Brevard County, home to Florida’s Space Coast—a region known for its aerospace industry and stunning coastline—boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in the Sunshine State. Whether you’re a local looking for a new seaside spot or a visitor planning your next vacation, these seven beaches offer something for everyone. From pristine natural habitats to family-friendly shores, let’s explore the best beaches Brevard County has to offer.
1. Cocoa Beach: Surf’s Up!
Known as the surfing capital of the East Coast, Cocoa Beach is a must-visit destination. With its iconic pier stretching 800 feet into the Atlantic, this beach offers idyllic surfing conditions, a vibrant beachside community and numerous shops and restaurants.
You can catch waves or soak up the sun on the soft, golden sand. The rhythmic crash of waves provides a soothing soundtrack to your beach day. Cocoa Beach is also home to the Florida Surf Museum and the World Famous Ron Jon Surf Shop, making it a cultural hub for surf enthusiasts.
2. Playalinda Beach: Unspoiled Beauty
Part of the Canaveral National Seashore, Playalinda Beach is a nature lover’s paradise. This undeveloped stretch of coastline offers pristine sand dunes, rich wildlife including nesting sea turtles and spectacular views of rocket launches from nearby Kennedy Space Center.
As you walk along Playalinda’s 24 miles of undisturbed shoreline, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to Florida’s natural coastal ecosystem. The salty breeze carries the calls of over 310 bird species recorded in the area, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching.
Its close proximity to Kennedy Space Center makes it the perfect spot to watch the numerous rocket launches.
3. Melbourne Beach: Family-Friendly Fun
Melbourne Beach strikes the perfect balance between activity and relaxation. During the summer you can enjoy gentle waves perfect for swimming, wide sandy shores ideal for beach games and nearby parks and picnic areas.
The family-friendly atmosphere and small town feel make Melbourne Beach a top choice for residents and tourists alike. Kids can build sandcastles while parents relax under colorful umbrellas. During turtle nesting season you might spot loggerhead and green sea turtles nesting. The Sea Turtle Preservation Society offers guided tours for viewing the nesting turtles safely.
4. Sebastian Inlet State Park: Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream
Straddling the border of Brevard and Indian River counties, Sebastian Inlet State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a premier surfing spot, excellent fishing opportunities, kayaking, paddleboarding, and camping facilities.
You can cast a line from the jetty, hoping to catch snook or redfish, or enjoy the calm, shallow waters of the park’s tide pool. With its diverse recreational offerings, Sebastian Inlet is perfect if you love to mix beach time with adventure. The park also houses two museums that showcase the area’s history and ecological importance.
5. Satellite Beach: Local Gem
This charming beachside community offers a laid-back atmosphere. Satellite Beach boasts beautiful, un-crowded shorelines, great spots for shelling and beachcombing, and nearby parks and nature preserves.
It’s an ideal spot if you’re seeking to escape the busier tourist areas while still enjoying top-notch beach amenities. The sound of lapping waves and the feel of soft sand between your toes create a peaceful retreat. For a unique adventure, take a short boat ride or paddle board to Samsons Island Nature Park, where you can hike through native Florida habitats.
6. Indialantic: Best of Both Worlds
Situated between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, Indialantic offers a unique coastal experience. You can enjoy stunning sunrise views over the ocean, or beautiful sunsets over the river. You find a great mix of local boutiques and restaurants nearby.
Indialantic’s central location makes it a convenient choice for exploring other parts of Brevard County. The beach is also known for its excellent conditions for windsurfing and kiteboarding, so you might see colorful kites dancing in the sky on breezy days.
7. Cape Canaveral: Space Coast Wonder
No list of Brevard County beaches would be complete without mentioning Cape Canaveral. This historic area offers miles of pristine shoreline, unparalleled views of rocket launches and rich space history with nearby attractions.
In Cape Canaveral, you can wiggle your toes in the sand while gazing at the same sky that has launched countless space missions. The beach combines natural beauty with the excitement of space exploration, making it a truly unique destination. After a day at the beach, you can explore the nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for an immersive space experience.
If you want to present the areas in order of location from north to south, change to:
Playalinda
Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach
Satellite Beach
Indialantic
Melbourne Beach
Sebastian Inlet
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Brevard County beach is best for families?
Melbourne Beach is an excellent choice for families, offering gentle waves, wide sandy shores and nearby amenities. Satellite Beach is also family-friendly with its less crowded environment.
Can I see rocket launches from the beaches?
Yes! Playalinda Beach and Cape Canaveral Beach offer some of the best views of rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center. However, most beaches in Brevard County provide good vantage points for launches.
Are there any dog-friendly beaches in Brevard County?
While most public beaches don’t allow dogs, there is a dog-friendly section at Canova Beach Park in Indialantic. Always check local regulations before bringing your furry friend to the beach.
What’s the best beach for surfing in Brevard County?
While Sebastian Inlet is known for its powerful waves and is a favorite among experienced surfers, great waves can be found at many of the beaches from Melbourne Beach all the way up to Playalinda Beach.
Are there any beaches with good shelling opportunities?
Satellite Beach and Melbourne Beach are known for good shelling opportunities, especially after storms. Low tide is the best time to find a variety of shells.
