From the Canaveral National Seashore at its south end to Ponce Inlet at the north, New Smyrna Beach lays claim to over 13 miles of unbroken shoreline. Like its neighbor to the north, Daytona Beach, driving is permitted on certain beach areas at the north end of town, with beach access points allowing traffic onto the sand every three to four blocks. The south end of town is a conservation zone where no motorized vehicles are permitted. Here the natural dune structure is intact, and thousands of sea turtles migrate annually to lay their eggs in the areas soft, brown sand.

Several good beachfront parks are located in New Smyrna Beach. At the north end of town near Ponce Inlet, Smyrna Dunes Park features the best surfing spot in the area. The waves are said to peak two feet higher here than anywhere else in the county. Amenities at the park include restrooms, picnic tables, and a visitor center. Behind the shaded picnic area, a 1-1/2 mile boardwalk loops out to and around Ponce Inlet and through wonderful areas of natural beach vegetation. The entrance fee at the park is $3.50 per day. South of the park lie the New Smyrna Beach public accesses, which allow both pedestrian and vehicular traffic. This beach features concessions, lifeguards, restrooms, picnic tables and showers. There is a $5.00 fee per day to park on the beach. At the extreme south end of the community, Bethune Beach Park offers concessions, lifeguards, restrooms, picnic tables and showers. Parking is free at the lot in Mary McCleod Bethune Park.