We decided to visit both coasts during our 'budget' vacation. On day 5 we drove up to New Smyrna Beach around 10:30 am. It took alittle over an hour from Kissimmee, Best Western Lakeside. We missed the rush hour, and actually the west bound side of the highways was all clogged up, but ours was smooth sailing!
I enjoyed the shallow warm water. People walked waaay out into the water and it was just up to their hips! The waves were awesome, too. This seems like a nice family beach and I would definately return again. The main restroom building (Dunno whatelse to call it) was large and pretty clean, and then the little street leading toward the beach had shop after shop, quaint little bars and coffee shops, in all the expected Florida colors and attitudes. Wonderful way to spend the day!
pix are on flickr.com
Florida June 09 - a set on Flickr