Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park
A historic 6-acre beach park offering wildlife viewing, shelling, sports, and family fun with drive-on beach access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Free parking & fewer crowds
Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park
Best Time
Free parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 6-acre beach park offering wildlife viewing, shelling, sports, and family fun with drive-on beach access.
"A really great spot for the entire family, offering breathtaking sunrises and plenty of shells."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 8 AM for free parking. Otherwise, be prepared for a $20 fee or check Volusia County resident permits. :parking
🦈 Shark Awareness
Be mindful of the 'shark bite capital' reputation. Avoid swimming at dawn/dusk and near fishing piers. :warning
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manatee & Dolphin Watching
River side
Spot these gentle giants and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. A truly magical Florida experience.
Shelling Paradise
North of the park
Discover a treasure trove of perfect seashells along the shore. Great for collectors and beachcombers alike.
Historic Bethune Beach
Park entrance
Learn about the park's history as a resort for African Americans, established by Mary McLeod Bethune.
+1
Family Fun & Sports
Park grounds
Enjoy a playground, beach volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts for active fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Fees & Permits
Shark Bite Capital Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 8 AM for free parking. Otherwise, be prepared for a $20 fee or check Volusia County resident permits. :parking
🦈 Shark Awareness
Be mindful of the 'shark bite capital' reputation. Avoid swimming at dawn/dusk and near fishing piers. +1 :warning
🐚 Shelling Hotspot
Walk north from the park for abundant seashells. Perfect for collectors! :shell
🐬 Wildlife Viewing
The river side is prime for spotting manatees and dolphins. Bring binoculars!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 8 AM for free parking. Otherwise, be prepared for a $20 fee or check Volusia County resident permits. :parking
🦈 Shark Awareness
Be mindful of the 'shark bite capital' reputation. Avoid swimming at dawn/dusk and near fishing piers. +1 :warning
🐚 Shelling Hotspot
Walk north from the park for abundant seashells. Perfect for collectors! :shell
🐬 Wildlife Viewing
The river side is prime for spotting manatees and dolphins. Bring binoculars!
👨👩👧👦 Family Amenities
Features a playground, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it great for family outings.
🚗 Drive-On Beach Access
You can drive your car onto parts of the beach, offering convenient access. :car
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park for its natural beauty, abundant seashells, and opportunities to see manatees and dolphins. Families appreciate the playground and picnic facilities, while many enjoy the less crowded atmosphere. Some concerns include parking fees and the beach's rougher surf.
"My daughter and I go here often for sunrise, as it's only about 40 minutes from the house and parking is free before 8am. I've been taking my children here for years and we always have the best time, whether it's a cold day and we just want to enjoy a picnic and walk on the beach, or hot summer day and we want to swim. Lots of shells, cute little playground for the kiddos, an outdoor shower area and nice sized bathrooms for changing. Before my daughter left for college my girlfriend's and I took the girls for sunrise and Bible Study and it was breathtaking! A really great spot for the entire family 🤍"
Kendall MacKenzie Binkley
"Every year we book a pavilion on the beach here! We had a wonderful time with our family reunion this time. Everyone was comfortable, the area was clean and easy to navigate to. The bathrooms are close and convenient for elderly guest and children. The beach is right in front of you. It was safe for our children to play in the area and the pavilion made it safe for us when it rained to continue our picnic and family reunion festivities. Definitely will continue to book the pavilions at this park for family events.
My only concern was the $20 parking per car in certain areas of the park. This was not made clear, and signs were not in front of every parking space or area. It would’ve been helpful to inform my guests that although we as organizers are Volusia County residents, and also paid to rent out the pavilion, that every guest still has to pay for parking. One of our Illinois guests received a $70 ticket during our visit while sitting in their car facing the beach."
Samiah Terry Dixon
"I love coming here to the beach at this spot it's never crowded. You can see for Miles in both ways. have the baby turtle things roped off and it's always clean from trash"
Kody Coats
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park is located in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. It's about 30 minutes from Daytona Beach and 1.5 hours from Orlando. You can drive directly to the park, and some areas allow you to drive your car onto the beach itself.
Yes, parking is available. However, be aware that some areas have a $20 fee per car, especially after 8 AM. Volusia County residents may be eligible for free parking with a permit. It's advisable to confirm parking regulations before your visit to avoid tickets.
Yes, a unique feature of this beach is that you can drive your car directly onto certain sections of the sand, providing easy access to the water.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, some listings mention it as a pet-friendly beach. It's always a good idea to check local ordinances or the park's official website for the most current pet policies.
The closest major airports are Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), approximately 30 minutes away, and Orlando International Airport (MCO), about 1.5 hours away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general entrance fee to access the park itself. However, parking fees may apply in certain areas, particularly after 8 AM.
The park is generally accessible throughout the day, with parking fees often waived before 8 AM. Specific facility hours (like restrooms) may vary.
If you are a Volusia County resident, you may be eligible for a parking permit that grants free access. Non-residents or those without a permit may need to pay a daily parking fee.
Yes, pavilions are available for rent and are popular for family reunions and events. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for larger gatherings.
Generally, standard beach items like chairs, umbrellas, and coolers are allowed. However, it's always wise to check for any specific park regulations regarding fires, alcohol, or amplified music.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, shelling, surf fishing, and wildlife viewing (manatees, dolphins, pelicans). The park also offers a playground, beach volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts. Kayak and paddleboard launches are available.
Absolutely! It features a cute playground, plenty of space to run, and shallow areas for swimming. The picnic pavilions are also great for family gatherings, even if it rains.
This park is a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts. You can often see manatees, dolphins, and various bird species like pelicans, especially on the river side.
Many visitors find this beach to be less crowded than other popular Florida beaches, offering a more serene experience.
The park has nice-sized bathrooms that are convenient for changing and use, especially for families with children or elderly guests.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food options. A food truck called Zaza's is set to join the lineup, offering eats with a view. Bagel Barn also has a presence, open Thursday-Sunday.
Yes, there are covered picnic tables available, and pavilions can be rented for larger gatherings, making it an ideal spot for a picnic.
Yes, the park is close to JB's Fish Camp, and other dining options can be found in nearby New Smyrna Beach.
While specific menu details for Zaza's are not yet released, they are described as serving 'incredible eats,' suggesting a variety of dishes.
Yes, coffee shops like Luma are available nearby, offering a great start to your beach day with breakfast options too.
📸 📸 Photography
The river side offers beautiful opportunities for photographing manatees, dolphins, and pelicans, especially during sunrise and sunset. The beach itself provides scenic ocean views and opportunities for capturing shells.
Yes, the river side of the park is known for its stunning Florida sunsets, making it a picturesque location for photography.
The beach north of the park is renowned for its abundance of perfect seashells, which can make for beautiful close-up photography subjects.
While not a specific landmark, the park's history as an African American resort area offers a unique narrative for photos, perhaps capturing the spirit of its origins.
You can expect a mix of oceanfront views with potentially rougher surf and a coarser sand compared to some other beaches. The river side offers calmer waters and wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning for free parking and fewer crowds. The park's less crowded nature compared to other beaches is a big plus for families. Plus, the chance to see manatees and dolphins adds an educational and exciting element to the trip that kids will surely remember.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunch is also a smart move, as there are picnic tables and pavilions available.
📸 Photographers & Wildlife Enthusiasts
+2 The abundance of seashells north of the park also presents excellent opportunities for macro photography. Beyond wildlife, the park's unique history as a former African American resort area adds a layer of narrative to your shots.
+1 The beach scenery itself, with its coarser sand and potentially rougher surf, offers a different aesthetic than more manicured beaches. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Bethune Beach
+1 It served as a vital recreational space and a symbol of community and progress during a time of segregation. The park today honors this legacy, offering a beautiful beach experience while preserving its rich past. Mary McLeod Bethune herself was a remarkable figure, often called the 'First Lady of Negro America.' Born in 1875 to former slaves, she rose to become a prominent educator, activist, and presidential advisor. Her dedication to education and civil rights led to the founding of the Daytona Educational and Industrial Institute, which later became Bethune-Cookman University.
Visiting Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park offers a chance to connect with this history. While enjoying the sun and surf, take a moment to appreciate the foresight and determination of those who created this space. It's a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and the importance of preserving Black history in America.
Wildlife Encounters: Manatees, Dolphins, and More
+2 These gentle giants and playful mammals often come close to shore, offering unforgettable viewing opportunities. Remember to observe them from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural behavior. Beyond the larger marine mammals, the park is also a haven for birdwatchers. Pelicans are commonly seen, often observed diving for fish or following dolphins.
+1 You might also spot other coastal birds enjoying the abundant marine life. The park's natural setting, with its blend of river and ocean, creates a diverse ecosystem that supports a rich variety of wildlife. For the best chances of wildlife sightings, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon. The river side of the park is particularly recommended for these encounters. Kayak and paddleboard launches are available, offering a more immersive way to explore the waterways and potentially get closer to the wildlife (while still maintaining a safe and respectful distance).
Beach Conditions and Activities
The sand here tends to be coarser than in some neighboring areas, and the surf can be rougher, making it a good spot for surf fishing. Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the park is equipped with amenities for active visitors. You'll find beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, and tennis courts, providing opportunities for friendly competition.
For younger visitors, a playground offers a fun space to burn energy. The park also boasts a boardwalk and observation towers, perfect for scenic strolls and wildlife spotting. For those seeking a more active water experience, the park is a great launch point for kayaking and paddleboarding.
The calmer river side is ideal for these activities. Remember that New Smyrna Beach is known as the 'shark bite capital of the world,' so while most encounters are minor, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in shallow waters. 
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