ORLANDO'S
GREENEST
BEACH
Legendary Wildlife
Cocoa Beach, Orlando’s greenest beach, is a vibrant haven for wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and nesting sea turtles. The lush, native plants create a rich ecosystem that invites visitors to connect with nature.
Kayaking through the mangroves offers a peaceful way to explore this natural beauty, with opportunities to spot birds and marine life up close. Nearby, the Canaveral National Seashore adds to the experience, making Cocoa Beach a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Eco-Tours around Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach’s eco-tours offer a unique way to explore the area’s natural beauty. Guided by local experts, these tours take you through mangroves and lagoons to spot dolphins, manatees, and birds. Focused on conservation, they provide an educational and sustainable way to connect with the environment while enjoying the wildlife.
There is so much outdoors to explore!
Kayaking through the mangroves near Cocoa Beach offers a peaceful way to connect with nature. As you paddle through shaded waterways, you can spot birds, fish, and sometimes manatees, all while enjoying the quiet beauty of the area. It’s a simple, serene experience that highlights Cocoa Beach’s natural charm.
Best Places to View Wildlife in the Cocoa Beach Area
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: This expansive refuge is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and numerous bird species. Kayaking through its waters offers close-up encounters with these animals in their natural habitat.
Banana River Lagoon: A popular spot for kayaking, this lagoon is known for its rich marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and diverse fish species. The calm waters make it ideal for a peaceful paddle while taking in the surrounding nature.
Thousand Islands Conservation Area: Located within the Indian River Lagoon, this area offers winding kayak trails through mangrove tunnels. It’s an excellent place to see birds, fish, and occasionally, dolphins and manatees.
Canaveral National Seashore: Beyond its beautiful beaches, the seashore offers kayaking opportunities where you can explore untouched natural areas and observe wildlife like sea turtles, birds, and other coastal creatures.
Cocoa Beach Mangroves: These mangroves provide a serene environment for kayaking and are perfect for spotting various birds, fish, and sometimes even the elusive manatee. The quiet waters make for an intimate wildlife experience.
Find the Perfect Staging Area for Your Adventure
These hotels are the perfect place to stay when visiting the Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. The staff at these hotels are happy to help you with nearby resources and planning your adventure!
