VACATIONmode Spring 2017 | Page 10

SPRING BREAK AT THE BEACH Discover THE ‘NATURAL SIDE’ OF NEW SMYRNA BEACH Enjoy the uncluttered oceanfront where you can lie back and read a good book or catch a wave. Year after year, Central Florida residents have voted New Smyrna Beach, “Best Beach” in the Orlando Sentinel’s “Best Bets” competition. Impressive, when you consider this is one of the world’s premiere vacation destinations, literally surrounded by world-class coastal options—an unspoiled jewel with 13 miles of white sandy beaches. BIKING TRAILS SMYRNA DUNES PARK Bicycling opportunities are abundant in southeast Volusia county. Cyclists can ride on the hard-packed sand of the beach or along the scenic paved riverwalk. Area nature preserves offer rustic off-road trails, while finished portions of the east central rail Trail provide longer biking paths. Located at the northern tip of the New Smyrna Beach peninsula, this park has almost two miles of elevated boardwalks, pavilions and an observation tower with panoramic views of the Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse, the river, inlet and ocean. Swimming, picnicking, boating, fishing, bird watching are just a few of the opportunities awaiting in this natural setting. Smyrna Dunes park welcomes its leashed furry four-footed friends! FISHING & BOATING Angling opportunities abound. Fishing tournaments are held throughout the year. You can surf fish or cast a line from under one of the bridges or public piers. Hire a guide to fish the world-renowned redfish waters of the Mosquito Lagoon or charter a boat to go offshore. GOLF & TENNIS Warm climate allows guests to get into the swing of things year-round. Lighted hard courts are available for tennis enthusiasts in parks throughout the area as well as a children’s USTA court. There are nine golf courses in the area. The nine golf courses in Greater New Smyrna Beach offer a variety of challenges for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. 10 SPRING 2017 | VACATIONmode LAKE ASHBY PARK This popular waterfront park offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, including canoeing, fishing, walking and simply enjoying nature. Lake Ashby park is included in the “Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail” registry. NATURE PRESERVES Several scenic nature preserves are located throughout the area. Most nature trails are open to hiking, biking, and horseback riding from sunrise to sunset. Some preserves also offer group tent camping and areas for fishing.