5 Best Beaches in Melbourne, Florida
Last Updated on December 1, 2023 by Boatsetter Team
Whether you’re a local seeking a weekend escape, or a visitor craving the perfect sun-soaked coastal experience, Melbourne’s beaches offer a true slice of paradise. Experience some of the best beaches Florida’s east coast has to offer by renting a boat and cruising Melbourne’s shoreline! From family picnics and sunbathing to wakeboarding and leisurely cruises, these Melbourne beaches have something for everyone. To help you make the most of your time on the water, we’ve created a quick guide to the 5 best beaches in Melbourne, Florida:
- Canova Beach Park
- Cocoa Beach
- Melbourne Beach
- Paradise Beach
- Spessard Holland South Beach
Find boat rentals & on-water experiences in Melbourne, FL
1. Canova Beach Park
Canova Beach Park is a tranquil retreat with wide shores, calm, open waters, and modest amenities. Minimal crowds make this an ideal destination for families with children. You can enjoy easy swimming and paddle boarding, or come ashore for a picnic under a pavilion. Fishing conditions at Canova Beach Park are perfect for anglers of all skill sets to cast a line. Nearby, at the Indian River Lagoon, you can find snook, redfish, trout, flounder, and sheepshead.
Pro tip: This Melbourne beach is well-known for being dog-friendly. So, if you’re looking for the perfect place to bring your furry friend ashore, drop anchor at Canova Beach Park in Melbourne!
2. Cocoa Beach
Just a stone’s throw away from Melbourne, you can discover the vibrant coastal haven of Cocoa Beach by boat. The surf scene at Cocoa Beach is world-class waves, while the beach town itself is buzzing with entertainment, good food, and drinks. The bustling nature of the area makes this an exciting destination for families and a great spot for active adults.
The water beckons with excellent fishing opportunities, especially at the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species, including pompano, whiting, Spanish Mackerel, and even tarpon. Your best selfies can be had at the Cocoa Beach Pier with it’s panoramic view of the Atlantic. The nearby Ron Jon Surf Shop and Kennedy Space Center provide the perfect excuse to come ashore for an afternoon of exploration.
Pro tip: Cocoa Beach is one of the best beaches in Melbourne, FL for surfing.
Find more boating Destination Guides on the Boatsetter blog
3. Melbourne Beach
Accessible through nearby boat ramps and channels, Melbourne Beach is the serene paradise you’ve been looking for. Gentle waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and paddle boarding. Abundant coastal vegetation adds to the idyllic scenery, making Melbourne Beach a great place to cruise through.
The nearby Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge is a nesting site for sea turtles, and it’s one of the reasons there isn’t a lot of commercial development in this area. At Melbourne Beach, Boaters can immerse themselves in one of Florida’s unspoiled coastal landscapes. Melbourne Beach is suitable for surf fishing and offers opportunities to catch snook, redfish, whiting, and pompano.
4. Paradise Beach & Park
Embrace the rhythm of the sea when you savor serenity at Paradise Beach in Melbourne, FL. Tranquil tides make for easy swimming, soothing kayaking and paddle boarding, and safe snorkeling. Beachside pavilions and playgrounds also make Paradise Beach a fun stop for families with children. Anglers won’t be disappointed at Paradise Beach. Whether you’re a novice or experienced angler, Paradise Beach offers a peaceful setting for a rewarding day of fishing. You can expect to catch a range of species, including snook, redfish, and sheepshead.
Pro tip: Paradise Beach is dog friendly, so don’t forget to invite your furry family member on your Melbourne boating adventure!
5. Spessard Holland South Beach
Spessard Holland South Beach is a picturesque setting for boaters and beach enthusiasts alike. Dunes and coastal vegetation provide a dynamic backdrop for a beautiful day on the water. Take in the view from your boat, or come ashore to enjoy one of the coast’s less crowded beaches. The quieter atmosphere makes Spessard Holland South Beach a family-friendly destination. And the secluded nature coupled with the natural beauty creates a perfectly intimate setting.
Less commercial development has allowed wildlife to thrive at this Melbourne beach. We recommend visiting the Sebastian Inlet State Park for wildlife viewing and quality fishing. The location is renowned for its variety, including species like snook, redfish, Spanish mackerel, flounder, and other local catches.
The Best Beaches in Melbourne, Florida
There’s no denying that Florida is best experienced by boat. As you make the most of your time on the water in Melbourne, be sure to explore the diverse landscape, take in the abundant wildlife, and come ashore to enjoy some soft sand and superb sunshine! If you’re looking for the perfect boat for your Melbourne trip, Boatsetter has you covered. We offer a variety of boat rentals, from pontoon cruisers and luxurious yachts to sleek sailboats and thrilling speedboats. Click here to find out how you can experience Melbourne by boat in the best possible way.
Read More: 5 Best Waterfront Restaurants in Melbourne, FL
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