A mellow beach town located along the East Coast. Sounds like a dime a dozen. That is, until you visit Melbourne Beach, Florida.
Situated between major coastal towns like Cocoa Beach and Vero Beach, it can be easy to overlook. Which is what makes it the perfect Florida destination.
This unassuming town is buzzing with activity. The performing arts center, top-notch restaurants, and local shops prove that there is more to this town than lounging on the beach.
Where is Melbourne Beach?
Located towards the lower end of Brevard County. This coastal town keeps you close to the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. All while still having access to major inland cities like Orlando and Daytona Beach.
Visitors have the choice of flying into Orlando International Airport. This is a quick hour-long drive away. Or take a look at Melbourne Orlando International Airport. It places you only 14 minutes from the closest beach.
Things To Do In Or Around Melbourne Beach, Florida
1. Kennedy Space Center
Brevard County isn’t known as Florida’s space coast for no reason. Just an hour away from Melbourne Beach is a unique experience that is perfect for a day trip. The iconic Kennedy Space Center.
Here you can meet an astronaut and go behind the gates with a facility tour. Plan ahead and be a part of a spaceship launch day. This family-friendly outing will be memorable for the whole family.
2. Dine In Downtown Melbourne
Scattered throughout Downtown Melbourne are forty different restaurants and bars. Each offering something completely different.
Local highlight Meg O’Malleys takes your taste buds across the pond. Tapping into Irish culture, their menu boasts of pub favorites like shepherd’s pie, corned beef sliders, and Irish stew. Stop in on Sundays for a cross-cultural experience: live music during their jazz brunch.
3. Cruise From Port Canaveral, FL
Just an hour north of Melbourne Beach is one of the busiest cruise ports in Florida. One of five cruising ports, Port Canaveral is the most centrally located port aside from Tampa, Florida.
What makes Port Canaveral so unique is its seven different cruise terminals. Sending out ships from notable cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean.
4. Sebastian Inlet State Park
Spend the day exploring the untouched beaches of Sebastian Inlet State Park. Gaining attention from surfers around the United States for surfing spots like “First Peak” and “Moster Hole”. That’s not all that Sebastian Inlet has to offer.
Make room for less intense water activities by kayaking along the Indian River Lagoon. Fishermen can try their hand at casting a line on the jetties.
5. Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
Visiting this wildlife refuge is a must. Responsible for preserving over 20.5 miles throughout Indian River and Brevard County. The Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge creates a safe place for sea turtles to nest year after year.
Established in 1991, the refuge has worked tirelessly to continue conservation efforts. Learn more about the mission at Barrier Island Center.
Homes For Sale in Melbourne Beach, FL
This city isn’t just a vacation spot. Many retirees turn their weekend getaway into an endless vacation. Named as one of the “Best Places to Retire In America” by Investopedia. Melbourne Beach continues to prove why it’s the perfect retirement spot.
Imagine waking up in the morning and being a golf cart ride away from the ocean. This is a reality for residents who own homes at The Waters, a waterfront 55+ community.
Tap the images above to expand The Waters photo tour.
Outings to local restaurants. Activities that bring the community together. Resort-style amenities. This is the kind of stress-free retirement people dream about and then wonder why they didn’t do it sooner.