Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge offers one of the best vantage points for rocket launches, and the scenic drive toward Playalinda Beach provides stunning views without needing to enter the Kennedy Space Center. Along your journey, you’re likely to encounter a diverse array of Florida’s native wildlife, including Roseate Spoonbills, Alligators, Wild Boar, and Anhingas. With several spots to stop and admire both the wildlife and the rockets, this road is a treasure for nature and space enthusiasts alike.
Though there is a small fee to access Playalinda Beach, it remains a hidden gem, favored by locals for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine shoreline. Recently, the scenery was even more awe-inspiring with not one, but two rockets in view—Artemis 1 standing tall as it awaits its return to the Vehicle Assembly Building, and Falcon 9, which launched Crew-4 aboard Crew Dragon in the early morning at 3:52 am. This incredible mix of wildlife and space exploration makes Merritt Island a unique destination, where nature meets human innovation in the most spectacular way.
The Anhinga, often called the "snake bird" due to its long neck that resembles a snake while swimming, is a fascinating Florida native and one of my favorite subjects to photograph. Known for its unique fishing technique, the Anhinga dives headfirst into the water, emerging with just its head and neck above the surface as it hunts for small fish and aquatic insects. While males and females look quite similar, juveniles can be identified by their lighter brown plumage. These remarkable birds add to the beauty of Florida's waterways, making them a joy to observe and capture through the lens.
Comments