As published in The Florida Villager.
Chill Out in New Smyrna Beach
New Smyrna Beach has come a long way, Baby from what I remember back in my college days. I was there for 3 days and going at a non-stop pace, I didn’t even scratch the surface. New Smyrna Beach is a charming town situated on the Central Atlantic Coast of Florida. Even though it is known for being a surfing destination, there is more to New Smyrna Beach than the thrill of a great wave. However, surfing is where I am going to begin my journey.
I had never been on a surfboard and to be honest, kind of skeptical but hey, life is short, so I walked down to the beach and met my instructor, Marcie Baldwin from Surfin’NSB. After what looked like a fight with a wetsuit, I was given a board and led to the surf. One hour later, I was a pro, well, at least in my mind I was because I was able to stand up to the hoots and hollers of Marcie. I wish I could have returned the next day but there was still so much to do and see.
I quickly went back to the most amazing place to stay, Victoria 1883, where I changed clothes and headed to Flagler Ave. for a wine walk. Flagler Ave is lined with boutiques, a shuffleboard court and bustling bars. The wine walk was fun and as Flagler Ave. dead ends into the beach, I found myself back at my surfing spot watching surfers with a tinge of jealousy.
From there, I took a stroll down Canal St, the historic heartbeat of the town. I stopped at the galleries, unique shops and museums. I popped into The Hub, a building that houses 55 local artists and was absolutely captivated by it. It started as a dream of 3 women where local artists could exhibit but it has turned into so much more. They conduct workshops, have art camps, movie and music nights as well as language and pottery classes.
Back at Victoria 1883, I grabbed a book, some tea and made my way to the veranda. The perfect way to end my day. The culinary side of NSB was next on my itinerary. If you are a foodie, you will be in Heaven. I ate more in 3 days than I did all year. Everything was so good and I couldn’t resist trying Key Lime pie at each restaurant I walked into. The Grille @ Riverview has live music on the deck and a Sunday Brunch where you can be your own mixologist. The Spanish River Grill dishes up tapas at the bar and serves Artisanal tinned seafood such as octopus, spiced sardines and anchovies. You have to order the whipped Feta with pita and the bacon-wrapped dates! Sunday afternoon at The Outrigger is mandatory. The view and the live music can’t be missed. Also, it is one of the few restaurants that can serve locally caught seafood.
That night, as I waddled back to Victoria 1883, I was thankful that I would be walking the Sugar Mill Gardens and kayaking the next day. Sugar Mill Garden is 12 acres of history and whimsy. There is a butterfly garden, heart garden, Gnome home, human sundial and even several concrete dinosaurs that you will come across as you explore the mill ruins and the gardens. Sadly, the weather decided to interrupt my kayaking plans but Eric from Viking Eco Tours walked me out onto the dock and in the pouring rain, we stood and watched the dolphins and manatees swimming within arm’s reach. It seemed like a poetic way to end my stay.
When you visit New Smyrna Beach, head down to the beach and look for me; I’ll be surfing!
#Chill Out in New Smyrna Beach Travel Articles