Space Coast

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Florida's Space Coast Office of Tourism
Photo provided by Florida's Space Coast Office of Tourism
Photo provided by Florida's Space Coast Office of Tourism
Photo provided by Florida's Space Coast Office of Tourism
Photo provided by Florida's Space Coast Office of Tourism
The home of NASA and space shuttle launches is also known for its untamed beaches, wildlife sanctuaries and surfing contests.

Florida's Space Coast is a region of the Atlantic Coast where nature and pioneering space technology sit side by side. Launch pads and rockets point skyward, surfers compete in world-famous competitions and manatees seek refuge in warm waters. Enjoy lazy days on the beach, take nature walks and see some of the world’s most impressive spacecraft.

For more than 50 years, Florida's Space Coast has been NASA's gateway to the solar system, hence its name. America's first rockets blasted off from Cape Canaveral and all 135 space shuttle missions launched from the area.

Visit the Kennedy Space Center, the nucleus of America’s space program, to see the first rockets that went to the moon. Go to the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame to learn more about the men and women who went into orbit. Explore the Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum to pick up insights into America’s military flight history and see aircraft from World War I to the present day.

The Space Coast is one of the largest ecosystems in Florida, with more than 250 square miles (647 square kilometers) of wildlife sanctuaries for Florida’s rare species. Walk along the hiking trails of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge to see manatees and marsh animals. Learn about loggerhead sea turtle conservation with a nighttime guided tour to their nesting sites. Brevard Zoo is a good place to see more exotic animal species from around the world.

With so much beautiful coastline, the beach at Florida's Space Coast is a must-do on anyone’s itinerary. Spend some time at Cocoa Beach, known as the "East Coast Surfing Capital of the United States." If you don’t want to ride the waves, watch the action from Cocoa Beach Pier. World-famous surfing competitions are held here including the Easter Surfing Festival. After your day at the beach, walk along the tree-lined streets of Cocoa Village and browse specialty shops.

Florida's Space Coast’s sand, sea, rockets and wildlife are 35 miles (56 kilometers) east of Orlando. With more than 72 miles (110 kilometers) of beaches, this area has the longest stretch of coastline in Florida.

Where to stay in Space Coast

Default Image

Port Canaveral

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Port Canaveral. Make a stop by Victory Casino Cruises or Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge while you're exploring the area.

Port Canaveral
Beautiful Sunset

Orlando Beach

If you're spending some time in Orlando Beach, South Cocoa Beach and Patrick AFB Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Orlando Beach
Default Image

Viera

Travelers like the golf courses in Viera, and Viera East Golf Club is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Viera
Perfect Ocean temps.
Great shell pickings.
All shared with these guys.
#BeachBound

Melbourne Beach

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Melbourne Beach and surrounding area, you can visit Indialantic Beach and Sea Turtle Preservation Society Melbourne Beach.

Melbourne Beach
Cocoa Beach which includes general coastal views and swimming as well as a couple

Downtown Cocoa Beach

While there might not be top attractions in Downtown Cocoa Beach, you can explore the larger area and discover places like I Dream Of Jeannie Lane and Cocoa Beach Skate Park.

Downtown Cocoa Beach
Default Image

Cocoa Isles

Though Cocoa Isles might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like I Dream Of Jeannie Lane and Ron Jon Surf Shop.

Cocoa Isles
Beachside Hotel & Suites
Beachside Hotel & Suites
3.5 out of 5
3901 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL
The price is P9,589 per night from 21 Apr to 22 Apr
P9,589
P10,739 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 21 - Apr 22
Book a stay at this eco-certified hotel in Cocoa Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (4,071 reviews)
"Rooms were a bit noisy, and could really use some additional luggage storage . But great stay, great property"

Reviewed on Apr 16, 2025

Beachside Hotel & Suites
Radisson Resort at the Port
Radisson Resort at the Port
3 out of 5
8701 Astronaut Blvd, Cape Canaveral, FL
The price is P5,643 per night from 20 May to 21 May
P5,643
P6,320 total
includes taxes & fees
May 20 - May 21
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly resort in Cape Canaveral. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the pool and the bar in ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,966 reviews)
"Good spot for pre cruise lodging"

Reviewed on Apr 19, 2025

Radisson Resort at the Port
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral
2.5 out of 5
1275 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P6,077 per night from 28 Apr to 29 Apr
P6,077
P7,302 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 28 - Apr 29
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Cocoa Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,776 reviews)
"Great place nice and clean friendly people"

Reviewed on Apr 15, 2025

La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Resort on Cocoa Beach
The Resort on Cocoa Beach
3.5 out of 5
1600 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL
Stay at this 3.5-star beach aparthotel in Cocoa Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (530 reviews)
"Loved our stay. Loved the size of the rooms and close proximity to the beach!"

Reviewed on Apr 3, 2025

The Resort on Cocoa Beach
Coco Sands Villas
Coco Sands Villas
3 out of 5
199 Tyler Ave, Cape Canaveral, FL
Stay at this 3-star apartment in Cape Canaveral. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Cocoa Beach and Cocoa Beach Pier are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (220 reviews)
"Great place. Beach is walkable. Chairs and umbrellas available."

Reviewed on Apr 8, 2025

Coco Sands Villas
Beach Place Guesthouses
Beach Place Guesthouses
3 out of 5
1445 South Atlantic Avenue, Cocoa Beach, FL
Stay at this 3-star beach cottage in Cocoa Beach. Enjoy a beach locale, a business center, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (619 reviews)
Amazing place to stay.
"This place was amazing! The property was so peaceful and laid back. Definitely a good spot if you’re looking for a more quiet vacation. The condo felt very homey and cozy. Staff was also friendly. This will be a place that I will come back to if I’m in the area again."

Reviewed on Apr 16, 2025

Beach Place Guesthouses
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do