Your Guide to Sustainable Tourism on Florida’s Space Coast

Whether it’s your first or 50th time visiting Florida’s Space Coast, this destination’s one-of-a-kind qualities truly makes it a brand-new experience with each trip. A Florida ecotourism paradise, the area’s shorelines combine pristine beaches, prime surf spots, endless eco-attractions, and a storied past as part of some of the country’s most historic moments. With so much to offer, it’s important that we each do our part to help protect this region’s unique natural beauty and local wildlife, especially while traveling. Use this article as your guide to plan and enjoy a sustainable tourism experience in this extraordinary destination.

Green Lodging Options

One of the biggest parts of sustainable tourism is choosing hotels, resorts or other accommodations that make a commitment to reducing their drain on natural resources by conserving water and energy, choosing sustainable building materials, and reducing waste. Beyond making a positive environmental impact, choosing green lodging also means putting you and your fellow travelers’ health first. Hotels like the Seashell Suites Resort in Melbourne, FL make it a point to choose low impact building materials and products free of harmful toxins and chemicals, with their luxury suites featuring pure cotton bedding, solid granite countertops and cast iron Kohler tubs.

Eco-Friendly Transportation

With mild, enjoyable temperatures year-round, Florida’s Space Coast is best explored by foot or bike. In fact, cycling enthusiasts will find the Sunshine State’s flat terrain and abundant trails make it the perfect destination to travel on two wheels, all day long. From bike tours to paved trails that give you an epic taste of the area’s natural beauty, getting around without growing your carbon footprint is simple, safe and fun!

Protecting Eco Beaches

Florida’s Space Coast is home to a wide range of wildlife species, both in-land and along their shores. The area’s beaches are a popular nesting spot for five endangered or threatened species of sea turtles, which means travelers and residents alike must take special precautions to make sure these creatures’ nests go undisturbed. While many local properties make sure to clearly mark nests to keep the eggs safe, beach goers also play a role in protecting these species by following a few simple rules:

• Do not shine lights on the beach after the sun has gone down.
• Do not dig holes above the high tide line and fill any holes you make or see before leaving.
• Keep away from turtles or hatchlings you see on the beach.

They say travel is good for the soul. As travelers, it’s our responsibility to be just as good to the people, places and environments that make travel a real and rewarding experience.

Found these sustainable tourism tips useful? Be sure to share them with friends, family and fellow travelers planning a visit to Florida’s Space Coast.