Melbourne Beach

Melbourne Beach is home to some of Florida’s most threatened inhabitants – an extensive colony of nesting sea turtles. If you visit at night, you’ll be able to observe a range of species (including loggerheads, leatherbacks and green sea turtles) emerge from the ocean to lay their eggs, before lumbering back into the darkness. For a truly unforgettable experience, check out the Sea Turtle Preservation Society’s nightly walks. These offer a closer (but still appropriately distanced) view of the nesting turtles at Melbourne Beach, and you’ll learn lots about turtle habits, habitats and conservation efforts along the way. Remember to act responsibly and avoid using flashlights, smartphones or camera flashes, as these disrupt the turtles while they’re nesting. Recommended by local insider Korri Lacalamita