Situated On Florida's Space Coast Is A Small City With Ocean Views, Beautiful Beaches, And Tasty Eats

Sea, sun, sand, and a few swaying palm trees — that's what probably comes to mind when anyone mentions a Florida vacation. Of course, there's also Walt Disney World, not to mention the Kennedy Space Center along the Space Coast. Anyone in the mood for relaxing by the beach after exploring the rockets and spaceships can make a getaway to Indian Harbour Beach, less than an hour's drive south of the space center. Situated on a narrow barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon, sprawling ocean views and tasty local seafood are what await on a trip to Indian Harbour Beach.

With fewer than 10,000 residents, this laid-back Florida beach city can feel like a quiet retreat from the bustle of larger tourist hotspots. The city is so small, you can drive from one end of town to the other in less than 10 minutes. Long stretches of glistening white sand are backed by fringes of leafy jungle, with hardly another person in sight. With the calming crash of waves and plenty of sunshine, Indian Harbour Beach can feel like a tropical getaway. Head out for a stroll along the white sand at Canova Beach Park, where leashed dogs are welcome, or throw down a towel to sunbathe at Millennium Beach Park. Paddlers can even launch into the calmer inland waters to cruise around the shoreline.

After the day's adventures, the bevy of local restaurants scattered around the city beckons for a bite to eat. From clam chowder to barbecue and Mexican cuisine, foodies can enjoy all kinds of flavors here. Orlando is just over an hour's drive away, making Indian Harbour Beach an ideal getaway from the city. Accommodations like the Oceanique Resort or the nearby Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront offer stays with Atlantic coastline views.

In a city with water on two sides, a day by the beach is a no-brainer. For relaxing strolls amidst Atlantic Ocean views, head to Millennium Beach Park. Dip your toes into the gentle waves as you wander along the shoreline, or stick to the boardwalk to bask in the views without getting your feet wet. "Great beach, not overcrowded. Saw dolphins, turtles, and crabs," says a previous visitor. Bring a basket to enjoy a snack at the park's sheltered picnic tables, and take in the waterfront views. Tufts of swaying beach grasses add even more charm to the coastal scenery, and you might even see a shorebird or two wading in the surf.

For even more picturesque panoramas, spend the day at Bicentennial Beach Park just a short drive north. A stretch of sugary-white sand meets the dazzling blue water, creating a tranquil backdrop for sunbathing and seaside strolls. Previous visitors have mentioned how quiet the beach can be, not to mention finding shells in the sand while beachcombing. A volleyball court also means more sporty travelers can start a game surrounded by the sound of crashing waves. As of this writing, both Bicentennial and Millennium beach parks charge nonresidents $3 per hour or $15 for the day to park.

Meanwhile, waterfront views on the inland side are just as scenic. Almost directly opposite Bicentennial Beach Park is Oars & Paddles Park, where eager paddlers can launch their kayaks and canoes from a public floating dock. However, visitors will need to bring their own equipment, as the park doesn't offer rentals. Leafy woodlands and tropical foliage frame the waterfront, along with patches of mangroves. Next, find even more coastal excitement just a 20-minute drive north in Cocoa Beach, a gorgeous city called the "surf capital of the East Coast".

Spending the day amid scenic ocean views will no doubt leave you feeling hungry. Luckily, Indian Harbour Beach offers plenty of flavors to choose from. Not far from Bicentennial Beach Park is Hula Moon Tiki Grill, where surfboards and tiki masks decorate the walls, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The menu offers an array of seafood dishes, from fish and chips and shrimp tostadas to coconut shrimp, ahi poke tacos, and shrimp scampi. "Large portions and you get 3 of each taco," said a diner on Google.

Anyone craving spicy flavors should head to Cazadores Mexican Restaurant. Choose from dishes like shrimp ceviche and chipotle tacos, along with mango grilled salmon and shrimp cocktail. "Don't forget to try the [churros], they are amazing," wrote a customer. There's even an entire section dedicated just to margaritas, with flavors like kiwi, pomegranate, and jalapeño. Occasionally, a mariachi band serenades diners as they enjoy their meals.

Meanwhile, anyone in the mood for smoked meats can stop by Charlie & Jake's Barbecue nearby. Palm trees shade the entrance, welcoming customers into a rustic, wood-paneled dining space. Appetizers include egg rolls and fried green tomatoes, while main dishes range from mac and cheese with pulled pork to a "John Wayne Burger" with beef patties and smoked bacon. "Best barbecue around, prime rib is great," a previous customer penned. After you've spent enough time in Indian Harbour Beach, drive just 15 minutes over to Melbourne, a scenic coastal paradise where you can stroll downtown and enjoy water activities. Also not too far away is Merritt Island National Refuge, an Audubon-approved birdwatching haven.