Melbourne

Melbourne, nestled on Florida's famous "Space Coast," attracts travellers with its sunny beaches, historic charm, and relaxed atmosphere. Reaching this picturesque corner of the USA can be done in various ways: from a direct flight to an exciting road trip along the Atlantic Ocean. A trip to Melbourne will be an excellent starting point for exploring the natural and cultural treasures of the region.

The fastest way to reach the coast is to take a flight to Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB). This aviation hub is located directly within the city limits, allowing tourists to begin their holiday almost immediately after landing.

Alternatively, travellers often choose to fly into the major airport in Orlando, located approximately 90 km from the coast. Airports in the neighbouring cities of Vero Beach and Cocoa Beach may also be suitable for private or regional aviation.

There is no direct rail connection to the city itself, as Melbourne does not have its own train station. The nearest major railway hub is in Orlando, where long-distance trains arrive.

Tourists preferring this mode of transport are advised to take the train to Orlando and then cover the remaining 90–100 km to the coast by rental car or transfer service. There are also no railway stations in neighbouring resort towns such as Cocoa Beach or Vero Beach.

Bus routes connect Melbourne with neighbouring cities; however, the journey may take significantly longer than by car due to schedules and stops. For example, the trip from Cocoa Beach (about 33 km) will take around 2.6 hours.

For those departing from Vero Beach, the road will take about 4.8 hours. The journey from Orlando is the longest: despite the comparative geographical proximity, the bus route can take more than 5.5 hours, so this option is only suitable for those who have plenty of time to spare.

Travelling by car is the most comfortable and fastest option to reach the resort. The drive from Cocoa Beach will take just about 30 minutes, covering approximately 30 km along the coast.

The route from Vero Beach is also not tiring: the distance of 54 km can be covered in 50 minutes. Many tourists arrive from Orlando — the 115 km highway drive will take just over 1 hour, making car rental an ideal solution for exploring the region.

To ensure your trip to Melbourne goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. The following tips will help you adapt quickly and enjoy your holiday in Florida.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid, so bring light clothing made of natural fabrics, a hat, and sunglasses. Do not forget swimwear and a light jacket, as air conditioning in indoor spaces is often set to very low temperatures.
2. Transport. Public transport is not widely developed, so to move comfortably between beaches and attractions, it is highly recommended to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, but having small cash denominations is useful for tipping valets or making purchases at small kiosks.
4. Health and Safety. The sun in Florida is very strong — be sure to use high SPF sunscreen. It is also advisable to carry insect repellent, especially if you plan evening walks near the water.
5. Communication. The main language is English. Locals are friendly and open; knowing basic phrases will greatly facilitate communication in service areas and shops.
6. Local Etiquette. In the USA, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount in restaurants and taxis. It is polite to smile and greet people when meeting, even strangers.
7. What to Avoid. Do not swim in undesignated areas and pay attention to warning flags on the beaches. Be cautious near freshwater bodies due to the possible presence of alligators.
8. Bonus Tip. Check the launch schedule at the space centre on Cape Canaveral. Watching a rocket launch directly from Melbourne beach is a unique and free spectacle that should not be missed.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to feel confident and safe, fully immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the sunny coast.