Between mangroves & Tides

Paddle, kayak, birdwatch and explore Florida’s blueways like never before.

Experience Florida’s most bio-diverse lagoon system

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Our coastal waterways offer experiences for every type of adventurer. Explore hidden coves, launch into winding creeks, or set out on guided wildlife tours led by local experts who know the lagoon’s rhythms like their own backyard.

Choose from paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, scenic boat cruises, or charter captains who can take you to the region’s best fishing holes. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise on calm waters or watching the sky glow at sunset, New Smyrna Beach’s blueways create unforgettable moments—each one uniquely tied to the magic of the lagoon.

Blueway Adventures Await

Explore Waterways, Tours & Rentals, Fishing Holes & More

Explore the NSB Area BLUEWAY ADVENTURES

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  • 1 day itinerary • 8 stops

    Water Sports Guide

    8 stops25 miles / 40 km50 min

    Day 1

    1. Stop 1 • Place
      Discover Diving Dive Center LLC

      Before heading to Discover Diving Dive Center LLC, check local weather conditions for optimal diving visibility and safety. The center is easily accessible via car, with ample parking available on-site. Arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork and receive your diving gear. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.

      Discover Diving Dive Center LLC offers a wide array of scuba diving experiences, catering to both beginners and advanced divers. With certified ins...

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    2. Stop 2 • Place
      Paddleboard New Smyrna Beach

      Before paddling out, check the weather and tide conditions for a pleasant experience. Arrive early to rent equipment and receive instructions. It’s wise to bring water for hydration, a light snack, and your camera to capture the beautiful scenery of New Smyrna Beach during your paddleboarding excursion.

      At Paddleboard New Smyrna Beach, guests can explore the stunning coastline while paddling through gentle waves and tranquil waters. The friendly in...

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    3. Stop 3 • Place
      Sand Dollar Boat Rentals

      Get ready for a day on the water by checking whether you need a boating license, and be aware of the weather for safe sailing conditions. Allow sufficient time for check-in and gear rental. Bringing snacks and drinks is a great idea for your boat trip, as you'll likely want to make the most of your time on the water.

      Sand Dollar Boat Rentals offers a variety of vessels for self-guided excursions, allowing visitors to explore the waterways at their own pace. Choo...

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    4. Stop 4 • Place
      Marine Discovery Center

      Before visiting the Marine Discovery Center, check their schedule for guided tours or educational programs, as they can enhance your experience. The center is family-friendly and accessible by car, so ensure you have a parking plan in mind. Bring along a notepad or camera for educational takeaways and photographs of the vibrant exhibits.

      The Marine Discovery Center is dedicated to education and conservation, focusing on the coastal ecosystems of New Smyrna Beach. Visitors can enjoy...

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    5. Stop 5 • Place
      RiverWitch Kayak Rentals & Tours

      Before visiting RiverWitch Kayak Rentals & Tours, ensure you check the weather forecast as kayaking is more enjoyable in mild conditions. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. The rental location is accessible by car, and there's ample parking nearby, though public transport options may be limited. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for wet conditions. Don't forget sunscreen and hydration, as you’ll be on the water for an extended period.

      RiverWitch Kayak Rentals & Tours provides an enchanting opportunity to explore the serene waterways. You can rent kayaks or join guided tours to en...

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    6. Stop 6 • Place
      Viking Ecotours

      We value treating everyone like family and our tour routes like home. While we create meaningful connections and surreal experiences, we also give...

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  • 1 day itinerary • 7 stops

    Top Fishing Spots

    7 stops26 miles / 42 km1 hrs, 11 min

    Day 1

    1. Stop 1 • Place
      Spruce Creek Park

      Before visiting Spruce Creek Park, check the weather to ensure a pleasant outdoor experience. The park is accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Public transport options are limited, so consider using ride-sharing services if needed. Peak hours can lead to increased traffic in the area, especially on weekends.

      Spruce Creek Park is a picturesque natural retreat known for its scenic trails, lush greenery, and serene waterways. Visitors can enjoy walking, hi...

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    2. Stop 2 • Place
      Riverside Park

      As you prepare to visit Riverside Park, remember to check for any park events that might influence your trip. Traffic can be heavier during weekends, so plan to arrive early. Bring sunscreen and water, especially during warmer months, as you may want to spend extended periods outdoors.

      Riverside Park is a beautiful green space that offers a tranquil escape from urban life. Walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas make it an ex...

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    3. Stop 3 • Place
      Menard-May Park

      Before heading to Menard-May Park, ensure to check the weather as activities are primarily outdoors. Traffic in the surrounding areas can vary, so consider using a GPS for real-time updates. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, especially if you visit during sunrise or sunset.

      Menard-May Park is a lush, serene location perfect for families and picnickers. Featuring a playground, walking trails, and scenic water views, it'...

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    4. Stop 4 • Place
      Buena Vista Park

      Before visiting Buena Vista Park, check local traffic for efficient routes, especially during rush hours. The park is well-signposted but can be tricky to navigate for first-time visitors. Bring along a water bottle and a light snack, as the park is perfect for an afternoon of leisurely activities.

      Buena Vista Park offers expansive green spaces with scenic views and diverse landscapes. Its trails are ideal for walking and picnicking, and the p...

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    5. Stop 5 • Place
      Smyrna Dunes Park

      Before your visit to Smyrna Dunes Park, check the weather forecast, as its coastal location can be windy and unpredictable. Arrive early to secure parking, as it can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Bring beach gear, sunscreen, and plenty of water to make the most of your time by the water.

      Smyrna Dunes Park is a stunning coastal haven offering beach access, scenic dunes, and trails for walking and biking. It's a prime spot for wildlif...

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    6. Stop 6 • Place
      Indian River Lagoon Park

      To reach Indian River Lagoon Park, consider driving as public transport is limited in the area. The parking lot usually has ample space, but arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends. Check the weather beforehand as the area is best enjoyed under sunny skies, allowing you to experience its nature trails and views.

      Indian River Lagoon Park is a stunning natural area offering a glimpse of Florida's diverse ecosystems. The park features picturesque trails, board...

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    7. Stop 7 • Place
      Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park

      Traveling to Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park from Indian River Lagoon Park takes only around 20 minutes by car. Ensure to double-check the traffic conditions as weekends can see heavier congestion. Bring sunscreen and hats, as beach days tend to be sunny, making it important to stay protected from UV rays.

      Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park is known for its pristine stretches of sandy shoreline and family-friendly atmosphere. This beachfront park provides...

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  • 1 day itinerary • 6 stops

    Blueways & Paddling Trails

    6 stopsDistance unavailableTravel time unavailable

    Day 1

    1. Stop 1 • Place
      Sleepy Hollow to Lighthouse Paddle

      Distance: 5 miles Level: Advanced paddlers Summary: This paddle begins at the Sleepy Hollow launch area at the intersection of U.S. 1 and Sleepy Ho...

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    2. Stop 2 • Place
      Sleepy Hollow to Rose Bay Paddle

      Distance: 6.48 miles Level: Advanced paddlers Summary: This paddle begins at the Sleepy Hollow launch area at the intersection of U.S. 1 and Sleepy...

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    3. Stop 3 • Place
      Hunter Creek Paddle

      Distance: 5.42 miles Level: Intermediate paddlers Summary: If you’re looking to only paddle in the backwaters, this route is for you. As you paddle...

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    4. Stop 4 • Place
      Bird Rookery Paddle (High-Tide Route)

      The remainder of the paddle is the same as the Bird Rookery Paddle route. You will follow along a seawall built by the Turnbull Settlement in 1766-...

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    5. Stop 5 • Place
      Indian River South Tour Paddle

      Distance: 4.09 miles Level: Intermediate paddlers Summary: This paddle begins at the public floating docks at 162 North Causeway. Along the way, yo...

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    6. Stop 6 • Place
      Indian River to Smyrna Creek Paddle

      Distance: 6.55 miles Level: Advanced paddlers Summary: Before launching, check the wind and tide direction to determine if you want to start your t...

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Bird Rookery Paddle Trail Loop

Ideal for novices, this peaceful 2.9-mile trail, which launches behind the Marine Discovery  Center, passes under the North Causeway and through the New Smyrna Beach City Marina, through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s Salt Marsh Restoration Project, and along a seawall built by Scottish colonists in the mid-1700s. The highlight, however, is six species of birds that nest on a pair of mangrove islands, which were protected by the Presidential order in 1908 thanks to avian enthusiast Theodore Roosevelt. To keep the area thriving, pack binoculars or a camera with a strong zoom lens, as visitors should never step onto these sites. April through September is the best period to see nesting birds.

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Bird Rookery Paddle
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Explore The
Mosquito Lagoon

This shallow 2.12-mile trail, laid out by a local Eagle Scout, is well-suited for first-time paddlers. A series of spoil islands (formed decades ago when the Army Corps of Engineers dredged the Intracoastal Waterway) shelters a maze of tidal creeks from the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the larger Indian River Lagoon—widely considered North America’s most biodiverse estuary—Mosquito Lagoon teems with more than 4,000 animal and plant species, including roseate spoonbills, dolphins, and sea turtles. Visiting in the summer? Bring bug repellent; the trail lives up to its namesake.

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Mosquito Lagoon
View of the Mosquito Lagoon from River Breeze Park (16) (1)

Deep-Water
Brown's Bay

Take caution on this 2.6-mile trail, which includes a large sandbar (at low tide), a deep-water channel, and powerboat traffic. Launch from Menard-May Park, then go paddling across the Intracoastal Waterway to Firecracker Island. Keep right to safely enter Brown’s Bay, home to many oyster beds, mangroves, fish, and birds. As you explore deeper into the bay, you’ll experience one of the Indian River Lagoon’s most peaceful pockets. A natural sanctuary where wildlife thrives and the water settles into a quiet stillness. Clear, shallow areas make it easy to spot rays, mullet, and wading birds as you glide past protected mangrove shorelines.

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Brown's Bay
Bird Rookery Paddle Trail Loop
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We are Home to Florida’s Most Bio-Diverse Ecosystem

Home to America's Most Biodiverse Estuary: Indian River Lagoon

Paddle the incredible Indian River Lagoon — North America’s most biodiverse estuary — where dolphins glide beside your kayak, manatees surface for air, and egrets tiptoe through mangrove and shorelines. This extraordinary ecosystem invites you to slow down and absorb the natural beauty that surrounds our coastal area. Kayak, fish, or simply drift along peaceful waterways lined with mangrove tunnels, salt marshes, and endless blue horizons.
Get Inspired →
The NSB Blueway Trail Itinerary

Explore The NSB Blueway Trail Itinerary

Plan your perfect day on the water with our Digital Blueway Itinerary. This easy, interactive guide is your first step to exploring the Indian River Lagoon and New Smyrna Beach’s most scenic waterways. Discover recommended routes, launch points, wildlife-viewing spots, and local tips tailored to your paddling style. Whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating, this digital itinerary helps you navigate safely and experience the coastal beauty of our blueways with confidence.
Open Itinerary →

Tours & Guides
Viking Ecotours

Manatees, bioluminescence, dolphins, and mangroves: all things you could see on a hands-free kayak tour through Canaveral National Seashore with Viking Ecotours. Guests pedal through the lagoon with their hands free to take pictures, drink water, or point out the wildlife. Expert guides create safe, comfortable, and unique experiences while guaranteeing an environmentally friendly excursion that will be fun for the whole family! Viking Ecotours offers the closest kayak tours to Orlando, Daytona, and Canaveral National Seashore with tours including bioluminescence, rocket launches, sunrise, sunset, and wildlife tours where you could see manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, eagles and more.

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Eco Tours & Rentals Viking Ecotours

Tours & Guides
Marine Discovery Center

Travel the IRL in the comfort of our 36-seat all-weather pontoon boat. Your tour guide on the 2-hour journey will be one of our knowledgeable narrators – certified Florida Master Naturalists – who enjoy sharing their extensive knowledge of the abundant marine life that lives in and on the Indian River Lagoon.  You will experience first-hand the solitude and natural beauty of this Florida treasure while learning about our efforts to preserve its uniqueness for generations to come. Or paddle the Indian River Lagoon with a Florida Master Naturalist and learn about the importance of caring for this “cradle of the ocean”.

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Tours & Guides
Cracker Creek Canoe

Cracker Creek offers a variety of boat tours and outings aboard our 40ft pontoon boat with a fixed canopy covering, comfortable bench seating, and a center console ideal for educational displays or buffet food and drink service. Available for both our regularly scheduled eco-tours or by reservation for group gatherings, private parties, or special events – truly a unique and memorable way to experience scenic Spruce Creek!

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Cracker_Creek_3

Tours & Guides
Turtle Mound Tours

Turtle Mound River Tours offer fun private charter, and daily scheduled tours aboard their comfortable vessel at New Smyrna Beach. They travel south along Canaveral Seashore and view wildlife in and near the water, including manatees and dolphins. The boat meanders through quiet islands and across to the mainland, cutting back through pristine waters full of fish and many wading bird species.

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Turtle Mound (2)

Tours & Guides
Get Up and Go Kayaking

Explore the untouched beauty of Spruce Creek in their clear kayaks! Meeting at Divito Park, the two-hour paddle through Spruce Creek is the perfect combination of serenity and thrilling with views of the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. Their clear kayaks create such a unique way to connect outdoors, making it a once in a lifetime adventure! Consider their clear kayak tours as your front row seat to the most beautiful views! Spruce Creek’s natural twists through the mangroves make it feel like you’re discovering something new every time. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned paddler, their immersive eco tour is great for all skill levels. With only 10 guests per tour, you’ll enjoy an intimate, relaxed experience that’s perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

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GetUp-Gokayak

Tours & Guides
RiverWitch Kayak Rentals & Tours

Discover the quiet beauty of the Indian River Lagoon and surrounding waterways with RiverWitch Kayak Rentals & Tours. Offering guided adventures and easy, flexible rentals, RiverWitch makes it simple to experience New Smyrna Beach’s natural side at your own pace. Glide through calm mangrove tunnels, watch for dolphins and manatees, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of paddling along untouched shoreline. Their knowledgeable guides share local insights and help guests of all experience levels feel safe and confident on the water. Whether you join a guided eco tour or set out on a self-guided paddle, RiverWitch delivers a relaxed, scenic escape into the heart of Florida’s coastal wilderness.

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RiverWitch
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