Smyrna Dunes Park is a beautiful coastal park that boasts 73 acres of picturesque, sandy beaches. It is situated at the northern section of New Smyrna Beach point in Florida. The park provides ample opportunities for fishing, walking, and swimming for New Smyrna Beach vacations, while showcasing the gorgeous natural beauty of the surroundings.
Location: 2995 N Peninsula Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
If you are looking for a top natural attraction to visit on a dog friendly vacation, this is the place you want to be. This lovely beach park is the only one in the area that is dog-friendly. Below are some tips to help you navigate your way through the park with your family and 4-legged friend.
Five Unique Ecosystems
Smyrna Dunes Park is managed with strict dedication to the protection of the local wildlife and habitat. Even though the park is pet friendly, the sand dune ecosystem remains largely untouched here. Dogs are restricted to certain areas of the park (more details below). Visitors have the unique opportunity to see a wide variety of birds, reptiles, sea turtles, and other species that are native to the area.
Five distinct ecosystems are found in Smyrna Dunes Park. The main ecosystem is the immense sand dunes, but oceans, scrub zones, rivers, and saltwater marshes are also present. Each ecosystem is home to a unique range of flora and fauna. The park provides pavilions and observation towers for more information or vantage points to take it all in. Park rangers will also gladly provide educational tours upon request.
Getting to the Park
If you’re planning on visiting Smyrna Dunes Park, it can easily be accessed by land or by sea. The main entrance features an elevated boardwalk for strollers and easy transport of beach essentials like coolers, wagons, etc. This raised boardwalk is necessary to protect the delicate sand dunes from pedestrians. It may seem like a bit of a walk (it measures 1.5 miles) but it is constructed this way for the benefit of the wildlife and ecosystem. The boardwalk allows visitors to immerse themselves in the unique landscape without disturbing it.
Pet Considerations
Even though this is a dog-friendly park, make sure you are courteous to other beach-goers while you are with your pet. Keep your dog on its leash and clean up any messes it may leave. Dogs are not allowed on the ocean beach but are allowed everywhere else in the park, including the river and the inlet. Be aware that there are some visitors who may not keep their dogs on a leash. Also be careful to keep your dog from interfering with any of the local wildlife here.
Fishing and Swimming
You can fish in the park but always look out for swimmers since they have the right of way. Also, keep in mind that local saltwater fishing regulations should be followed. Swimmers should also remember there are no lifeguards on duty and to swim at their own risk. It’s also advised to never swim alone.
If you are planning a dog-friendly vacation, Smyrna Dunes Park in New Smyrna Beach is ideal with its beauty and natural attractions that your furry family member will love. The park is open from sunrise to sunset every day and costs $10 per vehicle for a day pass or $20 for an annual inlet parks pass. The park also provides showers, restrooms, and some vending machines for convenience and all-day fun.