13 Best Tours & Things To Do In Merritt Island

Merritt Island offers a fascinating mix of wildlife, space history, and unique natural phenomena that make it a perfect destination for outdoor lovers and curious travelers alike. Whether you’re paddling through glowing waters, spotting dolphins and manatees, or exploring NASA’s space marvels, this area provides authentic experiences that stand out.

We particularly enjoy the Bioluminescent kayak tours—where you’ll paddle through waters that light up with dinoflagellates—because it’s such a visual treat that sparks awe in everyone, no matter your age. The chance to learn about these tiny organisms from knowledgeable guides makes it both fun and educational.

For something more active, the CraigCat rentals let you zip around Merritt Island’s waterways, giving you a great sense of freedom and adventure.

If wildlife is your priority, the Wildlife Boat Tour and Manatee Watching Paddle or Kayak Tour offer intimate encounters with Florida’s iconic creatures in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, space enthusiasts can’t miss the Kennedy Space Center private tour, which puts you right next to rockets and shuttles, and includes behind-the-scenes insight into NASA’s latest projects.

This list includes everything from serene paddling excursions to adrenaline-filled boat rentals, giving you options whether you want a peaceful day or a lively adventure.

Quick Overview

This list covers a range of Merritt Island tours and things to do that encompass wildlife watching, kayaking, space exploration, and family-friendly bioluminescent experiences. Some tours, like the Bioluminescent kayak tour, focus on the natural glow of plankton, while others, like the Guided dolphin and manatee tour, highlight Florida’s rich aquatic life.

For a day of space exploration, the Kennedy Space Center private tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at rockets and historic launches.

Whether you prefer paddling, wildlife spotting, or learning about NASA’s space missions, there’s something here for every traveler.

1. Cocoa Beach/Merritt Island: Bioluminescent kayak tour

This 1.5-hour kayak tour immerses you in the mesmerizing glow of bioluminescent plankton and comb jellies in the Indian River Lagoon. For around $58 per person, you’ll paddle through dark waters where tiny creatures light up each stroke. What makes this tour special is the sheer visual impact—water that sparkles with every paddle movement.

The guides are knowledgeable and explain the science behind this stunning natural phenomenon, making it both educational and enchanting.

It’s perfect for travelers seeking a magical night experience, especially families or couples wanting a memorable adventure.

Bottom line: This tour combines natural beauty with a gentle paddle, offering a uniquely glowing experience that’s worth booking early, as bioluminescence is strongest in warm months.

2. Cocoa Beach/Merritt Island: Guided Dolphin and Manatee Tour

For just $31 per person, this 2-hour guided tour takes you into Florida’s lush waterways, where dolphins and manatees are often seen in their natural environment. The tour is praised for its expert guides who share insights about the ecosystem and wildlife behavior. During the trip, you might also spot a variety of birds, including herons and egrets, making it a comprehensive wildlife encounter.

Guests particularly appreciate the tranquil pace and the chance to see playful dolphins feeding or resting nearby. The small group size enhances the experience, making it feel intimate and genuine.

Bottom line: Ideal for nature lovers and families, this tour offers a friendly, educational, and memorable wildlife experience at a very reasonable price.

3. Merritt Island: Manatee Watching Paddle or Kayak Tour

For $65 per person, this 2-hour guided paddle or kayak tour around Merritt Island provides close-up encounters with manatees, dolphins, and other local wildlife.

The tour’s focus on the waterways around Merritt Island makes it a prime spot for spotting these gentle giants, especially during warmer months. The guide’s local knowledge enhances your chances of seeing sea turtles, ospreys, and bald eagles soaring overhead.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy active outings and want to learn more about the area’s diverse ecosystems in a relaxed, small-group setting.

Bottom line: A rewarding way to get up close with Florida’s iconic marine mammals and birds, suitable for those comfortable with moderate physical activity.

4. Kennedy Space Center: Guided private tour

This full-day, private experience at Kennedy Space Center costs around $380 per person and includes exclusive behind-the-scenes access. You get to see the Saturn V rocket, space shuttle Atlantis, and learn about NASA’s latest projects with SpaceX and Boeing.

The tour includes transportation, park entrance, and personalized commentary, making it ideal for space enthusiasts or those wanting an in-depth visit. The reviews are glowing, with a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, noting the personalized experience and expert insights.

Bottom line: Best suited for space fans willing to invest in a comprehensive, VIP experience, with the flexibility of tailored guided commentary.

5. From Orlando: Miami and Key West 8-Day Tour

At $1,671 per person, this 8-day tour covers Florida’s highlights, including Kennedy Space Center, Clearwater Beach, Miami, and Key West. It combines theme park visits with coastal relaxation and cultural exploration, making it perfect for travelers wanting a broad experience of the state.

Highlights include a dolphin cruise, a visit to the Southernmost Point, and time at Orlando’s Universal and SeaWorld parks.

The tour is well-reviewed for its comprehensive itinerary and value for money, offering a seamless way to see multiple top spots without the hassle of planning each detail.

Bottom line: This is an excellent choice for travelers seeking diversity—beach, wildlife, space, and city life—on an organized multi-day adventure.

6. Merritt Island: Bioluminescent Paddle Raft Tour

For $91 per person, this 1.5-hour family-friendly paddle raft tour offers another chance to witness the bioluminescence in the Indian River Lagoon. Unlike kayaks, paddle rafts provide a stable platform that’s easy for all ages. Professionals guide you through the glowing waters, where dinoflagellates light up with each movement.

It’s a perfect option for families or those who prefer a more relaxed paddle. The tour includes plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities, including bird species and other lagoon creatures.

Bottom line: An accessible, fun option for families wanting to experience the magic of Florida’s glowing waters without the need for paddling skills.

7. Merritt Island: CraigCat Rental

This hour-long rental for $75 per group allows you to captain your own CraigCat boat—a fun, easy-to-handle vessel ideal for exploring Merritt Island’s waterways. The ergonomic design and dual controls make it simple to maneuver, even for beginners.

You’ll glide past rocket launches, dolphins, and mangroves, discovering the area at your own pace. The rental includes all necessary equipment, making it a flexible choice for spontaneous adventures or planning ahead.

Bottom line: Perfect for independent explorers who want to see Merritt Island’s sights with a little more control and spontaneity.

8. Merritt Island: Single & Double Kayak Rental

At just $16 per hour, this kayak rental is a budget-friendly way to explore the waterways. Whether you prefer a single or double kayak, you can paddle along quiet rivers, canals, or visit sandbars and islands. It’s ideal for those who value flexibility—go when you want and stay as long as you like. The rental includes paddles and life jackets, so all you need is your sense of adventure.

Bottom line: An economical option for a solo or tandem paddling outing that puts you in control of your experience.

9. Cocoa Beach: Bioluminescent Paddle Raft Tour

This family-friendly raft tour at $105 per person mirrors the earlier Cocoa Beach experience but highlights the brightest bioluminescence in the area. It’s perfect for all ages, with guides ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. The raft provides a stable platform for those who might find kayaking challenging.

The tour emphasizes the glowing waters and their inhabitants, with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection under the night sky.

Bottom line: A highly accessible and visually stunning option, especially suitable for families with kids or those seeking an easy adventure.

10. From Orlando: SeaWorld and Clearwater Beach 5-Day Group Tour

This 5-day group tour at $1,255 per group includes visits to SeaWorld Orlando, Clearwater Beach, and the Kennedy Space Center. It offers a mix of marine life encounters, beach relaxation, and space exploration, making it a versatile trip for a wider audience. Highlights include touching manta rays, dolphin feeding, and enjoying the white sands of Clearwater.

The itinerary balances active days with some leisure, perfect for families or couples who want variety without the hassle of planning each detail.

Bottom line: A great value multi-day option for those wanting diverse experiences in Florida, with the convenience of organized transport and entry.

11. Merritt Island: 2-Hour Wildlife Boat Tour

Priced at $250 for a group up to 6, this 7-hour guided boat tour offers an in-depth exploration of Merritt Island’s wildlife refuge. You’ll see eagles, alligators, turtles, and manatees in their natural settings.

The longer duration allows for a thorough experience, with a knowledgeable guide explaining the ecosystems and wildlife behaviors. It’s suitable for travelers eager for a comprehensive, immersive experience of Florida’s natural beauty.

Bottom line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a detailed, all-day adventure with ample spotting opportunities.

12. Merritt Island: Electric Motorized Paddleboard Rental

This hour-long paddleboard rental at $29 offers effortless cruising at speeds up to 3mph, thanks to electric assistance. It’s an excellent way to cover more water with less effort, perfect for those wanting a relaxed paddle with a bit of a boost. The boards are easy to operate, and the ride provides a tranquil way to enjoy Merritt Island’s scenery and wildlife.

Bottom line: A great option for beginners or those who want to relax while exploring the waterways.

13. Merritt Island: Single Paddleboard Rental

For just $20 per hour, this single paddleboard rental is perfect for exploring at your own pace. It’s suitable for all skill levels and allows you the flexibility to find quiet spots and relax on sandbars or islands along the course. Life jackets are included, ensuring safety on your solo adventure.

Bottom line: Budget-friendly and flexible, this option is excellent for independent paddlers wanting a peaceful exploration.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Merritt Island

When selecting the best experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a family-friendly introduction to bioluminescence, the Bioluminescent Paddle Raft Tour or Cocoa Beach bioluminescent tour are excellent options. Wildlife lovers should look at the Wildlife Boat Tour or Manatee Watching Paddle/Kayak Tour, which offer close encounters with dolphins and manatees.

For those interested in space and science, the Kennedy Space Center private tour provides an immersive experience, especially for space buffs.

Budget travelers might favor the single or double kayak rentals or paddleboard rentals, which offer flexible, affordable ways to explore independently. For groups or multi-day plans, the Miami and Key West 8-day tour provides a comprehensive Florida experience.

Final thoughts

Merritt Island offers a range of exceptional tours—from glowing bioluminescent waters and wildlife encounters to space exploration and independent watercraft rentals. If you love nature and wildlife, the Wildlife Boat Tour and Manatee Paddle/Kayak Tour are outstanding choices. For a once-in-a-lifetime space adventure, the Private Kennedy Space Center Tour is a must.

No matter your interests or travel style, Merritt Island’s tours promise memorable experiences. Be sure to book early, especially for the popular bioluminescent nights, and enjoy your exploration of this fascinating Florida destination.