We have been photographers in New Smyrna Beach for about a decade. During that time, we’ve met a lot of vacationers looking for unique things to do in New Smyrna Beach. Most people spend all there time on the beach (who wouldn’t want to?) but there is actually more to explore.

Unique things to do in New Smyrna Beach

Did you know that New Smyrna Beach is almost as old as St. Augustine? There is a lot of interesting history, art and attractions in this laid back beach town to check out.

What is New Smyrna Beach famous for?

Most know New Smyrna Beach as the shark bite capital of the world. However, New Smyrna Beach is most famous for its world renown surfing – and small beach town charm of course. New Smyrna Beach is also notable in the arts and nature conservation. Atlantic Center for the Arts hosts a master artist residency program and was started in 1977 by an internationally recognized sculptor.

Canal Street & Old Fort Park

Located in the historic district is the idyllic Canal Street. Canal Street is dotted with charming boutiques, delicious restaurants and an incredible art gallery. There are plenty of local festivals that take place on Canal Street as well as a farmers market every weekend.

Some key things to check out on Canal Street:

• The Hub art gallery
• New Smyrna Beach Museum of History
• Little Griddle (Previously Little’s Drug Co)
• Old Fort Park

You’ll definitely want to go to the Hub on Canal and walk through the gallery. You’ll be able to tour the gallery for free and check out work from local artists. You’ll not only be able to view exhibits from local artists but you’ll also be able to tour their studios and have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs.

Old Fort Park won’t look like much at first but it’s a really interesting landmark. Walk up to take a peek at the mysterious ruins of what some theorize to be a fort. It’s a strange but neat thing to see and a great photo op.

Old Fort Park, New Smyrna Beach, FL

Check out this video to learn more about Old Fort Park:

Old Fort Park, New Smyrna Beach. FL

 Little Griddle replace Little’s Drug Co, which was a vintage soda fountain that serves malt milkshakes and diner style food. Stop in for breakfast or lunch and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere.

New Smyrna Beach Museum of History hosts events and historic tours of the area. You can learn more about one of the oldest cities in Florida and see some neat artifacts.

There is an abundance of restaurants on Canal Street and you can’t go wrong with any of them! Yellow Dog Eats has incredible pulled pork nachos and Jason’s Corner has tasty eggs Benedict. The burgers and seafood macaroni and cheese at The Corkscrew are incredible.

Sugarmill Ruins 

One of our favorite places to photograph as teenagers is Sugarmill ruins. These unique coquina ruins are completely hidden and easy to miss. Sugarmill Ruins are the remnants of the Dunlawton sugar factory that was destroyed during the second Seminole War.

Located at 600 Old Mission Road, it’s behind beautiful live oak trees and very easy to pass by without noticing the entrance. There is a short walking trail and lots of information posted throughout, so it’s a great learning experience for both kids and adults.

Sugarmill Ruins in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Explore Smyrna Dunes Park

Explore 184 acres of unspoiled coastline at Smyrna Dunes Park and soak in views of the Ponce Deleon Lighthouse, intracoastal waterway, Atlantic Ocean and some of the most incredible sand dunes in the area. You can bring your dog to the dog beach too!

There is a handicap accessible boardwalk that winds throughout the scenic park. The state park charges $10 per vehicle and also offers an annual pass for locals.

This is a great place to witness native wildlife like gopher tortoises, dolphins, manatees, sharks, crabs, sea turtles, scrub jays and a wide variety of coastal birds.

There are picnic pavilions located throughout the park and a couple of elevated observation decks with some incredible viewing opportunities of the beach and dunes.

One of our clients spotting a gopher tortoise at Smyrna Dunes Park

Drive on the beach 

New Smyrna Beach is one of the few places in the country that allows beach driving, so it’s a pretty unique thing to do in New Smyrna Beach. Enter on Flagler Avenue and enjoy not having to lug your beach chair too far. Beach driving is $20 per vehicle and yearly passes can be purchased, here are more beach driving tips.

Beach driving is usually closed in cases of inclement weather, high tide or if the sand is too soft for driving. Be sure to park in the designated area and follow the rules: one window down, lights on, no texting and driving and the speed limit is 10mph.

Bob Ross Art Workshop

Did you know that Bob Ross lived in and was inspired by New Smyrna Beach, FL? You can actually go take a painting class at one of the last remaining Bob Ross storefronts. Check out paintings from Bob Ross enthusiasts and create a painting to take home with you.

New Smyrna Beach has been voted as one of the top small art towns in the US as its been home to many famous artists like Doris Leeper and Bob Ross, popular art festivals like images, Atlantic Center for the Arts artists retreat, The Hub on Canal, highway men artwork and arts on Douglas.

Canaveral National Seashore 

Located just south of New Smyrna Beach is a national park with the longest stretch of untouched beach on the Atlantic coast of Florida. Admission is $15 per vehicle and this is one of the best places for bird enthusiasts and those truly looking to escape to a remote and natural looking beach. Service is spotty here but you won’t care, it’s a great place to unplug.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season 

Sea turtles like the loggerhead and leather back lay their eggs along the shores of New Smyrna Beach from May to October. If you’ve visited during these months then you’ve likely spotted the sea turtle nests blocked off on the beach for their protection.

You can make a reservation to go on a turtle watch at Canaveral National Seashore and hopefully get a chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

What are some fun facts about New Smyrna?

New Smyrna Beach was home to Bob Ross and you can still visit a Bob Ross workshop and gallery. World famous surfer Kelly Slater grew up surfing the waves of New Smyrna & it is an internationally known surfing destination. New Smyrna Beach is home to the most bio-diverse estuary in the world, the Indian River Lagoon. Old Fort Park is located in the heart of the historic district and archaeologists still work to understand and preserve these mysterious ruins – some even believe they are haunted. New Smyrna Beach is one of the few beaches in the country that allows beach driving all year long.