Discover the Wonders of Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
Experience the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife at Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, a key nesting site for endangered sea turtles in Florida.
Nestled along Florida's breathtaking coastline, the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. This pristine refuge is renowned for its significant sea turtle nesting sites, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With diverse ecosystems, scenic trails, and educational programs, it's an ideal destination for families and solo travelers looking to connect with nature.
A brief summary to Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
- 8385 S Hwy A1A, Melbourne Beach, Florida, 32951, US
- +1321-723-3556
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the nesting season for the best chance to see sea turtles.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and to spot wildlife from a distance.
- Dress comfortably and wear sunscreen; the trails can be sandy and sunny.
- Check the schedule for guided tours and educational programs for a deeper understanding of the refuge.
- Plan to arrive early in the day for cooler temperatures and quieter trails.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from anywhere in the Nature Coast area, first head south on US-19 S or US-98 S towards the city of Homosassa. Then take the exit onto FL-44 E towards New Smyrna Beach. Continue on FL-44 E until you reach I-95 S. Merge onto I-95 S and continue for about 35 miles. Take exit 180 for FL-192 E towards Melbourne. Follow FL-192 E until you reach the intersection with US-1 S. Turn left onto US-1 S and continue for about 12 miles. Then turn right onto S Hwy A1A, and after about a mile, you will reach Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge located at 8385 S Hwy A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951.
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Public Transportation
To reach Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge via public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from various locations in the Nature Coast to Melbourne, FL. Once you arrive in Melbourne, you will need to use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft, as there is no direct public transit to the refuge. Request a ride to 8385 S Hwy A1A, which is approximately 10 miles from the downtown area of Melbourne. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary, and budget for the rideshare cost, which can range from $15 to $30 depending on demand and distance.
Discover more about Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dale Wimbrow Park
16.1 km
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Green Gables
17.1 km
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North Harbor City Boulevard
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Schumann Lake Park
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Eau Gallie Historic District
22.6 km
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Provost Hall Historical Marker
40.3 km
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Cocoa Beach Main Street
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Cocoa Beach
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Sidney Fischer Park
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Hallstrom House -Pineapple Plantation
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Florida Surf Museum
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Shepard Park
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Space Coast Office of Tourism Visitor Information Center
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Fort Drum Wildlife Management Area
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Constitution Bicentennial Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Maritime Hammock Sanctuary
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Indian River Lagoon Preserve State Park
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Juan Ponce de León Landing
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Coconut Point Sanctuary
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Barrier Island Sanctuary
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Coconut Point Park
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Sebastian Inlet State Park Hammock Trail
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Castaway Point Park
11.7 km
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Sebastian inlet
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Sebastian Fishing Museum
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Sebastian Inlet State Park
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Sebastian Inlet State Rec Area
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McLarty Treasure Museum
15.6 km
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Andretti Thrill Park
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James H. Nance Park
16.0 km
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Essential places to dine
The Old Fish House Bar and Grill
3.7 km
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Big Dogs BBQ
4.0 km
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The Shack Riverfront Restaurant & Outback Tiki bar
9.3 km
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Outriggers Bar & Grill
11.6 km
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Surfside Inlet Grill & Gifts
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Khobkhun Thai & Sushi
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Aunt Louise's Pizzeria
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Wasabi Thai Sushi
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Sebastian Saltwater Marina Restaurant
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Captain Butchers Seafood Grill & Bar
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Squid Lips
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Wendy's
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Blackfins at Capt Hirams Resort
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Capt Hirams Resort
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Crab Stop of Sebastian - Seafood Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Buried Treasures Antiques
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Beyond Useless Boutique
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Addicted2Stuff
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The Shoppes of Sebastian
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Medium Cool Goods
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Cocao Beach
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Mar Chiquita - Cocoa Beach Boutique
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La Geoda Quartz Cocoa Beach
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SUNSHINE SHOP
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Ventana Al Mundo
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The Collection Connection
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Beach Bunnies
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Shady Shark Creations
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Herbal Cottage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Rack'M
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Sandbar Beach Club
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Captain Hirams Sandbar
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Zoo Bar
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Earl's Hideaway Lounge
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The Pelican Pub
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Mash Monkeys Brewing Company
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Mulligan's Beach House
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Portside Pub & Grille
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No Name Sports Bar Night Club Smoke Shop
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The Dunes Cocoa Beach
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Hunker Down Lounge
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Category 5
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Tropics Cocktail Bar
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