Exploring Merritt Island
If there’s one thing that Merritt Island is best known for, it’s space. Not just for Kennedy Space Center and a growing number of space-related industries working to put humans back into orbit from Florida’s shores, but for its vast wild spaces along its northern tip protected as Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
What’s lesser known about Merritt Island is that it serves as a natural buffer between Cape Canaveral and the inland towns of Brevard County. It sits in the Indian River Lagoon, and was once the major producer of citrus in the United States because of its temperate climate. The town of Merritt Island is in its midsection, between Cocoa and Cocoa Beach, and from that point south the island is primarily residental. But there are many parks and trails tucked away in the island’s quieter corners, especially along its shorelines.
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Outdoor Recreation Destinations
Recent Articles
Exploring the Pioneer Paddling Trail
Amid mangrove swamps along an old pioneer route in Kings Park, the Pioneer Paddling Trail offers an intimate look at a forgotten wild corridor on Merritt Island.
Biking Pine Island Conservation Area
Within sight of the massive Vehicle Assembly Building at Kennedy Space Center, this ride to the Indian River Lagoon offers some of the best birding you’ll do by bike.
Bioluminescent Paddling in Titusville
During the summer months, bioluminescence makes its appearance in the Indian River Lagoon and is especially strong along Merritt Island near Titusville. On my paddling trip, I saw the best glow I’ve ever seen.
A Paddle I Will Never Forget
Taking on a remote stretch of the Indian River Lagoon paralleling the wildest part of Canaveral National Seashore, our group of paddlers turns back until only two kayakers are left, fighting the wind to reach our goal.
NEARBY: Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island NWR, Melbourne, New Smyrna Beach, Titusville, | PART OF: Florida’s Space Coast | Central Florida