Things To Do
in Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach, located at coordinates 28.3327, -80.6274 on Florida's Space Coast, is a sun-drenched beach town with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The town centers around a long, iconic pier, colorful storefronts, and a thriving surf culture along A1A near the Atlantic. It sits just east of Cape Canaveral, offering easy access to Kennedy Space Center and frequent rocket launches.
Visitors come for sun, sand, and sea, with space-age history woven into everyday beach life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a rejuvenating sunrise yoga session on the soft sands of Cocoa Beach. The gentle sound of the waves crashing and the fresh ocean breeze will help center your mind and prepare you for the day ahead. After yoga, enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh fruit and coffee while overlooking the ocean.
Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Cocoa Beach, where you can relax on the warm sands or take a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the nearby waterways and spot local wildlife. Grab a delicious lunch at a beachside shack, indulging in fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Cocoa Beach Pier, where the vibrant colors of the sky reflect off the water. Enjoy dinner at one of the pier’s restaurants, sampling local dishes while listening to live music. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk on the beach, watching the stars twinkle in the clear night sky.
Begin your day by heading to the Cocoa Beach Pier, an iconic structure that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a leisurely walk along the pier, enjoying the fresh ocean air and watching surfers catch waves. Stop by the pier's shops and cafes for a delightful breakfast to fuel your adventures.
Spend the afternoon enjoying various activities at the pier, such as fishing, surfing, or simply lounging in a beach chair. If you're interested, sign up for a surfing lesson and learn to ride the waves like a pro. Afterward, relax with a cold drink while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and people-watching.
As twilight descends, return to the pier for a sunset dinner at one of its waterfront restaurants. Savor delicious dishes while enjoying the panoramic views of the ocean as the sun dips below the horizon. End the evening with a stroll back down the pier, soaking in the lively ambiance of the nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🍕Pizza (slice) | $2-5 |
| 🏨1-night stay (mid-range hotel) | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere
- Proximity to Kennedy Space Center and rocket launches
- Can be crowded in peak season
- Hurricane season brings weather disruption and travel uncertainty
Places to Visit in Cocoa Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pier offering ocean horizons at sunrise and sunset; great for long-exposure shots, silhouettes, and candid beach scenes.
Historic lighthouse with dramatic Atlantic backdrops; ideal for sunset silhouettes and maritime photography.
Expansive shoreline with golden hour lighting and occasional rocket-launch viewing opportunities from a distance.
Food in Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Florida’s iconic tangy-sweet dessert; seek a slice with a crisp graham cracker crust at local cafés.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried conch with a tangy dipping sauce; commonly found at seafood shacks along the pier.
Flaky bread stuffed with ham, roasted pork, cheese, pickles, and mustard—easy to find at delis and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring fresh produce, local crafts, and ready-to-eat bites from nearby vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress is casual and weather-appropriate; swimwear is common at beaches, less so inside restaurants.
Respect launch schedules and crowd controls near launch sites; photography may be restricted in certain areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cocoa Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities around 15-20% for table service; cash tips are appreciated, though cards are widely accepted.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; some small vendors or street stalls may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures and blooming beaches; great for outdoor activities before the summer heat arrives.
Hot and humid with daily afternoon thunderstorms; perfect for surfing and water activities; monitor tropical storm and hurricane season (June–November).
Cooling temperatures and fewer crowds; ideal for outdoor exploration and watching rocket launches with comfortable evenings.
Mild daytime temperatures and cooler nights; great for beach walks, wildlife viewing, and stargazing on clear evenings.
Cocoa Beach at Night
Hiking in Cocoa Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Elevated boardwalk through tidal marshes ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Lush trails and boardwalks through wetlands with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Extensive trails through oak hammock and wetlands with interpretive signs.
Coastal trails with marsh and scrub habitats and lookout points for wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Cocoa Beach by plane.
Major hub about 45-60 miles from Cocoa Beach; wide flight options and rental car access.
Alternative airport about 45-60 miles away with domestic flights.
Regional airport closer to the Space Coast; smaller but convenient for domestic travel.
Titusville-area airport offering general aviation services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The beach town is popular with families due to kid-friendly beaches and Space Coast attractions.
Winter visitors extend the season, contributing to a longer tourist presence.
Proximity to Kennedy Space Center draws space enthusiasts and professionals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple along the Cocoa Beach shoreline with accessible waves for all levels.
Pier fishing and boat charters provide opportunities to catch local species.
Watercraft rentals and tours along the coast and inlet areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cocoa Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer salads, veggie burgers, and vegetable sides; many can accommodate veggie requests with advance notice.