Malabar FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Malabar, Florida.
1. Cocoa Beach
POPULAR SURFING DESTINATION
Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Brevard County, offering a clean and not overly crowded beach experience with convenient access. Visitors can enjoy free beach access, though parking can be challenging during peak hours with designated lots often filling up by mid-day. From this beach, guests can even catch glimpses of launch pads at Cape Canaveral while enjoying the sun, sand, and permitted alcohol consumption.
2. Playalinda Beach
PRISTINE NATURAL SETTING
Playalinda Beach offers visitors a great beach experience in a pristine natural setting. The beach provides excellent views of Cape Canaveral launch pads, making it a unique spot to combine beach relaxation with potential rocket launch viewing. Visitors should remember to bring hats and water as the beach can get quite hot, especially when waiting for rocket launches or engaging in beach walks.
3. Sebastian Inlet State Park
FISHING AND SWIMMING PARADISE
Sebastian Inlet State Park is a beloved natural attraction offering both beach access and diverse recreational opportunities. The park features excellent fishing opportunities along with swimming and beach activities in a well-maintained natural setting. Visitors appreciate the balance of developed amenities and preserved natural beauty that makes this state park a standout destination in Brevard County.
4. Jetty Park Beach & Pier
FISHING AND SHIP WATCHING
Jetty Park Beach & Pier offers a waterfront experience that combines beach relaxation with excellent fishing opportunities. The pier extends into the water, providing fantastic views of cruise ships and other vessels entering and exiting Port Canaveral. This unique beach park delivers a diverse experience with both natural beauty and maritime activity that appeals to various interests.
5. Pelican Beach Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACH EXPERIENCE
Pelican Beach Park is a family favorite in Brevard County, particularly well-suited for young children with clean facilities and ample space for play. The park features clean bathrooms, plenty of parking, and conveniently located picnic tables perfect for snack breaks during beach outings. A short walk leads to the beach area, creating a complete and accessible experience that consistently delights visitors of all ages.
6. James H. Nance Park
BOARDWALK AND BEACH ACCESS
James H. Nance Park provides easy beach access with plenty of metered parking adjacent to both the beach and boardwalk areas. The park's location offers visitors proximity to several good eateries, enhancing the overall beach experience with convenient dining options. Visitors may also encounter fairs or craft shows taking place at the park, adding cultural interest to the standard beach activities.
7. Alan Shepard Park
SPACIOUS OCEANFRONT RECREATION
Alan Shepard Park is a 5-acre oceanfront park in Cocoa Beach with extensive parking capacity including over 300 spaces for both cars and recreational vehicles. The park offers easy beach access and is conveniently located within walking distance of many popular tourist retail shops. Its central location and comprehensive facilities make it an excellent base for a day of beach enjoyment and exploration of the surrounding area.
8. Sidney Fisher Park
FAMILY BEACH DAY DESTINATION
Sidney Fisher Park spans 10 acres of oceanfront property in Cocoa Beach and is particularly popular with families seeking a complete beach experience. The park features approximately 200 parking spaces with a $15 fee for cars and RVs, offering good value for a full-day visit. Families especially appreciate the picnic pavilions and playground facilities that complement the beach access, creating a comprehensive recreational destination.
9. Lori Wilson Park
NATURAL BEACHFRONT PRESERVE
Lori Wilson Park is a spacious 20-acre oceanfront park operated by Brevard County featuring a natural setting with modern amenities. Visitors can access the beach via a scenic boardwalk and enjoy facilities including restrooms and a dedicated dog park area. With 274 parking spaces accommodating both cars and recreational vehicles, the park offers ample room for visitors to spread out and enjoy its diverse recreational offerings.
10. Canova Beach Park
DOG-FRIENDLY BEACH DESTINATION
Canova Beach Park is a 9.1-acre community beach park that stands out as a dog-friendly beach destination where leashed pets with proper tags are welcome. The park offers comprehensive amenities including pavilions, grills, picnic shelters, restrooms, drinking fountains, and outdoor showers for visitor comfort. One of the three dune crossovers is ADA accessible, making this an inclusive beach destination that accommodates diverse visitor needs while also providing opportunities for surf fishing along the Atlantic Ocean.