Indian River Itinerary
Embark on an exciting road trip down Indian River and explore the beauty of Florida. Starting in Cocoa, the 336 km route takes you through some of Florida's most picturesque towns, including Cape Canaveral, Indian River Shores, Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce and Palm Bay. Along the way, you can take in stunning views of the coast, visit some of the area's best beaches, and enjoy the excellent road conditions. The best time of the year to take this trip is between April and October, when the temperatures are mild and the skies are clear. With two days to explore, you'll be able to make the most of the experience and create memories that will last a lifetime. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, regardless of experience, and can be done on a moderate budget. So don't wait any longer – get the keys, hit the road and explore the beauty of Indian River!
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number of days
336 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Cocoa
Distance 336 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: fast
100.9 kWh
Airports
MCO
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MLB
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Cocoa, Florida is the perfect starting point for the Indian River Road Trip! This charming city is located in Brevard County and is known for its beautiful parks and lagoons. The Cocoa Beach Pier, the closest beach to Orlando, is a great place to relax and watch the waves. From there, you can explore the nearby attractions, like the Florida Historical Society, Cocoa Village Playhouse, Brevard Zoo, and the Historic Cocoa Village.
If you're traveling by air, the closest international airport is Orlando International Airport (MCO). From there, you can rent a car to begin your road trip. If you're looking for a car rental, you can find one at the airport or at one of the many local car rental agencies in Cocoa.
No matter where you start, Cocoa is a great place to begin your Indian River Road Trip. From here, you can explore the many attractions and sights that Brevard County has to offer. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea on the beaches of Cocoa and explore the history, culture, and entertainment this city has to offer.
1
Cocoa
- Cape Canaveral
Distance 15 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: fast
4.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Cocoa to Cape Canaveral? This 9mi journey will take you less than 1 hour, and you’ll get to explore some of the most interesting places in the area.
Cocoa is a great starting point, where you can visit the Historic Cocoa Village and enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries.
On your way to Cape Canaveral, you can explore the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where you can take a tour of the facility, see a rocket launch, and learn about the history of space exploration.
At the end of your journey, you’ll arrive at Cape Canaveral, the gateway to the stars. Here, you can visit the Astronaut Hall of Fame and explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit.
Don’t forget to check out the Itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Cape Canaveral - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - www.flickr.com
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2
Cape Canaveral
- Cocoa Beach
Distance 8 km
Driving time 0.2 h
Pace: modest
2.2 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers!
Are you ready to explore the 5mi stretch between Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach? This short, but very exciting drive will take you less than an hour, and you will be able to enjoy some of the most iconic attractions of the US East Coast.
Start your journey at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, one of the most important space-flight launch sites in the world. Here you can admire the incredible rockets, take a tour of the facility, and learn more about the history of space exploration.
Continue your trip to Cocoa Beach, where you can soak up the sun on one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. Whether you want to take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, go surfing, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning scenery, Cocoa Beach is the perfect place for you.
Finally, don't forget to visit the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier, where you can find plenty of restaurants and shops.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Happy travels!
Cocoa Beach - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Cocoa Beach
- Indian River Shores
Distance 74 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
22.2 kWh
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Start your road trip in Cocoa Beach, United States and take a journey of 46 miles to Indian River Shores! This route will take you less than 2 hours and you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places in these locations.
In Cocoa Beach, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches, take a stroll along the boardwalk, and visit the Cocoa Beach Pier. You can also explore the area's natural beauty at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Canaveral National Seashore.
When you reach Indian River Shores, you can explore the Indian River Lagoon, visit the Barrier Island Center, and take a boat tour of the Indian River. You can also take a walk along the beach or take a kayak tour of the river.
This is one of the stages of a larger tour and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing journey!
Indian River Shores - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
Indian River Shores - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Pikist
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4
Indian River Shores
- Fort Pierce
Distance 34 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: fast
10.3 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Starting in Indian River Shores, you'll be driving 21 mi and it should take you less than 1 hour to reach your destination, Fort Pierce.
On your way, you'll be able to visit the beautiful beaches of Indian River Shores and Fort Pierce. You can also visit the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, where you can find a variety of activities such as fishing, canoeing, and swimming.
For a more cultural experience, you can visit the Navy SEAL Museum and the A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum in Fort Pierce. The Navy SEAL Museum offers a unique look into the history of the Navy SEALs, while the A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum features a collection of paintings and sculptures from the 20th century.
You can also take a break to explore the Manatee Observation and Education Center, where you can observe the manatees in their natural habitat.
At the end of your trip, you can enjoy the sunset at the Jetty Park in Fort Pierce.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Fort Pierce - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikipédia
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5
Fort Pierce
- Hutchinson Island
Distance 18 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: fast
5.3 kWh
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The road trip from Fort Pierce to Hutchinson Island is an 11mi drive that will take you less than an hour. As you make your way, be sure to visit some of the most interesting places along the way.
In Fort Pierce, you can explore the St. Lucie County Aquarium, or take a stroll along the Jetty Park Beach. You can also enjoy the beauty of the Manatee Observation and Education Center.
In Hutchinson Island, you can marvel at the beauty of the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, or take a walk along the beach and explore the nearby nature trails. You can also take a boat tour of the Indian River Lagoon and observe the wildlife.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip, so be sure to check out the "Itinerary" section for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!
Hutchinson Island - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Hutchinson Island
- Stuart
Distance 26 km
Driving time 0.4 h
Pace: fast
7.8 kWh
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Welcome to Hutchinson Island and Stuart, two amazing places located only 16 miles apart! This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and you will be able to explore the best of both of these places.
In Hutchinson Island, you can visit the Elliott Museum, an interactive museum with a wide variety of exhibits. You can also explore the A.E. Backus Gallery & Museum, a gallery that features the artwork of A.E. Backus, a renowned artist from the area.
In Stuart, you can visit the Stuart Heritage Museum, a museum that showcases the history of the area. You can also explore the Lyric Theatre, a historic theater that hosts a variety of shows and performances.
The drive between Hutchinson Island and Stuart should take less than 1 hour. Along the way, you can take in the beautiful scenery and make stops at any of the local attractions.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Stuart - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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7
Stuart
- Fort Pierce
Distance 67 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
20.1 kWh
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Take a road trip from Stuart to Fort Pierce! This 42-mile journey will take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in the area. Start your trip in Stuart, where you can visit the Elliott Museum, which houses artifacts and memorabilia from the city's past. You can also take a stroll through the downtown area and explore its unique shops and restaurants. Next, head to the House of Refuge Museum, which is located on Hutchinson Island. This museum showcases the area's maritime history and offers plenty of educational opportunities. Finally, make your way to Fort Pierce, where you can explore the Manatee Observation and Education Center and the A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery. Both offer a great opportunity to learn more about the local wildlife and culture. With so much to see and do, you'll never be bored on this road trip! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary for this stage.
Fort Pierce - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Fort Pierce
- Vero Beach
Distance 48 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
14.5 kWh
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Welcome to the Fort Pierce to Vero Beach road trip stage! This scenic journey is just 30 miles and can be completed in less than an hour, making it the perfect addition to your larger tour.
Start your journey in Fort Pierce, known for its beautiful beaches, fishing and outdoor activities. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, visit the Navy SEAL Museum or take a break at the Jetty Park.
Continue your journey to Vero Beach, where you can explore the McLarty Treasure Museum, the Environmental Learning Center, and the Riverside Theatre. You can also take a walk through the Vero Beach Museum of Art, or take a leisurely stroll through Riverside Park.
No matter what you choose to do, you will have plenty of time to explore the beauty of this region. Be sure to check the Itinerary for this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Vero Beach - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Vero Beach
- Palm Bay
Distance 45 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
13.6 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a great experience in this 28mi journey from Vero Beach to Palm Bay. You can expect to complete this stage in fewer than 1 hours, so you will have plenty of time to explore the interesting places along the way.
In Vero Beach, you can find a variety of attractions, including the Environmental Learning Center, the McLarty Treasure Museum, and the Vero Beach Museum of Art.
The next stop is the Indian River Lagoon, where you can explore the serene mangrove forests and observe the unique wildlife. There is also a great opportunity to take a boat tour of the lagoon and admire the fascinating views.
Finally, you will reach Palm Bay, where you can explore the beautiful Brevard Zoo, the Palm Bay Regional Park, and the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science.
We hope you enjoyed this stage of your journey and that you will explore the attractions of these two cities. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Palm Bay - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - PxHere
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Palm Bay
- Cocoa
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Palm Bay to Cocoa? This 0mi journey, taking you fewer than 0 hours, will be an unforgettable experience.
Start your journey in Palm Bay, where you can visit the Turkey Creek Sanctuary, a beautiful natural area with a variety of wildlife and trails. For a bit of culture, the Brevard Art Museum is a great place to explore.
When you reach Cocoa, you can explore the historic Cocoa Village, with its unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don't miss the Cocoa Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the river.
This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Cocoa - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Cocoa
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Cocoa, Florida, is the last stop of the Indian River Road Trip. This small town is an ideal destination for travelers looking to relax and enjoy some of the most beautiful nature in the United States. Cocoa is located on the Indian River Lagoon, and visitors can explore the town's historic downtown area, along with the Cocoa Village Playhouse and a variety of parks.
The Brevard Zoo is a must-see, with a diverse collection of animals, educational programs, and more. The Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science is also a great place to learn about the area's history and take in some exhibits.
For those looking to explore the outdoors, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge provides a great opportunity to explore the area's wildlife. The refuge is filled with a variety of birds, mammals, and other animals, as well as an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean.
For travelers looking to get a little closer to nature, the Canaveral National Seashore is an excellent option. The park's beaches are perfect for swimming, fishing, and other activities, and the nearby Mosquito Lagoon offers some great kayaking and fishing opportunities.
Finally, travelers looking to fly into the area can do so at the Melbourne International Airport (MLB). From there, it is a quick drive to Cocoa, making it the perfect end to the Indian River Road Trip.
Indian River at a glance
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Start:
Cocoa
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End:
Cocoa
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Distance:
336 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Orlando International Airport (MCO),
Melbourne International Airport (MLB)
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When to drive:
March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a scenic Road Trip along the Indian River Lagoon in Florida, starting from Cocoa and extending over 336 km (approximately 209 miles) through picturesque coastal towns. This journey not only offers breathtaking coastal views and access to beautiful beaches but also a chance to experience the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the lagoon, which is one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America. With well-maintained Road conditions, you'll enjoy a smooth drive sprinkled with opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Cape Canaveral: Not just renowned for the Kennedy Space Center, home to historic space launches, but also for its beautiful beaches such as Jetty Park Beach where you might spot a passing cruise ship or even a rocket launch.
- Indian River Shores: This tranquil town is known for its serene environment, splendid waterfronts, and the John's Island Club, a hub for local social life and luxury living.
- Hutchinson Island: Offers pristine beaches and is a known nesting ground for sea turtles, especially at the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, making it an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Fort Pierce: Home to the historical Fort Pierce Inlet State Park, Navy SEAL Museum, and a beautifully restored downtown area offering a glimpse into the old Florida charm.
- Palm Bay: Offers a range of outdoor activities and is near the Turkey Creek Sanctuary, a nature reserve ideal for hiking, kayaking, and observing local flora and fauna.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal months for this Road Trip are between April and October, offering mild temperatures and clear skies, perfect for beach activities and wildlife observation. However, spring and early fall are particularly pleasant due to the lower humidity and reduced tourist crowds.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of the potential for hurricanes and heavy rainfall, especially from June to November. It is prudent to check the weather forecast and plan the Trip accordingly to avoid any adverse weather conditions.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Indian River Lagoon is part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, providing a navigable route for marine traffic.
- The route is friendly for all levels of driving experience and can be a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, with the Indian River Lagoon being famous for its redfish and spotted sea trout.
- The Trip budget can be moderate, making it accessible for many, with a variety of accommodations and dining options along the way.
- A two-day duration allows for a relaxed pace and thorough exploration, but extending the Trip can provide time for in-depth discovery of local nature preserves and maritime history.
- Florida's Treasure Coast, part of this Road Trip, is named for the Spanish treasure fleet that sank in a hurricane in 1715, with some remnants still occasionally washing ashore.
A good choice for:
Get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with diverse coastal vistas, rich cultural highlights, and unique ecological treasures along the Indian River. Whether you're on a moderate budget or seeking a relaxed adventure, this Florida Road Trip is a splendid experience that offers something for every traveler.
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