
Kiwanis Island Park
Discover the magic of bioluminescence and abundant wildlife at Kiwanis Island Park, a serene Florida gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For peak bioluminescence

Kiwanis Island Park
Best Time
For peak bioluminescence
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magic of bioluminescence and abundant wildlife at Kiwanis Island Park, a serene Florida gem.
"The bioluminescent kayak tour was amazing and the tour guides were very knowledgeable."

🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Pack strong bug spray! Mosquitoes are notorious here, especially at dusk and dawn. ,
✨ Book Bioluminescence Tours
Book clear kayak tours in advance for the best bioluminescence viewing. ,

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bioluminescent Kayak Tour
Indian River Lagoon
Witness the magical glow of dinoflagellates lighting up the water with every paddle stroke. Truly an unforgettable experience. ,

Manatee Sightings
Indian River Lagoon
Keep an eye out for gentle West Indian manatees in the lagoon, especially during cooler months.

Scenic Sunsets
Indian River Lagoon shoreline
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the water, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mosquito Alert!
Bioluminescence Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Pack strong bug spray! Mosquitoes are notorious here, especially at dusk and dawn.,
✨ Book Bioluminescence Tours
Book clear kayak tours in advance for the best bioluminescence viewing.,
👟 Bring Sports Gear
Don't forget paddles for pickleball/tennis if you enjoy sports!
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce when fields/pavilions are in use. Arrive early.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Pack strong bug spray! Mosquitoes are notorious here, especially at dusk and dawn.,
✨ Book Bioluminescence Tours
Book clear kayak tours in advance for the best bioluminescence viewing.,
👟 Bring Sports Gear
Don't forget paddles for pickleball/tennis if you enjoy sports!
🚗 Limited Parking
Parking can be scarce when fields/pavilions are in use. Arrive early.
💧 No Showers Onsite
There are no showers for rinsing off after water activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kiwanis Island Park is praised for its beautiful natural setting, offering stunning sunsets and opportunities to see wildlife like manatees. The bioluminescent kayak tours are a major highlight, described as magical. However, visitors consistently warn about a significant mosquito problem, which can detract from the experience. Parking can also be limited during busy periods.
"BEWARE of mosquitoes. If you're going in the water, you don't want to wear bug repellent but if you do not they will even eat your face.
A few picnic tables.
Bathrooms are older but pretty clean.
No showers on site for after water rinse off.
Beautiful water. Went on a bioluminescent clear kayak tour & saw manatees. Absolutely beautiful. Scenery takes your breath away"
KNN
"This place is beautiful for sure, the staff is great, the vibes are immaculate. The only reason why I give them a 4 star is because the mosquitos there are of a different species. I went with my lil brother whom is a kayaking connoisseur says that it was an extremely abnormal amount and made the experience a bit irritating as we sprayed ourself profusely before entering. But vibes, great. Silver springs, blue springs, & kings landing are of his top three springs to go kayaking. Enjoy 🙏🏽🫶❤️"
Global Bilal
"We are out of state visitors who did an excursion there with Epic Paddle Adventures to experience the night bioluminescent kayak tour. Long story short, it was amazing and the tour guides were very knowledgeable. For the park itself, we noticed there were pickleball and tennis courts and regretted not bringing our paddles and rackets. The park is well maintained and seems up to date. Bathrooms were clean but a first for me was there were no doors to enter into the bathroom itself. Overall great experience and atmosphere there."
L Vang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kiwanis Island Park is located on Merritt Island, Florida. It's easily accessible by car and is nestled in the heart of the island. GPS will guide you directly to the park entrance.,
Public transportation options to Kiwanis Island Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
Parking is available but can be limited, especially when the ball fields and pavilion are in use. Visitors may need to park along the roadway if lots are full.
While specific RV parking details aren't widely available, the park has a boat ramp, suggesting it can accommodate larger vehicles. It's advisable to check with park management for specific size restrictions.
Driving is the most common method. Ensure your GPS is set correctly, and be aware that parking might be more challenging after dark if events are ongoing.,
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kiwanis Island Park is generally free to enter. However, specific organized tours, like bioluminescence kayaking, will have their own associated costs.,
The park's general operating hours are typically from dawn until dusk for most facilities. However, specific areas or tours might extend into the night, especially for bioluminescence viewing.,
Yes, it is highly recommended to book bioluminescence kayak tours in advance, as they are very popular and can sell out, especially during peak season.,
While the park itself doesn't have strict age restrictions for general entry, some activities like kayaking or playground use may have recommendations or require adult supervision for younger children.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own kayaks and paddleboards to launch from the park's boat ramp or designated access points.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kiwanis Island Park offers a variety of activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, birdwatching, picnicking, and playing on the sports fields or courts.,,
The park has restrooms that are generally clean, but some visitors have noted they lack doors for entry, which is a unique feature.
Yes, Kiwanis Island Park provides picnic areas with barbecue grills, making it a great spot for a family outing or gathering.
You can expect to see various bird species, and if you're lucky, manatees in the Indian River Lagoon. The bioluminescence is a unique natural phenomenon.,,
Yes, there are playgrounds, though some slides are noted as being quite high, which toddlers may love but could be a concern for some parents.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site restaurants or food vendors within Kiwanis Island Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics.
Nearby Merritt Island and Cocoa Beach offer a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to seafood restaurants. It's recommended to explore these areas for meals.,
Yes, the park is equipped with picnic areas that include barbecue grills, perfect for enjoying a cookout.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and any meals you plan to eat. Consider items that are easy to transport and consume outdoors.
Yes, there are several grocery stores on Merritt Island and in Cocoa Beach where you can purchase picnic supplies before heading to the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline of the Indian River Lagoon offers stunning views for sunsets and wildlife. The bioluminescence at night provides a unique photographic opportunity.,
Photographing bioluminescence can be challenging due to low light conditions. Long exposure shots with a tripod are recommended, but the visual experience is often best enjoyed directly.,,
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for landscapes and activities. Sunrises and sunsets provide dramatic skies.
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas or at specific times. It's advisable to check local regulations and park rules before flying a drone.
For daytime, a standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For bioluminescence, a camera with manual settings and a tripod is ideal. Waterproof gear is recommended for water activities.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a truly memorable experience, consider a daytime kayak or paddleboard excursion to spot manatees and enjoy the scenery. While the bioluminescence tours are often geared towards older children and adults due to the late hours, daytime activities provide plenty of fun. Remember to pack plenty of bug spray, as mosquitoes can be a nuisance for little ones.,
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
The lagoon is known for various fish, and the park's location offers opportunities for both inshore and offshore fishing depending on your vessel and preference. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before you go.
✨ Bioluminescence Seekers
For the best experience, plan your visit during a dark, moonless night to maximize the visibility of the glowing plankton. While the experience is breathtaking, be prepared for mosquitoes by bringing effective repellent.,
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Bioluminescence
Several tour operators offer excursions, often departing in the evening. Visitors consistently describe the experience as 'magical' and 'unforgettable.' While photos can capture some of the glow, many feel the true wonder is best appreciated in person. It's important to note that the intensity of the bioluminescence can vary depending on the time of year, moon phase, and water conditions.,
Pro-tip: For the best viewing, aim for a night with a new moon (darkest skies) and minimal light pollution. While bug spray is essential, some believe it can slightly dampen the glow. Consider wearing long sleeves and pants treated with repellent instead of spraying directly on your skin if you're concerned about the effect on the bioluminescence.,
Wildlife Encounters
Birdwatchers will also find plenty to admire, with a variety of coastal and migratory birds frequenting the area. Keep an eye out for wading birds, shorebirds, and various waterfowl. The park's proximity to the lagoon also means you might spot dolphins or other marine life.
Beyond the larger fauna, the park's waters are home to a rich ecosystem. The bioluminescent plankton are a testament to the health of the lagoon, and observing them is a unique wildlife experience in itself. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.,
Recreational Activities
Land-based activities are also well-catered for. The park features pickleball and tennis courts, providing opportunities for friendly matches. There are also ball fields, making it a destination for local sports leagues and casual games.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the park offers picnic areas with barbecue grills and a playground for children. The scenic shoreline also provides a lovely setting for a leisurely stroll or simply enjoying the views.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit