Cocoa Beach: What Are the Best Things to Do and See?

Cocoa Beach is a beautiful city located on Florida’s Space Coast in Brevard County. It is a popular destination for sun seekers, sightseers, and history buffs alike. With its idyllic beaches, fascinating landmarks, and exciting attractions, this vibrant city has plenty to offer visitors. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore local attractions, or take part in the unique history of the area, you’ll find plenty of activities and sights to keep you busy during your stay. So what are the best things to do and see in Cocoa Beach? In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of some of the top attractions that the region has to offer.

Relax on the Beach

One of the most popular activities in Cocoa Beach is going to the beach. The city is well-known for its beautiful white sand beaches, which have made it a destination for locals and visitors since it was first developed in the early 20th century. Visitors looking to relax on the beach can enjoy a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, surfing, and fishing. There are also plenty of beachside restaurants and bars that offer great food and drinks. Perhaps most importantly, Cocoa Beach is home to Ron Jon Surf Shop, which is one of the most iconic surf shops in the United States.

Visit Local Attractions

Cocoa Beach has plenty of attractions to keep visitors busy. The Cocoa Beach Pier is one of the city’s most popular attractions and offers visitors stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline. The pier features a variety of restaurants and bars as well as a variety of shops where visitors can buy souvenirs, clothing, and gifts. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is also a must-visit destination for those looking to learn more about the history of space exploration and see a piece of real rocket hardware up close. The center offers a variety of exciting exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.

Explore Florida’s Nature

Cocoa Beach is also a great destination for nature lovers. Just a short drive away from the city is Canaveral National Seashore, where visitors can explore miles of unspoiled coastline and see wildlife such as sea turtles, shorebirds, fish, and dolphins. Visitors can also take part in activities such as beachcombing, surf fishing, and kayaking. Other nearby attractions include Canaveral National Wildlife Refuge, home to hundreds of species of birds and animals; Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a unique habitat for alligators, sea turtles, and other wildlife; and Blue Spring State Park, where visitors can explore miles of trails and go swimming with manatees in Blue Spring’s crystal-clear waters.

Experience Local Culture

In addition to its natural attractions, Cocoa Beach is also known for its vibrant culture. The city has several art galleries, live music venues, theaters, boutiques, and antique shops that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of annual festivals throughout the year that celebrate the culture of Cocoa Beach. Lastly, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone when it comes to dining out—from casual beachfront restaurants to fine dining establishments to barbecue joints—so you’ll have no problem finding something to suit your tastes. In conclusion, Cocoa Beach is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxed vacation in Florida. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore its fascinating attractions, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your stay. No matter what you decide to do while you’re here, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this charming city. For more information about activities and attractions in Cocoa Beach, be sure to check out Visit Space Coast for a comprehensive guide to exploring this coastal gem.

Cocoa Beach: An Insider’s Guide to a Surprising Florida Gem

Looking for a captivating yet off-beat travel destination in Florida? Look no further than Cocoa Beach. This sunny town just south of Cape Canaveral boasts a lot more than just its rocket launches and surfer-friendly waves. With its pristine beaches, fun attractions, and quirky culture, Cocoa Beach offers visitors something to remember. So, here is a curated list of the best things to do and see in Cocoa Beach, beyond the typical mainstream spots.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Obvious

The Cocoa Beach area is bursting with interesting and unusual attractions that you might miss if you only stick to the well-trodden tourist routes. Here are a few hidden gems that only locals would know:

– Dinosaur Store: Step into a prehistoric world at the Dinosaur Store and Museum. Featuring life-size dinosaurs, fossils, and meteorites, this store is a great place for kids and adults.
– Thousand Islands Conservation Area: Take a kayak tour through the Thousand Islands Conservation Area, a scenic area filled with mangrove forests and home to an abundance of wildlife.
– Sebastian Inlet State Park: Head to Sebastian Inlet State Park, south of Coco Beach, for a day of picnicking, surfing, or fishing. This protected natural area features stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon.

Dining Spots: A Sampling of Local Cuisine

Cocoa Beach has more than its fair share of dining options. With fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, and authentic Floridian flavors. Here are some of the best spots to try:

– Coconuts on the Beach: Grab a table on the beach at Coconuts on the Beach and enjoy their famous fish tacos or coconut shrimp. Don’t miss out on their great drinks specials.
– Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar: For the perfect seafood dinner, head to Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar. This restaurant serves up fresh oysters and locally caught seafood, while live bands entertain the crowd.
– Simply Delicious Cafe & Bakery: A hidden gem for breakfast or lunch is Simply Delicious Cafe & Bakery. The bakery offers an array of homemade cakes and pastries, while their breakfast plates with local ingredients are a treat.

Cultural Experiences: Festivals, Art, and Traditions

Cocoa Beach celebrates its rich culture through festivals, art galleries, and sporting events. Here are some of the best cultural experiences to check out:

– Cocoa Beach Arts Festival: Each year in November, artists and locals gather for the Cocoa Beach Arts Festival. More than 150 artists from across the country display their work on the beach.
– Ron Jon Surf Shop: Surfing is a big deal in Cocoa Beach, and Ron Jon Surf Shop is an iconic destination. The store sells everything from surfboards to swimsuits, and it is worth a walk-through just for the atmosphere.
– Historic Cocoa Village: Head to Historic Cocoa Village to experience the charm of Old Florida architecture and browse local boutiques. At night, enjoy food and music at one of the area’s cozy patio restaurants.

Local History: Stories That Bring the City to Life

Cocoa Beach has a deep and varied history that goes beyond its famous surfing culture. Here are two captivating stories that reveal the city’s rich past:

– Jane Green: Some say that Jane Green is Cocoa Beach’s witch. A visit to her homestead, now a museum, provides a glimpse into her life as an artist, writer, and spiritualist.
– The Missile Crisis: During the 1960s, Cocoa Beach was ground zero for the Cuban Missile Crisis. Today, visitors can tour the historic Air Force Space & Missile Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: For the Adventurous Traveler

For those looking for something a little different, here are some unique Cocoa Beach experiences:

– Stargazing Tour: Spend an evening stargazing at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, home to the East Coast’s largest telescope.
– Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: Paddle your way through bioluminescent waters in the Indian River Lagoon, where the water glows at night with the help of microorganisms.
– Night Paddle Boarding: Experience the beauty of Cocoa Beach at night by paddleboarding with glowing LED lights under your board.

In conclusion, Cocoa Beach is not only a fantastic vacation destination but also a fascinating travel location for those who love discovering new and exciting places. With its hidden treasures, local food scene, and vibrant culture, Cocoa Beach is a city worth visiting.