The 27th Street Park in New Smyrna Beach, Florida

New Smyrna Beach is world famous, yet there are many small park areas with direct beach access along Atlantic Avenue, accessible from the South Causeway Bridge at the mainland.

Atlantic Avenue is the main road that leads to the end, where the Cape Canaveral Seashore is found. It is a seven mile stretch of road with no outlet, and along the way there are massive hotels, condominiums, restaurants, and fabulous beach areas that cater to both the tourist and local resident. This sleepy community settled along the stretch of Atlantic Avenue has many fine area parks. One such park worth mentioning that is free and open to the public is at 27^th Street; aptly named the 27^th Street Park.

There is a lot going for this small spot of paradise, and much to do that makes visiting this park in New Smyrna Beach worthwhile. Motorists are allowed to drive on the sand; the hard-packed, brown-pink sand is perfect for any size vehicle. But unlike Daytona Beach or other sections of New Smyrna Beach that allow beach driving, there aren't as many cars, and only in one section; not the entire stretch of sand.

Walkers can head south down the beach, while the influx of motorists head in the north direction; at speeds of ten miles an hour. Beach patrol is usually present, and after certain hours cars are made to leave; mainly at dusk. Beach patrol is also there to make sure the turtle nesting areas are protected from motorists; for this part of beach, heading to the Cape Canaveral sands, are known protected turtle nest mound and mating areas.

This area of beach is sublime. The water comes forth to the shore in ripples of small waves, so swimming is a favorite pastime at this beach. The clouds are puffy white and pink, with a skyline of silvery blue; quite picturesque. One can also walk in the north direction, and stumble across outside deck areas with restaurants, so food is available and outside dining a favored option. The park itself has a tennis court, bench and picnic areas, restroom facilities and a small boardwalk. Parking is free, though spots are limited. There is a 7 Eleven convenience store across the street from the park as well.

Along the road there are various beach shops, for both the surfer and those in need of a swimsuit, and further past the park, on the right hand side of Atlantic Avenue, is the Food Lion shopping center; where one can find a grocery store, clothing boutiques, a Japanese restaurant serving sushi, and an Italian restaurant called Touch of Italy. The pizza is a favorite of the local residents, and there are many dishes to choose from if you feel like Italian food after your day at the beach. Casual attire is fine.