What are the best things to do in Cocoa Beach?

Cocoa Beach is a small city on Florida’s east coast located approximately one hour from Orlando. With its warm climate, sunny beaches and range of activities, Cocoa Beach is an ideal vacation destination for all ages. Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Cocoa Beach.

Visit Cocoa Beach Pier

Cocoa Beach Pier is one of the best attractions in Cocoa Beach and a great place to visit with family or friends. This 800-foot-long pier is a favorite fishing spot and extends over the beach offering spectacular views of the Atlantic. The pier offers a range of activities including a tropical bar, shops and restaurants, and the surf shop rents out surfboards and wetsuits.

Take a Surfing Lesson

Cocoa Beach is a world-renowned Surf City, and famous as the hometown of 11-time surfing world champion Kelly Slater. Most visitors come here to experience surfing for themselves! There are plenty of options for beginners, so don’t forget to take a lesson and learn from the pros. Check out Burger Surf School for great beginner’s lessons, including boards and wetsuits.

Have Fun at the Theme Parks

Many people come to Cocoa Beach just for its famous theme parks. There are several located in the area including Disneyland, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, each offering great water rides, shows, shops and more. If you want to avoid the large crowds then head to Kennedy Space Center where you can experience a taste of life in space. Alternatively, Gatorland Zoo is another option where you can spot alligators and other exotic animals.

Explore the Beaches

Cocoa Beach has some of the most beautiful beaches in Central Florida and they’re all worth exploring! Spend some time at Alan Shepard Beach Park, where you can soak up the sun and take part in various beach activities like swimming, snorkeling or fishing, or just relax under a palm tree with a good book. Otherwise, head to Lori Wilson Park for some fun kayaking or boating on the Banana River lagoon.

Hang Out at Cocoa Beach Boardwalk

The Cocoa Beach Boardwalk is one of the area’s most popular attractions as it provides endless entertainment for the whole family. It’s a great spot to buy souvenirs, enjoy delicious street food, play arcade games or catch a show at the outdoor amphitheater. Plus, you can also find live music, outdoor movies, in the summer too.

Watch Manatees at Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands Sanctuary is home to a wonderful variety of aquatic life and it’s a great place to visit if you want to see some amazing wildlife. Here you can observe endangered manatees in their natural habitat, or take a boat tour around the lagoon to explore its many islands. The area also offers some wonderful opportunities for campers and hikers looking to explore.

As you can see there are plenty of fun things to do in Cocoa Beach! Whether you want to soak up the sun on its sandy beaches, thrill ride your way through its theme parks or explore nature on its boat tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So make sure you add this delightful city to your itinerary when you’re planning your next vacation!
For more information about what to do in Cocoa Beach visit VisitCocoaBeach, an official website that provides information about things to do in Cocoa Beach and its surroundings.

An Insider’s Guide to Cocoa Beach: The Ultimate Travel Experience

Cocoa Beach is a charming coastal city nestled in Brevard County, Florida. It is a top-rated tourist destination known for its gorgeous sandy beaches, diverse attractions, bustling nightlife, and many exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventurous excursion, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone. Here’s our insider’s guide to Cocoa Beach:

Attractions

Cocoa Beach boasts a plethora of attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some top-rated attractions to discover:

– Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: The Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit attraction in Cocoa Beach. The complex features a museum with hands-on exhibits, artifacts from NASA’s space programs, and a space shuttle Atlantis exhibit. You can also book an exclusive bus tour to visit the launch and landing sites of historic spacecraft.
– Cocoa Beach Pier: The Cocoa Beach Pier is a historic landmark and a hub of activity. Here you can go fishing, watch surfers, dine in several restaurants, and enjoy live entertainment. The pier is also an excellent spot for sunset watching.
– Lori Wilson Park: Lori Wilson Park is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and secluded beach experience. You can sunbathe on the beach, have a picnic, or take a nature walk through the park’s trails. Also, dogs are welcome in the park’s dog-friendly areas.
– Exploration Tower: The Exploration Tower is a seven-story attraction that offers panoramic views of Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, and the Kennedy Space Center. It houses interactive exhibits that showcase the Space Coast’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Dining

Cocoa Beach has a vibrant food scene that caters to any palate. Here are some dining spots worth checking out:

– Fat Kahuna’s Beachside Grille: Fat Kahuna’s is an authentic Hawaiian restaurant that serves up some of the best Hawaiian dishes. Their menu includes poke bowls, kalua pork, and loco moco, among other Hawaiian specialties.
– Coconuts on the Beach: Coconuts on the Beach is a popular waterfront restaurant that serves fresh seafood, sandwiches, and tropical cocktails. Their live music and daily happy hours make for a fun and lively atmosphere.
– The Tiny Turtle: The Tiny Turtle is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant that offers a healthy and flavorful menu. They have an extensive selection of smoothies, wraps, salads, and tacos that are perfect for a quick and guilt-free meal.
– Simply Delicious Cafe & Bakery: Simply Delicious Cafe & Bakery is a cozy eatery that serves the best breakfast and brunch in Cocoa Beach. Their homemade bread, muffins, and biscuits are unmatched in taste and quality.

Cultural Experiences

Cocoa Beach has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. Here are some cultural experiences to consider:

– Cocoa Village: Cocoa Village is a colorful historic district that features an eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. You can stroll down the streets while enjoying the vintage architecture and friendly locals.
– Dinosaur Store: The Dinosaur Store is a unique museum that houses a vast collection of fossils, rocks, and crystals. You can also shop for dinosaur-themed souvenirs or attend one of their interactive workshops.
– Florida Surf Museum: The Florida Surf Museum celebrates the history and culture of surfing in Florida. The museum displays vintage surfboards, memorabilia, and rare photographs that showcase the sport’s evolution over the years.

Local History

Cocoa Beach has a long and fascinating history that is worth exploring. Here are some historical landmarks to visit:

– Cape Canaveral Lighthouse: The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is a historical landmark that offers a glimpse into the past. The lighthouse was first built in 1848 and has been restored to its original state. You can tour the lighthouse and learn about its significance in maritime history.
– Cocoa Beach Surf Museum: The Cocoa Beach Surf Museum showcases the city’s history and culture of surfing. The museum displays vintage surfboards, memorabilia, and photos that depict the sport’s early days in the city.
– A Day Away Kayak Tours: A Day Away Kayak Tours offer guided tours that explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty. You can paddle along the Indian River Lagoon and discover the areas where early settlers once lived and worked.

Off the Beaten Path

Cocoa Beach has plenty of hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Here are some suggestions:

– Thousand Islands: The Thousand Islands is a serene nature reserve that offers a unique kayaking experience. The reserve features a network of mangrove tunnels that lead to hidden coves, creeks, and estuaries. You can spot dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife as you paddle.
– Canaveral National Seashore: The Canaveral National Seashore is a stunning coastal reserve that is perfect for nature lovers. The reserve features untouched beaches, dunes, and marshlands that are home to several endangered species. You can go birdwatching, fishing, or hiking while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
– Astronaut Memorial Planetarium & Observatory: The Astronaut Memorial Planetarium & Observatory is a state-of-the-art astronomical facility that offers a glimpse into outer space. You can attend a planetarium show or observe the stars and planets through one of the observatory’s telescopes.

In summary, Cocoa Beach is a fantastic destination for every type of traveler. From its beautiful beaches, lively attractions, exciting outdoor activities, and excellent dining options to its rich cultural heritage and history, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure today!