Brevard County is a kayaker’s paradise, offering everything from serene mangrove tunnels to wildlife-rich estuaries and ocean-adjacent lagoons. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a peaceful paddle or an adventurer seeking dolphins, manatees, and bioluminescence, there’s a perfect spot for you.

1. Indian River Lagoon: Wildlife & Scenic Views

One of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America, the Indian River Lagoon stretches along the Space Coast and offers incredible wildlife sightings. Paddle alongside manatees, dolphins, and wading birds while exploring calm waters.
📍 Best Launch Sites:

• Haulover Canal (Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge) – A prime spot for manatee encounters.
• Ballard Park (Melbourne) – A great starting point with easy access to the lagoon.

2. Bioluminescent Kayaking in the Mosquito Lagoon

If you want a truly magical experience, paddle at night in the Mosquito Lagoon during the summer months, when the water glows with bioluminescence! Every stroke lights up the water with tiny, glowing plankton, making it feel like you’re kayaking through liquid stardust.
📍 Best Bioluminescence Tours & Launches:

• Kiwanis Island Park (Merritt Island)
• Titusville’s Beacon 42 Boat Ramp

3. Turkey Creek Sanctuary: Shaded Beauty & Wildlife

For a peaceful paddle under a canopy of trees, Turkey Creek in Palm Bay is an incredible spot. It’s a designated sanctuary, meaning you’ll paddle through lush vegetation, spot turtles sunning on logs, and might even catch a glimpse of otters and alligators.
📍 Launch From:

• Goode Park (Palm Bay) – Offers direct access to Turkey Creek.

4. Thousand Islands Conservation Area: Mangrove Tunnels & Hidden Lagoons

Located in Cocoa Beach, this paddling spot features twisting mangrove tunnels and hidden lagoons, perfect for a calm and shaded kayak trip. The water is shallow and teeming with wildlife, from herons and pelicans to the occasional manatee or dolphin.
📍 Launch From:

• Ramp Road Park (Cocoa Beach) – Provides a small but convenient launch point.

5. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Remote & Untouched Beauty

If you’re looking for a place far from the crowds, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge offers tranquil waters, diverse ecosystems, and a chance to see bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, and manatees.
📍 Best Launch Sites:

• Biolab Road Boat Ramp
• Haulover Canal

6. The St. Johns River: Classic Florida Paddling

For a completely different experience, paddle along the St. Johns River, where cypress trees, Spanish moss, and vast open waters create a breathtaking backdrop. Alligators, turtles, and wading birds are common sights along the way.
📍 Launch From:

• Lake Washington Park (Melbourne)
• Airboat ramps near Lone Cabbage Fish Camp (Cocoa)

Tips for a Great Kayaking Adventure in Brevard County

✅ Check the tides & weather – Winds and tides can affect your paddling experience, especially in open areas like the Indian River Lagoon.
✅ Pack essentials – Bring water, sunscreen, bug spray, and a dry bag for your valuables.
✅ Respect wildlife – Keep a safe distance from manatees, dolphins, and nesting birds.
✅ Book a guided tour for bioluminescence – If you’re kayaking at night, a guided tour can enhance the experience and ensure safety.