VIBE: Relaxed, Family Friendly
1525 Florida A1A, Satellite Beach, FL 32937
Updated: January 12, 2023: This is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches, tranquil neighborhoods, and laid-back vibe. In addition to its natural beauty, the city boasts a wealth of parks and nature reserves, including the Barrier Island Sanctuary. Pelican Beach Park is conveniently located just a short drive away from major attractions like the Kennedy Space Center. Let's explore this cozy east coast beach.
Why Choose Pelican Beach Park in Florida?
Located in the City of Satellite Beach, just south of Cocoa Beach, Pelican Beach Park is a hidden gem that offers visitors a wide range of amenities and activities for all ages. Unlike other commercialized parks, Pelican Beach Park offers a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for families and individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With plenty of parking spots, including a free beach lot and EV charging station, visitors can enjoy various recreational activities without the hassle of finding a spot.
Pelican Beach Sand
Sand at Pelican Beach Park
The sand is darker than Miami Beach, Ponce Inlet or New Smyrna Beach, but it is thick and comfortable to walk on. Pelican Beach Park is a great walking beach, if you don't mind walking on the small slope into the water. Yes, unfortunately there is some beach erosion due to hurricanes and the beach is not very wide. Some parts of the beach have tiny rocks and shells, while others have just smooth, silky sand right into the water. No beach shoes are necessary.
Pelican Beach Water
Ocean water at Pelican Beach Park
The water at Pelican Beach is a beautiful blue-green in color, similar to Jensen Beach. It is warm and has large waves at times. So it is hard to judge the clarity of the sea in those conditions. There was seaweed in the water and onshore which has been a problem at times on Brevard County beaches such as Melbourne Beach. Still, we loved it and can't wait to come back when it is calmer.
The Sunshine State Games surfing and open water swimming competition was held at Pelican Beach Park in 2022. It is obviously a great place for surfing. It was too rough during our visit for non-swimmers and small children. Lifeguards are on duty as follows: Weekends Only from 10-5pm now (off season) until May 20th, then every day from 10-5pm, May 24th-August 9th. Check with official sources for lifeguard schedule changes.
Beach Parking and Amenities
Pavilion for Beach Weddings and Parties
Pelican Beach Park, located in Satellite Beach, underwent an extensive renovation a few years ago, and it shows. One major benefit is the abundance of free parking available. The park features six pavilions that can be rented for larger groups, as well as a partially covered playground, volleyball courts, bathrooms, showers, and water fountains. Additionally, the park offers EV charging stations. Dogs are not permitted on the beach. There are numerous dining options along A1A, including the popular local spot Surfin' Turtle Ice Cream Shoppe, along with larger chains such as Dunkin' Donuts and McDonald's.
Pelican Beach Activities
Biking on the beach
Although the beach has experienced erosion, it is still flat and firm enough for riding a bike. Walking is easy too. We saw people fishing from the shore and there were several surfers. It was only an hour's drive from home for us, so we brought a picnic lunch and ate it right under our umbrella. In addition, there was a Farmer's Market set up that day so we were able to obtain some yummy snacks from the food vendors (soft pretzels, muffins and cinnamon rolls). What a great way to spend the day until sunset when the park closes.
Covered Playground
Playground at Pelican Beach Park
The partially covered playground isn't big, but it is clean and will delight any child. The cement border doubles as seating for parents. The only thing that would make this beach park perfect would be the addition of a splash pad (see Ormond Beach).
Beach Volleyball
Beach Volleyball
Wow, the last time we saw awesome beach volleyball courts was at Sombrero Beach in the Florida Keys! During the week they can be used by anyone without a reservation. On the weekend they are for use by those who have rented a pavilion. Somebody put some thought into Pelican Beach Park.
Pavilions with Big Grills
Large grill at Pelican Beach Park FL
We have never seen grills this large at a beach park. You can do some serious grilling here. This is an amazing venue for a Florida beach wedding because the Pelican pavilion can accommodate up to 70 people! There is even a clubhouse for indoor events such as a wedding reception. It has a wooden deck with an ocean view.
Farmer's Market
Farmers Market Pelican Beach Park
The Farmer's Market took up half the parking lot, but we still found a spot. We arrived before noon which is always recommended when visiting any Florida beach. We had no idea that it was Farmer's Market day: this is why you should do some research before you leave! The market is here every Thursday from 10am to 4pm. It has everything! Lots of baked goods, fresh produce, lemonade, clothing, jewelry and arts and crafts. Shown here is Donna Marie's Catering and Bakery.
Trucks At This Beach
Old 1972 blue Ford F-100
Check out this 1972 Ford F-100 with a 260 cu in (6 cylinder) stock engine. It appears that this truck is slowly being restored, but has a long way to go. It is still a classic vehicle with style and capability! The 1972 model year was the end of the fifth generation F-Series. The 1970's oil crisis and tighter emission regulations would force the Big 3 automakers to introduce smaller, more efficient and cleaner engines. Bigger engines on the F-Series wouldn't be introduced for another 27 years.
Look Out! This Could Happen...
Moon Jellyfish
We saw several Florida Moon Jellyfish washed up on the sand in Pelican Beach and South Beach Miami. They are about the size of a plate and stunning to look at with pink rings of color. They can be hard to spot until they are very close to you in the water! Do not touch a jellyfish even if it is on the beach. It can still sting you. In the Daytona Beach Shores area we usually see the smaller varieties: cannonball and blue button jellyfish. We always bring a small bottle of vinegar to the beach to treat any jellyfish stings.
What We Really Think About Pelican Beach
Sunset Pelican Beach Park
If it doesn't bother you that Pelican Beach Park has no built-in concession stand, then this is a great choice for a family beach day. The Satellite Beach area is a small community that offers a lot: restaurants, multiple free beach access points and vacation rentals. The only caveat is the Atlantic can be rough so choose a day to swim when lifeguards are on duty. There are plenty of hotels nearby to choose from.
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Hotels Near Pelican Beach Park
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AuthorsSusan and Bruno are travel bloggers. We write about Florida beaches on every coast. Our opinions only. |
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