Playalinda Beach and the Canaveral National Seashore are operated by the National Parks Service. Please see their website for current hours of operation and other important information.

Beyond Beautiful, Experience Playalinda Beach

Playalinda Beach is one of the most well-known and beautiful beaches on the Space Coast. But what makes this convergence of sand and surf a national treasure?

1) Playalinda Beach is located in the Canaveral National Seashore, a U.S. National Park

Playalinda Beach is 24 miles of undeveloped, protected shoreline where crystal-blue waters crash into shell-laden, sandy beaches. This pristine conservation area is also directly across the Intracoastal waterway from the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge, you’ll have the opportunity to see hundreds of migrating bird species, dolphins, and other wildlife. You may even have the chance to see a nesting sea turtle if you book a turtle walk with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge during sea turtle nesting season (May 1 – October 31).

2) Playalinda Beach is a Premier Rocket Launch Viewing Area

Canaveral National Seashore and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge were strategically established to surround the Kennedy Space Center. On launch days, Playalinda Beach is one of the closest, unobstructed views you can have for a rocket launch. However, it’s important to know that you will only be able to access the Seashore for a rocket launch during operational hours, which vary depending on the season. NASA and the National Parks Service have the final say if the Seashore will be accessible for launch viewing, and typically close for major launches, such as crewed launches. Check their Facebook page and website to make sure the Canaveral National Seashore and Playalinda Beach are open for launch viewing before you make the trek.

3) Playalinda Beach is a Perfect Spot to Surf

The Space Coast is the surf capital of the East Coast and Playalinda Beach is no exception! Surfers will have an epic day catching waves at Playalinda Beach. Playalinda faces E-NE and is a dream when there’s a northern swell. This spot is a beach break, sand bottom location with lefts and rights that are great for surfers of all experience levels. Playalinda is also pretty busy on the weekends, however during the weekdays, you may be the only person enjoying the surf!

4) Playalinda Beach is close to one of the Space Coast’s most Happening Towns, Titusville

When you’re done sunbathing there are plenty of ways to cool down inland after Playalinda Beach closes its gates at 6 or 8 pm, depending on the season. Titusville, Florida is an exciting town that includes history, culture, and great food. Playalinda Brewing Company, for instance, brews creative, delicious beer in a historic Hardware Store. They also created The Brix Project where they serve up chef-inspired meals, their signature brews and cocktails daily. Titusville is home to the Kennedy Space Center and several spots to learn more about the history of space travel and catch a rocket launch.

Playalinda Notes

• There is a park entrance fee of $25 for one vehicle, it is valid for 7 days
  • America The Beautiful National Park Passes do include entrance for the Canaveral National Seashore.
• Park hours are 6 am – 8pm (summer) & 6am – 6pm (winter)
• There are only restrooms at Playalinda Beach, no concessions or showers are provided.
• Be Aware: Playalinda Beach does include the Space Coast’s only clothing-optional beach. Naturists are only permitted at beach entrance/crossing 13, accessible through parking lot 13. It is very easy to avoid or experience this area of Playalinda Beach.

Playalinda is a must-see beach on Florida’s Space Coast. Whether you’re planning a whole day of playing in the surf, enjoying natural Florida, seeing a rocket launch, or making your way through Titusville, Playalinda Beach should be on your itinerary.