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Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Boat Ramps

 
Kayak Launches in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

Indian River Lagoon Boat Launches

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is a large conservation area located on the east coast of Florida, USA. Merritt Island has several ramps and launch sites for kayaks and boats, allowing visitors to explore the refuge’s diverse ecosystems, bioluminescence, and wildlife.

It’s important to note that some of these launch sites may have restricted access or limited hours, so it’s a good idea to check with the refuge’s visitor center or website before planning your trip. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to follow all safety guidelines and regulations while using these launch sites and exploring the refuge.

 

Bairs Cove Boat Ramp

Bairs Cove Boat Ramp is located on the refuge’s eastern shoreline and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The boat ramp features a large parking area, restrooms, and a fishing pier.

Bairs Cove offers visitors a chance to explore the pristine waterways of the refuge and the wildlife that inhabits it. The facility features ample parking, restrooms, and a floating dock. Boaters can launch their watercraft from the ramp and venture out into the expansive river system, where they can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities. 

Visitors can spend the day on the water and explore the many islands and inlets that make up the refuge’s unique landscape. With its pristine waters and stunning scenery, Bairs Cove is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. 

With its tranquil surroundings and exceptional natural beauty, Bairs Cove Boat Ramp is a popular destination for visitors to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge who want to experience the wonders of the Indian River Lagoon.

Congestion at Haulover Canal kayak launch in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Congestion at Haulover Canal Kayak Launch in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
 
Address

Riverside Building, County Hall, South Bank, London SE1 7PB, United Kingdom

Phone No

+1 (321) 861-0667

Operating Hours

Permit Required: 24 Hours
Possible Shutdowns for Rocket Launches
Parking Fee: $10

 

Haulover Canal Kayak Launch

Haulover Canal kayak launch and boat ramp at sunset in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Haulover Canal kayak launch and boat ramp at sunset in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

This Haulover Canal kayak launch is located on the east side of the refuge and provides access to the Indian River for a $10 parking fee. On the South side of the canal, there is Bairs Cove, a concrete boat ramp and parking area with restrooms and picnic tables. 

The Haulover Canal kayak launch is on the north side of the canal across from the Bairs Cove boat ramp

Haulover Canal kayak launch is near the Manatee Observation Deck and is next to the Haulover Canal Bridge. Haulover Canal is a major navigational channel for recreational boaters, fisherman, barges, and other inland commercial boats. 

The Haulover Canal Bridge is a drawbridge that allows large barges and ships to pass from the as this is the only 

Haulover has the most traffic and congestion of the kayak and boat launches and usually has a large crowd of trucks, trailers, and sometimes hundreds of people. 

This kayak launch is along a major navigational channel for barges, boats, and the area is usually packed so special care should be taken when boating or kayaking in this area.

 
 
Address

Haulover Rd SW, Mims, FL 32754
Mims, Florida 32754

Phone Number

+1 (321) 861-0667

Operating Hours

Permit Required: 24 Hours
Possible Shutdowns for Rocket Launches
Parking Fee: $10

 

Biolab Boat Ramp

The Biolab Boat Ramp is one of the many boat ramps located in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a nationally protected area in Florida that is home to a diverse range of wildlife and habitats. This particular boat ramp is located on the Indian River Lagoon, which provides access to some of the most beautiful and ecologically important waterways in the region.

The ramp is easily accessible and features ample parking for vehicles and trailers, as well as a dock for loading and unloading boats. From the Biolab Boat Ramp, boaters can explore the Indian River Lagoon, which is known for its exceptional fishing and boating opportunities. 

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to enjoy a day out on the water, the Biolab Boat Ramp is an excellent place to launch your boat and explore the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Brown pelican sitting on the water and swallowing a fish in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Brown pelican sitting on the water and swallowing a fish in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
 
 
Address

Biolab Boat Ramp
Marguerite, Florida

Phone Number

+1 (321) 861-0667

Operating Hours

Permit Required: 24 Hours
Possible Shutdowns for Rocket Launches
Parking Fee: $10

 

Beacon 42 Boat Ramp​

Florida manatees mating near Beacon 42 Boat Ramp in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Florida manatees mating near Beacon 42 Boat Ramp in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The Beacon 42 Boat Ramp is one of the popular boat ramps located within the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. It provides access to the Indian River Lagoon, a diverse estuary that is home to a wide range of marine species. The ramp is conveniently located on the east side of US Highway 1 and features a spacious parking lot, restrooms, and a fishing pier.

Beacon 42 Boat Ramp & Kayak Launch site is located on the east side of the refuge and provides access to Mosquito Lagoon and the Indian River for a $10 parking fee. On the South side of the canal, there is concrete boat ramp and parking area and, as well as restrooms and picnic tables. 

Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities from the boat ramp. With its easy access and beautiful surroundings, the Beacon 42 Boat Ramp is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. 

 
Address

Beacon 42 Boat Ramp, 83rd Street
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Courtenay Pkwy N, Florida

Phone Number

+1 (321) 861-0667

Operating Hours

Permit Required: 24 Hours
Possible Shutdowns for Rocket Launches
Parking Fee: $10

 

Pine Island Kayak Launch​

The Pine Island Kayak Launch is a popular destination for kayakers looking to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Merritt Island. This launch site is located on the western side of the island and provides access to the shallow waters of the Indian River Lagoon

The Pine Island Kayak Launch is unique in that it caters specifically to non-motorized watercraft, ensuring a peaceful and serene experience for kayakers. The launch site features ample parking, restrooms, and a small dock for launching and landing kayaks. 

Visitors can paddle through the refuge’s many mangrove tunnels and channels, spotting a wide variety of bird and marine life along the way. With its tranquil setting and abundant wildlife, the Pine Island Kayak Launch is a perfect destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Merritt Island in a more intimate way.

Osprey with Fish on a tree branch over a Boat ramp in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge near the Mosquito Lagoon
Osprey in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
 
Address

Pine Island Conservation Area
1655 Pine Island Road
Merritt Island, Florida 32953

Phone Number

+1 (321) 861-0667

Operating Hours

8:30 AM–7:30 PM
Possible Shutdowns for Rocket Launches

 

Safety First

It’s important to note that these launch sites may have restricted access, limited hours, or require permits. It’s a good idea to check with the refuge’s visitor center or website before planning your trip. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to follow all safety guidelines and regulations while exploring the Indian River Lagoon.