×

It is a widely known fact (and something of which our residents are very proud) that New Smyrna Beach is the nesting destination of choice for three species of sea turtles, including the loggerhead, the green turtle and the leatherback. 

What you may not know, however, is that the temperature of the sand on the beach determines the sex of sea turtle hatchlings. Warmer nest temperatures produce female sea turtles and cooler nests yield male sea turtles. Amazing, right?

What is even more amazing is that the pristine beaches of Volusia County are especially vital to the survival of our treasured sea turtles. Because our beach sand is unique in that it is slightly cooler than Florida’s more southern beaches, it provides the crucial sanctuary that produces so many of the male sea turtles which play a critical part in ensuring the survival of their species.

Other interesting sea turtle facts include their nesting habits. Sea turtles nest in two to four year intervals and may lay three to seven nests per season. Healthy sea turtle nests typically yield 115-135 eggs and the incubation phase lasts about 50 to 75 days.

When it comes to nourishment, loggerhead sea turtles generally order up yummy menu items such as crabs, shellfish and conchs. While the green turtle species tends to prefer to munch on seagrass and algae and loggerhead sea turtles feed on a diet rich in jellyfish.

These amazing sea creatures also grow to pretty enormous lengths and, in a safe, healthy environment, can live very long lives. For instance, loggerhead sea turtles reach maturity at 30 to 35 years of age, a point where they might have grown up to approximately 3 1/2 feet in length and weigh up to around 375 pounds! Wait, it gets better. Green sea turtles reach maturity between 20 and 40 years of age and can grow to reach 4 feet and approximately 420 pounds. Leatherback sea turtles are even bigger, reaching maturity at around 9 to 20 years of age and up to 4 feet wide, 6 feet long and 1100 pounds!

It’s an exciting time when hundreds of sea turtles emerge from the sea to nest and lay their eggs on the pristine beaches of New Smyrna. New Smyrna Beach welcomes our sea turtles in May and their nesting season lasts throughout October. Their gestation period lasts approximately two months, at which time, all those tiny sea turtle hatchlings break free of their shells and begin making their way to their new ocean home. 

It’s a long and arduous journey for those little “guys” with dangers on land including predators such as dogs, birds, crabs, raccoons and armadillos that can end that journey long before it even begins. Additionally, any garbage or holes in the sand can hamper their travels; and the ocean also presents its own set of potential dangers, with a throng of sea creatures that are higher up in the food chain and looking for a tasty snack.

Believe it or not, artificial light can also be a detriment to the survival of sea turtles, as it can potentially prevent adult sea turtles from nesting and disorient baby sea turtles on their way to the sea. 

As residents and visitors of New Smyrna Beach, we try to do our part to improve their chances of survival. Our motto is, “Leave no footprint behind and let the night provide the light.” So, we respect the beach by leaving it as clean as we found it and we are careful not to shine lights from our condos or homes, our cars, flashlights, phones or anything else during sea turtle nesting season. We are also careful not to disrupt the sea turtles by touching or disturbing their nests, and we don’t disturb the dunes or sea plants – which should always be protected for all the wildlife that lives there, as well as to help protect our beautiful beaches from erosion. 

New Smyrna’s dedication to threatened and endangered sea turtles is also evidenced by government permitted volunteers – reorganized as the New Smyrna Beach Turtle Conservancy and named New Smyrna Beach Turtle Trackers – who have protected the New Smyrna Beach sea turtle nesting habitat and sea turtle hatchlings from beach driving and other threats since the 1980s. The Marine Science Center, located in neighboring Ponce Inlet, is also wholly committed to sea turtle conservancy and provides sea turtle rehabilitation as well as public education programs.

New Smyrna Beach is also, of course, the preferred nesting spot for humans as well, with The Inlet topping the list! The Inlet at New Smyrna Beach neighbors 24 miles of pristine coastline along Canaveral Seashore Park and is safely nestled within the 65 meticulously maintained acres of the exclusive Minorca community, located at 257 Minorca Way. 

The Inlet guests enjoy resort-style amenities such as a beautiful pool deck for lounging, which includes a heated pool, a large unheated pool and a spa, four Har-Tru tennis courts and an on-site tennis pro, as well as a fitness center, men’s and women’s saunas and, for those who would like extra space to enjoy time with friends or family, a casino clubhouse with a pool table, kitchen, bar, entertainment center, comfortable seating and free wireless Internet access. 

Guests of the gated condos at The Inlet may choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom condo units, each just steps from the beach and offering a spectacular waterfront view and each well-appointed with style and all of the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped kitchen, its own washer and dryer and cable TV.

For more information about The Inlet, in New Smyrna Beach, call 386-409-9212.

 

There’s nothing like an oceanfront locale, with sea breezes, crystal clear waters and waves gently lapping its shores, to rejuvenate and lift your spirits; but if you want to take that peaceful calm sensation and relaxation to the next level, toss in a spa day.

Without a doubt, New Smyrna Beach visitors will thoroughly enjoy beach days, dining waterside and strolling our historic streets, but it is also a place where you can indulge in a soothing warm oil massage, a healing soak in mineral waters and/or a seemingly endless, luxurious foot rub.

A Deluge of Earthly Pleasures!

A beachside town exuding unsurpassed charm, New Smyrna Beach is full of earthly pleasures including a delightful array of day spas – from high-end wellness retreats to boutique experiences. For instance, the following is just a sampling of some of the spa options available in New Smyrna Beach…

At the height of luxury and at 103 Flagler Avenue, you will find the Riverview Hotel and Spa. The upscale spa services here range from couples treatments such as a champagne and berry pedicure for two, to a coconut and pineapple hair treatment and scalp massage, to body treatments including a sea and salt glow. You can even add a posh breakfast or lunch, which might be something along the lines of a blueberry beignet with green tea or a strawberry and feta salad with sparkling wine.

The Spa at Venetian Bay, which is located at 424 Luna Bella Lane in New Smyrna Beach also provides an amazing array of indulgent spa services. Treat yourself to a soak in a salt water pool in the shape of a nautilus shell; dip your tired tootsies in a copper foot bath; spoil yourself with a Himalayan body ritual which starts with a grapefruit and rosemary oil-infused Himalayan salt scrub, followed by a 30-minute Himalayan stone massage and a relaxing hydrotherapy treatment; or make an entire day of it with a 50-minute massage, a revitalizing facial and a signature spa pedicure.

There’s also The Med Spa New Smyrna Beach which, under the oversight of a medical doctor, provides luxury medical spa services, including facial treatments, skin rejuvenation, laser treatments, injectables and weight loss plans and coaching. That one can be found in two convenient sites: either on Beachside at 716 E. 3rd Avenue or at 115 N. Orange in New Smyrna.

If you prefer a menu of spa services including body wraps, chemical peels, eyebrow tattoos, eyelash extensions and tinting, professional make-up, reiki, facials, waxing, massage therapy, manicures, pedicures and more, you may want to consider Abundant Health and Float Day Spa – an award-winning day spa specializing in float therapy (floating in water to calm the mind, body and spirit) and healing services – located at 1852 Renzulli Road in New Smyrna.

Also right here in New Smyrna Beach, at 306 Washington Street, is Angie’s Serenity Day Spa offering pedicures, manicures, facials, massage, microblading, lashes and more.

At Salty Miss Spa, 119 Faulkner Street in New Smyrna Beach, you’ll find anti-aging products and services, spa manicures and pedicures, as well as eyelash and eyebrow tinting, eyelash lifts and eyelash extensions provided by a certified extensionist.

How about some organic pampering with everything from hydro-wraps, to exfoliating scrubs, to a berries and bubbly mani-pedi, or a honeybee nectar or citrus grass and vitamin E-infused rice oil massage? Try Levels Casa Bella Med Spa and Organics at 206 Live Oak Street, which is a boutique spa offering nail, lash, body and aesthetics services. 

AA Nails & Spa at 626 3rd Avenue, voted News Journal’s Star of the South Best Nail Salon, offers spray tans, manicures, pedicures, facials, body massages, lash extension and nail enhancements.

Visit Craft Salon & Spa at 751 3rd Avenue for dermaplaning, waxing, hair, nails, eyelashes and massage.

Contour Spa New Smyrna Beach at 202 Julia Street offers a wide range of body contouring treatments from cryofacials, to infrared and LED treatments, innovative therapies and more.

Or maybe you would prefer Mermaid Dreams, the signature spa treatment at Angelic Beach Massage Therapy, located on the North Causeway (261). This therapeutic ritual begins with a Swedish and deep tissue massage with warm Polynesian oils and healing hot stones and ends with a mango coconut restorative hand and foot scrub to leave you feeling refreshed from head to toe. Count me in!

 

Don’t Let Your Pampering End There…

Once you have been adequately pampered, if you are staying at The Inlet in New Smyrna Beach, you can pamper yourself some more. The Inlet, a waterfront oasis which is easily accessible to everything the enchanting town of New Smyrna Beach has to offer, is New Smyrna’s most prestigious address. 

Each condo within this exclusive, gated community is well-appointed and ocean view. Two, large, heated, oceanfront pools as well as two heated spas adorn the private main pool deck; and other resort-style amenities of The Inlet include four Har-Tru tennis courts, an onsite tennis pro, riverside decks, an oceanfront pavilion and covered parking garages. 

Guests of the Inlet also enjoy access to over 13 miles of beautiful beaches, an additional 24 miles of the neighboring unspoiled Canaveral Seashore Park Canaveral coastline and the 220-acre Smyrna Dunes Park, with over four miles of scenic paths, wooden walkways and beach trails with panoramic views.

To learn more about The Inlet, feel free to call 386-409-9219 at your convenience.

 

If you are a lover of nature, New Smyrna Beach is the crème de la crème when it comes to exploring…

New Smyrna Beach may be famous for its miles of beautiful beaches, but you may be surprised to learn that it is also brimming with nature parks and hiking trails…some of which are, of course, in and around our most spectacular bodies of water and others can be found on the mainland, lush with vegetation, scenic views and wildlife in abundance.

Nature Parks in New Smyrna Beach

Canaveral National Park – the national seashore located between New Smyrna Beach and Titusville, the longest stretch of undeveloped Atlantic coastline in Florida and a sanctuary that is home to thousands of species of plants and animals – may be the most impressive.

However, New Smyrna Beach is also home to numerous smaller and just as beloved parks, one of which neighbors The Inlet at Minorca and is listed as Trip Advisor’s top choice – Smyrna Dunes Park. It’s over two miles of boardwalk along the jetty and ocean with spectacular views of the water, beaches and lighthouse is perfect for undisturbed morning walks. It also offers an approximately half-mile-long dog beach trail for those with furry friends. Another park that is popular with the pups (and their owners) is the New Smyrna Beach Dog Park located at 2641 Paige Avenue.

Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park at 6656 South Atlantic Avenue in New Smyrna Beach is a quiet setting with a boardwalk providing an excellent perch for manatee and dolphin watching. You’ll also find plenty of parking, clean restrooms and picnic pavilions there.

There’s Lake Ashby Park at 4150 Boy Scout Camp Road, with a boardwalk extending out over the large, beautiful lake, scenic walking path and gazebo with benches for those who prefer to take in their scenery while relaxing. 

If you’re looking for great beach access on the parking portion of the beach, 27th Avenue Park, located at 3701 S. Atlantic Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, may be more to your liking. There’s also Riverside Park at 105 S. Riverside Drive, offering walking paths with views of the waterway; and Indian River Lagoon Park, a 90-acre off the beaten trail alternative at 700 Sandpiper Avenue where you will discover old, moss-covered trees, mangroves and a paved trail lined with benches along its loop.

Explore Along the Many Scenic Nature Trails in New Smyrna Beach

Or, take another road less traveled, as the nature trails in New Smyrna Beach are pretty amazing too! The Spruce Creek Preserve provides some nice walking and hiking nature trail options, including Spruce Creek Trail, a 3.2 mile loop for hiking and biking. Wooden pathways with great views of Spruce Creek are covered in a canopy of greenery. The Spruce Creek Westside trail is 5.7 miles for those who enjoy a longer hike and Dons Leeper Trail is a sandy 3.9 nature path.

If nature hikes are your thing, you also might want to give Deep Creek Preserve, with over 8,000 acres of extended and short loops, a try. Or weave a little history into your nature excursion on the Turtle Mound Trail, an easy hike up and around the historic midden.

Sea Life in its Natural Habitat in New Smyrna Beach

With Canaveral National Seashore to the south, the Atlantic Ocean serving as its eastern border, the Intracoastal Waterway flowing between the mainland and the coastal barrier island and its downtown nestled along the Indian River, New Smyrna Beach is virtually surrounded by water. From the miles of pristine white sand beaches, to tranquil back bays and riverside settings, our waters are definitely a focal point within the charming beachside town of New Smyrna Beach. So, whatever you do, don’t miss out on experiencing nature’s splendor via New Smyrna Beach by water.

The ocean, unleashing a potent brew of refreshment and renewal, or soothing our spirits and healing our souls with its calm waters, is home to inhabitants just as magnificent. Consider the manatees, our gentle giants of the sea, who respite within Florida’s warmer interior bodies of water from approximately November through April. One fun way to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures is to rent a kayak at JB’s Fish Camp, located at 859 Pompano Avenue, where you’ll have access to Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park and the cove where they are prevalent. 

Playful porpoises can also be spotted there or on a boat tour along the Cape Canaveral Shoreline, which can also be scheduled at JB’s (along with yummy lunch or dinner with a waterfront view when you are done!)

What you may have heard if you have spent any measure of time here in New Smyrna Beach is that we also treasure our sea turtles who choose this area as a safe haven for their nesting grounds. Sea turtle nesting season – when hundreds of sea turtles emerge from the sea to lay their eggs on our beautiful beaches and sea turtle hatchlings break free of their shells to begin their arduous trek to their new ocean home – starts May 1st and runs through October 31st in New Smyrna Beach.

The centerpiece of a 3,000-mile Intracoastal Waterway system and 35 miles of panoramic shoreline, New Smyrna Beach provides deep water access attracting an amazing amount of sea life and housing a diverse aquatic ecosystem. Another lovely way to take it all in is along the Wilbur Rose Blueway, a paddling trail along the Intracoastal Waterway and tributaries – just perfect for kayakers, paddle boarders and canoers. It begins and ends at Wilbur Boathouse and you will find it, with parking and a boat launch at 4200 S. Peninsula Drive.

The moral of this story is that whether you choose to commune with nature by paddle board, motorboat, or by walking along its tranquil trails or beaches, the experience may be slightly different, but the result is always the same – natural splendor without rival. It’s simply the nature of New Smyrna Beach.

When nature’s majesty is encapsulated so masterfully in one place, it is simply too tantalizing for a person in possession of an eye for beauty to resist…and that is what you will find in New Smyrna Beach. The sun glistening atop crystal clear waters, lush greenery, vibrant blooms, amazing and abundant wildlife in its natural habitat may top the list, but a photographer in search of a flawless shot will also discover it along New Smyrna’s enchanting historical streets brimming with architecture from days gone by.

What many people notice first about New Smyrna Beach is its beachy vibe, and from the river beds draped in Spanish moss to the unparalleled beauty of our sugary sand beaches, New Smyrna Beach visitors will find themselves flooded with spectacular photographic opportunities any time of day.

As the sun begins to rise, you can almost hear the echo of silence. Then, gentle waves begin to shepherd exquisite seashells and tiny sea creatures to the pristine shoreline that leisurely awakes. The dunes, covered in softly swaying grasses, are just as captivating and, more often than not, spectators may catch a glimpse of porpoises playfully dancing along the surf. 

When evening arrives, a soft blush ascends and melds into vibrant hues that stretch across the ocean’s vast surface, and the beach’s inhabitants (most of them, anyway) return to their unhurried state of slumber. New Smyrna’s beaches furnish a beautiful natural backdrop that has no equal.

Here is a valuable tip for those longing to capture the pristine rhapsody of New Smyrna’s beach…The luxurious accommodations of The Inlet Condos at Minorca are inspirational, just steps from the aforementioned beaches and offering stunning panoramic ocean views of their own. The Inlet, which is one of the most prestigious addresses in New Smyrna Beach, is nestled along Cape Canaveral Shoreline and neighbors Smyrna Dunes Park.

Speaking of parks – specifically those which are the serene natural habitat of thousands of species and offer gorgeous nature trails with lovely flora and fauna your viewfinder only dreams of – New Smyrna Beach has many from which to choose. 

Traversing our waterways is also an exceptional way of immersing yourself within the beauty of New Smyrna Beach. Absorb unrivaled views on a cruise down the resplendent Intracoastal Waterway, on a guided Canaveral Seashore ecotour by boat or while quietly getting a little more up close and personal on a paddleboard. Don’t be surprised if you happen upon a majestic bald eagle, a lumbering manatee or one of our treasured sea turtles. The extraordinary wildlife spotting opportunities are endless in New Smyrna Beach.

Maybe you prefer your perspective from above. Grab a stool Norwood’s Treehouse and get your fill of New Smyrna’s beauty from your lunchtime perch while you nosh on colossal shrimp and sip your margarita. Or climb to the top of Florida’s tallest lighthouse – Ponce Inlet Lighthouse, a national historic landmark erected in 1887.

 

New Smyrna Beach’s enchanting streets lined with stately oaks and historic architecture will have your shutter finger itching too. This welcoming locale is brimming with antique shops, charming boutiques, art galleries and outdoor cafes from which you can people-watch bistro-style. There is even a real, old fashioned creamery and a one-of-a-kind pet shop where you can take a photo of your pub in front of its angel wings mural before you duck inside for a well-deserved treat. Not for you, but if you are into food shots, the cuisine in New Smyrna Beach is to die for. 

There’s fresh shellfish dripping in butter at Off the Hook waterside restaurant where you can watch fishermen haul in their catch of the day. There’s The Garlic Italian restaurant offering courtyard dining amidst fairy lights and rustic pizza ovens. Or go casual and photograph a delicious crab cake as big as your head (no offense) from the – believe it or not – food truck at the Farmer’s Market. While you are there, you might want to snap the crates overflowing with vibrant red and bright green peppers and so much more!

If you prefer action shots, New Smyrna Beach is loaded with those too. There are engaging events and extravagant festivals scheduled throughout the year in New Smyrna Beach, from art exhibitions, to muscle car shows, to cook-offs, to Bike Week, when everyone gears up for a good time. Take in the sights of a live Broadway-style performance at The Little Theatre or some haunting acoustics strummed by the area’s most talented musicians. The engaging activities in New Smyrna Beach will definitely have you reaching for your back-up memory card!

Don’t forget the tapestry of richly woven history in New Smyrna Beach. Step into the past with a visit to Old Fort Park, which may just be the remnants of the home of New Smyrna’s founder; meander the botanical gardens at Sugar Mills Ruins, which withstood two Seminole Indian Wars; or take a boat ride by Turtle Mound – a 50-foot shell midden and prehistoric proof of the ancient Timucuan Indian tribe.

From tranquil beach scenes, to interesting sea creatures, to gala festivals, lively celebrations and artful exhibitions, no matter what you decide to photograph in New Smyrna Beach, it is sure to be picture-perfect.

Let’s start our story with the famous Turtle Mound along the coast of New Smyrna Beach, which is a centuries-old structure comprised of two acres over fifty feet high of oyster shells – thought to serve as a lookout for early detection of danger, protection against the elements and proven scientific evidence of Timucuan Indian habitation in New Smyrna Beach thousands of years BC. That is where we believe it all began and this is how the rest of the story goes…

Scottish physician, Dr. Andrew Turnbull, was commissioned by the British to colonize the area. So, he set sail in 1768 – with approximately 1,500 settlers he “recruited” largely from Minorca, of the Mediterranean Islands off the coast of Spain – with the goal to create the largest colony in North America at that time. At first, everything progressed famously. He named New Smyrna in honor of his wife’s homeland in Greece and the colony produced impressive amounts of indigo and sugar cane over the first few years. However, the colony’s good fortune was not destined to last for Dr. Turnbull and his newly established colony of New Smyrna. Certain crops didn’t fare well in the sandy soil and the colony was ravaged by disease and Indian raids. The colony was all but abandoned in 1777, its survivors fleeing to St. Augustine. In fact, there is a shrine dedicated to them at the St. Augustine Greek Orthodox Church on St. George Street.

After British rule from 1763 to 1783, the Spanish regained control of Florida. The first Seminole War took place from 1817 to 1818. Spain, then deciding Florida had become more of a burden than a boon, sold Florida to the United States for $5 million. The United States took possession of Florida in 1821 and the second Seminole War began in 1835. Sugar Mill Ruins, built on the 600 acres originally gifted to Andrew Turnbull by the British Crown, withstood both Seminole Wars and the remnants are now a historical site listed on the National Historic Register.

That takes us to Henry Flagler, an American industrialist and founder of Standard Oil and the Florida East Coast Railway which promoted the effective distribution of goods and services and, subsequently, more settlement and tourism. Flagler expanded his railway from Miami to Key West and 1912 marks the date that Flagler arrived on the first train to Key West as well as the completion of his railway.

Then came the prosperous 1920s, followed by Prohibition from 1928 to 1932. The stock market crashed in 1929 and this area was kept afloat with its citrus crops and the fact that it became a haven for rum running and speakeasies. Another interesting historical fact is that the tradition of spring break began as early as 1930 in the Daytona area. The first theme parks in the area – Cypress Gardens in Winter Haven and Marineland in St. Augustine – also emerged in the 1930s. Disney World followed suit in 1971, further facilitating growth and prosperity in the region.

The result is the remarkable culmination of architectural, educational and cultural historical nuances we enjoy here in modern day New Smyrna Beach. Today, our pristine New Smyrna Beach coastline is peppered with gorgeous properties, the most prestigious of which is The Inlet, offering scenic ocean views and neighboring lovely Smyrna Dunes Park. Loaded with luxurious amenities and safely tucked within the gated, beachside community of Minorca, The Inlet is also nearby all of the rich culture and history of New Smyrna Beach.

Visitors can delve into New Smyrna’s colorful past at its many historic sites, one of which is the mysterious grave marker in the middle of an intersection right off of Flagler Avenue! Earning its place on the “Curious Coast” list and listing on the National Historic Register, it happens to be where Douglas Dummett honored the death of his 15-year-old son Charles. Douglas Dummett was a sugar plantation owner who served as a Captain in a Florida militia to protect the area against Indian raids. He is also known for introducing the grafting of citrus trees to this area. Accounts of Charles’ death – from taking his own life after facing the hardships of being the mixed-race child of a slave owner and his slave, to being accidentally shot by his hunting partner – are all unproven. 

Another mysterious New Smyrna Beach historic site is the Old Fort Park which overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway on Riverside Drive in New Smyrna Beach. Remains of Dr. Turnbull’s mansion? The start of an 18th Century Spanish fort that was abandoned for a new location in St. Augustine? You tell me.

Or enjoy a cocktail upstairs at New Smyrna’s historic Flagler Tavern which served as a speakeasy back in the days of Prohibition.

You can also visit the New Smyrna Beach Historical Museum downtown – which pays homage to it all – for a walking tour or to peruse one of its interesting exhibits, including Native American Artifacts, Railroad Era, Turnbull Settlement and East Coast Surfing, as New Smyrna Beach also has a distinguished 200-year history in the development of international competitive surfing.

Canal Street, the epicenter of New Smyrna’s Historic District, is also a great place to take a stroll. A vibrant blend of specialty shops, art galleries and restaurants, this pedestrian-friendly street, as well as lively Flagler Avenue, are host to the many events held within New Smyrna Beach throughout the year.

It’s rejuvenating qualities will saturate your senses…the sound of waves rhythmically lapping the shoreline, the tangy, salty scent of the sea, the feel of warm, sugary sand beneath your feet and breathtaking views that only the unique stretch of coastline embraced by the Florida’s Intracoastal Waterway and Atlantic Ocean can provide. There is nothing on earth like 257 Minorca Beach Way, New Smyrna Beach’s most prestigious address and home to The Inlet Condominiums.

Should you choose to cocoon in your beachside oasis, safely tucked within the exclusive gated community of Minorca, bestowed with resort-style amenities, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Book your stay in a one-, two- or three-bedroom condo unit, each with a spectacular ocean view and each well-appointed with style and all of the comforts of home, including a fully-equipped kitchen, its own washer and dryer and cable TV.

Imagine waking up to your own beachfront view while enjoying your morning coffee before you start your day. If you decide you want to enjoy your luxurious accommodations by preparing a romantic dinner or curling up on the sofa with popcorn for a night in, feel free to add that to your vacation calendar too.

An upscale clubhouse – furnished with comfortable seating, an entertainment center, a bar, a pool table, a well-equipped fitness center and including his and her saunas, restrooms and free Wi-Fi – is ideal for entertaining or simply relaxing with family and friends and is also available to guests of The Inlet Condominiums. 

Outdoor amenities are just as magnificent. There are two, large, heated, oceanfront pools as well as two heated spas on the private main pool deck. Anyone for tennis? The Inlet offers four Har-Tru tennis courts and an onsite tennis pro. Guests of The Inlet Condominiums are also free to enjoy an oceanfront pavilion, barbeque grills, riverside decks, two covered parking garages and security.

Just steps from their door, guests have access to over 13 miles of beautiful beaches, neighboring an additional 24 miles of unspoiled Canaveral Seashore Park Canaveral coastline and the 220-acre Smyrna Dunes Park, with over four miles of scenic paths, wooden walkways and beach trails – a guest favorite for picnics, swimming, stunning sunsets and a gorgeous view of the world famous Ponce Inlet Lighthouse.

Don’t just take our word for it. Our treasured sea turtles prefer it too, choosing these pristine beaches and exceptional locale for nesting and the homebase from which their hatchlings will make their arduous trek to their new ocean home. Guests of The Inlet are also often gifted with views of the lively antics of porpoises at play and majestic sea birds or eagles soaring above.

Not only are The Inlet Condominiums walking distance to a variety of dining and shopping options, but these distinctive condo units are nearby all New Smyrna Beach has to offer, including challenging, meticulously maintained golf courses, inshore and offshore fishing charters, walking tours, eco tours, boat tours, sunset cruises, aerial tours, kayaking, bicycling, paddleboarding, board surfing, canoeing, museums, historical sites, movie theaters, live local musicians, nature parks and more.

If you’re intrigued by mysteries, a visit to Old Fort Park may be in order; set sail for an adventure by boat to Disappearing Island, a local favorite on which you can frolic (or lounge, of course) in the sun until the tide rolls in; or rent a paddleboard and take a lazy cruise down a scenic river. If your predilection leans more toward the relaxation and rejuvenation side of things, consider a margarita and your favorite seafood dish at one of many open-air waterfront restaurants peppering the enchanting town of New Smyrna Beach. 

The Inlet in New Smyrna Beach is also easily accessible, with convenient access to major routes including I-95, State Road 44 and Interstate 4, as well as multiple airports: Daytona Beach International Airport (just a 25 minute drive), Sanford Airport (45 minutes away) and Orlando International Airport (a little over an hour away).

And not only are Inlet Condos perfectly positioned along Florida’s most beautiful section of coastline within the welcoming town of New Smyrna Beach, but they are nearby Daytona with its vibrant nightlife, fun-filled waterparks and exhilarating race days and nights at the iconic Daytona International Speedway where NASCAR reigns supreme; and the quaint, historic city of St. Augustine, where you can take in the sights by way of an old-fashioned trolley tour, visit its famous wax museum or simply meander along its cobblestone streets. The holidays are also a remarkable time for a little side trip to St. Augustine, as its Celebration of Lights is without peer. Cocoa Beach and the rocket launches of Cape Canaveral are also out of this world; and, of course, Orlando, which is home to the world’s most popular theme parks, is a must-see for anyone with a family in tow…or pretty much just anyone.

Stay at The Inlet for a four night respite, a week, weeks or months. We don’t blame you. For more information about The Inlet Condominiums in charming, historic New Smyrna Beach or to book your stay, call 386-409-9212. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer all of your questions; and to ensure that your stay is a pleasure once you arrive, The Inlet Condominiums provides an experienced, capable management team which you can find onsite throughout your stay.

New Smyrna Beach may be a beachside gem with quaint historic streets and the vibrancy of lively Flagler Avenue, but it also offers numerous dining options to satisfy every discerning palate…

The Garlic, on 3rd Avenue, is a place where you will enjoy the atmosphere as much as the meal. Enter under a vine covered arbor leading to indoor seating or an outdoor courtyard reminiscent of an Italian garden, draped in tiny tea lights and possessing an unmatched rustic appeal. Dinner starts with crusty Italian bread warm from the oven, served with roasted garlic for topping. If you want to be treated like royalty, you may want to opt for the signature dish of Executive Chef Michael Perri – who, by the way, has worked under the tutelage of Wolfgang Puck and cooked for icons from presidents to rockstars. Chef’s Cioppino is a medley of lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams and calamari in a tomato saffron broth seasoned with fresh herbs. Pair that with fine wine, Italian beer or a specialty martini for the perfect romantic meal.

If you want to wake up on the right side of the bed, you may want to do it with the fresh seasonal fruit and granola yogurt parfait and grilled muffin of the day combination special at the Wake Up Café, a little further up the way on 3rd Avenue or, if you’re hungry for an affordable down home cooked breakfast loved by locals and visitors alike, head over to Ruthy’s Kozy Kitchen on Canal Street for a Jumbo, which is three eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, hash browns or grits and toast or a biscuit; or the Big Daddy, a heaping plate of French toast or pancakes, eggs and bacon or sausage….but don’t let me scare you, Ruthy’s has regular-sized breakfasts for regular-sized appetites too. In fact, they have pretty much anything you might want in the way of a traditional breakfast.

Now, since we are a waterfront town, let’s talk serious seafood and JB’s Fish Camp which is riverside on Pompano Drive. To be honest, ordering a la carte here and dipping your favorite shellfish into melted butter is absolute heaven, but if you are a traditionalist when it comes to dinner, consider a half pound of peel and eat rock shrimp in season and the jumbo mushrooms filled with JB’s famous crab cake mix and topped with cheese to start; and the Captain’s Platter, which you can order cooked any way you please and comes with fish, oysters, clams, shrimp, scallops, a mini crab cake and corn on the cob, is quite a feast.

The Corkscrew Bar and Grille is ideal for people watching from a quaint historic Canal Street perch as well as mojito scallops, which come in the perfectly seared, very jumbo variety and delicately placed atop toasted crostini slices and topped with an amazing mojito sauce and freshly shaved parmesan cheese. 

Norwood’s (just down the way from The Garlic) offers restaurant dining, garden patio dining and a separate menu in its treehouse bar, which provides a waterfront overlook. The build your own fish dish is particularly pleasing with grilled grouper chef-prepared Mediterranean style and served with coconut cilantro rice. If you prefer your dishes brimming with veggies, the mushroom ragout tossed with blistered cherry tomatoes, rigatoni and cashew sour cream gets a pretty high ranking too.

Blackbeard’s Inn on North Dixie Freeway is well-known for its slow roasted prime rib and salad bar. They also offer pretty much any kind of seafood au gratin style, which is delicious, as is their oysters Rockefeller appetizer.

 

When you’re not thinking fancy, take it down a notch, but not with flavor, at Panhead Pizza (Guy Fieri was just there too!) where you can order specialty pizzas to die for, including baby spinach, artichoke hearts, Roma tomatoes and feta cheese, which holds a special place in this writer’s heart.

Or Flagler Tavern, with outside decks, an inside tavern and bar and an upper level speakeasy, offers a fun Flagler Avenue vibe and a whole lot of tasty treats. My favorite happens to be the crispy fried candied Brussel sprouts…yeah, I know, but you have to try them! Follow that up with a satisfying shaved ribeye cheesesteak topped with caramelized onions and queso and, trust me, it’s nap time.

Another longtime New Smyrna Beach staple is the Taco Shack, a delightful, open air, authentic Mexican fare restaurant offering dine “in” or take-away on North Dixie Freeway. The Taco Shack is closed Sunday and Monday, but – with a Tuesday buy one burrito, get one at half price and Thursday’s $1 chicken or beef taco specials – it is worth the wait. Or try a homemade fried tortilla bowl filled with mixed greens, tomato, cheese, olives, black beans, corn, sour cream, guacamole, chipotle dressing and your choice of beef, chicken, pork, steak or shrimp…and if you like rice and beans, you really should order their Radical Rice Plate with fried sweet plantains.

If you like your hours happy, Merk’s Bar & Grille on the North Causeway in New Smyrna Beach has one every day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., 24 TVs and wings with their famous Frankenstein sauce. Another favorite is their homemade summer chips, which are freshly made to order and topped with crumbled blue cheese, bacon, scallions and melted cheddar and served with sour cream for dipping, as if you’d need it!

You’ll find Breakers Restaurant & Bar, home to a menu with 12 burgers voted best in Central Florida, oceanfront on Flagler Avenue. This local is partial to the beach burger topped with blue cheese crumbles, lettuce and tomato, but I like to add bacon. My only problem is that I generally have to split that bad boy. A nice, healthier alternative is their blackened fish garden salad.

Chase’s on the Beach on Atlantic was hit hard by the hurricane, but has come back with a vengeance and Tiki bar oceanfront dining with the same menu as inside. May I suggest the crabcake, which is truly jumbo lump or the authentic Philly, which really does rival the cheesesteaks up in Philly? Oh, and the chicken satay appetizer may sound ordinary, but with a sticky bourbon glaze and Thai chili aioli, is far from it.

 

Founded in 1768 by Scottish doctor Andrew Turnbull, New Smyrna Beach and its surrounding area possesses a rich history. It is an area first settled with over 1500 indentured servants of Mediterranean descent – most of which were from the Minorcan Islands. That colonized plantation failed not ten years later largely due to disease. The Spanish then gained control and sold the area to the United States in 1819. Sugar mills began processing cane from plantations in 1835 and the Atlantic Railroad began in 1892, making the New Smyrna Beach area a vacation destination even in the early days. The city of New Smyrna Beach became incorporated in 1903 and local orange groves provided local relief during the stock market crash of 1929…All of the above giving way to the beachside paradise we know and love today.

A beautiful place to learn some New Smyrna Beach history is Old Fort Park, an historical site which received the prestigious honor of being added to the United States National Registry of Historic Places in 2008, and an integral part of the archeological discoveries attributed to the 18th Century settlement of Dr. Andrew Turnbull.

You’ll find Old Fort Park at 115 Julia Street in New Smyrna, nestled within several walking paths, benches, a canopy of stately oak trees and a tranquil waterfront view. You’ll also discover a bit of a mystery as no one can really confirm what the ancient coquina foundation of this intriguing site once supported. One thought is that it may be the site of Andrew Turnbull’s mansion. Another idea is that it may have been a Spanish fort predating Castillo de San Marco in St. Augustine, which is considered the oldest fort in the continental United States. It also may have been a colonial church or a site for constructing ships. 

What we do know is that a large, wooden hotel was constructed above this historic foundation in the 1850s, only to be destroyed in an explosion caused by gunpowder which was stored in the basement. The hotel was reconstructed by the owners after the Civil War, but met its demise yet again in 1896 when it was torn down.

Another interesting historic site in New Smyrna Beach is Sugar Mill Ruins, a 17-acre historic site you’ll find just one mile west of the Intracoastal Waterway on Old Mission Road. The land on which Sugar Mill Ruins was built was originally gifted to Andrew Turnbull by the British Crown in 1768 for the purpose of British colonization. Its buildings, constructed of fossilized mollusk shells which were harvested nearby, survived two Seminole Wars and are preserved for viewing.

The New Smyrna Beach Historic District, also on the National Register of Historic Places, is made up of approximately 100 acres of late 19th and early 20th century architecture. The majority of these structures, developed between 1885 and 1935, are located in a two block wide and six block long stretch along the Indian River bank. If you would like to do some meandering on a personal tour of your own making, you can find a map of the historic structures there which may be helpful at cityofnsb.com/1417/New-Smyrna-Beach-NRHP-Historic-District.

If you like things lively, you may want to head over to Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, which is five blocks from ocean to river and bursting with surf shops, delightful eateries, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of old Florida appeal. 

Grab a bite and a brew at the Flagler Tavern, which was established in 1928 and pays homage to its roaring twenties roots with an upper level speakeasy overlooking the avenue. Or you might prefer to book a spa treatment at Flagler Avenue’s Riverview Hotel & Spa, which began in 1885 as a two-story hunting and fishing lodge and due to the success of the Flagler Railroad, became a popular tourist destination for northerners in search of a warm winter respite. 

Just up the way in New Smyrna’s neighboring community of Ponce Inlet, is the opportunity to climb the 203 steps of Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Built in 1887, Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is the largest in Florida and, today, offers an on-site museum for a glimpse into turn-of-the-century lighthouse keeper life.

Named for its turtle-like shape is the Turtle Mound, a prehistoric archeological site just nine miles south of New Smyrna Beach on State Road A1A. The largest shell midden on mainland United States and visible several miles out to sea rests along the Canaveral Seashore. Archeologists, who have recently discovered 1,200-year-old pottery, believe that the ancient Timucua Indians used Turtle Mound as a high ground refuge during hurricanes.

Also worth a tour is the nearby historical interpretive park of Seminole Rest at 207 River Road in Oak Hill, which consists of several prehistoric shell mounds dating from 2000 BC to 1556 AD, two turn of the century buildings which are still intact, a gift shop and wildlife viewing opportunities.

If you want to learn more about the history of New Smyrna Beach in a more comprehensive manner, you can always visit the New Smyrna Beach Museum of History at 120 Sams Avenue, the site of the town’s original post office. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the New Smyrna Beach Museum of History offers engaging exhibits and presentations, as well as area tours and a museum store.

Plus, not sure if you know it or not, but New Smyrna Beach is also a famous surf town and the New Smyrna Beach Museum of East Coast Surfing – located at that same Sams Avenue address – is dedicated to that specific aspect of New Smyrna history. Ranked one of the world’s best surf towns by both National Geographic and Surfer Magazine, New Smyrna Beach’s surf history is a richly woven tapestry of over 200 years of competitive surfing and local surf culture.

 

A vacation should be filled with fun things to see and do in every direction, brimming with ample ways to relax and rejuvenate, and packed full of amazing scenery. There should be varied dining options from sunup ‘till way past sundown. Welcoming streets should be lined with shops for vacationers who fancy collecting a few (or many) treasured trinkets during their travels. Challenging golf courses should be many and cloudy days should be few. Talented musicians should perform for enthusiastic audiences in pleasing venues and a sense of excitement and anticipation should fill the air; and those vacationers who choose New Smyrna Beach as their vacation destination will receive nothing less. 

 

A Charming Locale

With its Beachside and Historic District pairing, New Smyrna Beach is a delightful dichotomy of unspoiled sugary sand beaches at the tip of a lively main street and an enchanting tapestry of rich history woven throughout outdoor cafes, old fashioned creameries and architecture of bygone days. Be careful though because many an unsuspecting vacationer has become bewitched by the beguiling nature of this unique seaside town, deciding never to leave it.

 

Upscale Amenities and Comfort in Just the Right Size

Most New Smyrna Beach visitors opt for ocean view accommodations on beachside, where you will find The Inlet – a lovely selection of upscale condominiums decked out in luxury and providing all the comforts of home…such as state-of-the-art and fully equipped kitchens, comfortable dining areas and living rooms with flat screen TVs and framed in that glorious ocean view. 

The Inlet at New Smyrna Beach, with every one of its stylish, well-maintained condos providing direct access to New Smyrna’s beautiful beaches just steps from their doors and majestic ocean views from their private patios or balconies, is the best of all worlds. Now if I was planning a New Smyrna Beach vacation, all of that would definitely be on my wish list.

Aside from all the luxuries you may desire when choosing a vacation rental, it is imperative to find one that suits you to a “T” – a place where you can choose from a variety of sizes from one bedroom and bathroom to several spacious bedrooms and baths. Versatility is also important. Do you want to stay for four days, four weeks or for the entire season? The world is your oyster at The Inlet.

Guests of The Inlet at New Smyrna Beach can also pack lightly, as each condo unit provides a washer and dryer; and no need to pack your peace of mind because you will find that at The Inlet too, which takes the extra steps to keep its guests safe. The Inlet is tucked away within a securely gated community providing security and two covered parking garages.

 

So Much to See and Do

Maybe you often get the itch for a round of golf? There are plenty of challenging golf courses and putting ranges near The Inlet, as well as rentals for everything from golf carts, to bicycles, motorboats to kayaks and canoes, paddleboards and surfboards, scuba diving and snorkeling equipment and more. Take a scenic hike through the neighboring nature parks or put your swimsuit on and head over to one of the numerous waterparks in the area. There are fishing charters for those longing for the catch of a lifetime, lovely shops for uncovering the perfect beachy trinkets, eco-tours by boat where passengers often get much more than a glimpse of manatees, dolphins and bald eagles as they glide through the picturesque waters surrounding New Smyrna Beach…and if all that activity just happens to make you a little hungry, there is an unbelievable selection of dining options in New Smyrna Beach. Restaurants pepper one end of this inviting town to the other, from waterside fish camps with the catch of the day literally unloaded from fishing boats while you’re there and shellfish and fresh corn dripping with butter, to gourmet fare with a waterfront view at Norwood’s Treehouse or Italian-style at The Garlic. Have a drink with the locals at a beachside pub or tavern or an authentic Mexican meal at La Terraza on its lofty perch atop the Boston Fish House. There’s breakfast at Ruthie’s that can’t be beat, French baked goods fresh from the oven at Mon Delice and fresh deli sandwiches piled high at Yellow Dog Eats…and that, my friend, just skims the surface!

 

Convenient to Everything

In addition to its charming appeal, New Smyrna Beach is close to three public airports, several private airports and major routes that lead to exceedingly popular nearby towns. Subsequently, The Inlet at New Smyrna Beach is a convenient drive from even more events and adventures, such as everything offered in Orlando, home to the world’s most popular theme parks; on the charming, historic streets of St, Augustine, our nation’s oldest city; within Cape Canaveral, a vibrant seaside port and the premier site for an abundance of rocket launches throughout the year; and in Daytona Beach, with gorgeous beach of its own, nightlife beyond compare and the iconic Daytona International Speedway…just to name a few!

 

Indulge Yourself

The Inlet at New Smyrna Beach, neighboring the 24 miles of pristine coastline along Canaveral Seashore Park and safely nestled within the 65 meticulously maintained acres of the exclusive Minorca community, offers all of that and more. Access to resort-style Minorca amenities also affords guests of The Inlet with full use of a beautiful pool deck for lounging, which includes a heated pool, a large unheated pool and a spa. Enjoy a rousing match of tennis? There are also Four Har-Tru tennis courts and an on-site tennis pro, as well as a fitness center, men’s and women’s saunas and, for those who would like extra space to enjoy time with friends or family, a casino clubhouse with a pool table, kitchen, bar, entertainment center, comfortable seating and free wireless internet access.

Pamper yourself in style at The Inlet, located at 257 Minorca Way in New Smyrna Beach, by calling 386-409-9212.

Monday

As I begin to awake, I realize that I’m no longer home. I am staying a New Smyrna Beach’s exclusive, upscale vacation rental, The Inlet – the luxury ocean view condo framed by the Atlantic Ocean coastline and the pristine shoreline of Canaveral Seashore Park. 

I smile knowing I made the best vacation destination decision possible as I make my way out of my king-size bed and over to a floor-to-ceiling view of waves gently lapping the beach just outside my condo door. 

I nudge the sliding glass door open and I’m instantly engulfed in warm salt air. Mmm, smells just like vacation should. I step through and onto my own private patio as I contemplate my first move. Coffee right here, I think…while I take in the unparalleled scenery and plan my day.

Initially I considered a few laps in the pool or a little tennis because the pool deck is beautiful and those courts are so nice, but I think I’ll save that for tomorrow. Should I hike along the nearby walking trails of scenic Smyrna Dunes Park or take my virgin voyage to the beach and dip my toes in the sand? 

The beach won that match and after a quick shower, I head out to breakfast. I choose Wake Up Cafe because my mouth is watering for a yogurt parfait and a fresh baked muffin, while my travel companion chooses an omelet dripping with velvety cheese. 

We’re dying to check out the town, so our next stop is lively Flagler Avenue, and its beachy vibes and quaint outdoor cafes instantly win us over. We wander in and out of shops – including one entirely dedicated to flip flops and another called Dottie’s, which offers everything from bracelets and baubles to masterfully displayed driftwood art. 

Then we decide to head over to the second downtown in New Smyrna, its charming, tree-lined Historic District. There’s a surf museum, a local pub playing live music, and even though we just ate breakfast not that awfully long ago, we just can’t walk past its old fashioned creamery without stopping in for a root beer float. Then, with a day so full, all we have the energy for is heading back to our plush accommodations for a cozy night in including a late dinner we easily prepare in our condo’s state-of-the-art, fully-equipped kitchen. 

Tuesday

With a little more jump in my step the next morning, I opt for tennis with the on-site pro at my choice of four Har-Tru courts. Next on our agenda is a Turtle Mound River Tour, a two-hour pontoon boat ride along the Indian River, offering breathtaking views of Canaveral National Seashore, dolphin and bald eagle sightings and intriguing historic tidbits and funny quips from our hilarious guide.

We topped it off with fresh caught seafood at JB’s Fish Camp, a casual waterfront restaurant and bar brimming with both locals and visitors…all fully enjoying themselves over delicious fare. Feeling adventurous and in honor of our day at sea, my beverage of choice is a “Salted Sea Dog” made from citrus vodka, pineapple and grapefruit juices and rimmed with salt. My meal is the blackened seafood sampler with shrimp, mahi, alligator and a piece of corn on the cob. My date selected a frozen mudslide and steamed clams.

Wednesday

We decide to take it easy midweek and head over to the pool deck, where we get in a few laps in the large, heated pool, soak in the hot tub, comfortably lounge in the sun; and since The Inlet also has both men’s and women’s saunas, we enjoyed those too.

Then we took relaxation to the next level with an afternoon at the Riverview Spa. My mani-pedi ensures that my tootsies are beach-ready and I now sport an effervescent dayglow yellow on my fingernails to match my mood.

Thursday

Since America’s most beloved theme-parks and attractions are only approximately an hour away in Orlando, Saturday was our Disney World day and you can just imagine what that entailed! We get there in a flash and take in all the sites, enjoy a concert at the House of Blues, check out EPCOT’s interactive space training lab, experience wild animal encounters at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, see the flamingos on Discovery Island, get our game on at the Frontierland Arcade and even brave the water rides at Castaway Park. We’re definitely coming back soon because there is so much more to see and do!

Friday

Today we drive just 20 minutes north to Daytona Beach, “The World Center of Racing” where we relive the early days of racing through authentic memorabilia at the Living Legends of Auto Racing Museum. We dine on grouper fingers and crab cakes at Crabby Joes, a dynamic hotspot with delicious eats (including plenty of menu options for landlubbers) perched on the end of a pier extending over the ocean.

After being in Daytona, we catch race fever (which isn’t a bad thing) and decide to stop at the Little New Smyrna Speedway, where we watch the quarter midget races to round out our evening.

Saturday

Ruthie’s Restaurant is a favorite among locals and famous for really good down home breakfast; and, of course, after learning all that, we pencil it in to see what all the fuss was about. We can now say from experience that Ruthie’s certainly lives up to its hype. The coffee and smiles flow and I order the “Hearty Breakfast” which comes with two eggs, country fried steak, grits or home fries and toast…maybe not the best choice before squeezing into my bathing suit, but definitely worth it!

We decide that since New Smyrna is famous for its beach which is located just outside our door, we would be remiss if we didn’t enjoy a beach day soon. So…we lather up with sunscreen and make that magic happen, complete with wiggling toes in the sand, a little shelling and a swim in the gentle surf.

Tonight is our date night. So, I make reservations at The Garlic, New Smyrna Beach’s gourmet Italian restaurant. Its atmosphere is reminiscent of an Italian garden with pizza ovens creating tantalizing aromas while strands of white tea lights sparkle overhead. I’m thinking of splurging on this meal…as if we haven’t already.

…and splurge we do! After a romantic meal consisting of the eggplant tower appetizer, garlic mussels for me (so much for date night) and pepper bacon wrapped filet for him, washed down with a nice chianti; we take off in search of some entertainment – which is never hard to find in New Smyrna Beach.

What we discover is “Dueling Pianos” at a local pub called Peanuts. This talented duo was playing tons of songs of every kind and putting on such a great show. I can’t remember when I had such a good time.

Sunday 

Today is reserved for exploring, so first things first. I visit one of the nearby New Smyrna Beach rental shops, which carry everything from golf carts, to surfboards and snorkeling gear, to rent a bicycle for a pleasurable morning ride through the adorable streets of New Smyrna Beach.

Since the weather was beautiful, I figure on a little outdoor dining and decide on brunch at Third Wave Café and Wine Bar – a fusion of southern coastal cooking and global inspiration. After being seated in the outdoor garden area, I sweeten things up even more with their “Dulce-de-Leche Crepe” filled with bananas, berries, almonds, caramelized milk, sugar jam and topped with a sprinkling of powdered sugar. How could that be bad, right?

Now it’s off to explore Sugar Mill Ruins and then hike through the two miles of elevated walkways within Smyrna Dunes Park, which neighbors The Inlet and rests on 73 gorgeous acres surrounded by water on three sides. It is so peaceful and relaxing that I decide to extend that feeling with a glass of wine on my private balcony while I watch the sun slowly set upon my gorgeous ocean view.

I could get used to this. Thank goodness we booked more than one week. I still want to climb the steps of famous Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and take in its panoramic view, paddleboard down the scenic Indian River, set sail on a Marine Discovery Center guided full moon kayak tour, enjoy a round of golf on one of the many challenging golf courses nearby, travel a little north of Daytona to meander through the historic streets of charming St. Augustine, our country’s oldest town, and take a short drive south toward Cocoa Beach so I can experience a Port Canaveral rocket launch firsthand. 

The Inlet at New Smyrna Beach

Call 386-409-9212 to book your dream vacation and head to The Inlet with dreams of tomorrow and the promises it holds.