Cocoa Beach
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Cocoa Beach's hidden gems and unique experiences!
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.
Kick off your day with an early morning drive to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, just a short distance from Cocoa Beach. Enjoy the scenic views as you explore the refuge, looking for native birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Bring along binoculars for a closer look at the fascinating creatures that call this area home.
After a morning of wildlife watching, have a picnic lunch amidst the stunning surroundings of the refuge. Spend the afternoon hiking along the trails or taking a guided tour to learn more about the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Be sure to visit the visitor center for educational exhibits and information on local conservation efforts.
Return to Cocoa Beach in the evening and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Indulge in freshly caught fish while reminiscing about the day's adventures in nature. Wrap up the night by watching a movie at a nearby cinema or enjoying an ice cream at a local parlor.
Start your day with a surfing lesson on Cocoa Beach, where the waves are perfect for beginners. A local instructor will guide you through the basics, helping you catch your first wave and experience the thrill of surfing. After your lesson, take a moment to relax and enjoy the beach ambiance.
Engage in some fun beach games in the afternoon, such as beach volleyball or frisbee with friends and family. Alternatively, spend some time building sandcastles or exploring the shoreline for shells and marine life. Treat yourself to a refreshing smoothie or ice-cold drink from a nearby beach kiosk to keep cool.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to unwind and watch the vibrant colors of the sunset. For dinner, head to a nearby beachfront restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Conclude the night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter under the starry sky.
Embark on an exciting day trip to the Kennedy Space Center, where you can explore the wonders of space exploration. Start with an informative tour that showcases the history of NASA and the groundbreaking missions that took place from this iconic site. Experience the thrill of standing beneath the towering rockets in the Rocket Garden.
Continue your adventure at the Kennedy Space Center with interactive exhibits, including the Shuttle Launch Experience, which simulates the feeling of a real space launch. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the center's café, where you can recharge before delving deeper into the exhibits. Don't miss the chance to meet a real astronaut and hear their incredible stories.
As your day at the Kennedy Space Center comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the marvels of space exploration. Drive back to Cocoa Beach, stopping for dinner at a local restaurant to share your favorite moments from the day. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local bar or lounge for live music and a taste of the local nightlife.
Start your morning with an exciting fishing charter off the coast of Cocoa Beach. Join a local captain and crew as they take you to prime fishing spots in the Atlantic Ocean, where you can catch a variety of fish. Learn about the local marine ecosystem and fishing techniques while enjoying the beautiful ocean views.
After a successful morning of fishing, return to shore and have your catch prepared for lunch at a nearby restaurant. Enjoy a fresh seafood meal with your fellow anglers, relishing the flavors of the ocean. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring local shops and boutiques for souvenirs.
In the evening, gather with fellow travelers to share stories and experiences from your fishing adventure. Consider dining at a restaurant that specializes in seafood, where you can enjoy dishes that showcase the local catch. End the night with a leisurely stroll along the beach, reflecting on your day's adventures.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Cocoa Beach Surf Museum to learn about the rich history of surfing in this iconic beach town. Explore exhibits showcasing vintage surfboards, memorabilia, and photographs, all while gaining insight into the surf culture that defines Cocoa Beach. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the charming downtown area, admiring the local art and unique shops.
Continue your art exploration by visiting local galleries and studios, where you can meet artists and view their work. Consider joining a painting or pottery class to unleash your creativity and create a personal souvenir. Enjoy lunch at a local café, where you can savor artisanal sandwiches and fresh salads.
As evening approaches, attend a local art event or gallery opening, where you can mingle with artists and fellow art enthusiasts. Dine at a restaurant known for its artistic ambiance and creative menu, celebrating the local culinary scene. End the night by visiting a live music venue, enjoying performances from local musicians.
Gather the family for a fun-filled morning at the Cocoa Beach Skate Park, where everyone can enjoy skating and scootering together. Spend time practicing tricks and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow skaters. Afterward, head to the beach for some quality time building sandcastles and playing beach games.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant offering a variety of options for all ages. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Cocoa Beach Aquatic Center, where the kids can splash around in the pools and enjoy water slides. Alternatively, explore the nearby Cocoa Beach Pier for arcade games and fun activities.
Conclude your family adventure with a casual dinner at a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal while watching the waves. Share stories and laughter about your day’s activities, creating lasting memories. End the night with a stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying the sound of the ocean.
Spend your morning indulging in relaxation at a local spa, where you can enjoy a soothing massage or rejuvenating facial. Take your time to unwind and let the stress of everyday life melt away. After your treatment, enjoy a light, healthy breakfast at the spa café, savoring fresh juices and wholesome dishes.
Continue your spa retreat with a yoga or meditation session to further enhance your state of relaxation. Afterward, explore the nearby shops for unique souvenirs or wellness products, taking in the local atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a fine dining restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance. Allow yourself to indulge in a multi-course meal, savoring each bite and pairing it with a nice wine. Finish off your day with a calming walk on the beach, reflecting on the serenity of your spa experience.