Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Wildlife Sanctuaries

About Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

There are 140,000 acres (57,000 ha) of Merritt Island. A National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) on Florida's largest barrier island. The NWR contains saltwater estuaries, freshwater impoundments, marshes, dunes, hardwood hammocks, and scrub habitats.

Hotels near Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Hotels to stay near Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Activities Around

Attractions Near Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Black Point Wildlife Drive

Black Point Wildlife Drive

2.57km from Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Black Point Wildlife Drive is one of the most beautiful and unique nature spots in the area. This six-mile loop located in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge features breathtaking views of a variety of landscapes and animals. Visitors can spot numerous species including alligators, herons, ospreys, bald eagles and many more. The boardwalk also provides opportunities to explore local marshes up close without disturbing the fragile environment.

Canaveral National Seashore Playalinda Beach

Canaveral National Seashore Playalinda Beach

4km from Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The park was established by an act of Congress on January 3, 1975, on a barrier island. More than 1,000 plant species and 310 bird species can be found in the Canaveral National Seashore.

American Space Museum & Walk of Fame

American Space Museum & Walk of Fame

7.93km from Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Titusville, Florida, is home to the American Space Museum. The US Space Walk of Fame, an outdoor plaza on the Indian River, honors both the astronauts and the NASA and contractor personnel who made the American manned space program possible.

Chain of Lakes Park

Chain of Lakes Park

8.91km from Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Chain of Lakes Park is a must see nature park offering numerous recreational opportunities not only for nature lovers, but also for those who enjoy physical activity. Visitors can bike, hike, run and canoe on the trails located throughout the park. Bird watching enthusiasts and photographers will be impressed with the variety of birds that call this park home. There are also observation decks overlooking pristine lake views for more leisurely activities such as meditation and picnicking.

Playalinda Beach

Playalinda Beach

10.24km from Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Many locals consider Playalinda to be a popular spot for locals. In Brevard County, public nudity is prohibited by ordinance. As Playalinda Beach is within Brevard County, the nudity ordinance is enforced by county and state law enforcement officers as well as federal park rangers.

American Police Hall of Fame & Museum

American Police Hall of Fame & Museum

13.59km from Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Gerald Arenberg founded the museum in Florida in 1960. In 1955, a drunk driver injured him in the line of duty. He always dreamed of building a memorial commemorating all law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty, those who sacrificed their lives to protect, serve, and keep the peace.

Discover More Attractions in Brevard County, Home of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Brevard County

Brevard County

43 attractions

Brevard County is located in the east-central portion of the U.S. state of Florida. There are more than 100 parks and three campgrounds in the county that are managed by local government agencies. In 11 sanctuaries that protect natural ecosystems, the county's Environmentally Endangered Lands Program offers passive recreation opportunities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, biking and paddling.

Location of Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

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For more information about Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merritt_Island_National_Wildlife_Refuge

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