For those seeking a little more excitement, New Smyrna Beach is a water sports haven. Surfing is popular here, with several local surf schools offering lessons for beginners. You can also rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the scenic waterways.
Renting Beach Chairs and Umbrellas: To truly relax, consider renting beach chairs and umbrellas from local vendors. This way, you can enjoy a day of lounging with a good book while listening to the gentle sound of the waves.
Exploring the NSB Area
Beyond the beach, New Smyrna offers beautiful spots for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts:
Top Beach Spots: Flagler Avenue Beach is a must-visit, known for its vibrant atmosphere and accessibility to local shops and restaurants. Smyrna Dunes Park, on the other hand, offers stunning views and nature trails, perfect for a scenic walk.
Scenic Walking Trails and Nature Reserves: The Smyrna Dunes Park features a boardwalk that winds through diverse ecosystems, including salt marshes and coastal dunes. It’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching and enjoying Florida’s natural beauty. You can also travel just a little further and go to Canaveral National Seashore.
Where to Eat in New Smyrna Beach
After a day of sun and sand, indulging in delicious food is the perfect way to wind down.
Local Restaurants and Cafes
New Smyrna Beach boasts a fantastic dining scene that caters to all tastes:
We highly recommend stopping in the Canal Historic District for a funky atmosphere and creative dishes at Yellow Dog Eats. We had awesome food, incredible service and 2 for 1 happy hour all day!
Beachfront Dining: For a meal with a view, head to The Breakers, which offers fresh seafood and a laid-back atmosphere right on the beach. You can’t beat eating a juicy burger with an open air view of the ocean. Toni and Joe’s was recommended to us by multiple locals, so we have put it on our list for our next trip!
Must-Try Local Dishes: Don’t miss out on the local seafood specialties, such as the fish tacos at The Red Dog or the shrimp and grits at JB’s Fish Camp. These local favorites showcase the freshest ingredients and are a true taste of Florida.
Another great option is The Garlic, known for its flavorful dishes and cozy “outdoor” seating. If you want a little more laidback vibe, ask to sit on the Garlic side. You can also choose to sit on the Blu Bar side with more lively music at the bar. We are still dreaming about our meal of Cioppino and rack of lamb at The Garlic! Please note that they do not take reservations.
We filled up at the Beacon Restaurant before shopping on Flagler Ave. This family-owned restaurant has all your diner favorites from breakfast classics to an awesome patty melt.
Evening Entertainment in NSB
As the sun sets, New Smyrna Beach transforms into a vibrant hub of nightlife and entertainment.
Nightlife Options
Bars and Pubs: Enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere at The Ocean Deck, where you can sip cocktails while enjoying ocean views. The Breakers also hosts evening entertainment, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day.
Avanu on Flagler is a newer place that has a cool tiki vibe and huge rooftop restaurant with great views for rocket launches. They will even send an electric shuttle to pick you up at your hotel or resort! Flagler Tavern is another local favorite.
Romantic Spots: For a romantic evening, consider dining at The Lighthouse Grill. The sunset views from their patio are breathtaking, and the seafood dishes are exceptional.
Local Attractions
While the beach is a major draw, New Smyrna Beach has a rich cultural and historical scene worth exploring.
Cultural and Historical Sites
The New Smyrna Beach Museum of History: This small but informative museum highlights the area's rich history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits about the local community and its heritage.
Art Galleries and Local Shops: Stroll through Canal Street Historic District, where you’ll find charming boutiques, art galleries, and local artisans. The vibrant arts scene reflects the town's creative spirit and is perfect for finding unique souvenirs.
And…no trip to New Smyrna Beach is complete with a shopping trip down Flagler Avenue! Be sure to stop in to Gyftz for coastal inspired home goods and The Christmas Stop to grab an ornament to commemorate your trip. Travel Tip: Start searching for parking closer to the Intracoastal end of Flagler. The parking gets more crowded the closer you get to the beach.
Conclusion
A weekend in New Smyrna Beach promises a delightful blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. From its beautiful sandy shores and exhilarating water sports to its diverse dining options and local attractions, this charming coastal town offers everything you need for a memorable getaway.
Whether you’re lounging on the beach, savoring fresh seafood, or exploring the local arts scene, New Smyrna Beach is a destination that captures the spirit of Florida’s coast. So, pack your bags and get ready for a weekend of sandy shores and sunshine!
We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect weekend in New Smyrna Beach!
