Local Transportation: Space Coast

Public Transit Systems SCAT

SCAT (Space Coast Area Transit): Brevard County’s public bus system. It connects major roads and population centers within the larger cities like Melbourne, Palm Bay, Cocoa, Merritt Island, and Titusville. The system operates solely with buses; there is no metro, train, or tram system on the Space Coast.

The bus system is designed mainly for residents' daily commutes rather than comprehensive tourist access.

Fares & Payment

Single Ride: $1.25 (Exact cash fare)
1-Day Pass: $3.75
7-Day Pass: $12.50
30-Day Pass: $45.00

Route Maps & Hubs

Detailed route maps and schedules are on the Space Coast Area Transit website. Important Hubs: Melbourne Square Mall, Palm Bay City Hall, Cocoa Village, Merritt Island Mall.

Hours & Frequency

SCAT services typically run from early morning (around 5:30 AM) to late evening (around 9:00 PM). Reduced service on weekends and public holidays. Main routes during peak hours may have buses every 30 minutes; less popular routes, less frequently.

Accessibility

All SCAT buses are wheelchair accessible, equipped with ramps or lifts. Priority seating is for seniors and people with disabilities. Drivers are trained to assist passengers with accessibility needs.

Tips for Navigating Efficiently

Planning Your Ride

Download the "Ride SCAT" app for real-time bus tracking and route planning.
Use mapping apps like Google Maps for planning bus routes and estimated travel times.
Due to the spread-out nature, plan your routes carefully, as long travel times and multiple transfers can occur.

Service Limitations

Understand that bus service may not reach all tourist-specific destinations directly.
For maximum flexibility and convenience, a rental car is usually a better option than solely relying on public transport.
Check the SCAT website for the most current schedules and service alerts.

Rental Car Considerations

Minimum Age

Typically 21 years old (surcharge for 21-24).

Driver's License

Valid license, IDP needed if not English.

Credit Card

Major credit card for rental and deposit.

Booking Ahead

Recommended for availability and rates.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services provide convenient, on-demand transportation throughout the Space Coast. Hailing a taxi on the street is rare outside of major transit hubs.

Taxi Information

Licensed taxi identification: Typically white or yellow with company branding, a taxi meter, and a roof light.
Commonly found at airports, major hotels, or by calling a dispatch service directly.
Typical fares are metered, generally higher than ride-sharing services.
Most taxis accept both cash and major credit cards; confirm payment methods before your trip.

Ride-Sharing Uber/Lyft

Recommended ride-sharing apps: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout the Space Coast.
Safety considerations: Always verify the driver's name, car model, and license plate match the information in the app. Share your trip details with a trusted contact.
Airport/station arrangements: Designated pick-up zones at MLB, MCO, and SFB. Check the app for specific instructions.
Port Canaveral: Taxis and ride-share services are readily available at cruise terminals.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Beach areas (Cocoa Beach, Indialantic, Satellite Beach) offer sidewalks and walkable zones.
Downtowns: Historic Cocoa Village, Historic Downtown Melbourne, and Downtown Titusville are charming, walkable historic districts.
Parks & Trails: Numerous parks and nature trails (e.g., Turkey Creek Sanctuary, Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge) for walking.

Bicycle Infrastructure: Limited dedicated bike lanes; cyclists often share roads with vehicles.
Safety: Wear a Helmet and bright clothing. Follow traffic laws. Recreational trails offer safer cycling environments.
No-Go Areas: Major highways (I-95, US-1) are unsuitable for walking/cycling due to high-speed traffic. Avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Not a standard service throughout the Space Coast. Many tour operators (specifically from Orlando) provide transport as part of specific tours to Kennedy Space Center.

Water Transportation

Boat tours (e.g., airboat tours on the St. Johns River, eco-tours on the Indian River Lagoon, bioluminescent kayaking tours) are common recreational activities, not point-to-point transport.

Accessibility Services

SCAT buses are wheelchair accessible. Major attractions are designed with accessibility in mind. Some public beaches offer beach wheelchairs for rent or loan.

Pro Tip for Exploration

Rental cars offer the most flexibility for exploring the Space Coast due to its spread-out nature and limited public transit coverage for tourist-specific sites.

Consider booking your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and better rates.

Local Transportation