Merritt Island

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Merritt Island's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Merritt Island Adventure 1
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where you can spot a variety of birds and wildlife. Enjoy a peaceful walk along one of the trails while taking in the beautiful scenery.

afternoon
:

Head to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to learn about space exploration. Explore the exhibits, watch an IMAX movie, and don't miss the Apollo/Saturn V Center.

evening
:

Unwind with a sunset picnic at Playalinda Beach. The tranquil atmosphere and stunning views make it a perfect spot to relax.

day 2
Merritt Island Experience 2
morning
:

Visit the Merritt Island Aquarium to discover local marine life and participate in interactive exhibits. Great for families, you can spend a couple of hours learning about the ecosystem.

afternoon
:

Explore the shopping opportunities at the Viera Commons. Enjoy browsing local shops and grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants.

evening
:

Attend a local event or concert at the Cocoa Beach Civic Center. Enjoy the community spirit and entertainment in a relaxed setting.

day 3
Merritt Island Nature 3
morning
:

Join a guided kayak tour through the wetlands of the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. Paddle along while observing the diverse plant and animal life around you.

afternoon
:

Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier for some fun in the sun and sea. You can relax on the beach, try some water activities, or simply enjoy a drink at a beachside bar.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood and breathtaking views. End the day with a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

day 4
Merritt Island Relaxation 4
morning
:

Enjoy a serene morning at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary, where you can hike through natural Florida habitats. Observe the many species of birds and butterflies as you wander the trails.

afternoon
:

Head over to the Kennedy Space Center and take the 'Up-Close Tour' for an insider's glimpse of the space launch facilities. Learn about NASA's past and future missions.

evening
:

Catch the sunset at the Canova Beach Park. It’s a quieter beach with great vistas, perfect for a tranquil evening.

day 5
Merritt Island Wildlife 5
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture stunning views.

afternoon
:

Explore the famous Cocoa Beach, just a short drive away, and enjoy activities like surfing or paddleboarding. The beach also offers great places for lunch.

evening
:

After a day filled with activity, head to a local seafood restaurant for dinner. Relish the catch of the day while enjoying beautiful views of the water.

day 6
Merritt Island Fun 6
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Sanctuary to engage with nature. It's a fantastic area for taking photographs of local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely trip over to the historic town of Cocoa Village, where you can stroll along charming streets lined with shops and cafΓ©s. Enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro.

evening
:

Enjoy an evening of entertainment at a local bar featuring live music. Experience the vibrant nightlife and meet locals.

day 7
Merritt Island Exploration 7
morning
:

Start with early birding at the Black Point Wildlife Drive for some beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting. The drive is slowly paced and perfect for viewing diverse habitats.

afternoon
:

Join a spaceship-themed tour at the Kennedy Space Center and get access to numerous engaging experiences. It's both educational and exciting.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a visit to the Cocoa Village Playhouse for a live show or musical. Enjoy the local talent and a community atmosphere.

day 8
Merritt Island Stargazing 8
morning
:

Village at Merritt Square offers a great selection of shops to explore in the morning. Retail therapy sets a positive tone for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Brevard Zoo, where you can feed giraffes or take a train ride through animal exhibits. It's fun for all ages.

evening
:

Find a local spot for stargazing, perhaps at the nearby Cape Canaveral. The clear skies offer spectacular views of the night sky.

day 9
Merritt Island Adventure 9
morning
:

Take a morning hike at the Black Point Wildlife Drive for some stunning sights and sounds of nature. Don’t forget your camera for capturing memories.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a boat tour along the Indian River Lagoon. Learn about the area's rich ecosystems and see wildlife up close.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a beach bonfire at one of the local beach parks. Enjoy the sounds of the waves while toasting marshmallows under the stars.

day 10
Merritt Island Journey 10
morning
:

Start your day at the Merritt Island Marsh Trail where you can appreciate serene nature walks and witness local wildlife. Early risers will be rewarded with the beauty of the morning.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Exploration Tower at Cape Canaveral for panoramic views. The interactive exhibits make it fun and informative.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at one of Merritt Island's family-friendly diners. Relish classic American fare in a cozy setting.

Discover Merritt Island

Read more in our Merritt Island 2024 Travel Guide.

Merritt Island Travel Guide