Coco Beach, Florida

If you are looking for a beach destination that offers more than just sun and sand, look no further than Cocoa Beach, Florida. Located on the Space Coast, Cocoa Beach is famous for its surfing culture, its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, and its diverse natural attractions. Whether you want to ride a wave, explore the stars, or paddle through the mangroves, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone.

Surf’s Up in Coco Beach

Cocoa Beach is known as the surfing capital of the East Coast, thanks to its consistent and gentle waves that are ideal for beginners and experts alike. You can take a surfing lesson, rent a board, or bring your own and hit the beach. The best spots to surf are near the Cocoa Beach Pier, which stretches 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and offers shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Another popular spot is the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, where you can watch professional surfers compete in events throughout the year.

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of surfing, don’t miss the Florida Surf Museum, located inside the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest surf shop. The museum features exhibits, memorabilia, and artifacts that showcase the evolution of surfing in Florida and beyond.

Kennedy Space Center Blast Off

Cocoa Beach is also the gateway to the Kennedy Space Center, where you can witness the inspiring achievements of NASA and the U.S. space program. You can tour the launch pads, see the rockets and spacecraft, meet an astronaut, and even watch a live rocket launch if you are lucky. You can also experience what it’s like to be an astronaut yourself, by trying the simulators, the training exercises, and the IMAX movies.

The Kennedy Space Center is only a short drive from Cocoa Beach, and there are many options to get there, including shuttle buses, tours, and car rentals. You can also combine your visit with other attractions in the area, such as the Brevard Zoo, the Dinosaur Store, or the Antilles Trading Company Pirate Museum.

Nature’s Wonders in Coco Beach

Cocoa Beach is not only a place for adventure but also a place for relaxation and appreciation of nature. You can enjoy one of the best white-sand beaches in the state and watch the spectacular sunrises and sunsets. You can also explore the diverse ecosystems and wildlife that inhabit the area, such as the Indian River Lagoon, the Thousand Islands, and the Maritime Hammock Preserve.

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Cocoa Beach is by kayaking or paddleboarding through the waterways, where you can see dolphins, manatees, and many species of birds. You can also hike or bike along the trails, or join a guided tour to learn more about the native vegetation and animal species. If looking for more adventures you can try the Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures, a zip-line and obstacle course that takes you through the treetops.

Eat, Drink, and Shop in Coco Beach

Cocoa Beach is also a great place to enjoy the local cuisine, nightlife, and shopping. You can find a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes that cater to different tastes and budgets, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale fine dining. Some of the local specialties include fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and key lime pie.

If you are looking for some fun after dark, Cocoa Beach has plenty of options to keep you entertained, such as live music, karaoke, comedy, and dancing. You can also try your luck at the casino cruises that depart from the port, or watch a show at the Surfside Playhouse, a community theater that offers musicals, comedies, and dramas.

For some retail therapy, Cocoa Beach has a range of shops and boutiques that sell everything from beachwear and surf gear to art and souvenirs. You can browse the stores of Cocoa Village, a historic riverside district that also hosts a farmers market and various festivals and events. You can also visit the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the Cocoa Beach Surf Company, or the Cocoa Beach Skate Park, where you can find everything you need for your surfing and skating needs.

Planning Your Coco Beach Trip

Cocoa Beach is an easy and convenient destination to visit, as it is only an hour away from Orlando and its theme parks, and close to the Orlando International Airport and the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. You can find a variety of accommodations to suit your preferences and budget, from hotels and resorts to condos and vacation rentals. You can also find many pet-friendly and accessible options, as well as beach wheelchair rentals.

Cocoa Beach is a year-round destination, with warm and sunny weather most of the time. The peak season is from December to April, when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are high. The off-season is from May to November, when the temperatures are hot and humid, and the chances of rain and hurricanes are higher. However, this is also the best time to find lower prices and fewer tourists.

Cocoa Beach is a place where you can have it all. Just think of a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting adventure, and a cultural and educational experience all in one trip. This is a place where you can surf, explore, and discover, and where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.