Sometimes the best trips taken are the ones unexpected. Instead of frequenting your favorite local restaurant next weekend, why not get out of town for a day and explore lesser known parts of the state you live in? You never know what new favorite restaurants you’ll discover, and you’ll get to bask in the feeling of being on vacation without the work of being on vacation.

Our Ridge Park Landing Residents have the unmatched opportunity to travel across the large state of Florida at any moment’s notice. They don’t have to dread the hours-long car ride home, and they don’t have to waste any time getting to their destination, either. As a Ridge resident, all you have to do is start your personal aircraft, choose where to go, and soar away.

If you feel like you’re running out of interesting things to do or destinations to fly into, we’ve got a new one for you to check out. Set your goals on Palm Bay and Melbourne, Florida, where you’ll fly into the Melbourne International Airport, just 63 miles away. These cities are situated on the east coast and are full of aquatic activities that are perfect for our Ridge residents to enjoy.

1. SEE THE WILDLIFE AT TURKEY CREEK SANCTUARY

turkey creek

Whether you’re into photography or simply enjoy seeing the interesting wildlife the Sunshine State has to offer, you’ll love taking a stroll through Turkey Creek Sanctuary. There are trails and boardwalks to peruse, giving you the chance to spend as much time there as you’d like. It’s definitely for the outdoorsy types–and it feels bit like an adventure with all the native Florida wildlife.

2. TAKE A KAYAK TOUR

palm bay kayaks

For a closer look at Florida’s fascinating wildlife, why not take to the waters and propel yourself via kayak? Palm Bay Kayaks gives guided eco tours which will allow you to see everything from manatees to gators while you coast through the east central Florida waterways.

3. HANG AT PARADISE BEACH & PARK

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This lovely beach in Melbourne is a locals’ favorite. With quality amenities like restrooms and showers, Paradise Beach is a great spot to spend the day. You can walk to nearby restaurants and shops from the beach, and sometimes there are food trucks that pull right up to the parking area.

4. HEAD TO THE EAU GALLIE ARTS DISTRICT

Eau-Gallie-Arts-District

For a stroll-and-shop situation, go to the Eau Gallie Arts District in Melbourne. It’s an eclectic area with galleries and funky shops that are sure to keep you entertained. They usually have a great “First Friday” event on the first Friday of every month, featuring live music, food, and more. Check the website so you can plan your flight accordingly.

5. TOUR THE ROSETTER HOUSE MUSEUM AND GARDENS

rossetter

If you’re interested in the history of Florida, don’t forget to mark off this spot on your list. Located in Melbourne, the Rosetter House Museum and Gardens offer a unique look into life in Melbourne before tourism, especially if you’re curious about the oil and lumber enterprises of the past.

6. RELAX AT CASTAWAYS POINT PARK

castaways point park

For a little R&R, escape from landlocked central Florida and find your favorite spot at Castaways Point Park in Palm Bay. There is plenty of shade here, so consider bringing a lunch from a local eatery and enjoying the calming ocean as you dig in. The park is well-kept and has new facilities.

7. EXPLORE THE ATLANTIC IN BOAT OR ON A JET SKI

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From one mode of transportation to the other–land your aircraft and head on over to Hayley’s Jet Ski & Boat Rental for an exhilarating and fun adventure on the ocean. Take your vessel to nearby islands and enjoy the ride.

What about you? Have you been to Palm Bay/Melbourne? What would you recommend?