Your Perfect Paddles Guide to New Smyrna Beach, FL!
Want to SUP in New Smyrna Beach? Check out this comprehensive guide to the area!
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Florida. The sunshine state. Along both coasts, you are likely to find some of the best places to paddle in the world for people of all skill levels.
With so many options available to the paddle enthusiast, it can be difficult to find somewhere off the beaten path. As a result, it's hard to find a perfect paddle that is not the most well-known.
One such place happens to be the quiet little drinking town of New Smyrna Beach.
NSB (as locals call it) is located in between the ultra popular towns of Daytona Beach and the big city of Orlando.
In NSB, you won’t find the bustling streets or the crowded beaches. Instead, you’ll find a quiet town with two downtown areas full of cafes, shops, and plenty of surfing.
If you are in the mood to explore somewhere with a quiet feel that also happens to have wide-open beaches (that you can drive on!) then NSB is the place to go.
To learn more about NSB, launch locations, the drive on beach, and places to SUP and SUP surf, check out this comprehensive guide where we cover all of these and more!
How This Guide Works
This guide is built with you in mind. Whether you are a seasoned paddler with years of experience, or a complete beginner who needs to rent a board for paddling, we have you covered.
For iSUP owners, we’ll discuss where to drive onto the beach. Where to pay for your day pass. Inland areas to explore on your SUP. And what you can do if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
For short term visitors who need to rent a board while you’re in town, we’ll go over where you can pick up a board. What types of boards are available. And where you can launch your board on calmer waters.
Use this comprehensive guide as your key to the information you need to have the best possible time in NSB - both on and off the water.
Of course, if you have any questions about the area, you can always drop us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
-Perfect Paddles Travel Brief-
SUP Outfitters in the Area:
- Paddle Board New Smyrna Beach
Location: 175 N Causeway, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169
They have a launch point right behind the shop on the Indian River.
Best Offering: Dolphin Tour. This 90 minute tour includes your guide, paddle board, paddle, life vest and intro lesson. Let their experienced guides take you on a 2.5 mile tour of the beautiful Indian River. All experience levels welcome to come explore our waterways full of dolphins, sea turtles and manatees! - Nichols Surf Shop
Location: 307 Lytle Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168
Best Offering: SUP Eco Tours. Kayak or Paddleboard the Indian River Lagoon with Certified Master Naturalists. You can find yourself in water loaded with fish, wading birds and many varieties of marine life. Paddling among manatees and dolphins is a common occurrence. Nichols Surf Shop EcoTours last about 2 hours. They take individuals and/or groups into the mangrove forests, coves and tidal marshes of the Indian River Lagoon. - Surf’s SUP (Ormond Beach)
Location: Granada Approach or Fortunato Park Ormond Beach, FL
Best Offering: PaddleFit + SUP Yoga. Their Paddle FIT class offers you a completely different type of workout that is fun, dynamic and versatile while increasing core strength, giving you greater flexibility, mobility and stability around the hips, midsection and shoulders. They can customize your workout to fit your specific wants and needs.
Member Deals: Don’t forget to take advantage of our fantastic Member Deals for exclusive discounts for our members! To become a member head HERE.
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SUP Equipment Available to Rent
Cruiser SUP (10’6’’-11’4’’)
SUP Surf (CATCH paddle boards shaped locally in Florida)
Stand up paddle board surf boards can only be demoed at Paddleboard NSB.
NSB Area Info (source):
- 17 miles of coastline.
- The calm Indian River runs parallel to the beach as a flatwater option for paddlers.
- New Smyrna’s excellent surfing conditions have produced more than eight world-class competitive surfers over the years.
- New Smyrna Beach has the most biologically diverse estuary in North America. It is home to more than 400 species of birds, dolphins, manatees, alligators, turtles, and more.
- There are no chain restaurants on New Smyrna’s beachside. Everything is locally owned with only mom-and-pop style restaurants.
- New Smyrna Beach is the “Redfish Capital of the World.” Anglers can participate in world-class fishing offshore and in the backwaters of Mosquito Lagoon.
- New Smyrna Beach is one of three locations in Florida where beach driving is allowed. But there are traffic-free zones as well!
- Ponce de Leon Inlet is home to the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, which is the tallest lighthouse in Florida and the second tallest masonry lighthouse in the country.
- New Smyrna Beach is set on a barrier island. There is no access to A1A North or South out of New Smyrna Beach.
- New Smyrna Beach is a great location to spot rocket launches organized by the Kennedy Space Center. Many people even drive down to the southernmost point of the Canaveral National Seashore where they can see the skyline of the Kennedy Space Center facility with an up-close view of the launches. You don't need to drive all the way to the space center to get a great view!
- *NSB is known as the shark attack capital of the world. In 2021 there were ten recorded attacks. However, none have ever been fatal in NSB’s history. Most are minor cases of mistaken identity. "The vast majority of incidents that occur there are very minor bites from juvenile blacktip sharks," Tyler Bowling, manager of the Florida Program for Shark Research said. "In places like New Smyrna, where the water can be darker, the blacktip sharks can't see very well. So, they are likely reacting to flashes of movement. This could be a nice mullet or a human's foot."
- This is something to just keep in mind while you are in town. Luckily, you’ll be on a SUP and will be able to stay out of the water most of the time. Just be sure to tell other surfers or paddlers if you do spot something!
Best Time of Year to Visit:
The best time to visit to SUP in New Smyrna Beach, Florida will largely depend on what you want to do. If you are a beachgoer, the best times would be Spring and Summer when the weather is warm and so is the ocean.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds, and the stifling heat, a trip to NSB during the summer will be a better choice. During the winter, the crowds are sparse, the weather is cooler, and the beaches are open. However, you will need a wetsuit if you plan on SUP surfing. If you want to paddle flatwater only, you won’t need a wetsuit and the best time to visit would be during the winter.
Take these into account for when you plan on visiting!
Average Temperature/Seasons:
Much of Florida has a hot and humid climate. During the summer months, on the coast, the average daily high temperature hovers around 90°F with a low reaching around 50°F during the winter months depending on location. As a result, freezing temperatures are rare, even in winter.
SUP Environments to Paddle In
Atlantic Ocean
Indian River
Potential Water Hazards
There can be a strong current in the Indian River during certain times of the day. This is due to the river being tidal.
To be better prepared for the direction and strength of the current, it is always a great idea to check the tide charts before your SUP in New Smyrna Beach. On a strong outgoing tide (low) and incoming tide (high) you will be met with the strongest current. It is always recommended to go on a slack tide when the water is most calm.
Anytime you decide to go, always be wary before heading out, see what direction it is flowing in, and always wear a leash.
In addition, there may be small alligators in the water as well. To avoid any dangerous run-ins, it’s always best to stick to areas with higher boat traffic. Gators are much more likely to be in areas where the water is calm and undisturbed.
In addition, most gators will stay away from anything that is bigger than them. If you are paddling a 10 '6' board’ up to a 14’ board you will likely scare off any smaller ones. If you happen to see a large gator in the area calmly paddle away from it without making any loud noises or extra splashing motions.
It is also best to proceed with caution during gator mating season and hatchling season as well.
“April is the final month of Florida's dry season and the beginning of the alligators' annual courtship. Most alligator mating takes place in May and June, with nesting in late June and July. Females lay an average of 32 to 46 eggs which hatch in late summer or early fall.” (source)
Always be on the lookout when paddling in Florida!
In the ocean, you should know that NSB is a place where shark bites can happen. As we’ve already stated, they are non-fatal and mostly result in minor injuries. But always keep your eyes open for the possibility! Don’t wear jewelry or shiny objects as it can confuse them in the murky waters especially at dawn or dusk.
The waves in NSB are mostly small and manageable even for the novice. But on occasion they can be upward to 4’+. On these days, if you are not an experienced surfer, either opt for a relaxing paddle on the Indian River or check out a different activity to do in town!
Wind and Weather and Where/When to Paddle
The wind will vary when it comes to SUP in New Smyrna Beach. Most of the time it is a southerly wind which will make the swell messy and disorganized. High times for wind are in the afternoon. To paddle during the calmest times during the day it is recommended that you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
You can avoid most windy conditions by sticking to the back areas of the Indian River. In these locations, winds are often protected by the mangroves that grow there.
The weather in New Smyrna is fairly consistent. In the morning, expect clear, blue skies. On occasion clouds can roll in during the early afternoons with an occasional rainstorm during the winter months.
Special Note: Hurricane season is officially June 1st - November 30th on the East Coast of Florida. During this time period you can expect the best waves for surfing. However, if you are still a beginner, it is best to avoid paddling in conditions that are too extreme for you. Always refer to a wind and weather app before heading onto the water - or talk with a local paddling professional or outfitter to gain insider knowledge on the area.
SUP Activity Highlights:
Wildlife Tours
Eco-Tours
SUP Surfing
SUP Meetup Groups in the Area
Three Brothers Stand Up Paddleboards (Daytona Beach): Spreading knowledge and passion about stand up paddle boarding.Three Brothers Boards has high quality, family-shaped stand-up paddle boards for surfing and flat water SUP. We hand shape, manufacture and test our stand up paddle boards to ensure the highest quality board at one of the most affordable prices available on the market.Three Brothers Boards also offers Stand Up Paddle Board tours in the Daytona Beach area. Your SUP tour is guaranteed to be amazing with great memories to share when you go home.
Volusia County Paddle Cleanup: Welcome eco-friendly paddle enthusiasts! We're a group that enjoys getting out on the water and having a good time while leaving our local waterways better than we found them Join us and have a great time meeting new people while making a positive impact; and if you don't have a board or kayak floa.co can provide a loaner at no charge!
Deland Paddles: Thank you for your interest in joining DeLand Paddles. This group is intended for people of all ages 14 and up who enjoy the outdoors and are interested in paddling trips, river camping, short sunrise paddles, kayak fishing, and making new friends. All trips will have suggested skill levels necessary to attend from beginner to expert. Please do not attend trips beyond your capabilities and skill level, but don't be afraid to push yourself and try something new. If you do have any difficulty, please do not hesitate to ask for help from the organizer or other more experienced members.
Hotels/Price Ranges
Hampton Inn New Smyrna Beach: $129
Best Western New Smyrna Beach: $139
The Riverview Hotel and Spa: $139
The Salty Mermaid Oceanfront Hotel: $189
Anchor Inn NSB Bed and Breakfast: $135
Camping Areas
New Smyrna Beach RV Park and Campground
Cacklebery Campground at the Cabbage Patch
SUP Surfing Information
New Smyrna Beach is known for being a quiet little drinking town. That also happens to have some of the best waves on the east coast. If you plan on visiting, then plan on catching a few gnarly waves while you are there. To SUP in New Smyrna Beach, you can either rent a board from one of it’s many surf shops or grab one of your own! Either way, take advantage of the wide open beaches when you’re in town.
An added bonus about visiting NSB - you can drive right on the beach no matter what kind of car you have! The sand is so packed, it's not unusual to see anything from Toyota Camrys to BMW sedans parked along the shore.
There is a $20 per day per vehicle access fee to drive on the beach or $100 for the season if you are an out of state visitor.
To get a pass, head to Flagler Avenue which is downtown NSB. As you approach the beach you will see a booth where you can purchase a day pass.
One word of caution - New Smyrna is also known as a place where you may encounter a shark or two. While the possibilities are relatively high compared to other areas around the world, the danger posed by the smaller sharks located along the beach is not. Just keep an eye out when you are in the water. And if you are using a SUP surfboard let others in the area know if you see something!
Launch Locations:
SUP Surfers
Beginner: The best place for beginners to SUP surf in NSB is right on the beach. With the drive-on beach you can find your own spot where the waves are breaking and are relatively uncrowded.
Head to Flagler Avenue, at the end of the road you will see a gate with a booth. Once you approach the booth you can buy an all-day pass for $20. The sand on the beach is very packed and can accommodate almost any type of vehicle to drive on, from small sedans to 4x4 pickups.
Intermediate: We also recommend driving on the beach (take advantage of this fun activity!) and head north towards the Ponce Inlet. The inlet itself is probably the best place to surf in NSB. Because of this, it tends to get crowded! Stop before the inlet (and the overbearing crowds) to surf in a spot that has less board traffic.
Advanced: Head to the Ponce Inlet! If you are experienced in surfing, can handle crowds, and know how to read the waves, this is the spot to go to catch the biggest and best waves. The easiest way to get there is to drive onto the beach, turn left, and go until you run out of beach. Park near the dunes and spend the day surfing underneath the sun!
Additional information on the Ponce Inlet as well as additional places to SUP surf outside of NSB can be found below.
Top SUP Surf Locations Near New Smyrna
From our friends at visitflorida.com…
“When the rest of the world is flat, you can count on finding a wave in New Smyrna Beach.
Tucked between Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach, NSB is a classic salty town. It has narrow streets. Wide beaches. And a prevailing laid-back, surfer-dude attitude. It also has one of the most consistent surf breaks on the East Coast, thanks to significant rock ledges off the coast.
The reliable waves are small – generally a few feet high – but they draw some of the country’s best surfers. Every summer, the American Professional Surfing Association holds one of its premier contests here.
In 2012, National Geographic Magazine recognized New Smyrna Beach as “one of the world’s top 20 surf towns.” Surfer Magazine has ranked NSB number nine on its list of “best surf towns.”
"We’re the most consistent wave on the East Coast of the United States,” says Chuck Carter, owner of Nichols Surf Shop, the city’s oldest surf shop, having been around since 1969. “No matter what, you know you’re always going to catch a good wave.”
Before heading out, please be honest with your skills and surfing abilities. These breaks are often crowded and need proper care before heading into the lineup. Or even better, if you are new to the sport, hire a local instructor to take you out and show you the proper etiquette so everyone can have fun and stay safe!
Ponce Inlet
The top NSB surfing spot is Ponce Inlet, where the Intracoastal Waterway, Indian River North and Halifax River empty between stone jetties into the Atlantic Ocean. Here you will find the most consistent waves and with the most size. To SUP in New Smyrna Beach, if you have a drive-on pass, head south from the Ponce Inlet for wide open spaces along NSB and a chance to catch your own private waves.
Bethune Beach
If you decide to head south of Ponce Inlet’s famous spots and the downtown Flagler Avenue area, you’ll find Bethune Beach. This spot produces a south swell surfing spot and can handle bigger waves than other areas. It’s best to go at low tide when the waves from the outside wedge end up on the inside for a nice swell. Unfortunately it too can get a bit crowded here when the waves are pumping. However, it is spacious enough and has plenty of spots to snag some waves if you are content to hang on the outside. If you’re the adventurous type you can also keep heading south and you’ll come upon a surf break at Cape Canaveral National Seashore, as well as a nude beach (if that’s your thing).
Daytona Beach - About a 20 Minute Drive from NSB
Located about 20 minutes north of New Smyrna, lies the famous shores of Daytona Beach - the home of the Daytona 500! While maybe not as big or consistent as New Smyrna Beach, Daytona is an original surf spot in Florida with roots dating back to the 60’s. Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach were named in 2018 to be two of the top places to surf on Florida's east coast by Coastal Living. Locals also love swarming around Main Street with its array of shopping, restaurants for every taste bud imaginable as well as Sunglow Piers for some consistent, yet smaller, waves.
Cocoa Beach - About an Hour Drive from NSB
Hometown of the legend of all legends in the surfing world - Kelly Slater. The place has been visited by surfers since the 1950s, when a group of wave riding enthusiasts regularly trekked from south Florida with their longboards to explore Cocoa Beach and Melbourne. Pat O'Hare (and his partner Rick James) learned how to shape boards at Greg Noll's factory in Hermosa Beach; they founded J&O Surfboards here after moving there for good in 1963-64.
While the waves may not be the best or the most consistent, Cocoa Beach is a must-visit for the surfing enthusiast, if only to see the original Ron Jon Surf Shop and statue memorializing Kelly Slater.
St. Augustine - About an Hour Fifteen Minute Drive from NSB
The United States’ oldest city, St. Augustine was founded in 1565. While there may be a few places to check out while in town, the most famous spot to surf has to be the infamous Blowhole, located in Anastasia State Park Recreation Area. The Infamous Blowhole in Florida has long been a storied surfing destination. Recent construction changed the topography a bit but when you visit today's blowhole there are still plenty of opportunities for beginning or intermediate riders who want reliable wave patterns with consistent paddling ability over open water.
Flatwater SUP Information
Now that we’ve covered the best SUP surf spots, let’s get to the seven best places to SUP in New Smyrna Beach - on flatware!
The North Jetty
The North Jetty is one of the most popular destinations to SUP in New Smyrna Beach. This well-known spot offers great waves for surfing and plenty of space to paddle around. There's also a nice beach area where you can take a break and enjoy the views.
Mosquito Lagoon
Mosquito Lagoon is another great spot for SUP in New Smyrna Beach. With its calm waters and abundance of wildlife, it's perfect for nature lovers. You can expect to see manatees, dolphins, and even some playful otters. Stand up paddle boarding in Mosquito Lagoon is a great way to see Florida's coastal wildlife up close.
The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse
The Ponce Inlet Lighthouse is one of the most iconic sights on the New Smyrna Beach coast and an excellent place to SUP in New Smyrna Beach. Stand up paddle boarding here gives you a chance to admire this historic building from offshore as well as create some amazing SUP photos by taking advantage of its towering backdrop. SUPs are welcome at all hours of the day.
PONCE INLET SUP HOUR: Little Island Park - South Causeway, New Smyrna Beach FL | 11 am - 12 pm & 3 pm - 4 pm every Saturday! (except on holiday weekends)
Canaveral National Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore is a beautiful stretch of beach that's perfect for SUP in New Smyrna Beach. With its undeveloped coastline and pristine waters, it offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Paddling here is a great way to experience Florida's natural beauty firsthand.
The Indian River
The Indian River is a 121-mile long brackish lagoon in Florida. It is part of the Indian River Lagoon system, which in turn forms part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. This winding river offers plenty of opportunities to explore its many creeks and marshes. There's also a chance to see manatees, dolphins, and other aquatic life. Paddling in the Indian River is a great way to enjoy Florida's natural beauty at its finest. While on the river you can expect to see plenty of boat traffic. From fishing vessels to anchor sail boats taking in the sunset. The Indian River is truly a paddling location unique to SUP in New Smyrna Beach and Florida as a whole.
The South Jetty
Just like the North Jetty, the South Jetty is a popular place to SUP in New Smyrna Beach. With its consistent waves and wide open space, it's perfect for anyone looking for a good SUP session. It's also a great place to watch the sunset over the horizon. Bonus: Grab a pass from one of the many entrances to the beach and drive right on!
Additional Activities When You Are Not on the Water
Top Restaurants in New Smyrna Beach:
Norwood’s Restaurant and Treehouse Bar: Old-school seafood restaurant with a retro feel, an expansive wine menu & a retail shop. All built around a tree for an interesting treehouse setting!
Outriggers Tiki Bar and Grille: Festive harborside tavern with a wraparound bar & a patio serving comfort eats & exotic cocktails with fantastic views of the water!
Third Wave Cafe: Cozy hub with gourmet coffee, sandwiches & pizzas, global wines & craft beers, plus a garden patio.
The Breakers: The Breakers Restaurant is perfectly located right on the beautiful sandy beach of New Smyrna. Customers are treated to sun drenched views, ocean birds wading in the surf and beach passer bys, creating a magnificent and relaxing atmosphere all while dining on delicious meals or sipping cocktails.
Da Kine Poke: Da Kine Poke started as a food truck in April 2016 by founders Pete Downing and Aaron Smith after realizing the lack of poke in central FL. Since then they have grown into 2 brick and mortar shops and more on the way. While “Da Kine” appears in many contexts and refers to almost anything, it is frequently associated with something good or genuine – “The Best” for example as a company name.
Cool Beans Cafe: Cool Beans and more is an Italian ice and coffee shop located off Flagler in a beautiful courtyard. We also sell cold brew coffee, espresso.
Cafe Del Soul: A small-town feel cafe serving organic food, drinks, smoothies, and juices. Stop here if you're vegan or want to eat healthy, yet delicious, food!
Additional Attractions if the Wind and Weather Don’t Cooperate (Click on the links for additional information on each location):
Florida, of course, is known for Disney World. As a result, many tourists come to visit the theme parks. But we’ll also list a few additional options worth exploring. Let’s discover some more!
Smyrna Dunes Park: Smyrna Dunes Park is a 184 acre inlet park located along the southern shoreline of Ponce de Leon Inlet. The park has over 2 miles of wide, elevated, handicapped accessible boardwalk capped with recycled lumber that is both comfortable and durable. Multiple scenic overlooks allow breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian River and Ponce de Leon Inlet. Special park features include a 300’ handicapped accessible fishing pier and dog-friendly swimming beach areas located along the park river shore. Restrooms and picnic pavilions are also available at this very popular coastal park.
Flagler Avenue: Flagler Avenue is a true seaside beach street lined with quaint boutiques, galleries, surf shops, restaurants, inns and more. These charming small businesses make for an unforgettable visit. Leisurely walk the five blocks from the river to the ocean and experience our historic street with an old Florida ambiance. Don’t forget about the vibrant nightlife — the party’s always happening on Flagler Avenue!
Turtle Mound National Historic Site: Turtle Mound is a prehistoric archaeological site located 9 miles south of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, on State Road A1A. On September 29, 1970, it was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It is the largest shell midden on the mainland United States, with an approximate height of 50 feet.
New Smyrna Museum of History: The New Smyrna Museum of History is located at 120 Sams Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, Florida, in the New Smyrna Beach Historic District. It contains exhibits depicting the history of New Smyrna Beach. The building itself was constructed in 1923 as the local post office.
Canal Street: Take a leisurely walk down Canal Street and discover one of New Smyrna Beach’s charming historic districts. Lined with shops, boutiques, galleries, and museums, Canal Street is perfect for date night or a fun family outing. Foodies will love the wide range of restaurant offerings, from barbecue to pizza to Thai. The New Smyrna Beach Brewing Company also makes its home on Canal Street, where you can partake in a variety of craft beers.
Walt Disney is just an hour’s drive from NSB!
Walt Disney World Resort: The Walt Disney World Resort, also called Walt Disney World or Disney World, is an entertainment resort complex in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, Florida, United States, near the cities of Orlando and Kissimmee.
Universal Orlando Resort: Universal Orlando Resort, commonly known as Universal Orlando or simply "Universal," formerly Universal Studios Escape, is an American theme park and entertainment resort complex based in Orlando, Florida.
Epcot: Epcot is a theme park at Walt Disney World Resort featuring exciting attractions, international pavilions, award-winning fireworks & seasonal special celebrations.
The Florida Fun Continues…
We hope you enjoyed our Perfect Paddles Guide to SUP in New Smyrna Beach. This small coastal town is full of fun-loving people from all ages and areas. Here you can find some of the most consistent waves on the East Coast as well as plenty of wildlife to satisfy the nature lover in your family.
In addition, NSB is in a central location between the fun tourist town and the United States’ oldest city in St. Augustine and a short hour drive inland to the world famous Walt Disney resort.
Looking for a location outside of New Smyrna Beach? Then check out the rest of our Florida resources by clicking on our SUP Search section on Perfect Paddles! The fun in Florida never ends and we hope to help guide you in creating the perfect trip down south!
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