Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by JJ
Cocoa Beach, Florida, is a lively beach town famed for its excellent surfing, beautiful shorelines, and proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Whether you’re catching waves, savoring fresh seafood, or watching rockets soar into the sky, this charming destination offers a blend of excitement and relaxation. From the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier to the serene Thousand Islands Conservation Area, here’s a comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Cocoa Beach.
Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier
The Cocoa Beach Pier is a must-visit landmark, stretching 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean. This historic pier is a hotspot for fishing, surfing, and people-watching, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. With restaurants like Rikki Tiki Tavern and Pelican’s Bar & Grill, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music. The pier is also an ideal location to catch sunrise or sunset, making it a favorite among photographers. Equipment rentals and guided fishing opportunities are available for anglers. After a day of fun, shop for souvenirs at Pier Gifts and More.
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Explore Lori Wilson Park
For a quieter beach day, Lori Wilson Park offers a serene escape with soft sands, shaded picnic areas, and walking trails. The park is ideal for families, with amenities such as free parking, restrooms, and a dog park for four-legged friends. Nature trails through maritime hammocks allow visitors to spot native plants and birds, while the tranquil beach provides opportunities for sunbathing and swimming. Don’t forget to bring a picnic or use the park’s barbecue grills for a relaxing meal by the ocean.
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Enjoy Fresh Seafood at Coconuts on the Beach
Coconuts on the Beach is a vibrant oceanfront restaurant known for its tropical cocktails and fresh seafood dishes like coconut shrimp and mahi tacos. Live music sets the tone for a lively atmosphere, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. With outdoor seating and beachfront views, you can enjoy a meal while soaking up the laid-back Cocoa Beach vibe. Try their signature Beach Bum cocktail or refreshing coconut mojito. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
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Stroll Through Alan Shepard Park
Named after astronaut Alan Shepard, Alan Shepard Park combines scenic beach access with tributes to space exploration. Located near the pier, this park features picnic facilities, showers, and plenty of room for sunbathing or swimming. The park is an excellent spot to enjoy a peaceful afternoon or launch a paddleboard adventure. Its convenient location makes it a favorite for families and beachgoers looking for a central, well-equipped spot.
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Take a Surfing Lesson
Cocoa Beach is often called the East Coast Surfing Capital, making it the perfect place to learn how to surf. Schools like the Ron Jon Surf School and School of Surf offer lessons for beginners and advanced surfers. With knowledgeable instructors and beginner-friendly waves, you’ll be riding the surf in no time. Equipment rentals are widely available, and the sandy-bottom beaches provide a safe learning environment. Don’t miss the chance to embrace Cocoa Beach’s legendary surf culture.
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Visit the Florida Surf Museum
Housed in the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop, the Florida Surf Museum celebrates the history and culture of surfing in Florida. Exhibits showcase vintage surfboards, photographs, and memorabilia, telling the story of Cocoa Beach’s surf legends and iconic events. Admission is free, and the museum is a perfect stop for both surf enthusiasts and those curious about the sport’s rich history.
Discover the Thousand Islands Conservation Area
Explore Cocoa Beach’s wild side at the Thousand Islands Conservation Area, a maze of mangrove islands teeming with wildlife. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to navigate the serene waterways, where you might encounter manatees, dolphins, and numerous bird species. Guided eco-tours provide educational insights into this unique ecosystem. The tranquil setting offers a peaceful retreat from the busier beaches.
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Attend the Cocoa Beach Air Show
Every spring, the Cocoa Beach Air Show takes over the skies with jaw-dropping performances by military jets, stunt pilots, and parachute teams. Grab a spot on the beach for the best views of the aerial acrobatics. The event is family-friendly, with vendors, food trucks, and entertainment along the shoreline. It’s a thrilling spectacle that draws crowds from all over Florida.
Shop at Ron Jon Surf Shop
Open 24/7, the Ron Jon Surf Shop is the world’s largest surf shop and a Cocoa Beach icon. This massive store offers everything from surfboards to souvenirs, embodying the area’s surf culture. Even if you’re not a surfer, the shop’s lively atmosphere and endless selection of beach gear make it worth a visit.
Try Deep-Sea Fishing
Charters like Fin & Fly Fishing Charters offer exciting deep-sea fishing trips, where you can catch species like mahi-mahi, grouper, and sailfish. Experienced guides provide equipment and tips, ensuring a fun and rewarding day out on the water. For a half-day or full-day adventure, this is a must-do for anglers visiting Cocoa Beach.
Best Time to Visit Cocoa Beach
While summer is the most vibrant season, spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. With its unbeatable mix of surf, sand, and space exploration, Cocoa Beach is a destination that shines year-round.
