Awesome and Fun Things To Do in Cocoa Beach, Florida

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll help you discover the finest things to do in Cocoa Beach, Florida, for the ideal trip. Whether you’re interested in space science, the sun, or dolphin-spotting, there’s something for every adventurer on this list. Discover the top tourist attractions and popular things to do in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Cocoa Beach, Florida, has always attracted visitors with its mixture of sunshine, surf culture, and nostalgia. This barrier island is more than just the Kennedy Space Center. It’s a vibrant community that appeals to families, action aficionados, nature enthusiasts, and everyone. 

Whether you prefer lounging on the abnormally clean shore, strolling through one-of-a-kind museums, or gliding over the water, Cocoa Beach has you covered.

If you’re still wondering, “Is Cocoa Beach, Florida, worth visiting?” or even “How do I spend a day in Cocoa Beach?”, please read the following recommendations. 

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Kennedy Space Center

Explore the Kennedy Space Center (Merritt Island, Cape Canaveral), where the history and wonders of space exploration will come to life. The fascinating center allows visitors to explore past missions and see actual rockets up close. 

Families with young children will love the shaded spots and diverse food options, visiting entertaining for the whole family.

Promenade at Cocoa Beach Pier

Enjoy the charm of Cocoa Beach as you take a leisurely walk along the Cocoa Beach Pier. Enjoy the local shops, restaurants, and the great view of the ocean at the pier. 

From enjoying the fresh seafood and shopping for souvenirs, the pier is a fantastic place for all visitors.

Experience surf culture at Ron Jon Surf Shop & Surf School

Discover the vibrant surf culture in Cocoa Beach at the legendary Ron Jon Surf Shop. It boasts a wide selection of surf gear and apparel, amenities, and lessons with the official surf school.

As a Ron Job Surf School beginner, you can also book surf camps and lessons to catch your first wave.

There are also plenty of other possibilities whether you want to learn to surf or rent a surfboard.

Lori Wilson Park for relaxation and recreation

Take a break from city life in Lori Wilson Park, a cool spot on the Florida coast. The park includes a beach with fewer people to relax on, a maritime hammock, and trails. 

Whether relaxing on the sandy beaches or exploring the hammock, Lori Wilson Park is a perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Enjoy a Beach Day

Experience the well-loved beach day at Cocoa Beach and spend a relaxing moment. Cocoa Beach offers enough space to play and chill on the beach, whether you are lounging in the sun around the pier or the hidden spots.

Historic Cocoa Village

Leave the barrier island and discover the hidden treasure of Historic Cocoa Village. The quaint town’s colorful buildings resemble a Caribbean resort and provide picturesque views of the Indian River Lagoon, a short drive away. 

Visit the various shops and unique decors, indulge in meals at one of the downtown’s local restaurants, or watch a show at the Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse.

Explore the Iconic Exploration Tower

Why not visit Cape Canaveral’s futuristic-looking Exploration Tower? This structure is designed to educate and entertain, with seven floors of interactive exhibitions and a beautiful observation deck offering panoramic views. 

Learn about the most recent rocket launch, look out over the ocean, or visit the shoreline, which is worth seeing since you can see everything from here.

Fishing Adventures at Cocoa Beach Pier

Visit Cocoa Beach Pier to experience fun and excitement while fishing on an 800-foot-long pier over the Atlantic Ocean. The pier is a perfect location for fishing novices and more experienced fishermen. 

Both can rent equipment at the pier and catch snapper, wahoo, bluefish, and other saltwater fish. When not fishing, bask in the sun at one of the onsite restaurants and bars for a relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful ocean view.

Witness a Rocket Launch

Watch a rocket launch from the Kennedy Space Center at Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach’s most exciting event. If you’re lucky, you might see a spacecraft leaving Earth. Be sure to check the particular time of the departure on this page. 

Although Cape Canaveral Space Port has fantastic locations to view the events, you may see a few miles away. Remember that the launch might be postponed, so be prepared.

Kayak the Thousand Islands

Take to the water and explore Cocoa Beach’s natural environment by kayaking in the islands within the Banana River Lagoon. The Saltwater Marshes and Mangrove Tunnels offer stunning scenery and wildlife sightings. 

Look out for dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and eagles as you kayak around the Thousand Islands in the Banana River Lagoon. 

Tours are available at all levels, whether you are an expert or amateur. For a distinct experience, opt for a bioluminescence kayaking escapade at night to see the water raging with blue-green fluorescence.

Florida Surf Museum

The Florida Surf Museum is the ideal place to dive into the vast surfing history of the Atlantic Coast. Located in Cocoa Beach, the museum exists to preserve East Coast surf culture with innovative new exhibits. 

From ancient surfing backgrounds to modern surf developments, the museum gives an inside insight into this sport’s significant influence on coastal life. Be prepared to find your new seaside obsession at this hidden treasure of the Florida coast.

Cruise from Port Canaveral

Cocoa Beach endeavors can become larger by boarding a cruise from Port Canaveral. Port Canaveral is only a drive to the north from Cocoa Beach and serves as Florida’s topmost cruise resort, with all significant cruise brands, including Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival. 

Whether you’re on a family trip or a romantic break, cruising provides unforgettable moments on the water. Uncover stunning cities, savor delicious dishes, soothe the surroundings, and discover inspirational entertainment choices while voyaging on the high seas.

Dinosaur Store And Museum

The friendly staff offers guests the chance to travel back in time to the Dinosaur Store and Museum. Established in 1996, what started as a minor shop has become a magnificent museum of fossils and ancient minerals. 

The museum takes pride in displaying unique relics, including Tyrannosaurid dentitions from 75 million years ago and Pachycephalosaurus toes from 65 million years ago. 

Adjacent to the museum lies the Adventure Zone, a haven for young adventurers. Bursting with interactive exhibits, children can embark on thrilling boat rides, engage in mineral panning activities, indulge in arcade games, and even encounter live animals. It’s an immersive experience that promises fun and learning in equal measure.

Broadway Show at the Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse

Within the heart of Historic Cocoa Village stands the city’s center for cultural enrichment, the popular Cocoa Village Playhouse. The majestic playhouse, formerly alluded to as Louis Aladdin Theater, has been stunning locals and guests alike since 1924. 

Elevating the cultural landscape of Cocoa Beach, the playhouse presents an eclectic repertoire of Broadway productions, earning it the moniker “Broadway on Brevard.” From captivating musicals to soul-stirring tributes, the theater captivates over 55,000 patrons annually, solidifying its status as one of Florida’s premier community theaters.

Wild Things at the Brevard Zoo

The Brevard Zoo is minutes away from Cocoa Beach and one of the major draws if you take a day off from the waves or the sand. The multi-ecosystem zoo provides travelers with experience wherever they roam. Undoubtedly, participate in the kids’ favorite, the Paws On Play section, to feast their eyes on the fuzzy side and flowers. 

However, the Wild Florida section lets them glimpse into the world of indigenous Florida species. For a taste of Africa, embark on an expedition through the continent-themed section.

In addition to animal encounters, the zoo offers adrenaline-pumping activities like kayaking tours and zip-lining, providing an unparalleled blend of education and entertainment. With its diverse attractions, the Brevard Zoo promises a day filled with excitement and discovery.

Brevard Museum of History & Natural Science

Step back at the Brevard Museum of History & Natural Science, a testament to the area’s rich history. Spread across 22 acres of natural reserve, the museum takes visitors from the Ice Age to the Space Age. 

Discover exhibitions like “The People of Windover,” which present artifacts 7,000-8,000 years old from around the area, allowing fantastic insights into ancient civilizations.

A Day Trip to Melbourne, Florida

Head to the small town of Melbourne, Florida to change scenery from Cocoa Beach. Just a short drive southwest, Melbourne is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and numerous unique shops and dining places. 

Hop across the Indian River to Melbourne Beach, offering the seashores known for their peace and serenity. Meanwhile, surfers can enjoy the time of their lives at the waves of Sebastian Inlet, calling surfers of all levels to reach their peaks.

Moreover, the area is perfect for fishing, ensuring an enjoyable day for fishing fans.

Banana River Dolphin Tour

Experience the magnificent harmony of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems in the dolphin tour across the Banana River. Marvel at the variety of life in the tidal estuary from playful dolphins to majestic manatees. 

Dive through mangrove-covered canals where bird life abounds at every bend. Nature lovers and adrenaline fans are promised an unforgettable journey they will not forget.

Cocoa Beach Golf Course

Enjoy playing golf at Baytree National Golf Links or Viera East Golf Club in the charming landscapes. The challenging holes, surrounded by deep waters and lush grass, provide an ideal setting for golf enthusiasts. 

Pro or novice, the Cocoa Beach golf will always offer the best time and views.

Encounter Florida’s Gentle Giants

Engage with the magical world of manatees as you kayak the serene waters of the Thousand Islands or the Indian River Lagoon with Cocoa Beach Kayaking. Known as “sea cows,” these creatures move gently through the waterways of Central Florida. 

Whether you observe the brightly colored exotic birds that fly through the skies during the cold winter months or witness the playful bottlenose dolphins that accompany our paddles season-long, the Central Florida ecosystem springs to life with a feeling of wonderment.

Embrace Beachside Bliss

Situated just behind Ron Jon Surf Shop, Shepard Park is a great spot to relax away from the busy beaches. Take a break as you lay down in the sun with a book, or visit the pavilions for extra shade and picnic facilities. 

You can rent chairs, umbrellas, towels, and toys for a perfect day at the beach with your family and friends.

Set Sail at Port Canaveral

Being the world’s second busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral makes an ideal starting point for luxurious cruises filled with family entertainment. Enjoy the view as you cruise the open sea aboard the Disney Dream cruise liner or the Disney Wonder, among others. 

Port Canaveral is great for cruise departures, a fantastic place to witness marine animals in their natural habitat, and the site of some of the most beautiful sunsets on the East Coast.

Rejuvenate Your Spirit at Cocoa Beach Wellness Center

If you want to relax and revitalize, Cocoa Beach Wellness Center is the place to indulge in natural and holistic treatments. Acupuncture, massages, foot baths, hot stone therapy, revitalizing facials—the list of pleasurable treatments goes on! 

Whether you want to unwind or ease your aches, you are guaranteed peace for your mind and body.

Manatee Sanctuary Park

Leave the chaos of everyday life behind and spend your afternoon in the tranquil atmosphere of Manatee Sanctuary Park, situated along Banana River Lagoon, Pepper Avenue. 

Enjoy a leisure stroll on the popular boardwalk, picnic in the shaded areas across the park, or enjoy the lush greenery. Watch for manatees and dolphins as you walk along the riverbank looking for a captivating decision.

Bioluminescence in Florida

Experience the wonder of bioluminescence in Cocoa Beach with a night tour that will astonish you as you take to the water. The Space Coast will enchant you with this natural event that is best seen by the occupants of a clear kayak. 

Allow the water to shine with bright blue-green light around the kayak as “you get to skim along knee-deep water at night, watching the magic materialize.”

Experiencing bioluminescence in person is exceptional and will astound everyone daring enough to face the night.

Jet Skiing- Thrills on the Water

Test your intensity and effort by cruising through the sea and over the waves. Rent a jet ski from Cocoa Beach Jet Ski Rentals or 321 Boat Club, Melbourne, Florida to ride the coastline. When admiring Cocoa Beach’s crystal-clear waters, jet skiing does not leave you untouched.

Parasailing – Soar to New Heights

Soar thousands of feet in the air in Cocoa Beach as you undertake a parasailing journey. You are secured to a rope upon ascent, strapped to a harness, and with wings attached to your arms or legs. 

“You are launched into the air by a colorful parachute before sailing over the ocean.” 

This parasailing flight provides its users with endless dangers and recollections that will last a lifetime.

Zip Line Thrills

Trace Cocoa Beach oak trees from one end to another as you fly along them with Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures. The family attraction offers a zero-gravity drop and seven aerial trails and is suitable for both novices and professionals.

Rikki Tiki Tavern

Welcome the day to a beach tavern at Rikki Tiki Tavern, where you can drink on a sandy beach. This open-air beach tavern is a beautiful and comfortable place where the opportunity to unwind is always available. 

Rikki Tiki Tavern, the greatest beach venue in Cocoa Beach, is set 800 feet from the shoreline. It is sprinkled with sunset lights and is surely the perfect place for your date. 

Whether marking the moment or having a great time with a partner, every inch of Rikki Tiki Tavern will leave you beaming.

Wrap up

Cocoa Beach offers an escape unlike any other. This captivating destination promises something for everyone, from world-class museums and historical sites to breathtaking natural beauty and exciting water activities. 

So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover the magic of Cocoa Beach!

How to Plan Your Cocoa Beach Getaway: Location and Travel Tips

Cocoa Beach, Florida, welcomes sun-seekers and history enthusiasts. Before you stuff your backpack with buck power, know the following information.

Finding Paradise: Where is Cocoa Beach Located? What county is Cocoa Beach, Florida, in?

Cocoa Beach is located on the east coast of Florida, particularly in Brevard County. This barrier island offers the perfect blend of beach atmosphere and historical spirit.

Gateway to Exploration: What is the Closest Airport to Cocoa Beach?

Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) is the closest airport to Cocoa Beach. It is about 27 miles northwest of the Cocoa Beach reefs and accepts domestic and international flights. Accordingly, it would be a good starting point for this adventure.

Planning Your Drive: How Far is Cocoa Beach from Orlando?

You can go to Cocoa Beach on the east for a 72-mile ride from Orlando, Florida. The road leading to Cocoa Beach is the Beachline Expressway, also known as SR 528. It gives a magnificent view of the bright Florida landscapes.