Melbourne & The Beaches

Families travelling to Florida’s Space Coast will find that Melbourne & the Beaches offers a welcoming blend of sun-drenched shoreline, nature encounters and adventure-filled activities - making it ideal for a memorable getaway with children. The region is defined by its 72 miles of Atlantic coastline, featuring a variety of beach access points each suited to a different kind of family day by the ocean. 

At Paradise Beach, for example, families can enjoy volleyball courts, picnic facilities with barbeques, a large playground, shaded areas, and free parking - a perfect match for a whole-day out. The more laid-back Indialantic Boardwalk offers beach-and-picnic vibes, convenient access to nearby cafés and an ice-cream shop, and the chance for relaxing meals after a day in the sand. For those interested in a more varied beach experience, Sebastian Inlet combines Atlantic waves, lagoon views with a tidal pool to explore and even indoor museum options with The McLarty Museum and the Sebastian Inlet Fishing Museum, making it easy to fill an entire day with fun. As Sebastian Inlet is a State Park, a small fee applies for each car entry. 

Beyond the beach, there are several engaging options that blend education, wildlife and hands-on fun. The Barrier Island Sanctuary is a 34-acre nature preserve inviting families to explore diverse habitats via interactive exhibits and nature trails. It is located within the Archie Carr National Refuge, one of the most important sea turtle nesting habitats in the United States and home to summertime turtle walks. On the northern edge of the region the Brevard Zoo, with hundreds of animals from across the globe, offers an immersive wildlife experience that is popular among visitors of all ages. Within the zoo, Treetop Trek lets guests navigate zip-line courses and aerial obstacles - with beginner-friendly options for children as young as four years. Children from five years can partake on a guided kayak tour, floating past giraffe, rhino and zebra exhibits. 

For active families seeking indoor fun or water-based adventures, the entertainment hub Adventure HQ offers escape rooms, bouldering walls, ninja-style obstacle courses and on-site dining - a convenient option whether rain is in the forecast or everyone needs a break from the sun. Meanwhile, for a taste of local nature and river adventure, Camp Holly offers airboat rides through the more remote marshes of the St. Johns River - a chance for a close-up glimpse of wildlife in a unique natural habitat, such as alligators and a variety of bird species. 

Whether families are after beach-side relaxation, animal encounters, nature walks or active adventures, Melbourne & the Beaches on Florida´s Space Coast provides a variety of experiences that suit different ages and interests. For those planning a trip, the region’s holiday planning resources allow easy access to information on accommodation, dining and other attractions - making it simple to build a family holiday that balances excitement, education and relaxation.

More information on the region and a trip planning tool can be found on the official website. Once in the area the Visitor Information Center at 267 W. Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, 32931 Florida provides local information and as well as some popular photo opportunities.