New Smyrna Beach | Like A Local

   

    I park in a sandy lot facing Flagler Ave. When I step out of my vehicle a pair of robust roosters, foraging for breakfast, greet me. I weave through the oldest and largest Banyan tree outside of south Florida and head toward Third Wave Cafe - one of my favorite restaurants. Though there's inside dining, their alfresco seating is a dream. Prepared for Florida's temperamental weather, they provide fans in the heat and heaters for the few chilly months. Even there, a rooster perches by the doorway entrance.

    New Smyrna Beach is a cozy beach town with a fun and artsy vibe. A walk down Canal Street offers art galleries, shopping, and a plethora of cute restaurants. I visit a gallery boasting many original Highwaymen pieces and chat with the owner about the stories of these legendary men, and one woman. I'm saving up for my someday installment that will hang above our family heirloom piano. 

    Though the shark bite capital of the world (that's right!), no sharks make an appearance during my early morning walk. Instead, there are panoramic views of blue water and white sand. I may be a little jealous of New Smyrna's sand over our sticky and orange-tinted coquina shell sand. On one trip here, years ago, I saw a bobcat stroll under the boardwalk. 

    Smyrna Dunes Park wraps around the inlet, offering trails bordering the Atlantic and intracoastal waterways. Ponce Inlet's lighthouse can be seen, as well as a favorite boating destination: Disappearing Island.