#VacationGoals: Ten Bucket-List-Worthy Experiences.
Whether you’re visiting our coastal community for the first time or the 40th, there is always a new way to explore this special part of the Florida coast. Read on for some of our quintessential New Smyrna Beach Area experiences to add to your vacation bucket list!
1. Take a surfing lesson and catch a wave
New Smyrna Beach is recognized worldwide for its incredible surf, even National Geographic magazine names it one of the “World’s Top 20 Surf Towns.” Learn how to hang ten with one of the area’s surf schools like Nichols Surf Shop or Red Dog Surf Shop.
2. Belt out your favorite tune at Flagler Tavern’s Karaoke Nights
One of the most beloved stops along the famed Flagler Avenue is Flagler Tavern, which hosts a packed schedule of live music events on its indoor and outdoor stages. Every Tuesday night, you can be the star of the show at Karaoke Night—don’t forget to grab a glass of liquid courage!
3. Reel in a fresh catch
Experienced anglers and newbies alike will have a blast on a guided fishing trip and can even bring home a catch for dinner at the end of the day! New Smyrna Beach Area is known for its abundant fishing options, and outfitters like Caught Up Fishing Charters and No Pressure Charters will provide the knowledge and equipment for an unforgettable excursion. Participating restaurants in the Catch ‘N’ Cook program, like Outriggers Tiki Bar and Grill and JB’s Fish Camp, will prepare your catch to your liking for a memorable meal.
4. Spot a dolphin or a manatee with the Marine Discovery Center
Get up close and personal with the area’s landscape and wildlife on a tour with the Marine Discovery Center. Look for manatees, dolphins and more on the Dolphin Discovery Tour, Sunset Eco Tour or Indian River Lagoon Preserve Kayak Tour.
5. Find the Dinosaurs at the Dunlawton Sugar Mill Ruins
Travel back in time and discover the unexpected when venturing into the Dunlawton Sugar Mill Ruins. During the 1940s, the area served as an amusement park called Bongoland, where statues of dinosaurs towered over the pathways.
6. Cool off with a tasty treat from this historic Dairy Queen
For a dose of nostalgia at one of the area’s quirkiest (and oldest) restaurants, head to Dairy Queen of New Smyrna Beach for a famous banana split. Now 70 years old, this bright yellow and blue ice cream shop has welcomed visitors to the area since 1953.
7. Explore history at Turtle Mound Archaeological Site
Head to Canaveral National Seashore (you can check visiting a national park off your list as well!) to learn about centuries of history in the area at Turtle Mound Archaeological Site. Discover artifacts left behind by the prehistoric Timucuan people for a glimpse into the past.
8. Join the party at Canal Street Nights
Every third Thursday of the month, locals and visitors head to the Canal Street Historic District for Canal Street Nights, where the road is closed to vehicles and folks are free to explore the best of the district’s restaurants, shops and more. Come hungry and don’t go home empty-handed!
9. Hit the beach with man’s best friend
A favorite among the area’s parks and beaches is Smyrna Dunes Park, home to the only dog-friendly beach and more than two miles of beautiful boardwalk trails. Take your four-legged family members to enjoy a beach vacation of their very own!
10. Dine among the trees at Norwood’s Treehouse
Dream of sipping a cocktail in a treehouse with a bird’s eye view? Norwood’s Restaurant and Treehouse Bar has you covered! Perfect for date night or a family meal, the iconic bar and patio situated in a towering tree makes for an unforgettable dining experience.