Anthony J. Peritore’s captivation with Cape Canaveral and Merritt Island was set in motion by his initial National Geographic assignment. His experience in photographic equipment management and specialty in remote image capture for aviation brought him to Florida’s Space Coast to photograph the inaugural Space Shuttle launch, continuing with two decades of assignments. On his days off, Peritore was drawn to Merritt Island, a gathering place of the Atlantic Flyway bird migration route.

Whether you seek a peaceful shoreline retreat, a surfing paradise, an oceanside oasis for family fun or a place near the sand that also has some decent nightlife, you're likely to find the beach of your dreams here. Tourist favorites include Cocoa Beach, a nostalgic coastal community featuring a historic pier and more than 50 locations for shopping, dining and enjoying the arts, and Sebastian Inlet State Park, which is great for surfing, canoeing, kayaking and camping.