One of the oldest cities in Florida is located in Volusia County. Founded in 1768, New Smyrna Beach is a very popular tourist spot and attracts retirees and people who buy second homes. It's an enjoyable place for people who appreciate the scenic coastline, marine life and the relaxed, outdoor lifestyle. The climate brings summers that are hot and humid and generally, mild and dry winters. The summer months do have their share of violent thunderstorms and there are hurricanes. The region has an interesting history, seen through the many buildings of historic significance. The presence of the Timucuan Indians is seen at the Turtle Mound, made by them from oyster shells and standing at 50 foot tall.
The city also enjoys popularity because of its close proximity to Disney World in Orlando and the Daytona International Speedway track. The beach is frequented by people who want to surf, wind surf, jet ski or water ski. The Ponce de Leon inlet is where surfers congregate as the waves are almost guaranteed. New Smyrna Beach is also a favorite spot for sport fishing enthusiasts and there are three 18-hole golf courses in the local area. The coastline has a high record of shark attacks but no fatalities so far.
Speed freaks enjoy the local stock car racing and the New Smyrna Beach Speedway organizes races every week. For theatre lovers, there is the Atlantic Center for the Arts, a venue for recitals, plays and musicals. There are many shopping malls here and also at nearby Edgewater. Restaurants are varied, from seafood specialists to Mexican, Chinese and Italian.
The area is well known for its flat fishing with an environment of mangroves, sandbars and oyster bars. The Mosquito Lagoon is a large area known for its population of tarpon, speckled trout and Spanish mackerel. Rare West Indian Manatees and Right Whales are spotted off shore of New Smyrna Beach. Many people like to come to the beach to collect different kinds of shells. The Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area of coastline where several species of flora and fauna, indigenous to the area, thrives. There are important nesting grounds of Loggerhead Sea Turtles here.
The city population is over 21,000 and looks set to grow with the addition of affluent second home owners, who want a piece of real estate in a desirable location. New Smyrna Beach is ideally placed to take advantage of its fine, natural features.
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