Sandwiched Between St. Augustine & Melbourne Is A Florida Beach Town For A Cheap Getaway

If there's anything Florida is known for (besides its abundance of theme parks), it's having beaches pretty much around the entire state, including one of the best U.S. beaches of 2026. Whether you prefer the Gulf side or the Atlantic side, you're never too far away from a world-class stretch of sand. However, what if you're looking for a beach getaway without breaking the bank? If you head north along the Atlantic coastline, about an hour and 20 minutes south of St. Augustine and just under 90 minutes north of Melbourne, you'll run into the town of New Smyrna Beach. 

Situated south of Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach offers budget-friendly options for dining, accommodations, and attractions. From natural spaces to golf clubs to eclectic dining to, of course, beaches, this city is well worth a visit. Let's break down what makes New Smyrna Beach such a hidden gem and how you can make the most of your next Florida vacation.

Overall, New Smyrna Beach offers a variety of accommodations. It's not densely packed with high-rise hotels, and smaller accommodations help give the area a laid-back feel. As with any city, though, the rates can fluctuate based on variables like the time of year and where exactly you stay. For example, ocean-view rooms next to the beach can be pricier than those farther inland. You can also compare prices using apps for finding deals on flights and hotels.

Another great reason to visit New Smyrna Beach is that it offers easy beach access. With 17 miles of beaches, there are plenty of places to relax next to the water. Alternatively, if you prefer more green spaces, you can check out spots like Smyrna Dunes Park, which overlooks Ponce de Leon Inlet and its lighthouse. You can also drive south along Atlantic Avenue until you reach Canaveral National Seashore.

But you don't have to stick to natural elements to have a fun, budget-friendly vacation. If you're into racing, you can head to New Smyrna Speedway to see all the action going on. If you're looking to see wild animals and experience interactive exhibits, the Marine Discovery Center puts you up close and personal with local flora and fauna. Golf is another great activity, and you can take your pick from multiple courses like the New Smyrna Golf Club or The Club at Venetian Bay, which also offers glow-in-the-dark golf for evening play. 

Because New Smyrna Beach is just south of Daytona Beach, one way to reach the city is to fly into Daytona Beach International Airport, which is about half an hour away. As we mentioned, hotels are easy to come by in the city, as are affordable vacation rentals. If you're trying to plan an epic Florida vacation, you can also incorporate other hotspots like Orlando or the Kennedy Space Center. So, it's easy to stay in New Smyrna Beach and experience other popular Florida tourist attractions you can't miss on your trip. 

While relaxing next to the ocean or exploring the natural scenery around New Smyrna Beach is a great way to experience the city, you can also indulge your foodie side. For example, if you want to eat next to the beach, The Breakers Ocean Front Restaurant is a great choice for sandwiches, burgers, and fresh seafood in a casual setting. Similarly, River Deck Tiki Bar and Restaurant also overlooks the water, although it's the Indian River instead of the Atlantic Ocean. This place even has its own dock if you want to show up in a boat rather than by car. If you want to get a taste of California while you're in Florida, SoNapa Grille features California wines and cuisine in a semi-rustic atmosphere.