Best Restaurants Near Port Canaveral — Eat Like a Local
Disney Cruise Line guide: real food walking/short-cab from airport. Real, specific, no fluff.
Arriving at Port Canaveral: A Guide to Eating and Getting Around
As you step off the plane at Orlando International Airport, you're just a short drive from the Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral. But instead of immediately taking a taxi or Uber, consider exploring the local neighborhoods and grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many excellent restaurants.
Wekiwa Springs and the Beachside Neighborhoods
Just a 20-minute drive from the airport, the Wekiwa Springs area is a charming collection of shops, restaurants, and parks. You can grab a quick bite at the Wekiwa Springs Cafe, which serves up delicious breakfast and lunch options.
- Wekiwa Springs Cafe: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712
- Hours: 7am-2pm, Monday-Saturday; 7am-1pm, Sunday
For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Beachside neighborhood, where you'll find everything from seafood to steakhouses. Some popular options include:
- The Fisherman's Net: 1455 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Hours: 11am-10pm, Monday-Thursday; 11am-11pm, Friday-Saturday; 10am-10pm, Sunday
- The Fat Snook: 1320 S Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Hours: 11:30am-10pm, Monday-Thursday; 11:30am-11pm, Friday-Saturday; 10am-10pm, Sunday
Avoid the Tourist Traps
While it can be tempting to stick to the familiar chains and tourist traps near the airport, you'll find much better food and a more authentic experience by venturing into the local neighborhoods. Some areas to avoid include:
- The International Drive area, which is known for its overpriced and low-quality restaurants.
- The airport's own food court, which is a sad collection of fast food and chain restaurants.
Getting to Port Canaveral
Once you've had your fill of food and exploration, it's time to head to the Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral. There are a few options for getting there:
By Taxi or Uber
The most convenient option is to take a taxi or Uber from the airport to the port. This will take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost around $30-$40.
By Shuttle or Bus
By Shuttle or Bus
Another option is to take a shuttle or bus from the airport to the port. There are several companies that offer this service, including:
- Port Canaveral Shuttle: 321-783-5222
- Hours: 24/7
- Cost: Around $10-$15 per person, one way
Keep in mind that the shuttle or bus may take longer than a taxi or Uber, and you'll need to factor in the cost of any additional transportation fees.
Getting Around Port Canaveral
Once you arrive at the port, you'll need to get to the Disney Cruise Line terminal. Here are a few options:
On Foot
The Disney Cruise Line terminal is within walking distance of the port's main entrance. Simply follow the signs and you'll be there in no time.
By Taxi or Uber
If you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi or Uber from the port's main entrance to the terminal.
By Disney's Complimentary Shuttle
Disney offers a complimentary shuttle service from the port's main entrance to the terminal. Simply look for the Disney shuttle signs and follow the crowd.
Things to Do in Port Canaveral
While you're waiting for your cruise to depart, there are plenty of things to do in Port Canaveral. Here are a few ideas:
Visit the Port Canaveral Lighthouse
The Port Canaveral Lighthouse is a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the port.
- Address: 4012 FL-528, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Hours: 10am-4pm, Monday-Saturday; 12pm-4pm, Sunday
- Cost: Free admission, but donations are appreciated
Go Shopping at the Port Canaveral Shopping Center
The Port Canaveral Shopping Center offers a variety of shops and restaurants, including a few local favorites.
- Address: 4001 FL-528, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
- Hours: 10am-9pm, Monday-Saturday; 11am-7pm, Sunday
Conclusion
Arriving at Port Canaveral can be a breeze, especially if you know what to expect. By exploring the local neighborhoods and avoiding the tourist traps, you can enjoy a more authentic experience. And with a little planning, you can get to the Disney Cruise Line terminal in no time. When you're ready to exchange currency, you can use the Portability App to find the best rates and avoid any unnecessary fees.
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