Cocoa Beach Travel Guide: Escape to Paradise
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Looking for the perfect beach getaway with a touch of adventure? Welcome to Cocoa Beach, Florida’s quintessential coastal escape. This charming seaside town is packed with sun, surf, and plenty of activities to make your visit unforgettable.
In This Guide:
- Where Is Cocoa Beach?
- How To Get There
- Top Things To Do
- Bioluminescence
- Paddle Board & Kayak
- Fun Facts
- Pet Policy
- Tips For Your Visit
- Map Widget (google maps, directions
Where is Cocoa Beach?
Nestled along Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach is just an hour’s drive east of Orlando. It’s situated on a barrier island, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Banana River Lagoon on the other. The beach’s proximity to the Kennedy Space Center means you might even catch a rocket launch while lounging on the sand!
How to Get There
Getting to Cocoa Beach is a breeze:
- By Car: From Orlando, take the FL-528 East (also known as the Beachline Expressway) directly to Cocoa Beach.
- By Plane: Fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB), then rent a car or catch a shuttle.
- By Cruise: Many visitors tack on a Cocoa Beach day trip before or after their Port Canaveral cruise.
Top Things to Do in Cocoa Beach
Space Coast Fun: Pair your beach day with some stargazing—literally! Cocoa Beach’s close proximity to the Kennedy Space Center means rocket launches are a common spectacle.
Hit the Beach: Of course, you can’t visit Cocoa Beach without spending time on its sandy shores. The waves here are perfect for surfing, boogie boarding, or simply soaking up the sun.
Ron Jon Surf Shop: Stop by the world’s largest surf shop. Open 24/7, it’s an iconic spot to grab surf gear, beachwear, and souvenirs.
Explore the Cocoa Beach Pier: This historic landmark stretches 800 feet over the Atlantic. It’s a hotspot for fishing and live music with unbeatable ocean views.
Kayak with Manatees: Paddle through the Banana River Lagoon for a chance to spot gentle manatees, playful dolphins, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
Visit Lori Wilson Park: This beachfront park features picnic areas, nature trails, and even a dog park, making it a great spot for families.
Bioluminescence: Nature’s Nighttime Magic
Cocoa Beach is one of the few places in the world where you can witness bioluminescence. During the summer months, the Banana River Lagoon lights up at night with a magical blue-green glow caused by tiny organisms called dinoflagellates. Take a nighttime kayak tour to experience this otherworldly phenomenon. Each paddle stroke creates a trail of shimmering light, making you feel like you’ve entered a scene from a sci-fi movie.
Paddle Boarding & Kayaking Adventures
For a fun and active way to explore the area, try paddle boarding or kayaking on the Banana River Lagoon. These calm waters are ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. You can rent equipment from local outfitters or join a guided tour to discover hidden mangrove trails and encounter wildlife like manatees and dolphins up close. It’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Cocoa Beach’s natural beauty.
Fun Facts About Cocoa Beach
- Cocoa Beach was home to surfing legend Kelly Slater, an 11-time world champion.
- The town’s name doesn’t come from chocolate but rather the cocoa bean shipments historically handled at the nearby port.
- Cocoa Beach was a filming location for the 1960s sitcom I Dream of Jeannie.
Pet Policy
Cocoa Beach is pet-friendly! Dogs are allowed on certain stretches of the beach (between 4th Street South and the north end of Murkshe Park) during specific hours—7 AM to 10 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM. Leashes are required, and don’t forget to bring bags to clean up after your pup.
Tips for Your Visit
- Pack Sunscreen: The Florida sun is no joke, so stay protected while enjoying the beach.
- Rent Gear: Many local shops offer rentals for surfboards, paddleboards, and bikes.
- Stay for Sunset: The Banana River Lagoon is a stunning spot to watch the sunset.
- Try the Seafood: Indulge in fresh-caught delicacies at one of Cocoa Beach’s many waterfront restaurants.
