Hello From

New Smyrna Beach!

 

 

“A Swan Among Ducks”

Anna Maria Island

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New Smyrna Beach

A City in Volusia County, Florida

 

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, is a laid-back coastal city known for its surf culture, historic charm, and natural beauty. Nestled along the Atlantic Ocean in Volusia County, it offers 17 miles of wide, sandy beaches and a vibrant arts community. The city blends its rich history—dating back to one of Florida’s earliest settlements—with a modern beach-town vibe, where surf shops, art galleries, and local eateries line the streets.

While you may hear the tagline “Cyprus-lined streets by the sea”, used in some branding for the city,  “A Swan Among Ducks” or “Cygnus inter anatesis” in latin, is actually the unofficial motto and longtime nickname for New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

The phrase was popularized in the mid-20th century to capture the city’s unique charm, beauty, and individuality compared to neighboring coastal towns. It reflects how New Smyrna Beach stands out for its historic character, artistic community, and laid-back coastal lifestyle — graceful and distinctive, like a swan among ducks.

Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse in New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Ponce De Leon Inlet Lighthouse in New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Photo by Jupiterimages via Canva

Location & Size

New Smyrna Beach is located on Florida’s central east coast, just south of Daytona Beach and about 55 miles northeast of Orlando.

The city covers approximately 37 square miles, including coastal barrier islands and inland neighborhoods along the Indian River.

Founded

New Smyrna Beach has one of the most fascinating origin stories in Florida’s history. It was founded in 1768 by Dr. Andrew Turnbull, a Scottish physician and entrepreneur, who received a British land grant to establish a colony in East Florida—then under British rule. Turnbull named the settlement New Smyrna in honor of his wife, Maria Gracia Menendez, who was born in Smyrna (now İzmir, Turkey).

Turnbull brought over 1,400 settlers from Greece, Italy, and Minorca (an island off Spain), making it one of the largest British colonial settlements in North America at the time. The colonists worked to cultivate indigo, sugarcane, and hemp on the fertile lands near the Indian River. However, harsh working conditions, disease, and conflicts with overseers led to great hardship.

After nearly nine years of struggle, many of the surviving settlers abandoned New Smyrna and relocated to St. Augustine around 1777, where they became known as the “Minorcans.”

Though Turnbull’s colony collapsed, New Smyrna’s Mediterranean roots and early agricultural beginnings laid the foundation for the community that would eventually grow into the modern city. The area was later resettled in the 1800s, incorporated in 1887, and evolved into the vibrant coastal town now known for its history, beaches, and arts culture.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH WEATHER

Population

 As of 2025, New Smyrna Beach has an estimated population of about 33,000 residents.

Known For

  • Beautiful beaches and some of the best surfing in Florida

  • Historic downtown district filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries

  • Canaveral National Seashore and nearby wildlife preserves

  • Eclectic arts scene, including the Atlantic Center for the Arts

  • Its relaxed, small-town atmosphere with a coastal twist

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: Around $71,000

  • Median Home Price: Approximately $495,000

  • Average Rent: About $2,300 per month


New Smyrna Beach’s cost of living is slightly above the national average due to its popularity as a beachfront destination, but it remains more affordable than many other Florida coastal towns.

 

 

Things to do

  • Surf or sunbathe at New Smyrna Beach and Smyrna Dunes Park

  • Explore Canaveral National Seashore and spot dolphins and sea turtles

  • Stroll along Flagler Avenue and Canal Street Historic District for local dining and shopping

  • Visit the Marine Discovery Center or take an eco-tour by kayak or boat

  • Attend community events like the Shrimp & Seafood Festival or Art Fiesta

Fun Facts

  • New Smyrna Beach is often called the “Surfing Capital of the East Coast.”

  • Known as the “Shark bite capital of the world” due to the high number of bites, primarily from small blacktip and spinner sharks, which are attracted by bait fish near shore. The frequency of bites is also high because of the large number of surfers and swimmers in the area. While attacks are common, they are usually non-fatal.

  • It’s one of Florida’s oldest European settlements, predating many major cities.

  • The area is known for frequent shark sightings, earning it a quirky reputation among surfers.

  • The city maintains a strong dedication to the arts, with over 20 local galleries and studios showcasing regional talent.

Nearby Cities

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