Spring is in the air and the outdoors are calling. The New Smyrna Beach Area offers numerous opportunities for all ages to get outside and take in the natural beauty of the region, both from the land and the water. With warming temperatures, abundant wildlife, and vast natural beauty, everyone is sure to find a way to enjoy being outside.
1. Explore the Indian River Lagoon by Kayak
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The 156-mile-long Indian River Lagoon is one of the most diverse estuaries in the Northern Hemisphere, and it’s the perfect location for paddlers to search for the numerous animals that live in and along its waters. Visitors can spot pods of frolicking dolphins, as well as search for solitary wading birds stalking their prey along the shorelines. Groups of lumbering, yet adorable manatees migrate through the area, and tiny sea turtle hatchlings seek shelter in the lagoon after emerging from their nests on nearby beaches.
Several kayak rental shops can be found in the New Smyrna Beach Area. RiverWitch Kayak Rentals & Tours in Oak Hill offers boat rentals as well as guided tours. Beyond the Waves also rents kayaks in four locations, including one in Edgewater at Menard-May Park, right on the lagoon.
2. Surf’s Up in the NSB Area
The beaches in the New Smyrna Beach Area are the perfect spot for experienced and beginner surfers alike. Known as the “Surf Capital of the East Coast,” the wave action here draws enthusiasts from around the world. New riders will find several local surf shops that offer instruction to all ages. Nichols Surf Shop in New Smyrna Beach offers both lessons and rentals. The 2-hour class, split between land and surf, includes safety instruction, surfing techniques, and the use of a board and a wetsuit. The shop also rents boards—as well as kayaks, paddleboards, and windsurfers—for half and full days or by the week. Surfin’ NSB, also in New Smyrna Beach, offers individual and group lessons, which can make for a memorable family or friend group outing. The students pick the beach, and the instructors meet them there.
3. Take a Stroll Through the Dunes
Explore Smyrna Dunes Park on its 2-plus-mile elevated, accessible boardwalk, which allows visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy the pristine shoreline and five distinct ecosystems found in the 184 acres the park encompasses. The boardwalk wends through the dunes and marshes, as well as along the ocean and river. Those seeking a short stroll with a big payoff will find the numerous scenic outlooks well-placed along the trails. From the boardwalk, several paths lead down to the beach, and two observation towers offer expansive views. The park also has picnic facilities and wash stations near the beach paths, as well as a dog park and dog beach. There is a fee to park here, but the entrance itself is free.
4. Paddleboard the Intercoastal Waterway
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For water lovers seeking a leisurely, peaceful journey, the Intercoastal Waterway is a superb place to explore on a standup paddleboard (SUP). Compared to the open ocean, the waters are relatively smooth throughout the day, but early morning is when conditions are calmest and wildlife is most easily spotted. Plus, it’s a great full-body workout that’s so enjoyable, that it doesn’t feel like work. Paddlers will find multiple launch points throughout the area, and several local shops rent SUPs and provide instruction. In addition to the kayak rental shops listed above, Paddleboard New Smyrna Beach rents boards and equipment, and offers lessons and guided tours, from their waterfront location.
5. Bike the East Central Regional Rail Trail
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The New Smyrna Beach Area is home to miles of bike paths, so whether cyclists are looking to explore the downtown, cruise along the ocean, or explore the wilder areas of the region, they’ll find a path that suits them. The East Central Regional Rail Trail crosses through the area, with trailheads in Osteen and Edgewater, and offers a shady, quiet ride. The Riverside Drive Trail leads from Edgewater to New Smyrna Beach. For visitors who left their bikes at home, Pedego Electric Bikes and Flaunt Electric Bicycles both offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day rentals of e-bikes and gear.
With the arrival of the warmer days of spring, it’s time to get out and explore all the outdoor activities and sunshine in the New Smyrna Beach Area.
