Florida’s Chic Coastal Gem
By Angela Southard Winther
Just an hour from Orlando, New Smyrna Beach is one of Florida’s most captivating coastal destinations, a place where laid back beach vibes meet boutique luxury, exceptional dining, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. With 17 miles of white sand beaches, charming boutique hotels, an award-winning culinary scene, a thriving arts community, and eco experiences unlike anywhere else, this seaside gem is the perfect escape for a romantic weekend, girlfriends’ getaway, solo retreat, or relaxing staycation.
Among the area’s most distinctive places to stay is Black Dolphin Inn. Overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, this beautifully restored Spanish style mansion blends timeless elegance with warm, personalized hospitality. Individually designed guest rooms, tranquil waterfront views, and thoughtful touches create the perfect setting to unwind while embracing New Smyrna Beach’s relaxed coastal lifestyle.
The destination’s dining scene is equally memorable, offering everything from chef driven cuisine and fresh local seafood to inviting waterfront restaurants. Whether enjoying an elegant dinner overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway or a casual lunch just steps from the beach, the emphasis is always on quality ingredients and genuine hospitality. A longtime local favorite, Norwood’s is renowned for its fresh Florida seafood, extensive wine collection, and enchanting treehouse dining nestled beneath a canopy of majestic oak trees. For riverfront dining, Riverpark Terrace serves contemporary American cuisine paired with beautiful waterfront views. Seasonal ingredients, handcrafted cocktails, and an inventive menu make it a standout destination for dinner.
One of New Smyrna Beach’s signature experiences is the Marine Discovery Center, where dolphin and nature cruises explore the Indian River Lagoon, one of North America’s most biologically diverse estuaries. As playful dolphins swim alongside the boat, expert naturalists introduce guests to the lagoon’s fascinating marine life, native birds, and delicate ecosystem. Marine lovers are treated to an up close and personal look at dolphins in their natural environment. It is an unforgettable way to experience Florida’s natural beauty while supporting conservation and environmental education.
The town’s creative spirit shines along historic Canal Street, a walkable district lined with boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and locally owned shops. At its heart is the newly unified The Hub Arts Collective, bringing together the acclaimed Hub on Canal and Jane’s Art Center under one inspiring vision. The collective represents the evolution of two respected arts organizations dedicated to creativity, education, wellness, and community engagement. Since opening in 2012, The Hub on Canal has become one of East Central Florida’s premier artist cooperatives, while Jane’s Art Center has earned recognition for its exceptional ceramics programs and hands on arts education. Together, they offer rotating exhibitions, working artist studios, workshops, educational programming, and community events. Visitors can browse original artwork, meet local artists, watch them create, or even participate in classes, making it one of New Smyrna Beach’s most enriching cultural experiences.
Fall is an especially wonderful time to visit. Throughout October, Coastal Catch Restaurant Month showcases the area’s outstanding culinary scene with exclusive prix fixe menus celebrating fresh local seafood and coastal inspired cuisine. It is the perfect opportunity to sample signature dishes from many of New Smyrna Beach’s most celebrated restaurants while savoring the flavors of the season.
Visitors can also take advantage of New Smyrna Beach’s annual Staycation Promotion, available through the end of the year. The program features exclusive offers from a variety of accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and local businesses throughout the New Smyrna Beach area, making an already inviting getaway even more appealing.
New Smyrna Beach has mastered the art of blending authentic Florida charm with refined coastal experiences. Here, dolphin sightings replace traffic jams, locally owned restaurants outshine the ordinary, and every sunset feels like a celebration. For Orlando residents seeking an effortless beach escape filled with exceptional dining, boutique accommodations, outdoor adventure, and a vibrant arts scene, paradise is far closer than they might imagine.
For travel inspiration, events, accommodations, and special offers, visit www.visitnsbfl.com and follow @VisitNSBFL on Instagram and Facebook.
