The Best Places To Stay and Play in New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Like the post? Please share!

It’s been oddly chilly these past several days and we truly can’t wait for it to warm up, so we can hit the beach. We generally head towards the Atlantic and hit Cocoa Beach or Ponce Inlet, since it’s less than an hour away and there is a ton of things to do. Another perfect Florida spot is New Smyrna Beach, FL. 

I was thrilled when a blogosphere friend, Heather Hinson, reached out to ask if I was interested in a post on New Smyrna Beach.

Absolutely

Heather and her husband, Jon, are family portrait photographers based in New Smyrna Beach. They specialize in vacation portraits all along the coast and in Orlando. So, when a local expert reaches out to ask if they can give your readers the inside scoop on their town and beach… you just say yes!

I am so grateful to Heather and Jon for sharing their knowledge. This is not a sponsored post. I just appreciate her willingness to share some tips and I know the value in hearing recommendations on travel destinations from the sources who know it best. 

With that said, the following post features their top tips and reviews on where to stay and where to play in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.  

Planning a summer vacation to Florida? New Smyrna Beach is a coastal oasis nestled along the Atlantic, just over an hour away from Orlando. This post features ideas for the best New Smyrna Beach Hotels to stay and some fun ideas to relax and unwind.

New Smyrna Beach has been ranked one of America’s top art towns and it’s equally as notable for being a surfer’s paradise.

For most of the year, New Smyrna Beach is a sleepy fishing and surf town beloved by locals – and the visitors coming year after year.

Where to Play

The powdery white sand beaches welcome beach driving access from Beachway Avenue to 27th avenue, from sunrise to sunset.

Known by historians as the second oldest city in the country, New Smyrna Beach boasts some intriguing mysteries. Check out Old Fort Park after a Canal Street stroll for a small taste of Florida history, under the shade of beautiful live oaks.

Among some of the best beaches in New Smyrna Beach, Dunes Park is one of our favorites. For $10, you can enjoy views of Ponce Deleon Lighthouse and pristine beaches with hints of Old Florida. It’s located at 2995 N. Peninsula Drive. Hangout on the inlet side for calm lapping water and a magical sunset.

27th Avenue is the best beach for families, in my opinion. Beach Driving ends here. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, changing tables, a rinse off station and it’s conveniently located across the street from a gas station.

North Beach Community Park is the best of both worlds, located on a residential stretch of beach. No condos or bustling street corners. Just the sound of seagulls and views of untouched dunes. Conveniently located down the street from Flagler Ave. North Beach has bathrooms, a rinse off station and a reasonable amount of parking.

Follow the wooden walkway to a secluded pavilion overlooking the beach. North Beach will be crowded on busy days and beach driving is permitted on this beach. Parking is $10 for non-residents. It’s address is 1100 N. Atlantic Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Where to Stay

Whether you are looking for a quaint bed and breakfast or a condo with ocean views – New Smyrna Beach hotels and lodging options do not disappoint. There are also incredible New Smyrna Beach vacation rentals right on the beach that accommodate large groups! Here are some of our favorites:

Night Swan Bed and Breakfast

Quietly perched along the Intracoastal waterway, this riverside gem is whimsically charming. This intimate bed and breakfast has 16 guest rooms that overlook magnificent views of the Indian River. Their outdoor space is draped with sprawling live oaks and greenery.

The Innkeepers, Betsy and Matt are delightful hosts that provide a warm atmosphere. Night Swan Inn has earned its reputation for being one of the best places to stay in town.

Night Swan Inn is also an unforgettable wedding venue and one of our preferred venues in this area. Offering waterfront ceremonies that will sweep you off of your feet!

Click here to check out Night Swan’s nearly perfect rating on Priceline.

Bonus: Night Swan Inn allows pets too!

Black Dolphin Inn

This picturesque luxury estate is your award-winning home away from home. Immerse yourself in sweeping waterfront views while enjoying a distinctively designed room.

With undertones of coastal flair and a splash of artful decor, this Spanish-style bed and breakfast doesn’t just boast excellent views. The dining draws even locals to indulge in New Southern cuisine prepared by Mackenzie Smith.

Mackenzie has appeared in a long list of features for her expertise in artisan sandwiches. You can learn more about her tasty delights on grilledcheesesocial.com

Black Dolphin Inn has 14 luxurious rooms and is also one of the areas most desired wedding venues.

Riverview Hotel & Spa

Grandly located between the Indian River and New Smyrna’s pristine beaches, sits the Riverview Hotel. Within walking distance to lively Flagler Avenue, you will be spoiled with Victorian style charm.

Enjoy modern amenities while basking in the historic roots that make this stunning location a New Smyrna Beach fixture.

The Grille at Riverview is a well-known local staple. Indulge in fresh seafood, sensational prime rib and an array of expertly prepared cuisine while soaking in riverfront views. The dockside atmosphere and attentive service draw crowds, so make a reservation for sunset dining if you can.

Click here to find out more or reserve the Riverview Hotel & Spa

Oceanwalk Condo Rentals by Shoreline

Pamper your whole family with both seclusion and convenience. Enjoy amenities such as covered parking, gated entrance, large pools, recreation areas and it’s all within walking distance to a fabulous no-drive beach.

The pool area is incredible and relaxing. There are bountiful lounge chairs and tables so that you can enjoy cooking out on the grill.

Make yourself comfortable in a spacious condominium that provides a full kitchen, living room, bedrooms and balcony. Soak in a seagull’s eye view of the ocean from the rooftop observation deck.

Click here to find out more about the Ocean Walk Condo Rentals

New Smyrna Beach Vacation Condos

Give Tara a call at New Smyrna Beach Vacation Condos and let her find the perfect condo for you. Managing a large selection of locally owned condos, allows them to provide unique accommodations that cater to guest’s individual needs.

Experience the customer service and perks of a national property management team while still experiencing the small town attention to detail that you want. Tara has been working in New Smyrna’s hospitality industry for 20 years and her expertise is invaluable.

Visit them here and give Tara a call!

Private Vacation Homes

Private vacation homes are all the rage these days and it’s not surprising! Enjoy privacy and exclusive access to your vacation home’s amenities.

Large beachside vacation homes offer sprawling and luxurious accommodations. Many of the family reunions and family get-togethers we photograph take place at private vacation homes.

Poised with coastal ambiance and a prime location in close proximity to secluded beaches – vacation homes are a great option!

The Sandbox is a spacious 8 bedroom estate positioned right on the beach. Breathe in the salty sea air as you float the day away in a private pool. We have photographed families at this home on numerous occasions and the inside is just as spectacular as the outdoors.

There are also several amazing vacation homes located in Bethune Beach as well. For other vacation rentals, www.VRBO.com or HomeAway.com

 

Full of historic character, small-town charm and some of the best beaches east of Orlando, New Smyrna Beach is a great place for families and couples to unwind on Island time.

 If you are planning a trip, feel free to reach out to Heather and Jon and say hello! They have lots of great tips and advice about the area. 

( P.S. While you’re visiting Central Florida…maybe consider getting your family photos updated, as well. Check out Heather and Jon’s website www.hinsonphotography.com to find out more or their blog at http://www.hinsonphotography.com/blog/)

Did you enjoy this post? How about saving it to your vacation or travel board on Pinterest and sharing it with others! If you have been to New Smyrna Beach, please let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments!

 

Like the post? Please share!