12 Excellent Experiences in Central East Florida Coast

As a Midwestener, I’ve had the privilege of spending many winter months in the Sunshine State, Florida. I’ve recently spent the last few winters visiting family and friends in the Central East Coast side.

If you’re looking to avoid the theme parks, look no further than this list! Here are my top experiences for Florida’s Central East Coast.

Central East Florida Coast Highlights

⭐️ The Garlic in New Smyrna

⭐️ Kennedy Space Center with Bus Tour

⭐️ Coconuts on the Beach

12 Excellent Experiences to have in Central East Florida Coast

Below you will find a list of my favorite activities and restaurants along the East Coast starting in the North and working my way South on U.S. Route 1.

Top Experiences in Daytona Beach you Must Do

• Paddle Board with Three Brothers Paddle Boards for an excursion
  • The folks at Three Brothers are fantastic! It’s a family owned business that builds their own boards which you can purchase. They offer several different tours throughout the entire state that include potential wildlife sightings. I recently went on a tour where they took us through the Halifax River on a lovely day. They also offer kayaks for folks who don’t want to do stand up paddle boarding. 
• Visit the Angell and Phelps Chocolate Factory
  • This factory has been in Daytona Beach since 1925 and is a favorite amongst locals. If you don’t have time to visit the factory, be sure to stop by the store and pick up some sweets. They have chocolate molds of crocodiles and sea shells! For my dog friends, they do have dog approved sweets.
• Grab a caffeinated beverage at The Porch
  • The Porch is located next door to Three Brothers Paddle in downtown Daytona. It’s a perfect spot for a pick-me-up before and/or after paddling for a few hours. They also offer Acai bowls if you’re looking for a healthy snack or meal.
• Eat at Caribbean Jack’s
  • If you’re looking for yummy cocktails and fresh seafood, Caribbean Jack’s is the place to go. It’s named after Jack Gilbert, a notorious Rum Runner who was local to the area. Be sure to walk around the restaurant and look at the amazing photography which captures the history of the area.

Top Experiences in New Smyrna you Must Do

• Spend a day at the beach
  • New Smyrna offers over 15 miles of white sand beaches known to have some of the best waves on the East Coast for surfers. Like any good beach day, be sure to get there early to claim your spot if that’s your vibe. Otherwise enjoy walking along the beach and consider taking a morning beach Yoga class. Check out New Smyrna Beach Yoga for current class information. Donations are encouraged for these classes. 
• Visit Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
  • Here’s your historic visit to consider when in town. The Lighthouse is the second tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States. Give yourself some time to walk to the top of the lighthouse. The view is worth it! 
• Eat at The Garlic
  • The Garlic is my absolute favorite Italian restaurant in Florida.  The ambience, service and incredible food make The Garlic one of a kind. Once you are seated at your table, the server will bring a dish of a full garlic clove that has been oven roasted, and mashed with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, served with fresh bread. 

Shan’s tip: The Garlic do not accept reservations. Once your name is called make sure your entire group is ready otherwise they won’t seat you. Also the photo above is of a pasta noodle they list their daily specials on, so fun!

Top Experiences in Titusville

• Walk through the Enchanted Forest
  • The Enchanted Forest is a relatively new Sanctuary in this part of Florida. There is not a fee to enter the Sanctuary, but donations are welcome. Be sure to check out some of their trails and enjoy the beautiful nature!
• Grab a beer or two at Playalinda Brewery
  • The Titusville location is located in a 100 year old hardware store.  That in itself is worth a visit. The Brewery is constantly rotating their  beer selections and offers trivia and game nights throughout the week. They also have an outdoor patio that is dog friendlyI plan on bringing Smitty to the next time I drive down to FL. 
• Watch a launch from El Leoncito
  • El Leoncito is located on the exact opposite side of the Indian River from Kennedy Space Center. Be sure to get there early enough to eat and grab a Margarita before the launch.  

Top Experiences in Cocoa Beach

• Spend a day at the Kennedy Space Center
  • It would be wrong to say you’ve been to the Space Coast without visiting the Space Center! My number one recommendation is to book your tickets in advance. Especially if you’re interested in taking  one of their extended bus tours. You need to book it at least 48 hours in advance. Please Note: the extended tours are limited to US Citizens only. 

• Kayak through the Mangroves in Thousand Islands
  • Cocoa Kayaking offers plenty of tours as well as the option to rent gear and paddle on your own. When I went on a tour with my family, we saw several dolphins which was incredible. The tour guides did a great job of giving everyone their space as well as providing educational information.
• Grab a cocktail or two, at Coconuts on the Beach
  • Coconuts is a local favorite any time of the year. They’re known for their fun cocktails and fantastic seafood. On any given day there is usually live music playing while you enjoy the ocean views. My personal favorite entree is the Poke Nachos!

Shan’s tip, if you have a sweet tooth be sure to check out Junk Food Bakery. They also have a shop within the bakery that features local artists’ work. After you grab a pastry and coffee, walk over to the Sunshine Shop and check out international art pieces sold by a lovely local couple.

Final Thoughts

Are you ready to plan your next road trip in Florida?

Be sure to check out my road trip essentials before you go on your next adventure. The East Coast of Florida has 12 excellent experiences to offer that are rich in history and delicious food. Want to continue exploring Florida? Be sure to add the top twelve things to do in Cape Coral and Fort Myers to your itinerary.

Now it’s time to start planning your own adventure, Cheers!