Port St. John, Florida
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Port St. John, Florida
Welcome to Port St. John, a hidden gem located on Florida’s picturesque Space Coast! Known for its stunning natural beauty, charming small-town atmosphere, and abundance of outdoor activities, this coastal town offers the perfect setting for a memorable three-day weekend trip with friends. Get ready to soak up the sun, breathe in the salty sea air, and embark on an adventure you won’t soon forget!
Day 1: Immersed in Nature’s Wonderland
Kick-start your weekend getaway by immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural wonders that Port St. John has to offer.
Morning: Exploring the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Begin your day with a visit to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling wildlife sanctuary that spans over 140,000 acres. As you venture through this ecologically diverse habitat, keep your eyes peeled for an impressive array of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, bald eagles, and numerous species of migratory birds. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters! Visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Afternoon: Soaking Up the Sun at Jetty Park
After a morning of wildlife exploration, head to Jetty Park, a beloved local spot that offers a perfect blend of beach fun and natural beauty. Sink your toes into the soft sand, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, or simply relax under the shade of an umbrella while enjoying a picnic with friends. The park also features a fishing pier, a playground for kids, and stunning views of massive cargo ships passing through the nearby Port Canaveral. Visit Jetty Park
Evening: Dining Delights at Dixie Crossroads
As the day comes to a close, satisfy your taste buds with a visit to Dixie Crossroads, a local legend renowned for its mouthwatering seafood dishes. Indulge in their famous Rock Shrimp, a regional delicacy, or savor their delectable grilled fish while enjoying the warm, laid-back atmosphere of this beloved establishment. Don’t forget to save room for their irresistible Key Lime Pie—it’s the perfect sweet ending to a fantastic day! Visit Dixie Crossroads
Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
Get ready for an action-packed day filled with thrilling adventures and unique experiences in and around Port St. John.
Morning: Kayaking the Indian River Lagoon
Start your day by immersing yourself in the tranquility of the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most diverse estuaries in North America. Rent kayaks and embark on a peaceful paddle through the calm waters, surrounded by lush mangrove forests and an abundance of marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins, graceful manatees, and colorful birds that call this pristine ecosystem home. Rent kayaks at Good Natured River Tours
Afternoon: Space Exploration at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
No trip to Port St. John would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Dive into the rich history of space exploration as you explore interactive exhibits, see actual space capsules, and even meet veteran astronauts. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, where you can get up close and personal with a real space shuttle. This unforgettable experience will leave you feeling inspired and in awe of human achievement! Explore Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Evening: Dining at Rising Tide Tap & Table
After an exhilarating day of adventure, satisfy your appetite at Rising Tide Tap & Table, a local favorite known for its craft beer selection and farm-to-table cuisine. Indulge in their delicious and diverse menu, which features everything from mouthwatering burgers and fresh seafood to vegetarian options that cater to all tastes. Pair your meal with one of their carefully curated craft beers for a truly memorable dining experience. Cheers to an amazing day! Visit Rising Tide Tap & Table
Day 3: Relaxation and Coastal Charm
On your final day in Port St. John, take some time to unwind, soak in the coastal charm, and create lasting memories with your friends.
Morning: Strolling Historic Cocoa Village
Step back in time as you explore Historic Cocoa Village, a charming downtown district filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined streets, browse unique boutiques for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene that makes this area truly special. Don’t miss the chance to sample some delicious chocolates at the famous Ossorio Bakery & Cafe—pure indulgence in every bite! Explore Historic Cocoa Village
Afternoon: Beach Bliss at Alan Shepard Park
Savor your final hours in Port St. John by enjoying the sun, sand, and surf at Alan Shepard Park. With its wide sandy beaches, gentle waves, and stunning views of Cape Canaveral, this is the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and reflect on the amazing memories you’ve made during your stay. Whether you choose to take a dip in the ocean, enjoy a beachside picnic, or simply bask in the warm Florida sun, this idyllic beach oasis will leave you feeling rejuvenated and reluctant to say goodbye. Visit Alan Shepard Park
Evening: Sunset Dinner Cruise with Space Coast River Tours
End your Port St. John adventure on a high note by embarking on a sunset dinner cruise with Space Coast River Tours. As you cruise along the Indian River, savor a delectable meal while being treated to panoramic views of the vibrant sunset painting the sky with breathtaking colors. This serene journey offers the perfect blend of relaxation, romance, and natural beauty—a truly unforgettable way to bid farewell to this enchanting coastal town. Book a Sunset Dinner Cruise
As the sun sets on your three-day weekend in Port St. John, you’ll leave with a heart full of cherished memories, a sense of awe for the natural wonders you’ve encountered, and a desire to return to this hidden gem tucked away on Florida’s Space Coast. So pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready to embark on a journey that promises to be an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and coastal charm!