Satellite Beach is located in the eastern part of Florida state. It’s one of its coastal cities, famous for its long sandy beaches and blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You could even think that Satellite Beach is an island because while it has the Atlantic Ocean on the East, its Western border is created by the Indian River; over 30 percent of the city’s land is water. The city has also two overlapping climate zones: temperate and tropical. Thanks to that, summers aren’t extremely hot and winters stay pretty warm. If you’re looking to stay for a night or two, you can check out Airbnb vacation rentals that are available for your dates. Some of the Vrbo vacation rentals in the area also cater to every kind of traveler. Satellite Beach is also a good place to observe interesting Atlantic Ocean fauna, which includes sea turtles and whales. Continue reading to learn more about the best things to do in and around Satellite Beach, Florida.
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1. Andretti Thrill Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
A thrilling entertainment attraction near Satellite Beach, Andretti Thrill Park promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. This park is a perfect outing option that offers an array of adrenaline-pumping activities. From go-kart racing to laser tag, arcade games, and mini golf, Andretti Thrill Park has something for everyone.
What makes it even more enticing are the special offers and perks available, such as group packages, birthday party deals, and seasonal promotions. The park’s amenities include a well-maintained facility, dining options, and event spaces for hosting celebrations or team-building activities.
Andretti Thrill Park
Address: 3960 S Babcock St, Melbourne, FL 32901
Website: Andretti Thrill Park
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 12pm to 10pm; Fri: 12pm to 11pm; Sat: 11am to 11pm; Sun: 11am to 9pm
2. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is an awe-inspiring destination that offers an unparalleled journey into the world of space exploration. This center is a fantastic spot that provides visitors a unique opportunity to learn about NASA’s historic missions, space shuttles, and the future of space travel.
The complex offers a plethora of activities, including the chance to see spacecraft, watch rocket launches, and meet astronauts. There are engaging exhibits, IMAX theaters, and informative presentations. To enhance the experience, the free visitor complex app is available to help plan your trip efficiently as there are real-time updates on events and attractions. Additionally, the complex features dining options, gift shops, and even bus tours to the launch sites.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Website: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
3. Canova Beach Park
So, I mentioned that over 30 percent of Satellite Beach’s land is water, so it is in the villages around it. So it’s not a big surprise that most of the main attractions in the area will be Beach Parks. And here is the first one on our list: Canova Beach Park is located in a village called Indialantic, and it lies 4 miles (7 km) south from Satellite Beach. There’s many interesting activities that everybody is welcome to try in the park. There are three dune crossovers that give you access to the sand and one of them is accessible by wheelchairs and strollers. In the Canova Beach Park, we can find the only dog-friendly beach in the country and there’s no fee for using it with your puppy. The park has also many important amenities, like restrooms, picnic tables, benches, drinking fountains and showers located outside of the park.
Canova Beach Park
Address: 3299 N Hwy A1A, Indialantic, FL 32903, USA
Website: Canova Beach Park
4. Gleason Park and the Dragon Point
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Here’s a closer park this time. Gleason Park is located just 3 miles (5 km) south from Satellite Beach but is located on the other side of the “island” giving access to the Indian River. This beautiful green park has an amazing natural fountain and a cute wooden deck when you can get some nice family portraits. You’ll find there also the Indian Harbor Beach Rec Centre with a swimming pool. A minute walk away from the park, you’ll get to the place with a beautiful view of the place called the “Dragon Point”. That’s a point where the Indian River Lagoon splits creating a Banana Lagoon. In that point, not more than 10 years ago, was standing an amazing sculpture of a green dragon, unfortunately, the monster collapsed and was demolished, but there are plans for a new dragon called “Rojak” to stand back up at the Dragon Point.
Gleason Park
Address: 1233 Yacht Club Blvd, Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937, USA
Website: Rec Centre
5. Samsons Island Nature Preserve
If you’re looking for things to do around Satellite Beach, check out Samsons Island Nature Preserve. The park is located on the island on Banana River. Interesting fact: the Banana River is not actually a river but part of the Indian River Lagoon, and since it’s mostly moved by the wind it flows opposite, from the mouth to headwaters. Samsons Island offers its visitors many interesting activities like hiking, biking, fishing or bird watching; there are over 30 different species living on the Island.
If you’d like to spend a night among nature, camping is allowed in designated areas. But remember to be on the Island after dusk you need to hold a permit. There are also special regulations for boating in the area, so if you’re planning to bring a boat, check out their website for more information.
Samsons Island Nature Preserve
Address: 699 Jackson Ct, Satellite Beach, FL 32937, USA
Website: Samsons Island Nature Preserve
6. Pelican Beach Park
Here’s an option for you if you don’t know what to do in Satellite Beach and you’re looking for a nice place to spend a day. Pelican Beach Park is fairly new, it was fully renovated in 2007. They have a perfect option for people who are looking for a place to host a small or bigger party because the park offers pavilion rental. They have 6 of them, all equipped with grills and some also have tables, all different sizes; they can host from 12 up to 70 people, so it’s a big variety depending on what you need! They have cute names, like for example Turtle or Sea Grape. There’s a playground for children to have fun, as well as two volleyball courts, and you don’t need a reservation to use them. Other than that, the park has a parking lot, restrooms and outside showers. The park is open from 9 am till sunset.
Pelican Beach Park
Address: 1525 Highway A1A, Satellite Beach, FL 32937, USA
Website: Pelican Beach Park
7. St Johns River Kayak Experience
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Go Kayaking Tours on Monday, September 13, 2021
And for the end, I left something that is not a park but for sure will be an unforgettable adventure. From the beginning, some information: St Johns River is the longest Florida river and it goes through numerous beautiful lakes. During the experience you’ll get a chance to explore the river, small hidden creeks and cuts, you may also be able to spot a great variety of birds, including the American Bald Eagle, hawks and herons. There will be a stopover to straighten your legs and get some nice hiking in. The whole trip will take 4 hours, and it will start at the public boat ramp. The price includes a guide, kayaks and some snacks for the trip. You’ll get a chance to choose if you’d prefer a trip in the morning or in the afternoon. Visit the website below for more information.
St Johns River Kayak Experience
Price: from 129 USD
Website:
The following content is contributed by Trip101 writer, Anne
8. Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
People often ask why we leave this fallen tree... ...because it’s habitat for some pretty happy resurrection ferns (and sunbathing lizards), plus it just looks cool!
Posted by The Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden at Florida Tech on Friday, March 15, 2019
Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden is located at Florida Tech in Melbourne, Florida, an 8.9-mi (14-km) drive along the coast from Satellite Beach. The garden offers a shady hammock of palm trees and a walking trail through the campus. The trail was named Dent Smith Trail after the founder of the Palm Society. The botanical gardens were created to protect the flora and fauna of this area of Florida. Visitors are warned not to cut or tamper with the plant life in the gardens. Pets, bicycles and skateboards are prohibited from entering. Families should note there are a number of water features throughout the botanical garden, as well as specimens of plants that could be poisonous. Keep to the trails and don’t let children near the plants.
Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden
Address: 2900 South Babcock St., Melbourne, FL
Website: Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden
Opening hours: 6:30am - 8pm (daily)
9. Turkey Creek Sanctuary
Turkey Creek Sanctuary is located in Palm Bay, Florida, 12.1 mi (20 km) from Satellite Beach. The small nature reserve consists of a sand pine ridge and salty hammock. It is managed by Florida Audubon Society, the EEL Program (Environmentally Endangered Lands), and the city of Palm Bay. Visitors can stroll on the boardwalk, go through the hammock and into the sand pine scrub habitat. Much of the boardwalk overlooks Turkey Creek, and the park can be accessed by kayak or canoe. Besides exploring in the fresh air, visitors can head to Margaret Hames Nature Center to check out the interpretive exhibits and the gift shop. Main activities in the park include wildlife viewing, jogging, and paddling. Visitors should note that no bikes are allowed in the park, and only service animals can accompany visitors.
Turkey Creek Sanctuary
Address: 1518 Port Malabar Blvd NE, Palm Bay, Florida, USA
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
10. Liberty Bell Memorial Museum
Liberty Bell Memorial Museum is located a 9.4-mi (15-km) drive along the coast from Satellite Beach. Nestled in Wells Park, the museum is next door to Melbourne Military Memorial Park. There are two sections to visit, and entry is free. Rotunda of American History exhibits historic documents and other memorabilia. In one area of the museum, a replica of the real Liberty Bell stands. Other exhibits include pre-revolutionary period artifacts, articles found in the old forts throughout Florida, and details of the naval air station and space exploration. Freedom Hall is an annex where military awards and decorations are displayed for each of the major wars.
Liberty Bell Memorial Museum
Address: 1601 Oak St, Melbourne, Florida, USA
Website: Liberty Bell Memorial Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed from Sun - Tue)
11. Manatee Sanctuary Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We need your help naming the new calf on the block in #CapeCanaveral! What's this baby manatee's name? ? Leave your...
Posted by City of Cape Canaveral- Government on Thursday, August 16, 2018
Manatee Sanctuary Park is located in Cape Canaveral, a 15.9-mi (25.5-km) drive from Satellite Beach on the FL A1A North route. The park is located on Banana River and offers 10 ac (4 ha) of riverfront for relaxation and fun. Visitors are not guaranteed to see the beautiful manatees as they are usually in the protected breeding area in Banana River. However, they have been known to feed on the seagrass located along the boardwalk. The surrounding park has a paved fitness trail, 10 exercise stations, picnic tables, grills, and a covered pavilion. Dogs are allowed if kept on a leash. There is a Zagster bike share station in the park, as well as a playground for the children.
Manatee Sanctuary Park
Address: 701 Thurm Blvd, Cape Canaveral, Florida, USA
12. Hightower Beach
Eager to do a little Satellite Beach sightseeing? Check out the observation pavilion on the boardwalk of Hightower Beach Park, a beautiful natural park with well-kept sand backed by dunes. The city wants visitors to learn about the uniqueness of this dune and beach system in order to prompt them to make a difference. Visitors are encouraged to walk or use a bicycle to access the beach park. They are discouraged from littering during their visit. Amenities here include restrooms, outdoor showers, and plenty of parking. Hightower Beach is also popular with surfers. Families should note that there is no lifeguard service here.
Hightower Beach
Address: 815 Highway A1A, Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
13. Brevard Zoo
Brevard Zoo first opened in 1994, and it is nestled in a forested area. Boardwalks run through the small zoo to take visitors to the various sections where they can see jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, and many species of birds. African animals such as giraffe and impalas can also be seen here. One enjoyable trail is the Treetop Trek, where animals can be seen from a different angle. The zoo concentrates on wildlife preservation, and they go so far as to also preserve the Indian River Lagoon, with its native oysters and mangroves. The zoo also runs the Sea Turtle Healing Center where sea turtles are rehabilitated. The zoo offers a variety of field trips and summer camps for visitors to learn more about nature and the animals living here.
Brevard Zoo
Address: 8225 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, Florida, USA
Website: Brevard Zoo
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: from 14.70 USD
14. Florida Surf Museum
Florida Surf Museum was set up to preserve the history of surfing in Florida. Formerly known as Cocoa Beach Surf Museum, it was founded in 1999 and is located in Ron Jon Surf Shop on Cocoa Beach. The museum is close to the ocean and Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Visitors can enjoy a variety of surf-related exhibits here, including a wide range of surfboards and accessories. Some exhibitions worth exploring include Sidewalk Surfing, Florida Women of the Waves, Sebastian Inlet - The Accidental Wave, Hobgood - the Virtual Exhibit, Shortboard Evolution Revolution, and Paipo: Prone to Ride.
Florida Surf Museum
Address: 4275 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, Florida, USA
Website: Florida Surf Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
15. Da Kine Diego's Insane Burrito
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Yes, it does taste as good as it looks #dakinediegos #satellitebeach #lovesurfeat
Posted by Da Kine Diego's on Friday, July 10, 2020
Da Kine Diego’s Insane Burrito serves a full range of delicious burritos. The restaurant boasts that their burritos are so good, you should take a photo to make them last longer! Everything on the menu is in full Tex-Mex style and prepared fresh from locally sourced ingredients. Dine-in and take out is available to patrons. Set in a surf shack, Da Kine Diego’s Insane Burritos are said to be the best burritos available on the Space Coast. For those who want a lighter meal, the restaurant also serves a delicious range of tacos and fresh salads. Service is quick, meaning visitors can get back to the beach quickly after their meal.
Da Kine Diego's Insane Burrito
Address: 1360 Florida A1A, Satellite Beach, Florida, USA
Website: Da Kine Diego’s Insane Burrito
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm
16. S.P.R.A. Park
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
S.P.R.A. Park in Satellite Beach, Florida, is the ideal place to enjoy the beaches of the Space Coast. This is a small, neighborhood park that features dunes, an outdoor shower, and a small parking area. The 0.93-ac (0.37-ha) park is perfect for families and is a great place to enjoy a picnic in the fresh sea air. The clean, sandy beach is beloved by beachgoers and those who enjoy surf fishing. Perkins Beach is also one of the best surf breaks in Florida for those who want to get out on the waves.
S.P.R.A. Park
Address: 499 Florida A1A, Satellite Beach, Florida, USA
Little Satellite Beach
As you can see, there are plenty of activities near Satellite Beach to enjoy, particularly in the water before you retire to your room in one of the beachfront hotels in the area. This is a great place to have fun with friends and family. On your next trip to this side of Florida, be sure to check out these fun things to do in and around Satellite Beach.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in and around Satellite Beach, Florida
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