Merritt Island Nat’l Refuge Visitor Center Information, click here
Visit the Wildlife Refuge
The Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, Canaveral National Seashore and Indian River area. This unique habitat is home for over 500 species of wildlife including many that are threatened and endangered. A variety of habitats are found in the 140,000 acres of saltwater marshes, pinewood flats, and hardwood hammocks. This protected area around the Kennedy Space Center and NASA facilities was created for the purpose of providing habitats for migratory birds, wildlife diversity, endangered and threatened species and to grant access for recreation, observation and education of wildlife activities. The varied ecosystems from freshwater marsh to saltwater marsh, hardwood hammock to pineland flatlands, the Indian River and pristine beach provides an opportunity to see the comprehensive and diverse wildlife habitats.
One thing we have learned is that nature changes every day. The good news, rain or shine, the refuge has something to offer. It is amazing the differences each day can bring. At times the bird’s are so plentiful it’s a challenge to see them all. Other times they are scattered and you have more time to watch as they forage, hunt or play. The alligator’s behavior changes with the temperature, you see them warming in the sun more often in the winter and in warmer weather their snout and eyes hovering at the water’s surface. The exception to this is in the heat of summer. Pretty much everything finds the deepest shade and naps when the sun is doing it’s thing here in Florida!
We are not currently running our wildlife tours at Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. If you have your own transportation please visit. Visitor Center is currently under renovations. However, you can visit them at the entrance to the refuge in their temporary quarters, Tuesday thru Sunday, check out their website for details, https://www.fws.gov/refuge/merritt-island
Enjoy an Airboat Ride and Hold a gator!
Our Airboat excursion takes you to the St. Johns River. It is the longest river in Florida, flowing 310 miles north and offers a diverse ecosystem with many different habitats that support a wide range of plant and animal species The St. Johns has been part of Florida’s history since the early days, and it passes through 18 different counties on its slow journey north to the ocean. You’re sure to see a Florida gator along with a variety of wildlife. The excursion includes an opportunity to hold a gator!
No sweat tour. We provide transportation and reservations for your Airboat Experience. Your tour guide provides information and stories about the surrounding landscape and wildlife of Florida during your trip. The knowledgeable tour guide will share information and multi-media presentations that give you a great overview of the ecology and history of the area keeping your group engaged and entertained.
This tour is primarily offered to Port of Call guests cruising into Port Canaveral for the day. If you have your own transportation you can make a direct reservation.
Airboat rides at Midway is a 5-star attraction with great boats and captains. You can enjoy their animal encounter and an opportunity to hold a Gator! There is a store with snacks, beverages, and every gator souvenir you might want.
