Edgewater, Florida
The City of Edgewater, with a population of 21,372, lies along the banks of the Indian River, also known as the Intracoastal Waterway. Just a few miles south of New Smyrna Beach, the community of Edgewater is an affordable, thriving area of Volusia County. Rural areas combine with neighborhoods and communities to create a city paced for the future.
The earliest inhabitants of the area were Timucuan Indians, who left many elevated shell mounds along the river's edge. The area was a favorite tourist destination in the late 1800s and early 1900s due to its close proximity to the river. Originally founded as Hawks Park in 1871, the name was changed to Edgewater in 1924.
The city is in a growing section of Southeast Volusia, but Edgewater maintains a small town feel. Called “The Hospitality City”, Edgewater’s residents and businesses are welcoming and friendly.
Recreational activities are high on the list for residents and visitors. Boating and fishing can’t be beat in the area known as the Mosquito Lagoon. This estuary system is the incubator for many of the fish, shellfish and shrimp that inhabit the ocean. Mangrove islands provide safe havens for oyster beds, fish and several species of birds. There is so much wildlife in the area that bird watching is quickly becoming another top activity.
Fishing guides troll the flat shallow waters for redfish and trout in one of the best fishing spots in Florida. The clean, clear waters are a great location for kayaking and canoeing too. Don’t forget to look for the friendly dolphins which might just swim beside your boat.
Community parks are found throughout the city, and feature everything from boat ramps and grills, to baseball fields and tennis courts. The well-kept parks are a draw for holiday activities, picnics and everyday fun for all ages.
The city has good access to Interstate 95 on its western edge, making the location a good base for exploring Central Florida. Shopping and medical centers are close by and so is the local campus of Daytona Beach Community College.
Good neighborhoods for families include the popular Florida Shores community. Or check out Edgewater Landing, a riverfront development of manufactured homes that was recently named as one of the Fifty Best Retirement Communities in the United States.
There is a solid business core in the community including boat maker Boston Whaler and Coronado Paint. Both the Tropical Blossom Honey Company and Loveland Groves have served the area for years, providing orange blossom honey and local citrus fruit to customers worldwide. The airport park area offers manufacturing and industrial space for businesses looking to expand.
