Patrick AFB Beach takes its name from Patrick Space Force Base (formerly Patrick Air Force Base), named in honor of Major General Mason Patrick, USAAC, when the installation was renamed in August 1950. The base originated as Naval Air Station Banana River, commissioned October 1, 1940, as a subordinate base of Naval Air Operational Training Command at NAS Jacksonville. With war declared in December 1941, the Navy began anti-submarine patrols along the Florida coast using PBY Catalina and PBM Mariner seaplanes based at this facility. The Navy transferred Banana River Naval Air Station to the Air Force on September 1, 1948, in anticipation of establishing a missile test range extending into the Bahamas. The installation was renamed the Joint Long Range Proving Ground on June 10, 1949, then Patrick Air Force Base in August 1950. Located between Satellite Beach and Cocoa Beach in Brevard County, the base played a crucial role in America's space program, with the Space Coast becoming the second-most-visited spot by VIPs from 1966 to 1975, after Washington D.C. On December 9, 2020, Patrick Air Force Base was officially renamed as the first base of the U.S. Space Force – Patrick Space Force Base – alongside Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, reflecting the military's expanding space mission.
The beach offers swimming and sunbathing along Atlantic Ocean waters with consistent waves suitable for surfing at all skill levels, making it popular among Space Coast surfers. Accessible parking, restrooms, showers, and covered picnic areas serve beachgoers with military affiliation. The North Beach picnic area located beachside on SR A1A north of the east gate provides reserved space for 5 for authorized ID card holders. Hangar's Beach offers lifeguards on duty, restrooms, and dog-friendly policies making it suitable for families with pets. Three fully contained 3-bed/3-bath recreation lodges sit directly on the beachfront north of the East gate on Highway A1A, each sleeping a maximum of 10 people for authorized military personnel and families. A mandated light management plan operates from March 1 to November 30 protecting nesting and hatching sea turtles. The beach facilities serve military personnel, their families, and authorized ID card holders as part of morale, welfare, and recreation programs. The proximity to Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station creates opportunities for viewing rocket launches from the beach. The Atlantic-side location provides sunrise viewing over the ocean, while the Space Coast setting combines beach recreation with space program heritage.
Dining near Patrick AFB Beach includes on-base facilities for authorized personnel and nearby Cocoa Beach and Satellite Beach restaurants accessible to all visitors. The Manatee Cove Golf Course Club House on base serves breakfast and lunch for authorized patrons. Nearby Cocoa Beach restaurants include Jazzy's Mainely Lobster & Seafood Company serving Maine lobster rolls and fresh seafood. Coconuts on the Beach offers beachfront dining with seafood, burgers, and live music overlooking the Atlantic. Florida's Fresh Grill provides casual dining with fresh catches and American favorites. Pig & Whistle English Pub serves traditional pub fare with fish and chips and craft beers. Oh Shucks Seafood Bar features oysters, seafood platters, and waterfront views. Sandbar Sports Grill offers casual beachside dining with sports viewing and American classics. The proximity to historic Cocoa Beach Pier provides additional dining options including Rikki Tiki Tavern and Boardwalk Tiki Bar. Satellite Beach restaurants including Bizzarro's Famous NY Pizza and The Pita Pit provide additional variety for beach visitors combining Space Force Base beach access with Space Coast dining experiences.
