Things to do in Merritt Island

    Discover amazing Merritt Island activities and premium in-home experiences.

    Merritt Island is a vibrant haven where the wonders of space exploration meet lush natural landscapes. Known for its close proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, this unique locale invites visitors to experience rocket launches against a backdrop of pristine beaches and thriving wildlife reserves. Whether you're exploring winding waterways by kayak or marveling at awe-inspiring spacecraft, Merritt Island promises an adventure that's out of this world.

    Popular Activities in Merritt Island

    Private Surf Lesson in Miami

    Master the waves with personalized 1.5-hour coaching and all equipment included

    4.9 121 reviews
    $85/ person

    Sunset Dolphin and Bioluminescent Comb Jelly Tour

    Paddle at dusk to spot playful dolphins and glowing comb jellies on Cocoa Beach waters

    4.9 121 reviews
    $79/ person

    Beginner Stand Up Paddle Board Lesson in Cocoa Beach

    Master SUP basics with expert instructors and enjoy extra board time on calm Cocoa Beach waters

    4.9 121 reviews
    $65/ person

    Waterfront Kayak Rental in Merritt Island Near Cocoa Beach

    Paddle calm, wildlife-rich waters just steps from free parking and launch

    4.9 121 reviews

    Sunset Kayaking Tour on Haulover Canal

    Paddle wildlife-rich refuge waters at dusk and watch the canal glow after dark.

    4.5 908 reviews
    $55/ person

    Florida Bioluminescent Clear Kayaking Tour

    Paddle clear kayaks through glowing waters at night and witness nature's captivating light show.

    4.5 908 reviews
    $80/ person

    Cocoa Beach Sunset Catamaran Sail

    Unwind as the sun sets over the Indian River and look for dolphins on a relaxing 2-hour catamaran cruise

    5.0 3.2K reviews
    $40/ person

    Dolphin Catamaran Sail on the Indian River Lagoon

    Spot dolphins and other wildlife while relaxing aboard a stable catamaran.

    5.0 3.2K reviews
    $40/ person

    Private Dolphin Catamaran Sail in Cocoa Beach

    Sail a comfortable catamaran off Cocoa Beach and watch for playful dolphins on a private two-hour charter.

    5.0 3.2K reviews

    Half-Day Offshore Fishing Excursion

    Target kingfish, mahi, snapper and more on a 5-hour private charter for up to six anglers.

    4.9 252 reviews
    $1,000

    3/4 Day Offshore Fishing Charter

    Spend seven hours offshore trolling for kingfish, mahi, tuna, and more with an experienced captain.

    4.9 252 reviews
    $1,200

    4-Hour Shark Fishing Adventure

    Catch coastal sharks off Cocoa Beach on a family-friendly charter

    4.9 252 reviews

    Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental at Cape Crossing

    Glide through calm lagoon waters on beginner-friendly SUPs.

    4.9 496 reviews

    10-Passenger Pontoon Boat Rental on Merritt Island

    Captain a spacious pontoon to spot wildlife and relax on sandbars in Florida’s Indian River Lagoon

    4.9 496 reviews

    One Hour Airboat Eco Tour

    Glide across the St. Johns River on a guided airboat and meet resident wildlife afterward

    4.9 2.4K reviews
    $42/ person

    Sunset Bioluminescent Clear Kayak Tour in Cocoa Beach

    Paddle calm lagoon waters at dusk and witness glowing bioluminescence in transparent kayaks.

    4.7 1.2K reviews
    $85/ person

    Kayak and Stand-Up Paddleboard Rentals

    Choose flexible half-day to overnight rentals and paddle local waterways at your own pace.

    4.7 1.2K reviews

    Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour

    Paddle among gentle manatees and playful dolphins on a relaxed 90-minute guided kayak outing

    4.7 1.2K reviews
    $50/ person

    Explore the Wonders of Merritt Island

    Merritt Island is a unique destination where natural beauty and space exploration coexist. Home to the Kennedy Space Center, this area offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness rocket launches up close. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and learn about NASA's missions at the visitor complex. Beyond its aerospace allure, Merritt Island boasts stunning wildlife preserves like the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which provides sanctuary for diverse species including manatees, alligators, and migratory birds.

    For those seeking outdoor adventures, kayaking through bioluminescent waters in nearby Indian River Lagoon is a must-do experience during summer months. As your paddle disturbs microscopic organisms in the water, you'll be treated to a magical light show under Florida’s starry skies. If you're visiting between October and March, take advantage of cooler temperatures by hiking or biking along scenic trails such as Pine Flatwoods Trail within Ulumay Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Merritt Island also caters to beach lovers with easy access to Cocoa Beach just over a causeway bridge—perfect for surfing or simply soaking up sun on golden sands. Local eateries serve fresh seafood that captures coastal flavors; try Rock Shrimp at Dixie Crossroads or enjoy waterfront dining at Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar while watching dolphins play in Banana River below you.

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