Once you’ve had your fill of modern technology, Florida’s 'Space Coast' also lets you get back to nature. Titusville is a gateway to the Merritt Island National Wildlife refuge and the adjacent canaveral national Seashore. Together, these protected areas preserve nearly 200,000 acres of pristine florida coastal wilderness.
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to some 500 species of animals and 1,000 species of plants, including several that are threatened or endangered. nature lovers will delight in a leisurely trip along the seven-mile Black point Wildlife Drive, which offers opportunities to see a variety of water birds and maybe even an alligator or two. and be sure to stop at the manatee observation Deck — if you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of these gentle aquatic giants. Fishing, canoeing and kayaking are also available.
fws.gov/merrittisland, 321-861-0668
Just north, Canaveral National Seashore is a beachgoer’s paradise, boasting 24 miles of undeveloped public beaches that are ideal for surf fishing, swimming, kayaking, sunbathing or just communing with nature. Head inland for a hike on the self-guided trails for an up-close encounter with an ancient native american shell mound, and you just might be rewarded with a sighting of a bobcat, otter, white-tailed deer, florida scrub jay or one of several types of raptors, such as ospreys, peregrine falcons or bald eagles. Boating is permitted offshore, or you can take a guided tour with a national park ranger on a pontoon boat.
nps.gov/cana, 321-267-1110
