Did you know that the Banana River and the Indian River which make up a large portion of the intracoastal waters along our Space Coast are not actually rivers, but estuaries? Both bodies of water are lagoons fed fresh water from the mainland through canals, ditches, and lake runoffs along with ocean water flushing through five ocean inlets. This mix of brackish water is home to numerous flora and fauna. These intracoastal waters make up the Indian River Lagoon which runs 156 miles along Florida’s east coast and the entire 72 mile length of Brevard County.
Known as ‘the cradle of the ocean’, waters within the Indian River Lagoon act as a refuge to many spawning fish, baby turtles, shrimp and crabs. Acting as a protective barrier, the intricate blend of freshwater and saltwater creates a rich and diverse environment allowing them the opportunity to mature in the sea grasses and mangrove shorelines, away from predators until they reach maturity and can return to the sea.
Instead of tides or gravity driving the waters within the lagoon, they are primarily driven by wind. You may see the waters of the lagoon moving in different directions for this reason, or water may be completely stagnant and not flow at all.
Our Indian River Lagoon is considered one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America. It has been designated an Outstanding Florida Waterway, an Estuary of National Significance, and a Surface Water Improvement and Program Water Body. Within the Indian River Lagoon you will find 665 species of fish, 370 species of birds, 2,200 animal species and 2,100 plant species. Beaches along the lagoon attract some of the highest number of nesting turtles in the Western Hemisphere. The lagoon is located along the Atlantic Flyway, a key biological highway for diverse migrating birds.
In addition to serving as distinct habitats to numerous plants and animals, locals and visitors alike enjoy the beauty and recreational opportunities of the lagoon, boating, fishing and kayaking. You can find 50 access points around the lagoon for paddling & kayaking. With over 100 miles of equestrian trails along the lagoon shores, riders can enjoy the scenic views from horseback. Explore hiking and walking trails, or maximize your enjoyment of the lagoon’s remarkable wildlife with over 100 strategically located observation points. Take in awe-inspiring views of the lagoon region on 2 wheels with over 40 access points to over 100 miles of bike paths, winding through forests, parks, and along the shoreline. With over 300 species of birds, the lagoon is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Visitors can find over 100 public birding locations around the lagoon, including over 30 sites on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. After immersing yourself in the enchanting glow of a bioluminescence tour in a transparent bottom kayak, you can check it off your bucket list!
People from all over the world have come to appreciate the ecotourism experiences that the Indian River Lagoon has to offer. The biodiversity within the lagoon is unmatched, making it a Florida Space Coast treasure.
