Nature & Wildlife
Discover the best nature preserves, wildlife refuges, and outdoor sanctuaries across Brevard County.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
140,000+ acre refuge home to alligators, manatees, and over 330 bird species.
Turkey Creek Sanctuary
130-acre sanctuary in Palm Bay with boardwalks winding through cypress and sand pine scrub.
Enchanted Forest Sanctuary
Titusville's 470-acre nature preserve with hiking trails and a nature center.
Manatee Sanctuary Park
Cape Canaveral park with viewing areas to spot manatees in the Banana River.
Black Point Wildlife Drive
7-mile scenic drive through Merritt Island Refuge — a birder's paradise.
Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands
Viera wetlands offering an exceptional spot to photograph birds and alligators.
Barrier Island Center
Melbourne Beach educational center with sea turtle exhibits and beach access.
Helen and Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary
Rockledge sanctuary featuring a boardwalk along scenic Indian River shoreline.
Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
Critical sea turtle nesting habitat along the south Brevard coast.
Crane Creek Promenade Manatee Observation Area
Downtown Melbourne riverfront with manatee viewing platforms.
Sams House at Pine Island Conservation Area
Merritt Island historic homestead surrounded by 900+ acres of preserved land.
Maritime Hammock Sanctuary
Melbourne Beach hammock preserve with shaded coastal hiking trails.
Manatee Cove Park
Merritt Island park with kayak launch and excellent manatee viewing.
Ulumay Wildlife Sanctuary
Merritt Island sanctuary with trails through mangroves and salt marshes.
Blue Heron Water Reclamation Facility
Titusville facility known for incredible bird watching opportunities.
Manatee Observation Deck (Titusville)
Riverfront deck offering close-up views of manatees year-round.
Rotary Park Suntree
Quiet community park with nature trails and a lake for wildlife viewing.
Parrish Park
Titusville fishing pier and park with waterfront views and rocket launch sightlines.
John Jorgensens Landing
Boat ramp and quiet park on the Indian River with peaceful nature views.
Hammock Lakes Park
Melbourne park with walking trails, lakes, and abundant local wildlife.
River Lakes Conservation Area
Sprawling conservation area in west Brevard with hiking, kayaking, and rich wildlife.
Brevard County Erna Nixon Park
West Melbourne preserve with elevated boardwalks through native Florida ecosystems.