Chapter 05 · Space Coast Lifestyle
Launch days, surf mornings, river sunsets.
Where to watch a launch
Titusville
Space View Park
Classic riverfront view straight across to the pads, with memorials and audio feeds.
Port Canaveral
Jetty Park
Beach, pier, and a close look at Falcon 9 launches and booster landings.
Titusville
Max Brewer Bridge
Wide-open sightline over the river. Arrive early on big launch days.
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach Pier
Watch the arc over the ocean with a drink in hand.
Merritt Island
KSC Visitor Complex
Ticketed viewing with live commentary for select launches.
Anywhere in Brevard
Your backyard
Seriously. Most launches are visible countywide on a clear day.
Calendar tips
- · Follow the Space Coast Launches schedule and 45th Weather Squadron forecasts.
- · Launch windows slip often. Have a backup night.
- · Twilight launches right after sunset create the famous "jellyfish" sky.
- · Booster landings bring sonic booms. Warn the dog.
Outdoors and on the water
Sebastian Inlet and Cocoa Beach are East Coast surf legends.
Bioluminescent kayak tours glow in summer on the Banana River.
Redfish in the lagoon, mahi and kingfish offshore from Port Canaveral.
Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge and Canaveral National Seashore.
Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.
Fresh seafood on the river, Cocoa Village bistros, and downtown Melbourne's food scene.
Signature events
Space Coast Art Festival
November, Viera
Melbourne Art Festival
Spring, downtown Melbourne
Ron Jon Easter Surf Festival
Easter weekend, Cocoa Beach
Space Coast Birding Festival
January, Titusville
Grant Seafood Festival
February, Grant-Valkaria
Friday Fest
Monthly, Cocoa Village