The Other Space Coast
The Space Coast’s wildlife is the complement to the rockets — the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (sharing the Kennedy Space Center land), the Indian River Lagoon (one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America), and the Canaveral National Seashore (a 24-mile barrier island beach, undeveloped and pristine) support a remarkable density of wildlife. Space Coast wildlife tours explore this habitat — birdwatching (over 330 species recorded on Merritt Island, including roseate spoonbills, wood storks, bald eagles, and the endangered Florida scrub-jay), manatee encounters (the Indian River Lagoon is a winter refuge for West Indian manatees — guided kayak and paddleboard tours provide close-range encounters in the warm-water springs), sea turtle nesting (June–October, guided night-time beach tours observe nesting loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles on the Canaveral National Seashore), and the alligator-and-bird airboat tours through the marshlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What wildlife can I see on the Space Coast?
Alligators (year-round), bald eagles (year-round), manatees (November–March in the warm-water areas), sea turtles (June–October nesting season on the beaches), dolphins (year-round in the Indian River Lagoon), and 330+ bird species on the Merritt Island refuge.
Can I combine wildlife tours with Kennedy Space Center?
Yes — the wildlife and the space center share the same geography. The airboat combo (covered separately) is the most popular format. A dedicated wildlife day (birdwatching, manatee kayaking, or sea turtle nesting tour) is the alternative for visitors with a strong nature interest.