Protect What You Love

Every footprint counts, and the New Smyrna Beach Area is worth protecting. Leave No Trace is a simple, powerful way for visitors and locals to care for the places that make this destination unforgettable, from the shoreline and dunes to blueways, trails, and wildlife habitats. It’s not about doing everything perfectly.

It’s about making small, consistent choices that keep our beaches cleaner, our waterways healthier, and our outdoor spaces welcoming for everyone. When we travel thoughtfully, we help preserve the natural beauty that brings people here in the first place, today and for generations to come.

Seven Principles, Made Easy

Inspired by the Leave No Trace initiative, the New Smyrna Beach Area is guided by seven simple principles that fit naturally into any adventure, whether you’re here for a beach day, a paddle, or a trail walk. Plan ahead and prepare so you can explore responsibly. Stick to marked trails and designated access points to help protect dunes and sensitive habitats.

Dispose of waste properly and help keep our beaches and waterways beautiful. Leave shells, plants, and natural features as you find them so others can enjoy them too. Be careful with fire and use only permitted areas when available. Respect wildlife by giving animals plenty of space, especially in nesting and feeding areas. And finally, share our beaches, waterways, and trails with kindness and consideration for everyone.

Learn in Minutes
Leave No Trace e-Learning Courses

Protecting the NSB Area starts with knowledge, and the easiest way to begin is through the free e-learning courses on this page. These quick, engaging lessons help hospitality professionals, business owners, guides, and visitors understand the core Leave No Trace principles and how to apply them in real-life situations. Whether you’re greeting guests, planning an excursion, or exploring on your own, you’ll walk away with practical tips you can use immediately. The goal is simple: build a shared culture of stewardship across the community, so responsible tourism becomes second nature and the NSB Area stays beautiful, clean, and thriving.

Learn, Protect & Discover

Gold Standard Hospitality in the NSB Area

The New Smyrna Beach Area is more than a beautiful destination—it’s a place we all share and care for. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Leave No Trace to promote responsible tourism and sustainable hospitality through the Gold Standard Hospitality Program.

This special certification recognizes local businesses and short-term rental hosts that go the extra mile to protect our coastal environment. Whether you're a hotelier, vacation rental owner, or experience provider, your efforts can make a meaningful impact on our community and natural spaces.

Get Certified →