Things To Do in Cocoa Beach Florida: Complete Travel Guide
Hey traveler! Ready for some fun in the sun? Welcome to Cocoa Beach, Florida, a laid-back beach town on the Space Coast that’s perfect for your next getaway. Whether you love lounging on the sand, catching waves, or simply unwinding, Cocoa Beach attractions have something for everyone. Exploring local shops, and even getting a taste of space history. Intrigued? Let’s dive into all the awesome Things To Do in Cocoa Beach Florida!
Table of Contents
Overview
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- Address: Cocoa Beach, Florida, USA.
- Parking fee: $2-5 per hour or $10-15 per day
- When to Go: March to May and September to November
- Nearest Bus Stop: Cocoa Beach City Hall
- Nearest Railway Station: Amtrak station in Orlando
- Nearest Airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO)
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Map
Top 10 Best Things To Do in Cocoa Beach, Florida
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1. Enjoy a Beach Day
Spend a relaxing day on the pristine sandy shores of Cocoa Beach. Swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze.
Enjoy a beach day
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- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, picnicking
- Location: Cocoa Beach, FL
- How to Reach: Accessible by car via FL-528 E from Orlando; local bus services by Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT)
- Approx Budget: Free; parking fees may apply ($2-5 per hour)
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2. Ron Jon Surf Shop
Visit the world’s largest surf shop, open 24/7. It’s a must-see for surf enthusiasts and offers a wide range of gear, clothing, and souvenirs.
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- Activities: Shopping for surf gear, clothing, and souvenirs
- Location: 4151 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: Free entry; shopping costs vary
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3. Cocoa Beach Pier
Walk along this historic 800-foot pier, which offers restaurants, shops, and fishing opportunities with stunning ocean views.
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- Activities: Dining, shopping, fishing, people-watching
- Location: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: Free to walk; dining and shopping vary
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4. Cocoa Beach Surf Museum
Learn about the rich history of surfing on the Space Coast. The museum showcases vintage surfboards, photographs, and memorabilia.
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- Activities: Exploring surf history exhibits, viewing vintage surfboards
- Location: 4275 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: Free entry; donations appreciated
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5. Historic Cocoa Village
Explore this charming area with its unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll and some local shopping.
Historic Cocoa Village
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- Activities: Shopping, dining, exploring art galleries
- Location: Delannoy Ave, Cocoa, FL 32922
- How to Reach: By car via FL-520 W; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: Free entry; shopping and dining costs vary
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6. Lori Wilson Park
This oceanfront park offers picnic areas, walking trails, and a dog park. It’s an excellent spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
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- Activities: Walking trails, picnic areas, bird watching, dog park
- Location: 1500 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: Free; parking fees may apply
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7. Kennedy Space Center
Discover the wonders of space exploration at this iconic NASA facility. Tour launch areas, meet astronauts, and experience simulators.
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- Activities: Tour launch areas, meet astronauts, experience simulators
- Location: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E and Space Commerce Way
- Approx Budget: $50-75 per person for entry
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8. Go On a Dolphin Tour
Take a guided boat tour to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the local marine life.
Go On a Dolphin Tour
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- Activities: Boat tour to see dolphins in their natural habitat
- Location: Various tour operators in Cocoa Beach
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: $30-60 per person
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9. Kayaking on Cocoa Beach
Rent a kayak and explore the Banana River Lagoon. It’s a peaceful way to see manatees, birds, and other wildlife up close.
Kayaking on cocoa beach
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- Activities: Kayaking in Banana River Lagoon, wildlife viewing
- Location: Various kayak rental locations in Cocoa Beach
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: $20-50 per person for rental
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10. Go Surfing on Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is famous for its surf-friendly waves. Rent a board, take a lesson, and ride the waves like a pro.
Go Surfing on cocoa beach
- Activities: Surfing, taking surf lessons
- Location: Cocoa Beach, FL
- How to Reach: By car via FL-528 E; SCAT bus routes
- Approx Budget: $30-50 per person for rentals or lessons
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How to Reach Cocoa Beach, Florida
Cocoa Beach is conveniently located on Florida’s Space Coast and can be reached by various modes of transportation.
By Car:
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- From Orlando: Take FL-528 E (Beachline Expressway) directly to Cocoa Beach. The drive takes about 1 hour (approximately 50 miles).
- From Miami: Take I-95 N to FL-528 E. The drive takes about 3.5 hours (approximately 200 miles).
By Air:
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- Orlando International Airport (MCO): Located about 50 miles (approximately 1 hour) from Cocoa Beach. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service.
- Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB): Located about 25 miles (approximately 30 minutes) from Cocoa Beach. Rental cars and shuttle services are available.
By Bus:
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- Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT): SCAT offers local bus services that connect Cocoa Beach with other parts of Brevard County. Check their schedules for specific routes and times.
- Greyhound: The nearest Greyhound bus station is in Titusville, about 25 miles from Cocoa Beach. From there, you can take a local bus or taxi.
By Train:
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- Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak station is in Orlando. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Cocoa Beach.
By Shuttle Services:
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- Several shuttle services operate between Orlando and Cocoa Beach, offering convenient and affordable options for travelers.
With these options, reaching Cocoa Beach is straightforward and accessible, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing beach getaway.
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Here are some nearby places to visit, eat, and stay at Cocoa Beach, Florida:
Nearby Tourist Places
- Ramp Road Park – 4 minutes, 1.2 km
- Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park – 5 minutes, 2.2 km
- Greater Byrd Island – 21 minutes, 14.7 km
- Georgianna Church – 23 minutes, 16.3 km
- Rotary Park Merritt Island – 20 minutes, 11.1 km
- Public Dog Park and Cocoa Beach Access – 4 minutes, 1.3 km
- Sea of Life – 13′ tall Tree Sculpture – 6 minutes, 1.5 km
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Cocoa Beach Restaurants
- Taco City – 6 minutes, 3 km
- Squid Lips – 5 minutes, 2.5 km
- The Fat Snook – 5 minutes, 2.7 km
- Long Doggers (American restaurant) – 25 minutes, 18.3 km
- Big Daddy J’s 5 Great Things – 5 minutes, 2.5 km
- Coconuts on the Beach – 4 minutes
- Heidi’s Jazz Club & Restaurant – 5 minutes
- The Tiny Turtle – 5 minutes
- Area 142 (Bar) – 4 minutes
- Cafe Surfinista – 3 minutes
- Simply Delicious Cafe & Bakery – 3 minutes
- Oasis Shaved Ice – 5 minutes
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Cocoa Beach Hotels
- Sea Aire Oceanfront Inn – 4 minutes
- Surf Studio Beach Resort – 4 minutes, 2.3 km (2 stars)
- Anthony’s On the Beach – 3 minutes
- Beach Place Guesthouses – 4 minutes, 2 km
- Beach Island Resort – 3 minutes, 1.6 km (2 stars)
Popular Hotel & Resorts in USA
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Conclusion
Cocoa Beach, Florida, is a vibrant destination with something for everyone. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring historic sites, or engaging in water sports, this coastal town promises a memorable experience. Plan your trip to Cocoa Beach and enjoy all the fantastic activities it has to offer.
Popular & Historical Place in USA
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FAQs for Cocoa Beach, Florida
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Q: What is the best time to visit Cocoa Beach?
A: The best time to visit Cocoa Beach is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.
Q: Are there any entrance fees for the beaches in Cocoa Beach?
A: No, the public beaches in Cocoa Beach are free to access. However, some parks and attractions might have parking fees.
Q: How far is Cocoa Beach from Orlando?
A: Cocoa Beach is approximately 50 miles east of Orlando, about a one-hour drive via FL-528 E (Beachline Expressway).
Q: Can I rent surfboards or take surfing lessons in Cocoa Beach?
A: Yes, there are several surf shops and schools in Cocoa Beach where you can rent surfboards and take lessons.
Q: Is there public transportation available in Cocoa Beach?
A: Yes, Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT) provides local bus services in and around Cocoa Beach.
Q: What are some must-visit attractions in Cocoa Beach?
A: Some must-visit attractions include the Cocoa Beach Pier, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Lori Wilson Park, and the Kennedy Space Center.
Q: Are there any good restaurants in Cocoa Beach?
A: Yes, Cocoa Beach has a variety of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine. Some popular spots include Coconuts on the Beach, The Fat Snook, and Heidi’s Jazz Club & Restaurant.
Q: Can I see wildlife in Cocoa Beach?
A: Yes, you can see a variety of wildlife in and around Cocoa Beach. Dolphin tours and kayaking in the Banana River Lagoon offer opportunities to see dolphins, manatees, and various bird species.
Q: Is Cocoa Beach family-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Cocoa Beach offers many family-friendly activities, including beach days, visiting the Kennedy Space Center, exploring parks, and enjoying local attractions.
Q: Where can I stay in Cocoa Beach?
A: Cocoa Beach has a range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts and hotels to cozy inns and vacation rentals. Some popular options include the Sea Aire Oceanfront Inn, Beach Place Guesthouses, and Anthony’s On the Beach.
Q: Are pets allowed on the beaches in Cocoa Beach?
A: Pets are allowed on certain areas of Cocoa Beach, specifically in designated dog-friendly areas like Lori Wilson Park’s dog park.
Q: What is there to do at night in Cocoa Beach?
A: At night, you can enjoy live music at local bars and clubs, dine at beachfront restaurants, or take a moonlit walk on the beach. Popular night spots include Heidi’s Jazz Club & Restaurant and Coconuts on the Beach.
