Things to Do in Cocoa Beach Florida 10 Ultimate Picks
Planning a trip to Cocoa Beach, Florida? You’re probably searching for the best things to do in Cocoa Beach Florida. From beach relaxation to exploring the historic Cocoa Beach Pier, there’s a lot to enjoy. With six miles of Atlantic Ocean shoreline, Cocoa Beach is lively and packed with things to do in Cocoa Beach Florida that make any vacation unforgettable.
Enjoy surfing, beach activities, or visit the Kennedy Space Center. Cocoa Beach has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for free activities or want to try new things, this city has it all. With its surf culture, historic pier, and beautiful beaches, Cocoa Beach is a top choice for your next trip.
Experience Magic on the Water
As the sun paints the Banana River in fiery gold, you’ll feel time slow down aboard this intimate sunset cruise. The gentle ripple of water against the hull, dolphins playing in your wake, and that perfect Florida sunset burning across the sky create memories that linger long after you return to shore. Don’t let another day pass without experiencing this breathtaking moment where nature’s beauty meets peaceful adventure. BOOK your Banana River Sunset Cruise today and give yourself the gift of witnessing Florida’s most spectacular daily miracle spaces are filling quickly for this unforgettable experience!
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Exploring the Historic Cocoa Beach Pier and Surroundings
Walking along the 800-foot Cocoa Beach Pier, you’ll see the Atlantic Ocean’s beauty. This historic spot is a top attraction. It mixes relaxation, dining, and entertainment activities. You can fish, shop, and eat at places like the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier and the Rikki Tiki Tavern.
The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is a favorite for over 50 years. It offers views of the Atlantic Ocean. With four bars and five restaurants, there’s something for everyone. The pier also has beach volleyball courts and fresh water showers.
Dining Options
- Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier: offering a range of culinary delights
- Rikki Tiki Tavern: a great spot to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset
- Other restaurants and bars on the pier: providing a variety of dining options
The Cocoa Beach Pier has something for everyone. Whether you want fresh seafood or a drink with a view, it’s perfect. Its history and activities make it a favorite for both visitors and locals.
| Activity | Location |
|---|---|
| Fishing | Cocoa Beach Pier |
| Dining | Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, Rikki Tiki Tavern |
| Entertainment | Cocoa Beach Pier, surrounding area |
Surfing Adventures at Cocoa Beach’s Famous Breaks
Cocoa Beach is famous for its waves, perfect for surfers of all levels. You’ll find many surf schools and rental shops here. They help you learn to surf or get better at it. The waves are calm and steady, great for beginners, and challenging for pros.
The Cocoa Beach Pier, Shark Pit, and Spanish House are top surf spots. The pier hosts big surfing competitions. Surf lessons are available at places like Cocoa Beach Surf School and School of Surf. They offer great instruction to help you catch your first wave or improve.
Cocoa Beach is perfect for any surfer, from beginners to pros. Its surfing history goes back to the 1950s and 1960s. With 72 miles of coastline, there’s a wide range of surf spots. Cocoa Beach is a top spot for surfers, offering both adventure and relaxation.
Kennedy Space Center: Your Gateway to Space Exploration
When you visit Cocoa Beach, don’t miss the Kennedy Space Center. It’s a working NASA site that lets you see space exploration up close. You can watch a rocket launch and feel the excitement of space travel. The center has the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, with over 60 interactive displays about NASA’s Space Shuttle Program.
At the Kennedy Space Center, you can try astronaut training simulations. You can also take a tour of the facility and see the Apollo/Saturn V Center. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame is there too, honoring U.S. Space Program heroes. It’s a place that will make you feel amazed and inspired.
Exhibits and Experiences
- Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit with over 60 interactive exhibits
- Astronaut training simulations
- Tour of the Kennedy Space Center facility
- Apollo/Saturn V Center
- U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame
The Kennedy Space Center is perfect for anyone interested in space. It’s a mix of learning and fun, great for families and space fans. It offers an unforgettable experience that’s truly out of this world.
Nature and Wildlife Encounters in Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is a paradise for those who love nature and wildlife. It offers many outdoor activities. You can explore the Thousand Islands Conservation Area and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. These places are home to many plants and animals, making Cocoa Beach special for wildlife encounters.
Exciting activities in Cocoa Beach include kayaking, bird-watching, and hiking. The Indian River Lagoon and the Banana River are great for kayaking. Here, you can see dolphins, manatees, and birds in their natural setting. The Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is also a top spot for wildlife watching, with many species to see.
Some of the highlights of nature and wildlife encounters in Cocoa Beach include:
- Seeing dolphins and manatees in their natural habitat
- Spotting various bird species, including ospreys and great blue herons
- Exploring the Indian River Lagoon and the Banana River by kayak
- Visiting the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge for wildlife observation
In Cocoa Beach, you can enjoy the beauty of nature and wildlife. It’s a great place for outdoor lovers. With its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem, Cocoa Beach is perfect for those who want to connect with nature and wildlife.
Essential Things to Do in Cocoa Beach Florida for Families
Cocoa Beach is a top spot for family vacations. It has lots of activities and attractions for all ages. For a beach day, check out the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. It has fishing, volleyball, and dining options.
The pier is perfect for families to enjoy together. It’s close to other attractions, making it great for a family-friendly trip.
For adventure, try aerial adventures at Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures. It has seven courses with three levels of difficulty. It’s great for older kids and teens looking for fun.
Or, visit the Dinosaur Store. It has an indoor arcade and educational displays. It’s perfect for younger kids.
Other family-friendly activities in Cocoa Beach include:
- Visiting the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
- Exploring the Brevard Zoo
- Playing a round of golf at Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf
- Taking a beach day trip to Lori Wilson Park, which offers free parking and amenities
- Enjoying dining options at family-friendly restaurants
Cocoa Beach is ideal for a family-friendly vacation. It offers adventure, education, and relaxing beach days for everyone.
Historic Cocoa Village: Shopping and Cultural Experience
Exploring historic cocoa village offers a special shopping adventure. It combines local culture with a 150-year history. This mix of old and new makes it perfect for those seeking a cultural experience.
Just 10 miles from cocoa beach, Historic Cocoa Village is a top spot. It’s great for those who want to shop and relax on the beach. The village has unique shops, diverse eateries, and a marina for cruises.
Some key attractions in Historic Cocoa Village are:
- Waterfront parks, including Cocoa Riverfront Park, Taylor Park, and Lee Wenner Park, which together encompass 10 acres of riverfront property
- A diverse range of activities, including dining, shopping, and entertainment venues
- Historic sites and buildings, such as the Parrish Grove Inn and St. Mark’s Church
Looking to see local art, enjoy a meal, or just take in the charm? Historic Cocoa Village has it all. Plan a visit to experience the best of cocoa beach‘s culture and community.
Water Sports and Ocean Adventures
Cocoa Beach is a paradise for those who love the ocean. You can enjoy kayaking, dolphin and manatee watching, and surf lessons. All while taking in the beautiful scenery and diverse marine life.
For water sports, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone. Kayaking is a favorite, with guided tours through the Thousand Islands of Cocoa Beach. You can also see dolphins and manatees up close. For those new to surfing, surf lessons are available for all ages and skill levels.
Popular Water Activities
- Kayaking tours on the Banana River
- Dolphin and manatee watching tours
- Surf lessons for beginners
- Paddleboarding and paddleboard rentals
- Jet ski rentals and guided tours
Cocoa Beach is perfect for enjoying the ocean and having fun in the sun. Its calm and consistent waves make it ideal for surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. So why not come and experience it for yourself?
| Activity | Location | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kayaking tours | Banana River | $50-$100 |
| Dolphin and manatee watching | Thousand Islands | $20-$50 |
| Surf lessons | Cocoa Beach | $30-$70 |
Iconic Shopping at Ron Jon Surf Shop and Florida Surf Museum
In Cocoa Beach, two places are key for iconic shopping: Ron Jon Surf Shop and the Florida Surf Museum. Ron Jon has been a staple for over 60 years, selling surf gear, clothes, and more. It’s huge, with over 52,000 square feet of space.
The Florida Surf Museum is right next to Ron Jon. It’s all about surf culture in Florida. You can see surfing history, with lots of artifacts and memorabilia. It’s open 7 days a week, from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Some top things to see at Ron Jon and the Museum include:
- Over 1,000 types of surfboards and beachwear
- Memorabilia from 50 years of surfing history
- Exhibits on surfing in Florida
Whether you love surfing, the beach, or just unique shopping, these spots are a must-see. They offer a deep dive into surf culture and iconic shopping in Cocoa Beach.
Free Things to Do Around Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is a place full of free activities and attractions. It has beautiful beaches, green parks, and a rich culture. You can enjoy Florida’s Space Coast without spending money.
Check out Lori Wilson Park, covering 32.5 acres. It has beach access, trails, and picnic spots. Visit the Liberty Bell Museum for free to learn about American history and military involvement.
The Florida Surf Museum offers a $3 entry fee for a cultural experience. It shows how surfing has evolved.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge and the Manatee Sanctuary Park. These places are home to endangered Loggerhead Turtles and gentle marine mammals. The Maritime Hammock Preserve has a 2.8-mile trail through coastal ecosystems. You can also follow the Great Florida Birding Trail to see different bird species.
Cocoa Beach is great for those on a budget. It has free community events, story times at libraries, and workshops at Home Depot for kids. Whether you want outdoor fun, cultural experiences, or family activities, Cocoa Beach has plenty of free options.
FAQ
What are the must-see spots in Cocoa Beach, Florida?
You must visit the historic Cocoa Beach Pier and the Kennedy Space Center. Don’t miss the Thousand Islands Conservation Area and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Also, check out the vibrant Historic Cocoa Village.
What can you do at the Cocoa Beach Pier?
At the Cocoa Beach Pier, you can fish and watch sunsets. Enjoy dining at the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier and Rikki Tiki Tavern. Or just take a walk to see the Atlantic Ocean.
Why is Cocoa Beach a surfer’s paradise?
Cocoa Beach is perfect for surfers because of its famous breaks and waves. It has surf schools and rental shops for all skill levels.
What can you experience at the Kennedy Space Center?
At the Kennedy Space Center, you can tour and see rocket launches. There are interactive exhibits like the Space Shuttle Atlantis and astronaut training. It’s a unique look into space travel.
What are the natural attractions around Cocoa Beach?
Cocoa Beach has natural spots like the Thousand Islands Conservation Area and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. They offer outdoor activities like kayaking, bird-watching, and hiking.
What are the family-friendly activities in Cocoa Beach?
Cocoa Beach has fun for families. You can build sandcastles, swim, and enjoy aerial adventures. There are also great dining options for all ages.
What can you experience in Historic Cocoa Village?
Historic Cocoa Village is a shopping and cultural spot. It has charming boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. There’s something for everyone’s taste and interest.
What water sports and ocean adventures can you enjoy in Cocoa Beach?
Cocoa Beach has water sports like kayaking tours and dolphin watching. You can also take surf lessons and paddleboard. It’s great for both beginners and experts.
What are the iconic shopping and cultural experiences in Cocoa Beach?
Cocoa Beach is home to the legendary Ron Jon Surf Shop and the Florida Surf Museum. They offer surf gear and showcase surfing history in Florida.
What are some free things to do in Cocoa Beach?
Cocoa Beach has free activities like beach activities and outdoor adventures. There are also cultural experiences and community events. You can enjoy the city without spending money.
