The largest estuary in North America is located between New Smyrna Beach and Titusville, Florida. We're lucky to be one of the gateways to the stunning Canaveral National Seashore, part of the National Park System.
At the seashore, you will find the natural beach landscape unobstructed and in its essence. Being free of modern development, the seashore is a wildlife refuge for birds, fish, deer, and sea turtles. Many of which you can observe in a single visit!
Three quarters of Canaveral National Seashore is made up of Mosquito Lagoon, a lagoon which stretches from Ponce Inlet to the North end of Merritt Island. The Lagoon has more species than any other estuary in North America, 36 of which are rare or endangered. If you love bird watching, the lagoon also contains the most diverse bird population in North America. A great way to explore the lagoon is by Kayak, Canoe, or paddle board, and don't forget your binoculars!
Canaveral also contains a few attractions detailing its natural history and historical heritage. One of these attractions is Turtle Mound. This archeological site is the largest shell midden in the United States, consisting of refuse from plants, animal bones, and oyster shells. Turtle Mound has an approximate height of 50 ft, and extends 600 ft into the Indian River. Early maritime sailors would use the mound as a directional device to mark entering or leaving the New Smyrna Beach area. Another attraction is the Eldora State House. The Eldora State House is what remains of the small townhsip of Eldora contained within Canaveral National Seashore. The first floor of the house is a dedicated museum about the history of the seashore and the Eldora township.
For more information on taking a visit to Canaveral Nation Seashore on your next trip to New Smyrna Beach, click
here!
