On Florida’s vast Atlantic Coast, the Kennedy Space Center defines the area commonly known as the Space Coast. While the Kennedy Space Center draws visitors from around the world, Florida’s Space Coast is home to several hidden gems waiting to be explored. From the coastline’s pristine beaches and natural spaces to the area’s famous shops and restaurants, Florida’s Space Coast has it all. Just 35 miles away from Orlando, the Space Coast stretches 72 miles north to south along Florida’s northern Atlantic coasts. Along the Space Coast, you’ll find some of Florida’s most charming towns, America’s most diverse estuary, the largest Sea Turtle Nesting area in the United States, and so much more. If you want to dive deep into Florida’s Space Coast and get off the beaten path, continue reading for The Must-See Hidden Gems of Florida’s Space Coast.
The Beaches
While it may not be off the beaten path, per se, going to Florida’s Space Coast and not going to the beach would be a grave mistake. Along the 72 mile stretch of coast that makes up the Florida Space Coast, visitors will find miles of sandy beaches, some world-renowned, and some lesser-known but just as enchanting.
Cocoa Beach
The East Coast surfing capital, Coco Beach, Florida, draws its share of visitors to its sandy shoreline. As the childhood home of 11x world champion surfer Kelly Slater, Coco Bach boasts a storied surfing history. If you’re looking to catch some waves or you just want to relax and enjoy the best of East Coast surf culture, Coco Beach is the spot for you.
Playalinda Beach
While Coco Beach is known to draw a crowd, Playalinda Beach stretches for miles along an undeveloped coastline. If you’re looking for a quiet escape, Playalinda Beach will be just that. Located within the Canaveral National Seashore, which consists of 24 miles of untouched coastline, Playalinda is an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds.
Canova Beach
This nine-acre beach park is Brevard County’s only dog-friendly stretch of sand. So, many of the visitors to this beach have four legs. This little beach is nearly always filled with happy dogs chasing balls and splashing around in the waves. If you bring your pup to Canova beach, make sure to bring a leash and clean up after them so other pups can enjoy this pristine stretch of beach.
The Food
Florida’s Space Coast has a bustling food scene that’s evolved far pat your traditional tourist traps. On the Space Coast, you can find virtually any cuisine. Sample freshly caught seafood while dining with an ocean view, or head to one of the Space Coast’s four lively downtown areas for a date night. A favorite waterfront eatery with locals and visitors alike is Seafood Atlantic Inc. in Cape Carnival. This casual, outdoor waterfront restaurant and seafood market serves some of the freshest seafood around. For a romantic evening out, head to Trend Kitchen in Indian Harbor Beach. Trend Kitchen has an imaginatively modern cuisine, which is paired with a stellar wine list and served in a romantic and intimate setting.
The Nightlife
When most people imagine Florida nightlife, they think of either think of a night out in South Beach or spring break in the Florida Pan Handle. While both of those options have their place in the state, the Space Coast offers a unique blend of nightlife options for every demographic. For a wild night out, head to Debauchery in downtown Melbourne. As its name suggests, Debauchery is a prime location for that crazy Florida night you’ll never forget. For a more relaxed night, head to Grills Riverside, where you can enjoy live music with a stunning view of the Indian River Lagoon.
The Nature
Beyond the shops and restaurants, Florida’s Space Coast is dotted with wildlife-rich wetlands and estuaries that can be accessed and explored from the water. Space Coast Kayaking offers a guided kayak experience that allows travelers to discover the Indian River Lagoon, an estuary that’s home to more than 4,000 species of birds.
The Wildlife
Florida is home to a diverse selection of marine and wildlife that live in the state’s many protected natural areas. In fact, the Space Coast is home to Florida’s largest manatee and sea turtle habitats. To see the exotic wildlife of the Space Coast, head to Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where visitors can observe American Alligators, a variety of sea turtle species, and the Florida Manatee in their natural habitats.
The Melbourne All Suites Inn offers some of the best lodging deals in the entire Space Coast, with their award-winning two-room suites for the price of a regular room. For more info on the Space Coast or to book your trip, head to our website.
Additional Articles
5 MORE VENDORS TO TAKE YOUR EVENT AT VERO BEACH INN & SUITES TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more...
5 MORE VENDORS TO TAKE YOUR EVENT AT VERO BEACH INN & SUITES TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old. Richard McClintock, a Latin professor at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia, looked up one of the more...