2 hours 45 minutes from Tampa
Whats great about it: Its got the expected water activities - kayaking, fishing, boating, surfing - but theres also highlights like the Black Heritage Museum, cruises on the Indian River, and the Atlantic Center for the Arts. Its been called one of the best surf towns in the country, but be careful: It also experiences an unusually high number of shark bites. Try out Third Wave Cafe for a menu inspired by coastal and rustic influences that are served from your choice of tapas style or full entres, and when youre done being wrapped up there, go take a walk down Flagler Ave.
Beaches to check out: New Smyrna Beach, Disappearing Island and Lighthouse Point Park
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