Canaveral National Seashore

It’s a shore thing.

Just south of New Smyrna Beach is the Canaveral National Seashore, a 57,000-acre national park nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River. The Canaveral National Seashore is one of the longest stretches of pristine coastline in the United States. Since ancient times, this barrier island has provided sanctuary to both people and wildlife. Many threatened and endangered species find refuge here, including sea turtles who nest on its shores. For a truly relaxing experience, the undeveloped Playalinda Beach was rated "Quietest Beach" by TripAdvisor in 2013 and one of USA Today's Top Ten Florida Beaches in 2015.

Like first natives and early settlers, you too can find tranquility. The park provides visitors with hiking trails, campsites, a restored turn-of-the-century home, and a museum with information center. Mosquito Lagoon at the Canaveral National Seashore is also home to many marine and land animals. Larger animals such as sea turtles, manatees, dolphins and birds use the estuary as their source for food, shelter, breeding and nesting. Individuals are welcome to ride horses on the Canaveral National Seashore by obtaining a Special Park Use permit and a valid coggins certificate for each horse. Reflect on a pristine undeveloped shoreline - the way things used to be.