From swimming, jogging, kayaking, and swinging to viewing wildlife such as manatees and alligators – Brevard Parks offer more than just a Sunday stroll. We found some that have a little bit of everything, but don’t worry, if you don’t see something you like here, there are over 150 more to check out!
Barrier Island Sanctuary
8385 South Highway A1A, Melbourne Beach
The Barrier Island Sanctuary includes one of Brevard Park’s 4 Management and Education centers which includes an interactive exhibit room, a library, gift shop and deck which overlooks the ocean. Adjoining trails take you through the barrier island habitats where you can see a variety of mangroves, exotic plants and wild flowers.
What you can find here: Hiking trails, kayak launch, educational center, beach views, wildlife viewing, restrooms, gift shop, riverfront views
Turkey Creek Sanctuary
1518 Port Malabar Boulevard, Palm Bay
This unique park includes miles of boardwalk that takes visitors through Florida woods and along Turkey Creek. Visitors are often lucky to see alligators, manatees, turtles and many birds in their natural habitat. Kayaking is also available through the windy creek, allowing the brave to get one-on-one with Florida nature.
What you can find here: Hiking trails, boardwalk, kayak launch, educational center, wildlife viewing, restrooms, picnic tables, jogging trails, skate park
Sand Point Park
101 North Washington Avenue, Titusville
Sand Point Park is 29.88 acres of family fun! The park is located on the Indian River and includes a .66 mile stationed exercise trail, a playground, and The Astronaut Memorial Plaza which commemorates the crews of the Apollo, the Challenger, and the Columbia space shuttles.
What you can find here: Riverfront views, picnic tables, restrooms, grills, playground, boat ramp, off-shore fishing, skate park, wildlife viewing, exercise trail, historical interest
Taylor Park Rockledge
1292 Florida Avenue, Rockledge
A perfect place for local gatherings, Taylor Park in Rockledge is shaded by old oak trees, and includes plenty of activities for the whole family. This is a perfect picnic spot or a great place to come play some outdoor games like Frisbee or crouqet.
What you can find here: Basketball court, exercise trail, picnics, playground, strolling, pavilion, picnic tables
Cherie Down Park
8492 Ridgewood Avenue, Cape Canaveral
A great beach destination, Cherie Down Park is a beach park with a neighborhood setting, making it a great place to bring the kids. There is even a 200 foot boardwalk along the dunes for a good afternoon stroll.
What you can find here: Beach activities, family picnic shelter, outdoor showers, grills, boardwalk, surf fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing
Intracoastal Waterway Park
Highway 520 Causeway at the Hubert Humphrey Bridge, Merritt Island
The Intracoastal Waterway Park is 8.5 acres of picture-perfect riverfront park. A great feature is a 250 foot pier scattered with benches, perfect for watching a sunset or enjoying gorgeous Indian River waterfront views.
What you can find here: Boardwalk, pier fishing, bicycling, picnics, strolling, restrooms, drinking fountain, wildlife viewing
Kiwanis Island Park
951 Kiwanis Island Park Road, Merritt Island
This park truly has something for everyone, from the active outdoorsman, to those of us just looking for a relaxing day in the sun. There are several boat ramps that lead into Sykes Creek which will ultimately bring you to the Barge Canal or the Banana River. A community center offers ongoing activities, as well as a gymnasium.
What you will find here: Boat launch, paddling, shore fishing, dock fishing, exercise trail, softball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, racquetball courts, playground, restrooms, drinking fountains, exercise trail, volleyball court, wildlife viewing
Erna Nixon Park
1200 Evans Road, West Melbourne
This popular site for nature walks features an elevated boardwalk that travels through three different ecosystems, a nature center, and moonlight strolls. This park is listed in the State of Florida Great Birding Trail, and also is home to a variety of small animals.
What you will find here: Nature center, boardwalk, guided walks, picnics, wildlife viewing, restrooms
For more information check out the Brevard County Parks and Recreation site which offers a full listing of county parks. www.brevardparks.com
