New Smyrna Beach celebrates Thanksgiving with salt spray, sunrise strolls, and coastal charm. Whether you’re gathering with family, reconnecting with friends, or simply escaping for a peaceful retreat, this coastal community offers a fresh, relaxed way to celebrate the holiday.
One of the area’s most beloved events is the NSB Gobble Wobble 5K, which kicks off at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27. The community fun run along Flagler Avenue is a wonderful way to start the day with fresh air, ocean views, and festive spirit. Afterward, explore the area’s scenic beauty with a paddle through the Indian River Lagoon or a stroll along the 17 miles of white-sand shoreline, where the sound of waves replaces the usual holiday hustle.
Corkscrew Bar & Grille serves up a hearty Thanksgiving Day menu complete with turkey, savory sides, and house-made desserts. Flagler Tavern, a lively local favorite, will be offering its regular menu alongside a special Thanksgiving-themed coursed menu, making it the perfect spot for both classic comfort and creative coastal fare. For beautiful views with your holiday meal, The Grille at Riverview and Aunt Catfish’s on the River offer waterfront dining.
No matter where you go, you’ll find good food, friendly faces, and a community that welcomes visitors like family.
If you prefer to be near the water, Smyrna Dunes Park offers elevated boardwalks and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Ponce de Leon Inlet. The golden-hour sunsets here are especially stunning, making it the perfect place to pause, breathe, and give thanks.
For a unique perspective, take a guided eco-tour with the Marine Discovery Center to spot dolphins and manatees gliding through the Indian River Lagoon, a reminder of the coastal ecosystem we’re all thankful for. (Please note that there are no tours on Thanksgiving Day.)
If you’re looking to take a break from the beach, New Smyrna’s arts and culture scene shines this time of year. Stop by The Hub on Canal to see local artists at work or visit the New Smyrna Museum of History to learn about the town’s fascinating roots. These spots, along with seasonal markets and local boutiques offering handmade goods and coastal treasures, are best explored over the Thanksgiving Weekend, as many places are closed on Thanksgiving Day. It’s the perfect way to get a head start on holiday shopping while supporting small businesses and soaking in the town’s creative spirit.
With its blend of ocean views, small-town hospitality, and festive flavor, the New Smyrna Beach Area offers a Thanksgiving experience that’s as refreshing as the sea breeze. Trade the crowded dining room for the sound of the surf, swap city traffic for coastal trails, and give thanks for the simple joys of life by the water.
Start planning your Thanksgiving getaway today at https://www.visitnsbfl.com/.