COCOA BEACH – If you enjoy ecotourism, check out the Cocoa Beach Thousand Islands.

The Thousand Islands Conservation Area covers 338 acres and includes a series of islands in the Indian River Lagoon.  The islands were formed by a storm-driven sea that broke through a barrier island, leaving a 900-acre flood tide delta deposit. In the 1950s, small ditches were dug through the islands to improve water movement.

Except for a short nature trail along Fourth Street South, all access to the islands is by boat. The primary access point is from Ramp Road boat ramp. The islands have many channels that provide great paddling opportunities.

Brevard County is home to many manatees. The prime months for manatee viewing are November through March. Top spots for viewing manatees include:

• Canaveral Lock, just north of the Port Canaveral entrance, near the Jetty Park’
• DeSoto Park on the DeSoto Parkway;
• Manatee Sanctuary Park, 701 Thrum Boulevard.

Dolphins are also plentiful in the Banana River. Egrets, herons, pelicans and ospreys are also frequently seen in this area.

Guided tours are available by pontoon boat, kayak or canoe. For more information, check out the visitcocoabeach.com website.