Florida’s Space Coast is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination where nature, adventure, and human innovation converge. Stretching along 72 miles of beautiful coastline, the area is known for its unique combination of beaches, nature, active wildlife, and its connection to space exploration.
Nature lovers can experience bioluminescence on guided kayak tours through Mosquito Lagoon or enjoy fishing in Mosquito Lagoon and Sebastian Inlet. Wildlife aficionados can go on nighttime sea turtle walks or spot manatees while paddleboarding the Indian River Lagoon.
Outdoor explorers can hike or cycle through scenic trails at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge or relax on Cocoa Beach, a paradise for surfers and sun chasers. For vacationers wanting an educational and interactive experience, the Kennedy Space Center offers immersive opportunities, rocket displays, and shuttle simulations that celebrate our achievements in space.
Families will love Brevard Zoo, where they can kayak through animal habitats and feed giraffes. Dining is aso a treat, with fresh seafood and ocean views at local favorites, while Cocoa Village offers shopping, sips, and art.
Here’s a deeper dive into the activities and experiences you’ll find when vacationing on Florida’s Space Coast!
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1. Bioluminescent Experiences
Florida’s Space Coast offers up-close encounters with bioluminescence, a natural light show caused by tiny marine creatures that emit a blue-green glow. Comb jellies contribute to this spectacle with a shimmering effect that scatters light.
Visitors can experience the light display by exploring Mosquito Lagoon, Banana River, and Indian River Lagoon on the Space Coast.
There are several options to experience this phenomenon, including guided clear kayak tours, paddleboarding, and nighttime boat excursions. It is most visible from July to September.
2. Fishing Opportunities
Fishing is a popular pastime on Florida’s Space Coast. Mosquito Lagoon is known for its shallow waters and biodiversity, making it a top destination for inshore fishing.
On the other hand, Sebastian Inlet is famous for its strong currents, ideal for both inshore and offshore fishing. That’s where you can find Spanish mackerel, snook, and redfish. Did you know this area is known as the redfish capital of the world?
Fish early in the morning or late afternoon for better conditions, and consider a beach fishing excursion or go on a fishing charter!
3. Brevard County Beaches
Florida’s Space Coast is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in the state. Cocoa Beach, famous for its surfing culture and lively pier, is the perfect place for a beach day.
For a more tranquil escape, Canaveral National Seashore’s untouched shorelines are ideal for a more private beach experience in nature, including backcountry camping opportunities. Families can enjoy the calm waters and amenities of Melbourne Beach, while surfers can test their skills at Monster Hole.
4. Brevard Zoo Kayak Tour
Brevard Zoo is a community-driven nonprofit organization that provides fun and educational experiences for people of all ages. It’s one of the best zoos in the United States according to last year’s U.S. News and World Report.
Brevard Zoo is home to over 900 animals from 195 species found in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia. It features all kinds of ecosystems, from savannas to swamps and rainforests.
At the zoo, visitors can get close to several animals and feed them. Examples include okapis, giraffes, and stingrays. For something more active, take a kayak tour to see animal habitats in the Wild Florida part of the zoo.
5. Kennedy Space Center
Established in 1963, the Kennedy Space Center captures the history and future of space exploration through interactive exhibits. Its simulations, with realistic sounds and visuals, give visitors a taste of what it feels like to launch into space.
The centerpiece of the complex, the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, is a real space shuttle on display as it appeared in orbit. It has over 60 displays about the shuttle’s missions and technology. Another highlight is the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where guests can stand beneath the 363-foot-long Saturn V rocket, the largest rocket ever flown.
Don’t miss the Zero-G Austronaut Experience where you can see what it feels like to be weightless with a trained austronaut. Also keep an eye out for Kennedy Space Center events like real rocket launches and stargazing.
6. Sea Turtle Walks
The Space Coast is a great place to see sea turtles in their natural habitat during nesting season. In 2023, the Space Coast had over 52,500 nests, showing a rise in both loggerhead and green turtle populations thanks to successful conservation efforts.
Florida is home to several turtle species. Loggerhead turtles are the most common, weighing 200-250 pounds. Green turtles are large with smooth shells, while leatherback turtles reach up to 7 feet and over 1,000 pounds.
Popular spots for turtle sightings include Canaveral National Seashore, Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
In June and July, Friends of the Carr Refuge share an unforgettable experience with the public on the sands of Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. Join their nighttime turtle walks on Wednesday and Saturday.
7. Meet the Florida Manatee
Florida’s Space Coast is an excellent location for observing Florida manatees, also known as “gentle giants” or “sea cows.”
These slow-moving mammals can be seen along the coast, particularly in the Indian River Lagoon, with warm waters and plenty of seagrass. Fun fact: the Indian River Lagoon is one of the most diverse estuaries in America, hosting more than 4,000 species of plants and animals.
We took a kayaking tour while visiting and saw tons of manatees popping up to the surface. It was an amazing experience. Many tour operators launch out of Manatee Cove Park, a hotspot for kayaking and paddleboarding with manatees.
8. Port Canaveral Cruises
Port Canaveral is home to major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, and Norwegian, offering itineraries to stunning destinations in the Caribbean, The Bahamas, and beyond.
With easy access to Port Canaveral, vacationers can call Florida’s Space Coast their homebase before or after their voyage, enjoying everything the area has to offer. Personally, I love spending a few days exploring port cities after my cruise has returned, and the Space Coast has plenty to keep you entertained.
It’s a vacation destination that enhances any cruise experience with its unique offerings.
9. Mouthwatering Culinary Experiences
Dining on Florida’s Space Coast is a culinary adventure that combines fresh seafood, ocean views, and a laid-back atmosphere. From oceanfront seafood spots to riverside eateries, the restaurant experience is mouthwatering fun.
Enjoy a unique dinner or Sunday brunch experience aboard the Indian River Queen, a historic three-story paddle wheel boat that gracefully cruises through the scenic lagoon.
For an upscale dinner experience, visit Florida’s Fresh Grill in Cocoa Beach, known for seafood and steak dishes. Be sure that you dress to impress, as they have a “country club casual” dress code. Seafood lovers should check out Seafood Atlantic, a popular restaurant at Port Canaveral offering “the freshest local seafood possible without owning a boat.”
Breakfast and brunch lovers, will love The Fat Snook which serves creative Florida cuisine with a Caribbean twist. Another must-visit is Long Doggers, a super casual spot perfect for enjoying wings, burgers, and local brews after a day on Cocoa Beach.
10. Beyond Nature and Space
Florida’s Space Coast offers experiences beyond its beaches and space attractions. Explore the charming streets of Downtown Cocoa Village, filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and live entertainment at the Cocoa Village Playhouse.
Check out the quirky Wizard of Oz Museum, featuring original movie props like Dorothy’s dress, or party on the water with Paddle Pub Cocoa Beach. The King Center for the Performing Arts hosts concerts, comedy shoes, and Boardway-style productions.
You can also enjoy golf courses, breweries, boat tours, surfing lessons, and tons more on your Florida Space Coast vacation!
Featured Image: Space Coast Tourism
By day, I’m a full-time Director of Operations, and by night (and every spare weekend), I’m a Travel Journalist. With over two decades of career experience, I’ve mastered the art of balancing business with bucket lists. As a freelance Digital Publisher at Yahoo, MSN, and NewsBreak, as well as a member of the Society of American Travel Writers, I’m here to share my experiences and insight with you. Visiting my home state?—Check out Virginia Trip Guide!
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