Eat, See, Do: New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Eat

• Head to The Mermaid Cafe at 113 Flagler Ave in New Smyrna Beach. The unique robin’s egg blue building hosts incredible chefs who make New Orlean’s style beignets (topped with fruit and powdered sugar!) you’ll talk about for weeks! Order Belgian waffles from the waffle bar with add-ons like marshmallows and chocolate, gravy, fried chicken, lemon curd, or hashbrowns. They also offer lunch options such as the chicken salad sandwich.
• If you want a brunch or late lunch spot, pop into The Baker’s Table at 4154 South Atlantic Avenue. The husband and wife chef team specialize in Mexican-inspired dishes and house-made pastries. Order the ceviche of the day with tortilla chips (think octopus, avocado, cilantro) before moving on to the braised short rib with goat cheese grits, roasted mushrooms, and pan jus.
• Visit Norwood’s Restaurant and Treehouse Bar at 400 East 2nd Avenue when you’re ready for dinner. This eco-minded restaurant focuses on incredible cocktails, wine, and seafood. Check out their onsite raised garden bed that hosts compost from the restaurant and grows ingredients like arugula and scallions. Try the pan-fried almond-crusted grouper with Madeira beurre blanc and mashed potatoes. Or, opt for the pimento mac & cheese with blackened chicken and veggies on penne pasta. This spot is vegetarian- and gluten-free friendly.
• Mon Delice French Bakery at 557 East Third Avenue offers incredible desserts to soothe any sweet tooth. Dig into luxurious chocolate eclairs, charming cakes, and mouthwatering tarts. They close before dinnertime, so grab some treats to take to your last minute beach rental (like this gem, right on the National Seashore) to enjoy after an evening out.

See

• You have to go to the water to get to know New Smyrna Beach, the town. Start at Turtle Mound River Tours at 865 Redfish Ave. Take a two-hour tour of the Indian River Lagoon to see Canaveral National Seashore and look for manatees and dolphins! The company also offers private tours and fun family fishing adventures.
• Stop at The HUB on Canal at 132 Canal Street to peruse beautiful art from more than 70 local artists. This spot hosts classes and houses all manners of work, from paintings and sketches to fiber, instruments, and ceramics. Check out their signature events, like the sidewalk chalk art competition and fashion show..
• The New Smyrna Museum of History at 120 Sams Avenue is an excellent place to stop if you want to learn about the area. New Smyrna Beach was founded in 1768 and is one of the state’s oldest cities! The museum offers historical walking tours around the town and as interactive exhibits to learn about the maritime life of this seaside city. The East Coast surfing exhibit is a highlight for many visitors!
• Canal Street is considered downtown here. This walking-friendly area is the cultural hub, offering free parking for visitors to wander. Stop at a restaurant, pop in a gift shop to purchase souvenirs, or visit one of the many art galleries. Head here if you need gifts, forgot to bring an item you need (toiletries, clothing, sun hats!), or want a break from the sun and sand. There’s even a monthly street festival with live music, food trucks, shopping, and family-friendly activities. Book a last minute beach rental (like this cute turn-of-the-century home)within walking distance so you can visit whenever you’d like!
  

  A picturesque path in New Smyrna Beach

Do

• Skip the rental car in favor of human-powered(ish) transportation – bikes! Visit Pedego New Smyrna Beach and rent electric bikes. The expert staff will help you find the perfect fit, from a fat tire model ready to ride in the sand or a cruiser meant for meandering the streets. You can pedal as much or as little as you’d like, thanks to the unique motors that give you the freedom to ride further in less time.
• Visit Cape Canaveral National Seashore’s Apollo Beach Boat Launch to head out on a wildlife excursion with Paddle In Paradise. Take a two-hour tour on a standup paddleboard or in a kayak to look for local wildlife! From manatees to sea turtles, the unique environment houses fascinating, beautiful fish and animals. Then head home to your own beachfront abode at this charming last minute beach rental.
• Not sure you’ve got sea legs? Take this on-land adventure at New Smyrna Dunes Park at 2995 N. Peninsula Ave. The 184-acre inlet park has over 2 miles of handicap-accessible boardwalks made with recycled lumber. Bring your pup to the dog-friendly swimming beach at the river shore, or cast a line at the 300-foot handicap-accessible fishing pier in New Smyrna Beach. Make sure to have a license before baiting a hook!
• If you’re ready to relax, visit Abundant Health Float and Day Spa at 1852 Renzulli Road. This wellness center features appointment-only services like massage, facials, and waxing to help you rejuvenate and de-stress. Ask about the float tank, a salt-filled pod that eliminates gravity and promotes pain relief. Spa packages include couples treatments like hot stone or deep tissue massage or per-person options bundling several spa services for a day of true rest and recharging.

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