Here’s a short clip of me swimming out in the waves at New Smyrna Beach. I attached my GoPro straight onto my cheap foam body board and enjoyed the surf.
New Smyrna has become my favorite beach to visit in Florida. Although it’s a bit of a drive from my home, it’s worth the mileage due to the great easy wheelchair access provided by parking your vehicle right on the sand. From your vehicle to the surf is about 20 feet and half of that distance is over highly compacted sand. The water is always a great temperature and there are few sand dunes to get in your way.
Parking is normally $10 per day, but is FREE for those with a disabled parking permit. Just mention it to the guard at the gate and they’ll give you a windshield sticker for future quick access.
There are a few downsides to keep in mind.
First, New Smyrna is a very popular beach in the summer. It’s always crowded. Be prepared to have to drive more than a mile along the beach before you find an empty parking spot. The good news is there is always enough room if you drive far enough from the entrance.
Second, vehicle access to the beach is CLOSED around high tide. Check the tide predictions for the day before you go and try to avoid the time two hours before or after high tide.
Third, there is almost always a strong rip tide parallel to the coast. This means if you get in the water and aren’t paying attention, you will literally be taken a mile or more down the coast. For those of in a wheelchair that struggle to get through any sand, it’s a major concern.
Despite these issues, New Smyrna is still my favorite beach. The people are always friendly, there are vendors that sell snacks, you can see crabs, sea turtles & all kinds of birds, oh and you can’t beat the accessibility.