Things To Do
in North Merritt Island
North Merritt Island is an unincorporated community located in Brevard County, Florida, situated between the Indian River Lagoon and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The area is known for its natural beauty, featuring lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing. It serves as a residential area with a blend of suburban neighborhoods and rural settings, providing a tranquil lifestyle while being close to the amenities of nearby cities like Cocoa and Cocoa Beach.
Additionally, the community is in proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, which adds a unique element of aerospace history and exploration to the region.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Playalinda Beach, where you can enjoy the early morning sun and take a stroll along the shore. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy the ocean views.
Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing or exploring the nearby Canaveral National Seashore. Don't forget to bring some water and snacks to keep you energized.
Wrap up your beach day by watching the sunset on the beach. Grab dinner at a local seafood restaurant nearby for a perfect end to your day.
Head to the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge for an early morning hike through the beautiful landscapes. This is the perfect time to spot wildlife such as birds and alligators.
Continue your exploration with a guided kayak tour through the refuge's trails. It's a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic views.
Return to your accommodation and unwind while sharing your favorite moments of the day. Have dinner at home or choose a casual diner in the area.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings including parks and wildlife refuges.
- Close proximity to the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean for recreational activities.
- Generally low population density contributing to a quieter lifestyle.
- Good quality of life with access to community amenities and services.
- Mild climate with plenty of sunshine year-round.
- Limited access to major urban centers may restrict job opportunities.
- Potential for hurricanes and tropical storms impacting the area.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options may be limited, necessitating a car.
- Higher humidity and temperatures can be uncomfortable during the summer months.
Best Activities in North Merritt Island
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful beach park offering swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking opportunities, with access to the Atlantic Ocean.
A vast refuge that provides opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and photography in diverse ecosystems, home to many species of wildlife.
A scenic area perfect for hiking and observing local flora and fauna, featuring boardwalks and trails through wetlands.
A multi-use trail that runs through Merritt Island and adjacent areas, ideal for biking, hiking, and exploring the natural surroundings.
A great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, providing a chance to see various marine life, including dolphins and manatees.
Tours
Uncover the best of North Merritt Island with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in North Merritt Island
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful sunsets, Cocoa Beach offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier, making it a prime location for stunning photos.
This refuge provides incredible opportunities for wildlife photography and natural scenery, including wetlands and marshes that attract a variety of birds and other wildlife.
As one of the largest surf shops in the world, this location boasts vibrant colors and unique architecture, providing a fun backdrop for quirky photos and ocean-themed shots.
With pristine beaches and no high-rise buildings, this area offers breathtaking views of the ocean, rocket launches, and natural habitats, perfect for photographers.
Located in Titusville, this park offers excellent views of rocket launches and the Indian River, along with beautiful landscaping and historical monuments ideal for photography.
This beach is less crowded and provides stunning coastal views, along with opportunities to capture wildlife, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Food in North Merritt Island
North Merritt Island Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These fresh fish tacos are a staple in North Merritt Island, typically served with a zesty cabbage slaw and homemade salsa.
Must-Try!
A Southern classic, this dish features shrimp sautéed in a spicy sauce over a bed of creamy grits.
A pressed sandwich filled with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, highlighting the area's Hispanic influences.
Unique Experiences
Get to know North Merritt Island better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held weekly, this market offers fresh produce, local crafts, and a variety of food stalls featuring items like baked goods and prepared meals.
Explore the street food scene with a guided tour that highlights local vendors and hidden gems across Merritt Island.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents of North Merritt Island value a strong sense of community and family. It's important to show respect for local traditions and engage positively with neighbors, which may include participating in community events or demonstrating kindness.
Given its proximity to nature and wildlife, North Merritt Island residents take pride in their natural surroundings. Mindful behavior that includes littering prevention, respecting wildlife, and supporting conservation efforts is appreciated.
Effective communication often involves being friendly and polite. Using greetings, making eye contact, and practicing active listening can enhance interactions. Residents generally value friendly conversations and a warm demeanor.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of North Merritt Island with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in North Merritt Island
Ensure a smooth experience
In North Merritt Island, as well as the rest of the United States, tipping is a customary practice, especially in the service industry. Typical tipping rates range from 15% to 20% for restaurant services, depending on the quality of service. It's common to tip taxi drivers, hair stylists, and hotel staff, with similar percentages applied. Tipping is seen as a way to acknowledge good service and supplement the income of workers whose base pay may be lower.
Payment practices in North Merritt Island mainly involve cash, credit cards, and digital payments. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payments through mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly common. Certain establishments may also offer payment plans for larger purchases, while some local markets or restaurants may prefer cash transactions, particularly for small amounts. It's advisable for visitors to check accepted payment methods in advance.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into North Merritt Island.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit North Merritt Island. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s°F to the low 80s°F. This season is ideal for outdoor activities like birdwatching and hiking, as the flora is blooming and wildlife is active. Expect lower humidity and fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
Summer (June to August) in North Merritt Island is characterized by hot temperatures, often reaching the high 80s°F to low 90s°F, combined with high humidity. This season can also bring frequent afternoon thunderstorms and an increase in insect activity. While it can be uncomfortable for some, it's a vibrant time for exploring the local beaches and enjoying water activities.
Autumn (September to November) is another pleasant time to visit, especially in October and November when temperatures begin to cool down to the mid-70s°F to low 80s°F. The humidity decreases, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. This is also hurricane season, so early fall could see some unsettled weather, but after September, the risk significantly diminishes.
Winter (December to February) offers mild temperatures, typically in the 50s°F to mid-70s°F. This is considered the dry season, with lower humidity and less rainfall. It’s a popular time for tourists escaping colder climates. While it may not be as warm for swimming, it's perfect for exploring parks and nature preserves without the summer crowds.
North Merritt Island at Night
Hiking in North Merritt Island
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic beach with hiking trails nearby, excellent for walking, running, and enjoying nature.
A popular destination offering beach access and nearby trails for hiking and exploring the coastal ecosystem.
Offers eco-tours that include trails through the wetlands for hiking and observing wildlife.
A nature preserve featuring hiking trails through a diverse range of ecosystems including uplands and wetlands.
A vast refuge with numerous trails and opportunities to hike while observing native wildlife and scenic vistas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into North Merritt Island through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach North Merritt Island by plane.
Orlando International Airport is the primary airport serving the Orlando area and is located approximately 40 miles west of North Merritt Island.
Melbourne Orlando International Airport is located about 8 miles northwest of North Merritt Island and serves the immediate area with domestic and some international flights.
Tampa International Airport is located roughly 90 miles southwest of North Merritt Island and is one of the major airports serving the Tampa Bay area.
Palm Beach International Airport is situated about 100 miles southeast of North Merritt Island, serving the Palm Beach County area.
Jacksonville International Airport is located approximately 120 miles north of North Merritt Island, serving the Jacksonville metropolitan area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group in North Merritt Island, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A growing demographic group in North Merritt Island, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
Represents an essential part of the community, with a notable presence in various local activities.
A smaller but influential demographic group, contributing to the multicultural landscape of North Merritt Island.
A minor demographic group, historically linked to the region, but with a presence in the community.
Includes individuals from various backgrounds, adding to the overall diversity of North Merritt Island.
The Soul of North Merritt Island
Discover the essence of North Merritt Island through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport where players kick a ball to score goals, popular among both youth and adults.
A fast-paced team sport played on a court, popular primarily in schools and recreational leagues.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, with a strong following in local youth leagues.
Similar to baseball but played with a larger ball on a smaller field, popular among local leagues.
A team sport known for its physical nature, played at both high school and community levels.
A popular individual and team sport, with many residents participating in local swim teams and competitions.
A racquet sport played individually or in doubles, with several parks and courts available for play.
A popular team sport played both indoors and on beaches, commonly featured in recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Merritt Island.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in North Merritt Island offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, including veggie tacos, salads, and pasta dishes.
Look for cafes and restaurants that have dedicated vegan menus or customizable options featuring local veggies and grains.
Several eateries provide gluten-free options, especially for entrees and desserts; always inquire with the staff for specifics.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of North Merritt Island with these cultural adventures.
