Canaveral National Seashore - Complete Visitor Guide

About Canaveral National Seashore

Canaveral National Seashore protects 24 miles of undeveloped barrier island beach along the Atlantic Ocean in Brevard and Volusia counties. It is the longest stretch of undeveloped beach on Florida's east coast. The park encompasses over 57,000 acres including the beach, Mosquito Lagoon, and coastal hammock forest. The seashore is managed by the National Park Service.

Playalinda Beach

Playalinda Beach is the southern access point, reached from Titusville via SR-406. This section offers 13 parking areas along the beach road with boardwalk access to the sand. Playalinda is famous for its proximity to Kennedy Space Center launch pads, which are visible from the beach. The beach closes during rocket launches for safety.

Apollo Beach

Apollo Beach is the northern access point, reached from New Smyrna Beach via A1A. This section offers a visitor center, backcountry trails, and access to Turtle Mound, a 35-foot-tall Native American shell mound dating back over 1,000 years. The trails through the coastal hammock provide excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Wildlife and Sea Turtles

Canaveral National Seashore is one of the most important sea turtle nesting areas in the United States. During nesting season from May through October, loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles come ashore to lay eggs. The park offers ranger-led turtle walks during summer months. The lagoon side supports manatees, dolphins, and over 300 bird species.

Group Visits

BusBrother transports groups to Canaveral National Seashore from Orlando and other Central Florida locations. The park is ideal for school field trips, nature groups, photography clubs, and eco-tourism outings. Group parking is available at both the Playalinda and Apollo beach access points.

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