Florida's Space Coast Offers More Than Just Kennedy Space Center, Includes Sand, Surf, Wildlife, Water Adventures & More

Jeff Walker, Travel Writer

There are a host of welcoming cities in Florida. With lots of sunshine, warm weather, and plenty of coastline Florida draws visitors year round. Whether you prefer to lie on the beach, be out on the water, enjoy amusement parks, or take in special events, without question there is a long list of things to do in the Sunshine State.

However, several cities in Florida attract more vacationers than others. Orlando with its multiple theme parks draw families non-stop. Miami and Fort Lauderdale appeal to beach goers and those on spring break.

Tampa and nearby Clearwater attract families who want to relax, visit Busch Gardens and take in the zoo. When not playing host to an annual NASCAR race or Bike Week, Daytona welcomes their share of college kids during spring break, leaving Key West with its laid-back Jimmy Buffett vibe and Ernest Hemingway history to scuba divers, dolphin-watchers, and those who prefer deep sea fishing.

While every Florida city carries its own appeal including St. Augustine, billed as the oldest city (1565) in the United States, the Space Coast of Florida encompassing Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Titusville, Merritt Island, and Melbourne are often overshadowed by the other cities due to their varied attractions or history.

With a nearly 16 percent population growth over the past decade this coastal region of Brevard County attracts visitors of all ages, especially surfers and surf history buffs, as well as those intrigued with space travel. Whether you're spending a long weekend or a week along the Space Coast consider experiencing some of the following.

Without question, the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is easily one of the star (pun intended) attractions along the Space Coast. Named for our 35th president and spanning over 219 square miles on Merritt Island, KSC has been NASA's primary launch center for American spaceflight, research, and technology. 

Apollo, Skylab and Space Shuttle programs have all been launched (pun intended) from KSC. While understandably much of the complex is off limits, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex provides an all encompassing tour allowing visitors to explore the past, present, and future of space exploration including the developing Artemis Program.

Included in the tour are exhibits from Apollo/Saturn V Center, the Shuttle Launch Experience exhibits, and a behind the scenes Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour, taking you to historic launch sites and operational facilities such as the Vehicle Assembly Building (where rockets are put together) and iconic Launch Complex 39 used for Apollo and Space Shuttle missions.

Additionally the tour features exhibits, displays, historic spacecraft, memorabilia, shows, and two IMAX theaters. The 'Space Shuttle Atlantis' exhibit contains the Atlantis orbiter and the Shuttle Launch Experience, a simulated ride into space, as well as a detailed story of NASA's 30-year Space Shuttle Program. Want more? How about daily presentations from actual veteran astronauts.

Trust me, you're not going to want to miss the Heroes & Legends Center, housing the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame and several displays of artifacts, including the Gemini 9A (pre-Apollo) spacecraft and a recreation of the Mercury Control Center. Attracting nearly 2 million visitors yearly, a visit to KSC is an 'out of this world experience' (pun intended).

The Kennedy Space Center is fun and educational for fans of all ages. Prepare to spend 4-6 hours to totally take it all in. For all things KSC and upcoming events check out their website at https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/

Hanging Ten, the 52K square feet Ron Jon Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach is easily the chains largest retail operations. Although the shop specializing in surfing and bodyboarding equipment is synonymous with Cocoa Beach also known as the 'surf capital of the East Coast', its history dates back to Ship Bottom, New Jersey in 1959. Totally gnarly dude! 

The well trafficked shop is also home to the Cocoa Beach Surf Museum (aka Florida Surf Museum), preserving and documenting the unique history and culture of East Coast surfing scene. At Ron Jon Surf Shop and the museum discover why Cocoa Beach has become one of the premier surf towns in the world. Catch the wave at https://www.ronjonsurfshop.com/

Stretching some 800ft. long over the Atlantic Ocean the nearby Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier offers everything beach goers can revel in an all day trip to the beach. Besides the sand and the waves, visitors can take surf lessons, shop to you drop, enjoy a variety of food & drink, combined with nightly live entertainment on the pier.

Whether you prefer sit down or grab n' go fare, there are eight different food and beverage destinations surrounding the pier, with three reflecting the same menu at different locations along the waterfront. Pier 62, Boardwalk Bar, and Rikki Tikki Tavern serve up all your seaside favorites including crab dip, fried shrimp, lobster rolls, and blackened grouper tacos, alongside soups, salads, wings, sandwiches, and signature Longboard and Basic Beach Burgers. Be sure to save room for a real deal slice of Killer Key Lime Pie. All come with a side of an epic view. 

If you're looking for something quick consider Ohana Subs, a made-to-order deli that uses Boar's Head Meats, fresh produce and specialty breads to create one of kind sandwiches ideal for the whole family. Northerners familiar with boardwalk eats might relish (pun intended) enjoying an authentic Nathan's Famous at Sea Dogs, where you'll find a soft-serve ice cream cones, root beer floats, sundaes, smoothies and frozen chocolate bananas. It's kind of like a hotdog cart meets the Dairy Queen!

You can wash it all down with a dozen plus signature frozen and craft cocktails, including the Parrot Paradise (Parrot Bay Mango, Coconut Rum & pineapple juice), or a Tropical Sunset blended with El Jimador tequila in a swirl of Strawberry & Mango Island Oasis mix. Younger ones in your party might opt for central Florida's best shaved ice (Hawaiian snow-cone) at Maui J’s. Several ways to beat the heat.

As their website states, the pier offers beach rentals, fresh water showers, regulation beach volleyball courts, lifeguards year round and access to some of the absolute best surfing on the East Coast! And it's pretty much swimsuits and sandals if you're staying in the Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort. Awesome! For the ultimate beach adventure surf the web at https://www.cocoabeachpier.com/

Since 1996 kids of all ages have been fascinated by the Dinosaur Store and their 20K sq. ft. Museum of Dinosaurs, showcasing hundreds of authentic artifacts and fossils from around the world. Their Adventure Zone is an interactive, hands-on activity area complete with a free play arcade, that leads into Reptile Run home to 25 live animals, including snakes, frogs, and tortoises. Three adventures, one location. Plan your visit at https://www.dinosaurstore.com/

Tired of not 'hangin ten' properly on a longboard. Maybe you need a little S.O.S. aka a surfing lesson from the School of Surf on Cocoa Beach. No matter if you're in town for a long weekend or an extended stay, S.O.S. offer daily lessons and one day clinics for beginners or all ages and skill levels. Ride the wave at https://schoolofsurf.org/ Not to be outdone Ron Jon's offers lessons year round and will have you up and surfing at their signature Surf School. Surf the web for more at https://ronjonsurfschool.com/

Whether it's a guys weekend and you're looking to spend a day saltwater fishing, or it's a family vacation and you want the kids to experience dolphin, manatees, and other coastal wildlife, than the preferred choice is Cast Away Adventures. For the latter enjoy a two hour tour on a six person 26 foot catamaran deck boat and have a close encounter with Florida manatees and or Atlantic bottle nose dolphins. Additionally it provides a great views of Kennedy Space Center and the US Space Force command.

If it's all about the rod & reel than spend the whole day on the calm inshore waters of Banana River lagoon where as many as 40 species of fish are waiting to be hooked. All you need to bring is a positive attitude because as their website says, they supply the boat, equipment, bait and license. So whether you are an avid fisherman or never tried this sport, you can CAST AWAY all day. Hook up with them at https://castawayfl.com/

Perhaps you welcome a more laid back time on the water. Cocoa Kayaking offer a variety of guided tours through Thousand Islands off Cocoa Beach and in neighboring Titusville's Wildlife Refuge in Haulover Canal. Paddle through exotic mangrove tunnels and epic estuaries while spotting dolphins, manatees, and migratory birds. Cocoa Kayaking offer paddle-boarding, and clear bottom kayaks. Create a lifetime of memories by taking a Bioluminescent or LED Night-time Tour. Rentals available. Begin your adventure at https://www.cocoakayaking.com/

Want to enjoy a relaxed outing on the Banana River, take either a two hour Sunset Boat or Cocktail Cruise with Captain CJ or Captain Barry. Banana River Boat Tours provide several experiences on the water including once in a lifetime Rocket Launch Boat tours. Feel the thrust when a rocket lights up the sky. Banana River Boat Tours provide coolers, ice and complimentary water bottles, allowing guests to bring their own food and drink (no glass). Capture it all beforehand at https://bananariverboattours.com/boat-tours-on-the-space-coast/

You won't discover a more versatile 'on the water experience' than spending time on the Indian River Queen. This a triple-deck paddle wheel boat in Cocoa Beach Village offers a variety of cruises, including public and private charters. Depending on the day and the time of year, they provide brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises, as well as separate sunset cruises, or for the history buff the one hour 'It Takes a Village' Historic & Scenic Cruise'. 

The air-conditioned main deck provides a full-service bar and dinner seating, allowing the second deck set for live music, a dance floor, and additional full-service bar, with restrooms on both levels. That leaves the open air top deck to scenic views of the Indian River. Ideal for taking pictures.

Maybe you're planning a small family vacation around a wedding or a special event, consider letting the Indian River Queen to be your host. They'll even plan your special event for you. And if you're one of the blessed, you just might be out on the water with Penny the owner, known affectionately as Cocoa Beach' 'Boat Lady'. To make memories that will last a lifetime on the water, set sail with https://www.indianriverqueen.com/

Vacationing on the Space Coast with the friends and family, and looking to spend a whole day at the beach, consider Lori Wilson Park. Operated by Brevard County, this lush seaside locale has everything you need and something for everyone, including an off the leash dog park. Open until sunset everyday, this 20 acre oceanfront park features playgrounds, beach volleyball, showers, restrooms, shelters, and picnic areas with barbecue grills. 

Enjoy the best of both worlds with epic dunes and maritime hammocks (forested habitats). While parking and access to Lori Wilson Park are free there are fees if you want to rent a pavilion, beach chairs, or umbrellas. Before wading into the water or work on your tan visit http://brevardfl.gov/ParksAndRecreation/ParksByCity/ParksInCocoaBeach/LoriWilsonPark

Love the outdoors and nature, consider visiting the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, home to over 500 species of wildlife and more than 140 species of freshwater and saltwater fish. Or bring the kids to the Brevard Zoo, voted one of the 'Top 5 Zoos' in the United States by USA Today. Kayak through the giraffe and zebra habitats, zip-lining over American alligators and crocodiles, while learning how to conserve their natural habitats and local ecosystems. Your adventure awaits at https://brevardzoo.org/ and https://www.fws.gov/refuge/merritt-island

Taking a break from a day spent on the sand and the surf, all the while seeking quality live entertainment later in the evening, I recommend checking out a show at the Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne. This 2K seat venue plays host to veteran musical acts, comedians, and live theatre, basically offering something for everyone. See what's happening while you're vacationing on the Space Coast at https://www.kingcenter.com/events

When it comes to accommodations the Space Coast offers a mixed bag. There are decades old motels dotting the coastline, ideal for a young couple on a budget or two friends trying to save a few dollars. It's best to do your research first.

Most of the major chains have three and four star hotels strewn from Melbourne to Titusville, with less than a 30 minute drive to wherever you're spending the day. Of course, like anywhere you go, you pay for location. If you want to stay on the beach you're going to pay a bit more. Every area hotel is approximately 60 minutes from Disney World, Sea World, and Universal Studios.

If you prefer high-end accommodations, immerse yourself at Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort, a three star hotel that presents like a four star resort. Two and four bedroom suites come complete with fully equipped kitchens and plush bedding. Enjoy the sunrise drinking coffee on the balcony, or maybe relax enjoying wine and a charcuterie plate as the day comes to an end. 

Kids and adults alike enjoy the relaxing Wakulla Water Play Experience with its 335-foot loop Lazy River, Kids Splash Pad, and oversized pool. Experience luxurious tropical atmosphere with all the comforts of home, plus direct access to the beach and their famed namesake pier.

Taking a break from the pool, perhaps grab a refreshing cocktail, fresh salad, burgers, or an authentic Nathan’s® Famous hot dog at Aloha Tiki Bar & Cafe. Find your hidden paradise at
https://www.westgateresorts.com/hotels/florida/cocoa-beach/westgate-cocoa-beach-resort/

On the flipside of the hospitality coin, travelers who prefer an AirBnB property have a multitude of choices along the Space Coast. Due diligence is best before booking. However, I can personally attest to 820 Poinsettia Ave. in Titusville. This 3BR 2BA home in an established neighborhood is a well decorated contemporary classic boasting a coastal theme. Ideal for two or three couples, or a young family with kids and grandparents in tow. The address sleeps eight comfortably, offers an open floor plan, modern kitchen, a well-manicured fenced in yard, and all the amenities you have at home. 

Ladies take note. This house has been blessed with a woman's touch. The Roku TV channel allows for a wealth of TV viewing including movies, vintage TV shows, and news from pocketed areas around the country. Perfect for watching rocket launches. 820 Poinsettia Ave. in Titusville is without question a smart choice.  For a direct link to the property visit https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1037277184941938055?sourceimpressionid=p31743684843P3ev95lSAkxJPB00 

Obviously you can't go away for a long weekend or a weeks stay without eating. The Space Coast is littered with fast food and chain restaurants, as well as decades old mom & pop eateries. If the place you're staying at has a kitchen you can save a few dollars by enjoying breakfast before heading out for the day.

Aside from the pier, if you're craving lunch or dinner with a seaside view, than I highly recommend Coconuts on the Beach on Cocoa Beach. Ocean breezes, sounds of the surf, and an outdoor tiki deck combined with awesome food and drink make Coconuts a unique dining destination. 

Locally owned since forever, Coconuts serves up a variety of comfort foods including, soups, salads, appetizers, seafood, sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. Their half pound angus beef Jammin' Bacon Burger with a side of bacon jam will satisfy the carnivore lover in your party. Coconuts Fish & Chips platter comes with a hearty portion of beer battered cod and house-made key lime slaw. Awesome baby!

Thirsty? Coconuts serve up one of kind cocktails alongside liquor free frocktails. You can build your own 16oz frozen daiquiri and drink it from a real hand carved coconut. Makes for a nice souvenir. Maybe try a frozen Dirty Banana, Sip & Slide, or the Pain In the Ass (a local favorite). Cold beer on tap, in bottles, cans, and in buckets, including several from local brewers. IPA lovers might enjoy a Dragon Point from Melbourne's Intracoastal Brewing.

Coconuts serve up live music most days from 5-9pm (3-7pm Sun). Just hangin' at the beach, Coconuts offer all day beach and umbrella rentals. Catch some rays, and hang ten, before popping up on the tiki deck for good food, cold liquid refreshment, and great service at Coconuts. For all you need to know surf online at https://coconutsonthebeach.com/coconuts-on-the-beach

Need a place to eat that's affordable and offers a bazillion (closer to 200) choices, than maybe a trip to Chow's Country Buffet in Titusville is the right meal ticket. Picture two things that don't go togther, then imagine them at Chow's. Like their website declares they offer up 'Southern Classics with an Asian Twist'. Craving mac n' cheese with sliced ham or juicy Honey Bourbon Pork, mashed potatoes, and green beans with a roll. Chow's has it. How about sushi, salads, chicken wings, plump peeled shrimp, fried rice, egg rolls, and down home barbecue. All on the menu. 

Asian offerings include Beijing Beef, General Tso’s Chicken, and Chinese doughnuts. Further satisfy your sweet tooth with cakes, pies, cookies, puddings, and ice cream. You know what takes even better, great prices. Just $12 for lunch and $16 for dinner, with military and senior citizen discounts available. Chow's Country Buffet is where you take the finicky eaters in your group. Located a stones throw off I-95 at 3125 Columbian Blvd. Chow down at https://chowscountrybuffet.com/

Maybe you're a northerner or a former New Jersey native like myself, and you're wondering can I get any real NY style thin crust pizza anywhere along the Space Coast. I must admit I wasn't able to get to every pizzeria during my four days in Cocoa, however I did frequent two of them. I can vehemently endorse Mimmo's Pizza which has three area locations. Their history began in Naples before NYC, eventually making their way to the Sunshine State. 

Additionally I can recommend Ferreri's Pizza, a New Yorker who brought a slice of the Big Apple to Titusville. We personally picked up two pies (cheese & pepperoni), and the true test, they were even good the next day warmed in the microwave. Both offer pizza by the slice, whole pies, calzones, stromboli, pasta dishes, garlic knots, and cannolis. Hell yes, they deliver. Mangia! Your NY style thin crust countdown begins at https://www.mimmospizza321.com/ or https://ferrerispizza.com/

As much as I love to eat, and my affection for everyday comfort foods, I do on occasion frequent fine dining establishments. Sadly my long weekend didn't allow this time around, but locals I spoke with agree CuiZine Restaurant & Lounge (classic continental cuisine), and The Fat Snook (fresh Seafood & Seasonal Dishes w/ a Caribbean twist) are all the rage.

Both dinner only restaurants serve up fresh catch of the day, prime steaks, signature dishes, fine wines, craft cocktails, and epic desserts. If website photos and awards merit local accolades, than these two warrant a visit. Your upscale dining experience begins at https://www.cuizinerestaurant.com/ and or https://www.thefatsnook.com/

For an 'out of this world' vacation consider spending quality time in Cocoa, Melbourne, Titusville, Merritt Island, and Cape Canaveral. Lots to do there, including entertainment, night life, attractions, history, food & drink, and miles and miles of sandy beaches. Locals call it the 'land of endless summer'. 

Whether it's 'surfs up' or it's 'lift off', clearly there is a lot to do along the 70 mile stretch of coastland they call Florida's Space Coast. For more things to do visit https://www.visitspacecoast.com/things-to-do/