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Visit New Smyrna Beach in February and March: Navigating the High Season

Nestled on Florida’s east coast, New Smyrna Beach offers the best of both worlds with its pristine beaches and charming small-town atmosphere. Known for its 17 miles of white sand beaches, this area is one of the few places in the continental U.S. where visitors can drive and park directly on the beach – a unique and delightful experience!

This coastal gem thrives year-round, with each season bringing its own charm. Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture seeker, you’ll find plenty of attractions no matter when you choose to visit.

Still, deciding on the best time for your great escape? According to locals, February and March are the prime months to visit, thanks to the absolutely incredible weather – no wonder this is high season!

Want to know why these are the best months and what activities you can enjoy in New Smyrna Beach during this season? You’re in the right place. This blog will tell you all you need to know about visiting New Smyrna Beach during the high season — and we’ll also give you a glimpse into the other seasons.

Also curious about other local tips and hidden gems? At our New Smyrna Beach destination blog, we offer expert insights on everything from the best restaurants in town to the top pet-friendly spots. Our goal is to make your stay in New Smyrna Beach unforgettable.

Looking for the perfect vacation home? Visit our booking page for a curated selection of the best vacation rentals in New Smyrna Beach. We’re here to ensure you have everything you need for an amazing trip.

Now, let’s dive into the excitement of high season…

When is the High Season in New Smyrna Beach and Why?

As we mentioned, the high season for visiting New Smyrna Beach is primarily during February and March, with February being the busiest month.

The main reason this is the prime season is primarily because of the weather: February and March offer the most pleasant conditions, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.7°C). This creates a perfect environment for outdoor activities, sunbathing, and water sports without the extreme heat of summer.

New Smyrna Beach is also popular with snowbirds, people escaping the winter in colder regions of the country, contributing to the increased tourism during these months.

The city gets lively! The high season coincides with various festivals and events in the area, adding to the appeal for tourists.

To make everything better, water temperatures are still pretty comfortable. In other words, the ocean is warm enough for swimming and other water activities during these months.

All of the above makes February and March the busiest—but tourism season extends beyond these months, basically from late fall through early spring.

Ideas to Enjoy New Smyrna Beach in February and March

February and March in Florida mean you’ll enjoy sunny days without the sweltering heat of summer, making it comfortable to stay outside all day. Here are some of the activities that you can enjoy in New Smyrna Beach during these months.

Water Activities

New Smyrna Beach is a water lover’s paradise in February and March. With the weather just right, you can dive into a variety of water activities. Hit the waves with surfing or paddleboarding, or simply relax and swim in the pristine waters. For those who love exploring, kayaking in the Indian River Lagoon offers stunning views and the chance to spot local wildlife. The mild temperatures ensure that whether you’re on the waves or in the water, your adventures are always enjoyable.

Festivals and Events

The high season in New Smyrna Beach is packed with vibrant festivals and events. February and March see the town come alive with cultural celebrations, food festivals, and art shows. These events offer a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re tasting local delicacies, admiring art, or dancing to live music, the festival season adds an exciting layer to your beach getaway.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts will find February and March to be prime months in New Smyrna Beach. The comfortable weather creates ideal conditions for a day on the water. You can fish from the shore, join a fishing charter, or even try your hand at fly fishing in the Indian River Lagoon. With diverse fish species and picturesque surroundings, fishing here is both a relaxing and rewarding experience.

Local Dining and Nightlife

New Smyrna Beach boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, especially during the high season. Indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, or savor local flavors at charming cafes. As the sun sets, the town’s nightlife comes alive. From beach bars to live music venues, there’s always something happening. Enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand or dance the night away under the stars.

Scenic Drives and Beach Parking

One of the unique perks of New Smyrna Beach is the ability to drive and park directly on the beach. February and March offer the perfect opportunity to take advantage of this. Pack a picnic, load up your car, and enjoy a scenic drive along the coastline. With the mild weather, you can spend the entire day by the ocean, easily moving from your car to the sand whenever you like.

Wildlife and Nature

Nature enthusiasts will love the opportunities for wildlife spotting in February and March. Visit Canaveral National Seashore for birdwatching, or kayak through the Indian River Lagoon to see dolphins and manatees. The mild temperatures make it pleasant to explore these natural habitats without the discomfort of summer heat. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera to capture the diverse wildlife in their beautiful surroundings.

Shopping and Culture

New Smyrna Beach offers a delightful shopping and cultural experience year-round, but February and March are particularly enjoyable. Browse through local boutiques for unique finds, from beachwear to handmade crafts. Art lovers can visit galleries and cultural centers showcasing local talent. The town’s charming atmosphere and friendly locals make shopping and exploring the cultural scene a highlight of any visit.

A Friendly Reminder: The Downsides of Visiting New Smyrna Beach’s High Season

While February and March are fantastic months to visit New Smyrna Beach, it’s good to keep in mind that the high season can come with a few downsides:

More Crowds: These are the busiest months for tourism, so you might find the beaches, attractions, and restaurants more crowded than usual.
Higher Prices and Limited Availability: Due to increased demand, you can expect prices for hotels, flights, and other accommodations to be at their peak. Also, with the high influx of tourists, securing reservations for accommodations and popular activities may be more challenging, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Traffic: Increased tourism can lead to more traffic on highways and local roads, which, as we all know, can sometimes make getting around a bit frustrating.
Overcrowding at Events: Popular festivals, art exhibits, and community gatherings are fun and lively, but they also tend to be more crowded during this time. So take that into consideration!

When is Shoulder Season in New Smyrna Beach and What’s it Like?

The shoulder season in New Smyrna Beach, typically from late March to May and again from September to November, offers a delightful blend of advantages for visitors. During these months, the town is less crowded compared to the bustling peak season, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience.

Visiting During the Spring

Spring, from late March to May, is an ideal time to visit New Smyrna Beach. The weather during this period is particularly pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C), perfect for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and exploring the local parks.

One of the biggest perks of the shoulder season is affordability, which means you can enjoy the same beautiful beach views and engaging activities without breaking the bank. Additionally, availability is much better in general, making it easier to secure reservations for accommodations and popular activities.

Visiting During the Fall

The fall season in New Smyrna Beach is also considered part of the shoulder season. This is another blissfully uncrowded time of the year with ideal temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). This period, typically from September to November, offers a sweet spot for visitors who prefer to avoid the peak tourist crowds.

As you can expect in Florida, the weather during the fall is perfect for enjoying the beach and participating in outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of summer. Most locals would agree that the fall season in New Smyrna Beach offers a delightful blend of perfect weather and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal time to visit.

Where to Stay in New Smyrna Beach, FL

Want another tip from us? When you visit New Smyrna Beach, we suggest choosing vacation rentals over hotels to enjoy a place with local vibes and all the privacy you want.

There are plenty of beach vacation properties, cozy condos, and charming homes in this area. This is another way to immerse yourself in the local culture — shop at local markets, stroll through nearby neighborhoods, and dine at local restaurants.

You’ll truly feel like a local.
For a selection of the very best vacation homes in New Smyrna Beach, visit our booking page. For all the above, we’ve got you covered.

Not to brag, but we are very proud to have earned the official title of one of the “Best Vacation Rental Professionals in the World” from Business Insider.