June 2026 Industry Newsletter - Notes from the CEO
Dear Tourism Partner,
as we are entering the summer season, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your continued dedication to making Southeast Volusia County a vibrant and welcoming destination for visitors and residents alike. Whether you're leading a frontline team, running a small business, or supporting our infrastructure and city services — your efforts directly shape the experience our guests take home with them.
Summer Season & Local Travel Trends
June marks the beginning of our summer travel window, and early indicators show that both regional drive-market interest and local engagement remains flat versus last year. We are placing a renewed emphasis on staycations — encouraging residents throughout Florida and even within our own county to rediscover the unique experiences offered right here in New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater, Oak Hill, Osteen and Port Orange.
From boutique lodging options and beachfront escapes to guided outdoor adventures and hidden-gem dining spots, our area has everything it takes to deliver a memorable “close-to-home” getaway. We’ll be promoting staycation-themed content through our digital and social media channels from July through December to support local business traffic during the warmer months.
Looking Ahead: Third Annual Coastal Catch Restaurant Month
Planning is now underway for the Coastal Catch Restaurant Month, returning October 1–31, 2026. This culinary celebration has quickly become one of our most anticipated fall promotions, spotlighting the depth and diversity of our local dining scene — from dockside seafood spots to farm-to-table favorites.
This year, we’re aiming to expand participation, drive more midweek traffic, and deepen partnerships between chefs, growers, fishers, and culinary artisans across Southeast Volusia.
Key goals for 2026:
- Broaden menu offerings to include more prix fixe and multi-course options
- Highlight sustainable and locally sourced ingredients
- Cross-promote with lodging partners for culinary getaway packages
- Feature behind-the-scenes stories, chef highlights, and guest experiences
Partner sign-ups are open now, and we encourage all restaurants, cafés, and culinary-driven businesses to get involved. We’ll also provide a toolkit to help with promotion and engagement.
Final Thoughts
Tourism continues to be a cornerstone of economic strength for Southeast Volusia — not just in terms of visitation, but in how it supports jobs, fuels local business, and enhances our community’s visibility and reputation.
As we move through the heart of summer and begin looking toward fall, we remain focused on sustainable growth, authentic storytelling, and high-quality experiences that benefit both visitors and residents. Your collaboration makes this possible, and I thank you for being part of that effort.
Keep Traveling,
