Best Things to do in Melbourne Beach: Melbourne Beach is a quiet and picturesque beach town located on Florida’s east coast, about an hour’s drive southeast of Orlando. Known for its uncrowded beaches, fantastic fishing opportunities, and relaxed vibe, Melbourne Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a laid-back and peaceful vacation. Here are some of the best things to do in Melbourne Beach, FL:
Spend a Day at the Beach
Melbourne Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida, with miles of pristine white sand and clear waters. One of the best things to do in Melbourne Beach is to spend some time on the beach! Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, take a dip in the ocean, search for seashells, or go for a long walk along the shore, Melbourne Beach’s beaches are the perfect place to do it.
Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Ocean Avenue Beach, Spessard Holland Beach, and Paradise Beach. One thing to note is that some areas of Melbourne Beach only have private beach access within walking distance, so even if you rent a house near the beach, you may still have to drive to access it. Be mindful of this when deciding where you will be staying during your trip.
Go Fishing
Melbourne Beach is a popular destination for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer freshwater or saltwater fishing, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of different types of fish, including redfish, snook, barracuda, mahi-mahi, black drum, trout, and tarpon. Cast out your line from the beach, into the Indian River, or go deep sea fishing.
Melbourne Beach features plenty of fishing piers, bait and tackle shops, and local fishing charters that offer guided trips and can help you find the best fishing spots. There are several companies in Melbourne Beach that offer fishing charters, including Sea Leveler Sport Fishing Charters and Fin and Fly Fishing Charters. If you are an experienced fisherman, you can also rent a boat and just head out on your own.
Visit the Barrier Island Sanctuary
The Barrier Island Sanctuary is a 34-acre nature reserve located on a barrier island that runs parallel to Melbourne Beach’s coastline. The sanctuary features a variety of natural wildlife habitats, including mangrove forests, dunes, and salt marshes, and is home to a wide range of animals, including loggerhead turtles, birds, and manatees. Visitors can explore the sanctuary on their own or take part in one of the guided walking tours offered by the staff.
Take a Surfing Lesson
Surfing is one of the best things to do in Melbourne Beach, thanks to the consistent waves and uncrowded breaks. Great for experienced surfers and novices alike, there are plenty of local surf schools that offer lessons and equipment rentals. Melbourne Beach’s main break is at the end of Ocean Avenue – be sure to check it out on your next trip.
Go Birdwatching
Melbourne Beach is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 330 bird species found in the area. Some of the most popular bird watching spots include the Barrier Island Sanctuary, the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, and the Turkey Creek Sanctuary. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner, you’re sure to spot some unique and beautiful birds in Melbourne Beach.
Explore the Brevard Zoo
Located just a short drive from Melbourne Beach, the Brevard Zoo is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers. The zoo is home to over 900 animals from around the world, including giraffes, rhinos, and cheetahs. Visitors can also take part in a variety of animal encounters and experiences, such as feeding a giraffe or interacting with a sloth.
Visit the Sebastian Inlet State Park
The Sebastian Inlet State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its variety of recreational activities. Visitors can swim, fish, hike, and surf in the park, as well as explore the nature trails and wildlife viewing areas. The park is also home to the McLarty Treasure Museum, which showcases the local history of shipwrecks, pirates, and treasure hunting.
Take a Kayaking Tour
Melbourne Beach’s many waterways offer plenty of opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, whether you’re looking to explore the Indian River Lagoon or the Banana River. There are no shortage of interesting places to go and things to see on your kayaking adventure. One of the best things to do in Melbourne Beach is take a guided or self-guided kayaking tour of the Indian River Lagoon to see wildlife up close, learn about the ecosystem, and get some exercise. People come from miles around to kayak Melbourne Beach’s waterways.
Visit the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that covers over 20 miles of coastline in Melbourne Beach. The refuge is home to one of the largest nesting populations of loggerhead, green, and leatherback sea turtles in the world. If you visit between May and October, you may witness a sea turtle laying her eggs or hatchlings making their way to the ocean. The wildlife refuge also offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and birdwatching opportunities.
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