Hotels in Banana River Drive

Banana River Drive: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Adventure Awaits

Discover the serene charm of Banana River Drive in Merritt Island, Florida, where lush landscapes meet tranquil waterfront views. This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of nature and relaxation, with stunning river vistas, family-friendly beaches, and access to the nearby Cape Canaveral National Seashore. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the dock, partake in water sports at the marina, or simply unwind while watching for playful dolphin and whale sightings. With its peaceful ambiance and picturesque surroundings, Banana River Drive is an ideal escape for nature lovers and families seeking a quiet getaway. For great hotel rates in Banana River Drive, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Banana River Drive

Banana River Drive offers a range of vacation accommodations, from charming villa rentals to spacious resorts. Many feature beautiful amenities, including private pools and saunas, ensuring an excellent stay. Enjoy the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway by the water. Here are some of the best hotels in Banana River Drive that our travelers love:

1. International Palms Resort Cocoa BeachOpens in a new window: Positioned as a 3.0-star hotel, International Palms Resort Cocoa Beach is perfect for adventure seekers and families looking to create memorable experiences. This hotel boasts a range of amenities, including multiple meeting rooms, a 24-hour business center, and a variety of adventure sports options right at your doorstep, such as kayaking and surfing. Positive reviews highlight the property’s comfortable accommodations and family-friendly facilities, making it a delightful choice for those in search of both excitement and relaxation.
2. Island Hotel of the Space CoastOpens in a new window: With a 2.5-star rating, Island Hotel of the Space Coast caters to travelers seeking adventure while maintaining a cozy environment. The hotel features essential business amenities and is conveniently located near various recreational activities, including parasailing and swimming. Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and the hotel's proximity to local dining and shopping, ensuring a pleasant stay that balances comfort with accessibility.
3. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port CanaveralOpens in a new window: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral is a charming 2.5-star hotel that offers direct beach access, making it an ideal retreat for leisure travelers. The property combines comfort with convenience, featuring a business center and family-friendly services. Guests rave about the cleanliness, inviting pool area, and the delightful breakfast options, ensuring a refreshing start to your beach adventures. The hotel's location near Fort Pickens adds to its appeal, making it a preferred choice for those wanting a vibrant coastal experience.

Top locations to stay in Banana River Drive

Some of the best areas to stay near Cocoa Beach Pier, Cocoa Beach, and Lori Wilson Park while visiting in Banana River Drive, Merritt Island, Florida, offer stunning oceanfront views and vibrant beach activities. Cocoa Beach Pier is perfect for nightlife and shopping, while Cocoa Beach provides a classic beach experience. Lori Wilson Park is ideal for a quiet getaway. First-time visitors should stay near Cocoa Beach for its accessibility and amenities.

1. Near Cocoa Beach PierOpens in a new window: Staying near Cocoa Beach Pier puts you right at the heart of beach life and vibrant ocean activities. This iconic spot offers spectacular views and easy access to the beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the sea breeze. Nearby, you can explore Jetty Park for its scenic landscapes or check out attractions like the Cocoa Beach area, known for its laid-back vibe and surfing culture.
2. Near Cocoa BeachOpens in a new window: If you prefer a more tranquil beach experience, staying near Cocoa Beach is a great choice. This area features beautiful sandy shores where you can relax or take part in water sports. It's also a short distance from Cocoa Beach Pier, enhancing your options for fun in the sun. Don’t miss out on the nearby shopping opportunities at Ron Jon Surf Shop, a must-visit for beach gear and souvenirs.
3. Near Lori Wilson ParkOpens in a new window: Lori Wilson Park offers a serene escape with its lush landscapes and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful stay. Enjoy the charming beach access and explore the nearby Cocoa Beach Pier for more fun. This area is perfect for those who want to unwind with nature while still being close to shopping at The Avenue Viera or Melbourne Square Mall.

Things to do in Banana River Drive

Banana River Drive offers a delightful blend of sun-kissed beaches, serene marinas, and lush parks perfect for family outings. Enjoy thrilling water adventures like banana boat rides, explore scenic trails, or unwind at a resort. With opportunities for boating, diving, and wildlife spotting, it’s an unforgettable escape for nature lovers.

• Cocoa Beach PierOpens in a new window – Start your adventure at Cocoa Beach Pier, where you can stroll along the jetty and soak in the sights of the Atlantic Ocean. This lively spot features fishing opportunities, shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal place to enjoy a meal with an ocean view.
• Cocoa BeachOpens in a new window – Next, head to Cocoa Beach, a stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Whether you’re building sandcastles with the family or catching some waves, this beach offers a vibrant atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
• Lori Wilson ParkOpens in a new window – For a more tranquil experience, visit Lori Wilson Park. This urban oasis provides shaded picnic areas and nature trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the area. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic surrounded by lush greenery.
• I Dream Of Jeannie LaneOpens in a new window – Don’t miss a stroll down I Dream Of Jeannie Lane, a charming street that adds a touch of nostalgia to your trip. This iconic location offers unique photo opportunities and a glimpse into local history, making it a fun stop for visitors.
• South Cocoa BeachOpens in a new window – Finally, wrap up your day at South Cocoa Beach, where the laid-back vibe invites you to relax and unwind. This area is perfect for beachcombing or simply taking in the stunning views as the sun sets over the water.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Banana River Drive

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Banana River Drive is from September to November, when hotel prices may drop, making it a great value for money. To fully appreciate the area's key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural offerings, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2 to 3 days. During your visit, you can explore attractions such as the beautiful family beach, the scenic dock port, the marina, and the nearby national state park, all of which offer a rich experience without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Banana River Drive, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you're more likely to see discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Enable email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your winter getaway. Additionally, use the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool via the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you find the best options for your stay. With this setup, you'll be among the first to know about room availability and price drops.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a Banana River Drive hotel. If you're in search of something special, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, you might want to look at hotels in less central neighborhoods, where you can find a better balance between cost and accessibility to the sights you want to see. Additionally, exploring independent hotels a bit farther out may provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience, as they usually tend to be cheaper.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Banana River Drive. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Banana River Drive

Banana River Drive experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 63.0°F (17.2°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.0°F (27.8°C). September tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Banana River Drive are February, March, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, September to November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.