ELTIPS AV R T

Back on dry land, margaritas are being sipped and tans topped up on the glorious white sand.

Beachside cafes serve up trendy “acai bowls” and super-shakes to health-conscious locals.

We’re in California, right? Wrong. This is Florida, an hour’s drive from Orlando on the wild Atlantic coast.

New Smyrna Beach is a world away from the Sunshine State’s famed theme parks.

Despite being so close to the tourist trail, it is relatively unknown among British visitors.

The city is split in two by the Intracoastal Waterway, stretching 3,000 miles along the eastern US.

Downtown, which includes the bars and restaurants of vibrant Canal Street, is on the “land” side.

But most of the action takes place on the “sea” side, centred on buzzy Flagler Avenue. Unsurprisingly, given the name of the place, New Smyrna Beach’s star attraction is… its huge beach.

Unusually, vehicles are allowed to drive and park on the sand during daylight hours. Rows of pick-up trucks owned by surfers and fishermen line the beach.

But a strict 10mph speed limit is enforced and there is plenty of space to go around. Cycling on the sand AT nearby Daytona Beach you can try the Ale Trail tour. Each pub and bar visited is owned and operated by passionate beer lovers. WITH Orlando so close, a theme park trip is a must with the kids. Take your pick from Walt Disney World, Universal Tours, Seaworld, Epcot and Magic Kingdom and more. FANCY spotting alligators? Go on an eco adventure into the heart of the famous Everglades National Park riding on a thrilling airboat.