As the air turns crisp and pumpkins pop up along the coast, New Smyrna Beach proves that fall can be just as festive by the ocean as it is in the mountains. This seaside town blends its laid-back beach culture with a seasonal dose of Halloween magic, offering everything from pumpkin hunts and chili cook-offs to wine walks, haunted sites, and even moonlit boat rides. Whether you’re strolling Flagler Avenue in costume, sampling local brews, or hiking under a golden autumn sky, NSB is the perfect fall getaway.
Seasonal Celebrations
Fall in New Smyrna Beach is full of community-driven events that transform its charming streets into seasonal playgrounds:
- The Great NSB Pumpkin Hunt (October 1–31): Wander along Flagler Avenue and search for the “hidden” pumpkins to collect and hunt stamps at each location. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore local shops while getting into the Halloween spirit.
- Chili Challenge & Craft Beer Tour (Saturday, October 18): Taste your way through seasonal chili recipes or sip local brews in the heart of downtown.
- Wine Walk on Flagler Avenue (September 27 and October 25): Stroll from storefront to storefront with a glass in hand, sampling reds, whites, and seasonal pours.
Outdoors in Autumn
While fall brings a festive atmosphere downtown, the natural side of New Smyrna Beach shines in the cooler weather. Hike the trails of Doris Leeper Spruce Creek Preserve, where marshes and waterways glow in autumn light, or wander the shaded paths of the Eldora Hammock Trail for a peaceful break from the bustle. At Smyrna Dunes Park, elevated boardwalks lead to sweeping ocean views and golden-hour sunsets that are especially vivid in fall.
For something truly unique, set out on a guided Full Moon Boat Tour along the Indian River Lagoon with Marine Discovery Center. This evening eco-adventure offers the chance to spot wildlife under the glow of the moon and experience the waterways in an entirely new light. And of course, with 17 miles of coastline, the beach itself remains the star — perfect for long walks, shell collecting, and catching quiet sunrises by the water.
Flavors of the Season
Fall is also the time to indulge in New Smyrna Beach’s culinary side. This October, during NSB Coastal Catch Restaurant Month, chefs highlight local seafood with seasonal flair in prix-fixe menus across town. Participating restaurants include Norwoods Eatery & Bar, which features items such as filet kabobs, wood wings and tuna lettuce wraps, and Flagler Tavern, where you can enjoy seafood towers of shrimp, oysters, clams, lobster and more.
Flagler Avenue buzzes with patio dining, live music, and festive decorations, making it an ideal spot for cozy fall evenings. From artisan plates and an extensive wine list at Third Wave Café & Wine Bar to fresh coastal flavors with riverfront views at The Grille at Riverview, the season is the perfect excuse to savor fresh catches and toast with friends.
Haunted Trails & Ghostly Tales
For those seeking a spooky adventure, the NSB Halloween Trail offers a curated path through the area’s most chilling sites. The historic Sugar Mill Ruins, with its coquina stone walls and eerie shadows, has long been linked to ghostly sightings, and the Eldora Statehouse carries whispers of spirits said to linger among its shaded porches. Even Old Fort Park, with its crumbling stone walls and moss-draped oaks, has tales of apparitions, including the legendary “Lady in White.” Together, these stops make the trail a perfect blend of history and haunt, inviting visitors to discover the mysterious side of New Smyrna Beach.
Arts, Culture & Coastal Charm
If you’re looking to take a break from the beach or avoid a rainy fall afternoon, NSB’s cultural side delivers. Browse art galleries along Canal Street, visit The Hub on Canal to see local artists at work, or step back in time at the New Smyrna Museum of History. Shops and galleries often decorate for the season, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Plan Your Spooky Getaway
What makes fall in New Smyrna Beach so special is the variety. One moment you’re wandering art-filled streets and sipping wine, the next you’re following ghost stories through historic ruins or gliding across moonlit waters. Pair that with the town’s warm coastal charm and you’ve got a Halloween season that’s equal parts festive, flavorful, and just a little mysterious.
Start planning your seaside Halloween adventure today at https://www.visitnsbfl.com/.
