Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port located on the east coast of Florida. It is the second-largest cruise port in the world, with over 4.5 million passengers passing through each year.
If you are planning a cruise from Port Canaveral, there are many things to do before and after your trip. Here are a few ideas:
If you're looking for things to do at Port Canaveral during your cruise stop, you're in luck. There are plenty of options to keep you entertained, whether you're interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
If you're a history buff, you'll want to check out the Kennedy Space Center, which is just a short drive from Port Canaveral. Here, you can learn about the history of space exploration and see real rockets and spacecraft.
If you're more interested in nature, you can take a boat tour of the Indian River Lagoon. This lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles.
Or, if you just want to relax, you can spend the day at one of Port Canaveral's beautiful beaches. Cocoa Beach is a popular option, with its white sand and clear waters.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Port Canaveral cruise stop:
1. Book your tours and activities in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. This will help you avoid disappointment and ensure that you get the best possible deals.
2. Arrive at the port early. This will give you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and find your ship. It will also help you avoid the crowds.
3. Bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The Florida sun can be very strong, so it is important to protect yourself from the elements.
4. Be sure to have your cruise documents and identification ready when you check in. This will help to speed up the process and get you on your ship as quickly as possible.
5. If you are driving to the port, be sure to allow plenty of time for parking. The parking lots can be very busy, especially during peak season.
6. If you are flying to the port, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get from the airport to the port. The drive can take up to an hour, depending on traffic.
7. Be sure to bring plenty of cash or credit cards. There are many shops and restaurants in the port area, and you may want to purchase souvenirs or snacks.
8. Be sure to have a map of the port area. This will help you find your way around and avoid getting lost.
Experience
Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port for a reason. There are plenty of things to see and do in the area, whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the Kennedy Space Center, or go on a dolphin-watching tour. Here are a few of the best experiences that Port Canaveral has to offer:
1. Visit the Kennedy Space Center. The Kennedy Space Center is just a short drive from Port Canaveral, and it's a must-see for any space enthusiast. You can take a tour of the launch pads, see real rockets and spacecraft, and learn about the history of space exploration.
2. Explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a 140,000-acre wildlife refuge that's home to a variety of animals, including alligators, crocodiles, birds, and sea turtles. You can take a hike, kayak, or canoe through the refuge, and you're sure to see some amazing wildlife.
3. Go on a dolphin-watching tour. Dolphin-watching tours are a great way to see these amazing creatures up close. You can take a boat tour from Port Canaveral, and you're likely to see dolphins playing in the water.
4. Visit the Brevard Zoo. The Brevard Zoo is a 75-acre zoo that's home to over 900 animals from all over the world. You can see lions, tigers, elephants, gorillas, and much more. The zoo also has a variety of interactive exhibits, so you can learn about the animals and their habitats.
5. Relax on the beach. Port Canaveral is home to several beautiful beaches, including Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, and Melbourne Beach. You can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or surfing.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about what to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop:
Question 1: What are the best things to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop?
Answer 1: There are many things to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop, including visiting the Kennedy Space Center, exploring the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, going on a dolphin-watching tour, visiting the Brevard Zoo, and relaxing on the beach.
Question 2: How do I get to the Kennedy Space Center from Port Canaveral?
Answer 2: The Kennedy Space Center is located about 45 minutes from Port Canaveral. You can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to the Kennedy Space Center, or you can rent a car.
Question 3: What are the hours of operation for the Kennedy Space Center?
Answer 3: The Kennedy Space Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You can purchase tickets online or at the gate.
Question 4: What are the best restaurants at Port Canaveral?
Answer 4: There are many great restaurants at Port Canaveral, including seafood restaurants, steakhouses, and casual dining options. Some of the most popular restaurants include Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar, Dixie Crossroads, and Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill.
Question 5: What are the best beaches at Port Canaveral?
Answer 5: There are several beautiful beaches at Port Canaveral, including Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, and Melbourne Beach. These beaches offer white sand, clear water, and plenty of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Question 6: What are the best things to do with kids at Port Canaveral?
Answer 6: There are many kid-friendly activities at Port Canaveral, including visiting the Brevard Zoo, going on a dolphin-watching tour, and playing at one of the many beaches. The Kennedy Space Center also has a number of exhibits and activities that are designed for children.
Things to Do at Port Canaveral Cruise Stop
Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port located on the east coast of Florida. It is the second-largest cruise port in the world, with over 4.5 million passengers passing through each year.
- Visit the Kennedy Space Center
- Explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
- Go on a dolphin-watching tour
- Visit the Brevard Zoo
- Relax on the beach
- Go shopping
- Dine at a waterfront restaurant
- Take a boat tour
- Visit the Port Canaveral Lighthouse
- See a show at the Cocoa Beach Pier
- Go fishing
These are just a few of the many things to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop. With so much to see and do, you're sure to find something to keep you entertained during your stay.
Visit the Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center is a must-see for any space enthusiast. It is located just a short drive from Port Canaveral, and it offers a variety of exhibits and activities that are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages.
One of the most popular attractions at the Kennedy Space Center is the Rocket Garden. Here, you can see real rockets and spacecraft that have been used in space exploration. You can also learn about the history of space exploration and the astronauts who have made it possible.
Another popular attraction at the Kennedy Space Center is the Space Shuttle Atlantis. This is the actual space shuttle that was used in 33 missions between 1985 and 2011. You can tour the inside of the shuttle and learn about how it was used to launch and land astronauts in space.
In addition to the Rocket Garden and the Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Kennedy Space Center also has a number of other exhibits and activities, including:
- The IMAX theater, which shows films about space exploration
- The Astronaut Hall of Fame, which honors astronauts who have made significant contributions to space exploration
- The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, which honors astronauts who have flown in space on American spacecraft
- The Apollo/Saturn V Center, which houses the Saturn V rocket that was used to launch the Apollo missions to the moon
- The Exploration Tower, which offers panoramic views of the Kennedy Space Center and the surrounding area
Explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a 140,000-acre wildlife refuge that is located just a short drive from Port Canaveral. It is home to a variety of animals, including alligators, crocodiles, birds, and sea turtles. The refuge also has a number of hiking trails, kayaking trails, and canoe trails.
One of the most popular activities at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is bird watching. The refuge is home to over 350 species of birds, including migratory birds, wading birds, and birds of prey. You can see birds in all shapes and sizes, from tiny warblers to large great blue herons.
Another popular activity at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is kayaking. The refuge has a number of kayaking trails that wind through the marshes and swamps. You can paddle through the water and see alligators, crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife up close.
If you are looking for a more active way to explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, you can hike one of the many trails. The trails range in length from short, easy trails to long, challenging trails. You can hike through the forest, the marshes, and the swamps.
Go on a dolphin-watching tour
Dolphin-watching tours are a great way to see these amazing creatures up close. You can take a boat tour from Port Canaveral, and you're likely to see dolphins playing in the water. Dolphins are very social animals, and they often swim in pods of up to 100 individuals. They are known for their playful behavior, and they often interact with boats and swimmers.
There are a number of different dolphin-watching tours available from Port Canaveral. Some tours are short, while others are longer. Some tours focus on dolphin watching, while others also include other activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, or fishing.
When choosing a dolphin-watching tour, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The length of the tour
- The cost of the tour
- The size of the group
- The type of boat
- The experience of the captain and crew
Once you have considered these factors, you can choose the dolphin-watching tour that is right for you.
Visit the Brevard Zoo
The Brevard Zoo is a 75-acre zoo that is home to over 900 animals from all over the world. You can see lions, tigers, elephants, gorillas, and much more. The zoo also has a variety of interactive exhibits, so you can learn about the animals and their habitats.
-
Animal Encounters
The Brevard Zoo offers a variety of animal encounters, so you can get up close and personal with some of the animals. You can feed the giraffes, pet the stingrays, and even hold a baby alligator.
-
Educational Programs
The Brevard Zoo offers a variety of educational programs, so you can learn about the animals and their habitats. You can attend a lecture, take a guided tour, or participate in a hands-on activity.
-
Special Events
The Brevard Zoo hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, so you can always find something new to do. You can attend a concert, a movie night, or a holiday celebration.
-
Conservation Programs
The Brevard Zoo is committed to conservation, and it participates in a variety of conservation programs. You can learn about the zoo's conservation efforts and how you can help to protect wildlife.
The Brevard Zoo is a great place to visit for people of all ages. You can learn about animals, see amazing wildlife, and have a lot of fun.
Relax on the beach
Port Canaveral is home to several beautiful beaches, including Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, and Melbourne Beach. These beaches offer white sand, clear water, and plenty of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
If you are looking to relax on the beach, Cocoa Beach is a great option. This beach is known for its wide, sandy beach and its gentle waves. It is also a popular spot for surfing, so you can watch the surfers ride the waves.
If you are looking for a more secluded beach, Satellite Beach is a good option. This beach is less crowded than Cocoa Beach, and it offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It is also a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
If you are looking for a beach with a variety of activities, Melbourne Beach is a good option. This beach has a pier, a park, and a playground. It is also a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Go shopping
Port Canaveral has a variety of shopping options, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques. You can find everything you need, from clothes to jewelry to electronics.
-
Port Canaveral Marketplace
The Port Canaveral Marketplace is a large outdoor shopping mall with over 50 stores and restaurants. You can find a variety of items at the Port Canaveral Marketplace, including souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and electronics.
-
Ron Jon Surf Shop
Ron Jon Surf Shop is a world-famous surf shop that has been in business for over 50 years. The Port Canaveral location is the largest Ron Jon Surf Shop in the world, and it offers a wide variety of surfboards, clothing, and accessories.
-
The Cocoa Beach Pier
The Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of shops and restaurants. You can find souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and more at the Cocoa Beach Pier.
-
Park Avenue
Park Avenue is a charming street in downtown Cocoa Beach that is lined with shops and restaurants. You can find a variety of unique items at the shops on Park Avenue, including art, clothing, and jewelry.
Whether you are looking for souvenirs, clothing, or electronics, you are sure to find what you need at Port Canaveral.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant
Port Canaveral has a variety of waterfront restaurants, so you can enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean. You can find everything from casual seafood restaurants to fine dining establishments.
-
Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar
Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar is a popular seafood restaurant that is located on the Cocoa Beach Pier. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the views of the ocean. Grills also has a tiki bar, so you can enjoy a tropical drink while you dine.
-
Dixie Crossroads
Dixie Crossroads is a seafood restaurant that has been serving fresh seafood for over 50 years. The Port Canaveral location is located on the waterfront, so you can enjoy your meal with a view of the ocean. Dixie Crossroads is known for its seafood platters, which are piled high with fresh seafood.
-
Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill
Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill is a casual seafood restaurant that is located on the Port Canaveral harbor. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes while enjoying the views of the boats and the ocean. Fishlips also has a large outdoor deck, so you can dine al fresco.
-
The Black Tulip Restaurant
The Black Tulip Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant that is located on the Port Canaveral waterfront. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, including seafood, steak, and pasta. The Black Tulip Restaurant also has a wine list with over 500 wines.
Whether you are looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you are sure to find a waterfront restaurant in Port Canaveral that meets your needs.
Take a boat tour
Boat tours are a great way to see the Indian River Lagoon and the surrounding area. You can take a variety of boat tours, from short sightseeing tours to longer fishing charters. You can also take a boat tour to see the Kennedy Space Center or the Port Canaveral lighthouse.
Here are some of the most popular boat tours in Port Canaveral:
-
Sightseeing tours
Sightseeing tours are a great way to see the Indian River Lagoon and the surrounding area. You will see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and birds. You may also see the Kennedy Space Center or the Port Canaveral lighthouse.
-
Fishing charters
Fishing charters are a great way to catch fish in the Indian River Lagoon. You will be taken to a fishing spot where you can cast your line and try to catch a variety of fish, such as redfish, snook, and tarpon.
-
Kennedy Space Center tours
Kennedy Space Center tours are a great way to see the Kennedy Space Center up close. You will take a boat to the Kennedy Space Center, where you can tour the facilities and learn about the history of space exploration.
-
Port Canaveral lighthouse tours
Port Canaveral lighthouse tours are a great way to see the Port Canaveral lighthouse up close. You will take a boat to the lighthouse, where you can climb to the top and enjoy the views of the ocean and the surrounding area.
Whether you are looking for a short sightseeing tour or a longer fishing charter, you are sure to find a boat tour in Port Canaveral that meets your needs.
Visit the Port Canaveral Lighthouse
The Port Canaveral Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that is located at the entrance to Port Canaveral. It was built in 1848, and it is one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida. The lighthouse is open to the public, and you can climb to the top for stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area.
The Port Canaveral Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination, and it is a great place to learn about the history of Port Canaveral. You can also take a boat tour to the lighthouse, which is a great way to see the lighthouse up close and to see the wildlife in the Indian River Lagoon.
Here are some of the things you can do at the Port Canaveral Lighthouse:
-
Climb to the top of the lighthouse
You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area. The climb is not too difficult, and it is worth it for the views.
-
Take a tour of the lighthouse
You can take a tour of the lighthouse to learn about its history and how it works. The tours are led by knowledgeable docents who can answer any questions you may have.
-
Visit the museum
The Port Canaveral Lighthouse has a small museum that tells the story of the lighthouse and its role in the history of Port Canaveral. The museum is free to visit, and it is a great way to learn more about the lighthouse.
-
Take a boat tour to the lighthouse
You can take a boat tour to the lighthouse, which is a great way to see the lighthouse up close and to see the wildlife in the Indian River Lagoon.
See a show at the Cocoa Beach Pier
The Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular tourist destination, and it offers a variety of shows and entertainment options. You can see live music, comedy shows, and magic shows at the Cocoa Beach Pier.
-
Live music
There are several bars and restaurants on the Cocoa Beach Pier that offer live music. You can listen to a variety of music, including rock, pop, country, and reggae. Most of the bars and restaurants offer free live music, so you can enjoy a drink and a show without spending a lot of money.
-
Comedy shows
The Cocoa Beach Pier also hosts a variety of comedy shows. You can see stand-up comedy, improv comedy, and sketch comedy at the Cocoa Beach Pier. The comedy shows are typically held in the evenings, and they are a great way to have a laugh.
-
Magic shows
The Cocoa Beach Pier also hosts a variety of magic shows. You can see sleight-of-hand magic, stage magic, and mentalism at the Cocoa Beach Pier. The magic shows are typically held in the evenings, and they are a great way to see some amazing illusions.
-
Special events
The Cocoa Beach Pier also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. These events include concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations. The special events are a great way to experience the Cocoa Beach Pier and to see some of the best entertainment that the area has to offer.
Whether you are looking for live music, comedy, magic, or a special event, you are sure to find something to entertain you at the Cocoa Beach Pier.
Go fishing
Port Canaveral is a great place to go fishing. You can fish from the shore, from a boat, or from a pier. There are a variety of fish species that can be caught in Port Canaveral, including redfish, snook, tarpon, and kingfish.
If you are new to fishing, there are a number of fishing charters that can take you out to the best fishing spots. The fishing charters typically provide all of the equipment you need, so you can just show up and start fishing.
If you are an experienced fisherman, you can fish from the shore or from a pier. There are a number of fishing piers in Port Canaveral, including the Cocoa Beach Pier and the Sebastian Inlet State Park Pier.
No matter how you choose to fish, you are sure to have a great time fishing in Port Canaveral. The fishing is good year-round, and there are a variety of fish species that can be caught.
Summary
Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port for a reason. There are plenty of things to see and do in the area, whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the Kennedy Space Center, or go on a dolphin-watching tour. Here is a summary of the main points of this article:
- Port Canaveral is home to several beautiful beaches, including Cocoa Beach, Satellite Beach, and Melbourne Beach.
- The Kennedy Space Center is just a short drive from Port Canaveral, and it's a must-see for any space enthusiast.
- The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a 140,000-acre wildlife refuge that is home to a variety of animals, including alligators, crocodiles, birds, and sea turtles.
- There are a variety of dolphin-watching tours available from Port Canaveral, and you're likely to see dolphins playing in the water.
- The Brevard Zoo is a 75-acre zoo that is home to over 900 animals from all over the world.
- Port Canaveral has a variety of shopping options, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques.
- There are a variety of waterfront restaurants in Port Canaveral, so you can enjoy a meal with a view of the ocean.
- Boat tours are a great way to see the Indian River Lagoon and the surrounding area.
- The Port Canaveral Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that is open to the public.
- The Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of shows and entertainment options.
- Port Canaveral is a great place to go fishing.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, you are sure to find something to do in Port Canaveral.
Closing Message
I hope this article has given you some ideas of what to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have a great time.
Conclusion
Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port for a reason. There are plenty of things to see and do in the area, whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore the Kennedy Space Center, or go on a dolphin-watching tour.
What is there to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop?
There are many things to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop, including:
- Visiting the Kennedy Space Center
- Exploring the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
- Going on a dolphin-watching tour
- Visiting the Brevard Zoo
- Relaxing on the beach
- Going shopping
- Dining at a waterfront restaurant
- Taking a boat tour
- Visiting the Port Canaveral Lighthouse
- Seeing a show at the Cocoa Beach Pier
- Going fishing
What are some of the best things to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop?
Some of the best things to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop include:
- Visiting the Kennedy Space Center
- Going on a dolphin-watching tour
- Exploring the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
- Relaxing on the beach
- Visiting the Brevard Zoo
What are some tips for planning a day trip to Port Canaveral?
Here are some tips for planning a day trip to Port Canaveral:
- Book your tours and activities in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- Arrive at the port early. This will give you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and find your ship.
- Bring plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The Florida sun can be very strong, so it is important to protect yourself from the elements.
- Be sure to have your cruise documents and identification ready when you check in. This will help to speed up the process and get you on your ship as quickly as possible.
- If you are driving to the port, be sure to allow plenty of time for parking. The parking lots can be very busy, especially during peak season.
- If you are flying to the port, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to get from the airport to the port. The drive can take up to an hour, depending on traffic.
- Be sure to bring plenty of cash or credit cards. There are many shops and restaurants in the port area, and you may want to purchase souvenirs or snacks.
- Be sure to have a map of the port area. This will help you find your way around and avoid getting lost.
Conclusion of what to do at port canaveral cruise stop
Port Canaveral is a great place to visit for a day trip or a longer vacation. With so much to see and do, you're sure to find something to keep you entertained during your stay.
Closing Message
I hope this article has given you some ideas of what to do at Port Canaveral cruise stop. With so much to see and do, you're sure to have a great time.
Youtube Video:
