New Smyrna Beach Orlando
A classic Florida beach town offering a unique drive-on experience, vibrant downtown, and natural coastal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
New Smyrna Beach Orlando
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A classic Florida beach town offering a unique drive-on experience, vibrant downtown, and natural coastal beauty.
"Experience the thrill of driving on the sand and exploring charming shops at this beloved Florida beach."
🚗 Drive on the Beach
Pay around $20 to drive your car onto the sand for a unique beach experience. :car:
🅿️ Smart Parking
Look for free parking further south or consider lots near Flagler Ave. Arrive early on weekends! :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Driving on the Beach
Various access points
Experience the unique thrill of driving your vehicle directly onto the sandy shores. A true Florida adventure!
Flagler Avenue
Downtown beachside
Explore this vibrant street with unique shops, eateries, and a lively atmosphere. The heart of New Smyrna Beach's social scene.
Canaveral National Seashore
South of New Smyrna Beach
Discover pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and a more natural, undeveloped coastal experience. Perfect for nature lovers.
Marine Discovery Center
Canal Street
An educational and engaging spot for families to learn about local marine life and conservation efforts.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There from Orlando
Beach Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive on the Beach
Pay around $20 to drive your car onto the sand for a unique beach experience. :car:
🅿️ Smart Parking
Look for free parking further south or consider lots near Flagler Ave. Arrive early on weekends! :parking:
🍔 Delicious Eats
Try Breakers for burgers or JB's Fish Camp for seafood. Flagler Ave has many great options. :hamburger:
🌊 Calm Waters
For calmer waters, check out Smyrna Dunes Park or the southern tip of Ponce Inlet. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive on the Beach
Pay around $20 to drive your car onto the sand for a unique beach experience. :car:
🅿️ Smart Parking
Look for free parking further south or consider lots near Flagler Ave. Arrive early on weekends! :parking:
🍔 Delicious Eats
Try Breakers for burgers or JB's Fish Camp for seafood. Flagler Ave has many great options. :hamburger:
🌊 Calm Waters
For calmer waters, check out Smyrna Dunes Park or the southern tip of Ponce Inlet. :ocean:
🚲 Explore by Bike
Rent a bike or golf cart to easily cruise along the beach and explore the town. :bike:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love New Smyrna Beach for its unique drive-on beach experience and lively Flagler Avenue. The natural beauty of Canaveral National Seashore is also a major draw. Some find parking challenging and crowded on weekends, and public transport from Orlando is limited.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
New Smyrna Beach is approximately 50-70 miles from Orlando, typically a 1-hour drive.
Driving is the most convenient. If you don't have a car, consider shuttles like Groome Transportation or ride-sharing services. Public buses are very limited.
Yes, services like Groome Transportation offer shuttles from the Orlando airport area.
Public transportation is not ideal. Greyhound might be an option, but it's not direct or frequent. Sunrail goes to DeBary, but buses from there are limited.
The distance is about 60 miles, taking roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Driving onto the beach typically costs around $20 per day. Parking in designated lots may vary.
Yes, you can find free parking further south on A1A or at Bethune Beach. Some public lots also offer free parking.
No, the beach itself is free to access. Parking fees apply if you plan to drive onto the sand or use paid lots.
Canaveral National Seashore is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's best to check their official website for the most current hours.
Smyrna Dunes Park has an entrance fee, typically around $10 per vehicle.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore Flagler Avenue for shops and dining, visit the Marine Discovery Center, or enjoy the natural beauty of Canaveral National Seashore.
Yes, you can drive directly onto the beach in designated areas for a daily fee. It's a popular activity!
Flagler Avenue leads to a large parking lot near the ocean. For less crowded options, try parking further south on A1A.
Yes, Smyrna Dunes Park and the southern tip of Ponce Inlet offer calmer waters, ideal for families with young children.
Families often enjoy the Marine Discovery Center, building sandcastles on the beach, and exploring the calmer waters at Smyrna Dunes Park.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular choices include Breakers for burgers, JB's Fish Camp for seafood, and various eateries along Flagler Avenue.
JB's Fish Camp is highly recommended for seafood. Norwood's is also a popular dining spot.
Yes, several restaurants offer beachfront dining, especially along Flagler Avenue and the surrounding areas.
JB's Fish Camp is a great option near the seashore, offering a classic Florida dining experience.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks to the beach. However, be mindful of trash and keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots driving on the beach, the vibrant Flagler Avenue, the historic Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, and the natural landscapes of Canaveral National Seashore.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light. Sunrises over the ocean are also spectacular.
The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse (nearby) and the unique beach driving experience are iconic photo opportunities.
Beach photography, landscape shots of the coastline, and lifestyle photos capturing the relaxed Florida vibe are very popular.
Drone usage is restricted in many areas, especially within national parks like Canaveral National Seashore. Always check local regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Day-Trippers from Orlando
💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Transportation from Orlando
When considering your travel, it's important to factor in potential young driver fees if you're under 25 and considering car rental.
Beach Parking and Access Strategies
However, for those seeking more budget-friendly or less crowded options, alternative strategies exist. Many locals recommend heading further south on A1A to find public parking lots that are often less congested and sometimes free.
Exploring Beyond the Sand
Nature enthusiasts will find a gem in the nearby Canaveral National Seashore. This protected area offers a more natural and undeveloped coastal environment, perfect for birdwatching, exploring diverse ecosystems, and enjoying a quieter beach experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit