Satellite Beach Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and what to eat in Satellite Beach with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Satellite Beach

Located in the Space Coast region of Florida in the United States of America, Satellite Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures. With a population of around 10,000 people, it is a peaceful and laid-back destination that offers an authentic Florida experience. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Satellite Beach has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Satellite Beach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Satellite Beach History Museum - This museum showcases the rich history of Satellite Beach and features exhibits on the city’s origins, notable residents, and the development of its community over the years.
  • Windover Archaeological Site - This prehistoric burial site is located just outside Satellite Beach and contains the remains and artifacts of the Windover People, who lived in the area over 8,000 years ago.
  • The Barrier Island Sanctuary - Located in nearby Melbourne Beach, this educational center features exhibits on the area’s natural history and local wildlife.

Natural Attractions of Satellite Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Satellite Beach Public Beach - This beautiful beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing with crystal-clear waters and powdery sand.
  • Pelican Beach Park - This park features multiple beach access points, pavilions, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children.
  • Samsons Island Nature Reserve - This 52-acre nature reserve offers hiking and biking trails, kayaking, and birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Satellite Beach

  • Hightower Beach Park Trail - This trail offers a scenic route along the beach with views of the ocean and nearby wildlife.
  • Samsons Island Nature Reserve Trail - This trail winds through a beautiful nature reserve, offering views of the Indian River and the Florida scrub habitat.

Best Things to Do in Satellite Beach: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing Lessons - Surfing is a popular activity in Satellite Beach, and there are many schools that offer lessons for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
  • Kayak Tours - Take a guided kayaking tour through the Indian River and explore the local wildlife and natural beauty.
  • Fishing Charters - There are many fishing charters available in Satellite Beach for both inshore and offshore fishing.
  • Airboat Tours - Explore the local waterways and see alligators, manatees, and other wildlife on an airboat tour of the Indian River Lagoon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Satellite Beach

Day Activity
Day 1 Spend the day at Satellite Beach Public Beach
Day 2 Explore the Barrier Island Sanctuary or Windover Archaeological Site
Day 3 Take a hiking or biking tour of Samsons Island Nature Reserve
Day 4 Take a surfing lesson or rent a kayak for a self-guided tour
Day 5 Spend the day fishing with a local charter
Day 6 Take an airboat tour of the Indian River Lagoon
Day 7 Enjoy a relaxing day at Pelican Beach Park and watch the sunset

Food and Drink Scene of Satellite Beach

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood - Fresh seafood is a must-try in Satellite Beach, with options like grilled mahi-mahi, blackened shrimp, and seared scallops available at many local restaurants.
  • Florida Orange Juice - Florida is famous for its oranges, and Satellite Beach offers some of the freshest and most delicious orange juice around.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from Intracoastal Brewing Company - This local brewery offers a variety of craft beer options including IPAs, stouts, and sours.
  • Cocktails from The Tiny Turtle - This Caribbean-inspired restaurant offers a variety of tropical cocktails and tiki drinks to sip on while enjoying the beach vibe.

Where to Stay in Satellite Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront - This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean views, an on-site restaurant, and direct access to the beach.
  • Sea Scape Motel & Apartments - This budget-friendly option offers simple yet comfortable accommodations, a pool, and easy access to the beach.
  • Beach House Motel - This family-owned motel offers beachfront rooms with kitchenettes, perfect for families or those looking for a longer stay.

What to Buy in Satellite Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Sea Shells - Satellite Beach is home to a variety of beautiful seashells that can make for a great souvenir or decoration.
  • Local Artwork - There are many talented artists in Satellite Beach who sell their artwork at local galleries and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Satellite Beach

Satellite Beach is a relatively small community that prides itself on its laid-back lifestyle and friendly atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local community, especially regarding noise and littering on the beach. The culture in Satellite Beach is heavily influenced by its proximity to the ocean, and many residents are avid surfers and fishing enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit Satellite Beach

The best time to visit Satellite Beach is between March and May, or between September and November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer months can be hot and humid, and winter months can be too cold for beach activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Satellite Beach

Do:

  • Respect the local community and their way of life.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Satellite Beach and its surroundings.
  • Try the local seafood and Florida orange juice.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or disturb local wildlife.
  • Make excessive noise in residential areas.
  • Ignore safety warnings or advisories.

Safety and Health

Safety in Satellite Beach

Satellite Beach is a safe destination, but visitors should still take normal precautions, such as locking their doors at night and not leaving valuables unattended on the beach.

Health in Satellite Beach

Visitors should be aware of the risk of sunburn and heat stroke during the hotter months. It is important to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning as needed.

Getting to Satellite Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Satellite Beach

  • Melbourne International Airport - This airport is the closest to Satellite Beach, located about a 20-minute drive away.
  • Orlando International Airport - This airport is located about an hour and a half away from Satellite Beach by car.

Bus Stations Near Satellite Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Melbourne - This station is located about 20 minutes from Satellite Beach by car.
  • Space Coast Area Transit - This local transit system offers bus routes throughout the Space Coast area, including Satellite Beach.

Other Options

  • Rental Car - Visitors can rent a car from the airport or local rental companies to explore the area on their own.
  • Taxi or Ride-Sharing - Uber and Lyft are available in the area, and there are also several local taxi companies.

How to Get Around in Satellite Beach

Most of the main attractions in Satellite Beach are within walking or biking distance, and there are several rental options available. However, a car may be necessary to explore the surrounding areas and nearby attractions outside of Satellite Beach.

Where to Go Next from Satellite Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kennedy Space Center - This National Historic Landmark is located in nearby Cape Canaveral and offers tours and exhibits on the history of space exploration.
  • Brevard Zoo - This zoo is located in nearby Melbourne and offers a variety of animal exhibits and interactive experiences.
  • Disney World - This popular theme park is located about an hour and a half away from Satellite Beach by car.

Conclusion

Satellite Beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty and local culture that makes it a perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic Florida experience. From its beautiful beaches and scenic views to its outdoor adventures and local cuisine, this hidden gem has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their perfect Satellite Beach vacation.