Why is New Smyrna Beach so popular?

New Smyrna Beach is a popular destination because of the white sand beaches, small town charm and top notch surfing and fishing opportunities. On any given morning you will see the sun rise of the Atlantic Ocean while beachgoers begin the day jogging  & biking along the shore.

Smyrna Dunes Park in New Smyrna Beach, FL

You may have heard that New Smyrna Beach is famous for being the shark bite capital of the world but locals prefer to know it as a little drinking town with a shark problem.

Historic streets that are lined with mossy live oaks trees give New Smyrna Beach the laid back southern feel while the palm trees & sparkling shoreline evoke a tropical island feel. The breathtaking scenery is truly something out of a novel and the beaches are some of the best in the state.

New Smyrna Beach has routinely made the list of the top art towns of the USA due to its abundance of galleries, art festivals and being home to the Atlantic Center of the Arts which is an artist retreat. Most famously, New Smyrna Beach was also the home of beloved TV art instructor Bob Ross. One of the few remaining Bob Ross workshops is still operating today in New Smyrna Beach.

Top Surfing Destination 

Kelly Slater is a world famous surfer that got his start in Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach. Surfers love the consistent break of the waves and you’ll almost always see surfers out on the water.

Close to Orlando 

New Smyrna Beach is about an hour and a half from Orlando which makes it the perfect beach day escape during your Orlando vacation. Orlando’s often consider it their favorite beach and it’s a great beach destination for families that would also like to visit Orlando theme parks during their trip.

Beach Driving

New Smyrna Beach is one of the few beaches in the country where cars are allowed on the beach. You can enter the beach for a daily admission fee and it makes bringing all of your beach gear down to the beach easy as can be.

Flagler Avenue Vehicle Access Ramp