The land on which Melbourne Beach sits was bought in the early 1880s by Major Cyrus Graves, a Civil War veteran. He and other investors planned to build a resort to rival those being built in Daytona Beach and Palm Beach. Over the next few decades, homes and some other buildings were constructed, a few of which still stand today. However, the town did not experience any significant population booms, and the island had no streets until after Melbourne Beach was incorporated in 1923. Although the rocket program at Cape Canaveral had a major impact on the surrounding area, Melbourne Beach has retained its laid-back, small-town atmosphere. This town is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life — whether you're from another Space Coast city or somewhere halfway across the country or around the world.
One of the most notable attractions near Melbourne Beach is the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, where many loggerhead sea turtles come to nest each year. In fact, this refuge draws more loggerheads than any other nesting habitat in the Western Hemisphere. The Melbourne Beach Pier, which extends into the Indian River, dates back to 1889 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places about a century later.
When are the best times to visit Melbourne Beach, FL?
If the weather is your primary concern, the best time to visit Florida's Space Coast is from early November to early May. Summer temperatures can be too hot for some people, with highs averaging in the upper 80s to low 90s from June through September. During the rest of the year, the weather cools off a little, with lows in the 50s and 60s and highs in the 70s. Summer months also tend to be the most humid, which can make the heat even more uncomfortable.
The busiest months for tourism are March, July, and February, in that order. That means that you will likely find higher rates for hotels and flights during these months. Since October is the slowest month for tourism, you may be able to find better deals on hotels if you visit then. The weather will still be comfortable, and there should be smaller crowds to contend with.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Melbourne Beach, FL:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Melbourne Beach, FL. Analyze these line graphs to determine the cheapest months to book a room in Melbourne Beach for your upcoming travels.
Where are the luxury hotels near Melbourne Beach, FL?
4 Star Average Prices: $236.40
As you might expect in a beach community, Melbourne Beach and nearby cities also offer plenty of high-end options. One of the best is Port d'Hiver, a four-star bed and breakfast that consistently receives excellent reviews. Guests enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning, as well as an outdoor pool with sun loungers, room service during limited hours, and an on-site library. Rooms include private decks, whirlpool tubs, covered parking, and refrigerators. Complimentary wine and hors-d'oeuvres are available in the evening in the garden courtyard.
The 3.5-star Sea View Inn in Melbourne Beach is another great option. Nested in the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, this all-suites inn offers a quiet, laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for relaxing on the oceanfront patio. Beach towels, umbrellas, and chairs are available to help guests enjoy the secluded beach. The hotel was renovated in 2017, and each one or two-bedroom suite features its own bathroom and kitchen for guest convenience.
If you prefer the familiarity of a chain hotel, consider the Doubletree Suites by Hilton Melbourne Beach. A stay here comes with all the amenities you would expect from a Doubletree Suites hotel, including the on-site SeaGrapes Lounge and SeaGrapes Restaurant, room service, fitness facilities, an outdoor pool, and a business center. Enjoy warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in and a spacious, comfortable suite equipped with a microwave, refrigerator, separate bedroom, and sleeper sofa.
What affordable hotel options are around Melbourne Beach, FL?
3 Star Average Prices: $142.57
Anyone traveling on a tight budget can find several affordable options in or near Melbourne Beach. The best option in Melbourne Beach itself is the two-star Surfcaster Motel. Guests who stay here will enjoy convenient beach access and beach chairs. The on-site restaurant, DeAngelo's by the Sea, is an Italian Grill that has earned great reviews from past customers.
About 11 miles away from Melbourne Beach sits the Tropical Inn Resort - Palm Bay. Book the right room at this 2.5-star riverfront hotel, and you'll be treated to scenic views of the Indian River Lagoon. You'll also get access to the hotel's on-site fitness center, outdoor pool, and business center. Rooms include mini-fridges, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV. The hotel is a non-smoking property but does allow pets with a non-refundable fee that varies depending on the length of your stay.
Finally, if you prefer chain hotels, the Super 8 Melbourne may be your best choice. It's a two-star hotel in downtown Melbourne (4.6 miles from Melbourne Beach) that offers free Wi-Fi and a complimentary eight-item SuperStart breakfast for guests each morning. Rooms with a microwave and refrigerator are available to help you save even more, and kids 17 and under stay free with an adult.
2 Star Average Prices: $104.33
What are the best hotels in the Melbourne Beach, FL for group discounts?
Those looking for the best hotel discounts will find them at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Palm Bay. In addition to special rates for online bookings, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers discounts for senior citizens, AAA members, military members, and government employees. Just be sure to have your ID handy when you check in. Although the very best rates are typically non-refundable deals, some discounts come with a free cancellation window that runs through the day before your scheduled check-in.
If you plan to stay awhile, the Residence Inn Melbourne offers great rates for extended stays in its suites. You can also take advantage of an average group discount around 17 percent. The Residence Inn also offers special rates for senior citizens and AAA members as well as for military members and government employees. To claim any of these rates, you will need to have the appropriate ID ready when you check in. Special online rates are available, too, although some are non-refundable.
What hotels in Melbourne Beach, FL have the best value?
The Melbourne Beach area boasts several hotels that have mastered the balance between cost and comfort to offer exceptional value to their guests. The Tuckaway Shores Resort in the neighboring town of Indialantic, for example, has 30 suites with fully-equipped kitchens that allow you to prepare inexpensive meals yourself. Guests here enjoy private beach access, beach showers, and a sun deck, as well as a private fish-cleaning station, an outdoor pool, and a state-of-the-art Big Green Egg grill with complimentary woodchips and utensils provided. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi and a business center.
Another great-value option, the 3.5-star Radisson Suite Hotel Oceanfront - Melbourne features an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, in-room kitchenettes, a business center, and a Jacuzzi spa. The on-site restaurant, Lena's Cafe, is open from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., while Nick's Lounge is open in the evenings. Enjoy on-demand movies in your suite, get in a workout while enjoying ocean views at the hotel's 15th-floor gym, or relax on the ocean deck.
Finally, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Melbourne offers guests a complimentary breakfast each morning, a 24-hour business center, a fitness center, and a heated outdoor pool. Guests have access to both self-serve laundry facilities and the hotel's same-day dry cleaning service. The hotel's breakfast includes fresh waffles, breakfast meat, eggs, yogurt, and fresh fruit. Wi-Fi, self-parking, newspapers, coffee, and tea are also available for free. The large suites give you plenty of space with separate work, living, and sleeping areas.
What are the restaurants to try in Melbourne Beach, FL?
Although booking a suite with a kitchenette and cooking some meals yourself can be a great way to maximize your travel budget, you'll be missing out if you never venture outside your hotel room for a meal. While you're in Melbourne Beach, be sure to sample some of the best local restaurants.
The Cafe Coconut Cove, located at 4210 S Hwy A1A, serves authentic German cuisine that consistently delights diners. Here, entrees like Béarnaise schnitzel, goulash, and herb-crusted venison chops are accompanied by a house salad and potato puff. The restaurant also offers several appetizers, wine by the glass, and beer on draft. Sides include German favorites like sauerkraut, spätzle, red cabbage, and Bavarian potato salad.
If you're in the mood for some excellent surf-and-turf entrees, try Djon's Steak & Lobster House at 522 Ocean Ave. This high-end restaurant offers top-notch food, wonderful service and ambiance, and an extensive wine list. Ocean 302 Bar & Grill, named after its address at 302 Ocean Ave, is another highly recommended option. Diners have praised the restaurant's creative menu offerings and delicious food. Be sure to check out the special menu, which is updated often to keep things interesting.
Melbourne Beach is always ready to provide a relaxing atmosphere for anyone who wants to step away from the busyness of life for a few days, a week, or longer. Come when you can, and stay as long as you like!
FAQs about hotels in Melbourne Beach