Cape Canaveral National Seashore

(Disclaimer: The photos here are unedited and have no filter.)

If you have followed me on social media, you know we love to visit National Park whenever possible. We have explored Cumberland Island National Seashore and Dry Tortugas in recent years.

Cape Canaveral National Seashore has been on that list and today, we checked it off but the allure of the beaches has left us wanting to return to spend more time in this amazing location.

The road leading to Merritt Island and Canaveral National Seashore is full of bird viewing opportunities, mangroves and water views. On the right, the launch pad for Space Force sits. It is magnificent to see and I am always in awe but the real beauty awaits at the South entrance of Canaveral National Seashore… there are 13 beach parking areas. I am going to share a disclaimer… area 13 is a nude beach and there is a sign that reminds you.

My only regret is not having more time to spend here. We were pressed for time before the park closed at 8:00pm and stopped at beach parking area one. This parking area is the closest to the launch pad.

We had about an hour before the park closed to explore this area. It didn’t disappoint!

The water is the most turquoise blue. The waves are stronger and perfect for a boogie board. The wildlife is abundant. We saw various shore birds including Pelicans and Ospreys. Sea Turtle nests lined the shore and we saw turtle patrol riding up and down the beach. One nest had hatched as evidenced by the turtle egg shells laying around the next. Judging by the date on the wood post, we made the assumption that it had hatched earlier in the week.

Some wildflowers bloomed closer to the dunes.

This beach seems to be good for looking for shells a well. I kept finding myself gazing out across the water in awe of God’s handiwork first and foremost but also that man has protected this amazing strip of the Florida coastline for generations to come.

If you get the chance, I would recommend grabbing a tent, picnic lunch, plan to spend the day and experiencing this paradise!