I love Florida in the summertime, when I cheerfully sport swimsuits, sundresses and flip-flops every day of the week. But when the scorching temperatures abate every fall, I find myself welcoming the return of cooler weather, when I can explore without fear of becoming sweat-drenched. 

Last year, I celebrated with a getaway to the Space Coast. I explored ancient oyster mounds in a national park and witnessed giant sea turtles lumber ashore to nest on the beach (the Space Coast is home to the United States’ largest sea turtle nesting population). I strolled the streets of historic downtown Melbourne and discovered one-of-a-kind finds in boutiques and art galleries.

Located just 35 miles east of Orlando on the central east coast of Florida, the area boasts some of the state’s best natural attractions, as well as world-class beaches, shops, resorts and hotels.

Located just 35 miles east of Orlando on the central east coast of Florida, Florida's Space Coast boasts some of the state’s best natural attractions, as well as world-class beaches, shops, resorts and hotels.

Surfing Cocoa Beach and Enjoying Florida's Outdoors

With 72 miles of beaches, the Space Coast offers plenty of places to dip your toes in the sand. I picnicked at Canaveral National Seashore, a 57,000-acre park with the longest stretch of undeveloped beach on the state’s east coast (24 miles).

Afterward, I explored the Turtle Mound, an archaeological site that offers a panoramic view. Native Americans built the roughly 35-foot-high mound of oyster shells between 800 and 1400 AD. Park visitors also can ride horses, paddle through a lagoon or hike nature trails.

If catching waves is your forte, the Space Coast is home to more than 100 of the best surf spots on the east coast. Find a killer spot to hang ten at Cocoa Beach, where you can hunt for seashells and build sandcastles, or try Sebastian Inlet State Park, where hundreds of the world’s top surfers compete every year at the O’Neill Sebastian Inlet Pro.

Seeing Sea Turtles &  Ecotouring

During sea turtle nesting season, the Space Coast comes alive at night. On my last trip, I signed up for a guided turtle watch program at Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, an important nesting area for loggerhead, leatherback and green sea turtles.

At the 248-acre refuge, groups learn more about turtles before observing them laying eggs on the beach. Along the Space Coast, various other organizations and agencies offer organized beach walks, including the Sea Turtle Preservation Society and the Caribbean Conservation Corporation. The nesting season runs through the fall, but watches are usually held during June and July; reservations are required.

Get more up-close looks at nature with an Island Boat Lines wildlife ecotour or a thrilling airboat ride at Lone Cabbage Fish Camp. Expect to see everything from alligators to osprey.

Exploring Historic Downtowns & Shopping

Just one mile from the beach sits Melbourne’s historic downtown district. Founded in 1880, the area has a vibrant array of shops, restaurants, hotels and other accommodations. I perused eye-catching dresses at Downtown Divas and homemade herbal soap and bath salts at Indian River Soap Company.

Downtown Melbourne is the largest art and antiques district in Brevard County, so make sure to check out Mud Flats Pottery and Twice Treasured Antiques.

Dining options are plentiful here, from international cuisine to homemade sweets. I enjoyed a fresh fish sandwich and thick-cut fries at the scenic Ichabod’s Dockside Grille.

On my next trip, I plan to visit Island Pasta Company, which serves up blue crab raviolis in sherry cream sauce. I also hope to book a room at Crane Creek Inn Waterfront Bed & Breakfast, where a pool, hot tub and hammock provide ample ways to relax.

Checking Out My Favorite Spots

No matter the time of year, every time I visit the Space Coast I make time for a few favorite places. I love to lunch at Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant, a casual, family-owned restaurant in Titusville that serves up mouth-watering rock shrimp and corn fritters.

For shopping, I hit the world-famous Ron Jon Surf Shop, which sells everything from surfboard wax to island-inspired home décor. A carved tiki bar sign bought a few years ago still graces my patio entrance.

At the Cocoa Beach Pier, a historical landmark established in 1962, I like to spend a lazy day fishing. Rod and reel rentals are available at the pier.

Finally, one of my favorite places to hear a live band jam is at Melbourne Beach's Sebastian Beach Inn, which features a beach party with live entertainment on weekends rain or shine. This beachfront destination instantly transports me to the islands. I find myself checking their online music schedule every chance I get.

I can’t wait for my next trip!

This article is brought to you by the Space Coast Office of Tourism. To plan your own getaway to the Space Coast, visit www.space-coast.com.