How to Get to Cocoa Beach?

Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular beach spots in America, and people from all over come to visit every year. But when you’re traveling from afar, how do you get to Cocoa Beach? Here’s a guide with all the information you need to know when it comes to traveling to Cocoa Beach.

Driving to Cocoa Beach

The driving route from wherever you’re coming from will depend on your starting location. However, most visitors find themselves taking I-95 south through Florida until they reach Cocoa Beach. Depending on where you start it can take anywhere from three to six hours of steady driving.

Most visitors coming from the east coast will take the I-95 to US-1 and get off on the US-192 heading east. US 192 will take you directly into the heart of Cocoa Beach.

Taking a Plane to Cocoa Beach

The nearest airport to Cocoa Beach is actually in Orlando, so you can make the drive from there as mentioned above. But if you’re coming from out of state or even abroad, you’ll likely want to look into flying.

The Orlando International Airport (MCO) is just an hour away from the beach and is serviced by dozens of domestic and international flights. You can also look into flights at the Melbourne International Airport (MLB), which is a little bit closer to Cocoa Beach but not serviced by as many international airlines.

Taking a Bus or Train to Cocoa Beach

If you are wanting to take public transportation to Cocoa Beach, Greyhound buses offer service to Orlando and you can then take a short drive from there. Alternatively, Amtrak also offers service from Orlando to Cocoa Beach, which will cost a bit more but can provide a more comfortable ride if that’s what you’re looking for.

Getting Around in Cocoa Beach

Once you get to Cocoa Beach, the biggest challenge in getting around is finding parking. The good news, however, is that the town of Cocoa Beach has some of the best parking in the world! Most of the streets along the beach have open and free parking available.

If you’re taking a day trip and will only be in Cocoa Beach for a few hours, then walking is usually the most efficient way to explore. All of the major streets and attractions are within walking distance of each other, so it’s easy to see everything on foot.

If you need to go farther or are staying for an extended period of time and don’t want to worry about finding parking in all the different spots, then Uber and other ride-share services are an option. There are also plenty of bike rental shops in the downtown area that can provide bikes for you to explore with.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a stunning beach vacation destination, then look no further than Cocoa Beach! With world class beaches and an abundance of options for getting there it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular beach locations in America. From driving along I-95 or taking a plane or train straight into the heart of town, there are plenty of ways for you to get to this beautiful place so that you can start your beach getaway!
For more information about Cocoa Beach visit VisitCocoaBeach.org.

Insider’s Guide to Cocoa Beach, Florida

Cocoa Beach is a gorgeous and charming seaside city in central Florida that is perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The town is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters, great surf, and numerous outdoor activities. Here is our insider’s guide to help make the most of your time in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Attractions

One of the top attractions in Cocoa Beach is the world-renowned Kennedy Space Center, where you can discover the fascinating history of space exploration and even watch a live rocket launch. You can also visit the Cocoa Beach Pier, a historic and iconic spot that features a variety of restaurants, shops, and bars.

For animal lovers and families with children, the Brevard Zoo offers a great opportunity to get up close and personal with amazing wildlife from around the world. Meanwhile, the Florida Surf Museum provides an insight into the history of surfing in the state and has numerous exhibits on display.

Dining Spots

Cocoa Beach has an impressive range of dining spots to suit all tastes and budgets. If you’re looking for fresh seafood, the chart-topper restaurants are Florida’s Fresh Grill, The Fat Snook, and The Sandbar.

For a more casual dining experience, head to Coconuts on the Beach, a beachfront restaurant with live music and great views, or to the funky Slow & Low Barbeque for a broad range of BBQ meats.

Cultural Experiences

In addition to the Kennedy Space Center and Florida Surf Museum, there are numerous other cultural experiences you can enjoy in Cocoa Beach. A popular attraction is the Dinosaur Store, where you can discover fossils, minerals, and gems. Another worthy spot is the Cocoa Beach Art Show & Music Fest, an annual event featuring local and international artists.

For a more history-centered excursion, take the Historic Cocoa Village Tour, a guided stroll through the town’s historic district, where you’ll get an insight into the past and the present of this lovely area.

Local History

Cocoa Beach is steeped in history, and visitors can learn about it by visiting the various museums dotted around the town or taking one of the local history tours. Among the significant places to visit are the Indian River Queen, a replica of a stern wheel paddleboat from the 1800s, and the Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse, a theater built in 1924.

Another interesting spot is the Canaveral Light, a 150-year-old lighthouse that offers an excellent view of the surrounding area.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For some off-the-beaten-path suggestions, consider visiting the Thousand Islands Conservation Area, a little-known park with stunning mangrove-lined waterways, or taking an eco-tour led by a knowledgeable guide to explore the local marine and bird life.

You can also rent a stand-up paddleboard and paddle through the protected lagoon system or rent a beach cruiser and take a ride along the numerous beachfront bike paths.

In conclusion, Cocoa Beach is a fantastic place with a wide range of attractions and experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just an enthusiast of the beach lifestyle, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone.