SPACE COAST ACTIVITIES
The Beaches
Enjoy endless beaches along the Space Coast- 70 miles of sand to be exact! These beaches include Playalinda Beach, Port Canaveral, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, Canova Beach, Melbourne Beach, Satellite Beach, Indian Harbour Beach, Canaveral National Seashore, Jetty Park Beach and Campground, and Cocoa Beach. Cool off in the waves or enjoy some fishing- you may even catch a dinner for free!Jetty Park, Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach.
Each of these areas have their own unique qualities. Cape Canaveral and the Cocoa Beach area have flat beaches and are great for those looking for soft waves and a gentle sloping entry. Adventure seekers looking for the thrill of catching waves may prefer the waves in the Satellite Beach area.
The Zoo
Located in Melbourne, The Brevard zoo is not like one you’ve been to before. Not only does it have exhibits of over 180 animal species from around the world, it also offers multiple hands-on experiences for visitors. It has a walk-through kangaroo enclosure, up-close rhino encounter, 5 aerial obstacle courses, zip-lining, giraffe feeding, kayaking around the giraffe exhibit and an aviary exhibit where you can feed the birds. This Zoo is non-profit and focuses on education, conservation and participation!
Rope Climbing Obstacle Course
Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures is another local activity that is a must-do. The aerial adventure park has 3 levels of difficulty and 7 trails in total. It includes obstacles throughout the rope course and ziplining. The expert level is held at over 45-ft in the air but don't worry, the beginner course is set at 12-ft off the ground. They even have a ground floor trail option for those afraid of heights or younger participants. This is the perfect outside activity where you can enjoy the Florida sunshine and the beautiful views the course has to offer.
Kayaking
Another must-do in this area is kayaking. With two large rivers running through the area, kayaking tours are offered year round and are so much fun. The best part of kayaking in the Space Coast is the animal encounters it offers. From manatees to dolphins, kayaking is the perfect way to get up close with Florida wildlife. Many kayaking tours here even offer nightly bioluminescence tours where you can see the bioluminescence lighting up the water from your transparent kayak. The best time to go on this tour is in the summer months when the water heats up!
Airboat Tour
If kayaking isn't your thing but you’re still wanting to experience the Florida wildlife, a great option is taking an airboat ride through the swamplands. This is an experience like no other. Many companies offer airboats that seat groups of up to 15 and offer tours for groups of up to 50! On these rides you'll see deer, alligators and other animals that call Florida their home. You'll be able to see the beautiful views of the wetlands while enjoying a boat ride. Some tours are offered at sunrise and sunset for a beautiful view.
Helicopter Ride
The another must-see activity on the Space Coast is witnessing it from above! There are multiple companies in the area that offer helicopter rides that take you around the Space Coast. You will be able to see Port Canaveral, Banana River, the beach, the pier and even the Space Center all from above. An experience and views that you just can’t beat!
Port Canaveral
So much more than you think! If you're looking for a port with a whole lot of fun, then Port Canaveral is the place to be. Located just north of Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral, FL, this bustling hub is not just about shipping - it's a treasure trove of activities that are sure to make your visit a blast!
Let's set sail on a journey through the history of Port Canaveral. It all started back in the 1800s when it was known as Cape Canaveral, named after the Spanish saint, St. John of Cape Canaveral. It was a hotspot for fishing and shipping until NASA established the John F. Kennedy Space Center nearby in the 1950s. That's when Port Canaveral blasted off and expanded to accommodate the growing space program, adding new docks, wharves, and access channels. It continued to grow through the decades, becoming a major hub for cargo and cruise ships.
But enough about history, let's talk about the exciting things you can do at Port Canaveral today! First up, cruise ships - and boy, does Port Canaveral know how to cruise. With over 4 million passengers setting sail each year, it's one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. Take your pick from a variety of cruise lines that can whisk you away to the Caribbean, Mexico, and beyond. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure on the high seas!
If fishing is more your style, then Port Canaveral has you covered. Cast your line and reel in some big catches on a deep-sea fishing charter. Tuna, grouper, snapper - the possibilities are as vast as the ocean itself. Get ready to hook some thrills and reel in some memories!
And speaking of the ocean, Port Canaveral is also close to some of the best beaches in Florida. Grab your sunblock and head to the sandy shores for some relaxation or water sports galore. Take a dip in the warm waters, catch some waves while surfing, or explore the coast with kayaking and paddleboarding. It's a beach lover's paradise!
Of course, all that adventure is sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, Port Canaveral has plenty of delicious options to choose from. Savor the fresh seafood or sip on some craft beer at one of the many restaurants and bars in the port area. Cheers to good times and good eats!
In conclusion, Port Canaveral is not just your average port - it's a treasure trove of excitement and adventure. With its rich history, incredible amenities, and stunning location, it's no wonder that it's a top destination for visitors and a beloved spot for locals. So, hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail for Port Canaveral, where the fun never stops! Check out https://www.portcanaveral.com/Recreation for more activities to enjoy while you explore the wonders of the Space Coast.
Kennedy SC, Rocket Launches,
The Space Coast offers so many unique and exciting experiences that can’t be found in other places. It has beautiful views, wildlife, and places to explore. And when all else fails, there is always the beach to enjoy!