Cocoa Beach is a historic city with a classic, beach town feel. From relaxing on the beach, to surfing, shopping, and visiting space–er, the Kennedy Space Center–there is something for everyone!
Here are our top recommendations for your weekend adventure.
Trip Time: 2.5 Days
Best Time to Visit: September - May
What to Do
1. Go to the Beach - Relax in the beautiful white sand as the waves of the Atlantic crash on the shore. Surf, kayak, and paddle board rentals are available at Ron Jon’s Surf Shop for only $10 - $20 for 4-8 hours.
2. Take a Bike Ride - Rent a bike or check one out from your hotel. There are lots of streets along the shore to explore.
3. Check out the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier - Go shopping for souvenirs and get ice cream after dinner at Rikki Tiki Tavern.
4. Visit the Kennedy Space Center - Not only were the exhibits incredibly well done, I was nearly moved to tears throughout some of them after witnessing the incredible complexity of the galaxy and innovation of the human mind. While there is lots to do, nearly all of it is indoors and in the air conditioning. All ages will be fascinated! Check with your hotel concierge desk for discounted tickets.
Where to Eat
1. Shark Pit Bar & Grill - Features a huge aquarium with sharks, moray eels, fish, and more. We went here a couple times for drinks since we loved it so much, and it was right across the street from our hotel.
2. Rock the Guac Mexican - Set up similar to Chipotle, this local spot is great for a quick lunch.
3. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company - Enjoy some of the best key lime pie north of Key West!
4. Rikki Tiki Tavern on the Cocoa Beach Pier - Eat dinner right on the end of the pier while the waves crash beneath you.
Where to Stay
Beachside Hotel - I spent way more time than I probably should have researching the best place to stay on a budget. The hotel used to be a historic motel, but it was revamped with a retro theme and features a beautiful lazy river & tubes, live music and activities, an incredible complimentary breakfast, beach rentals--such as surfboards, bikes, and beach wagons--and awesome customer service. It's just a super short walk to the beach, and only a few steps from Ron Jon's and other "downtown" attractions. We highly recommend it!
Full 2.5 Day Itinerary
Day #1 - Half Day
Travel to Cocoa Beach
Check into Beachside Hotel
Get dinner and drinks at Shark Pit Bar & Grill
Take a night time stroll on the beach
Day #2
Watch the sunrise on the beach & go surfing
Go to the Kennedy Space Center
Float in the lazy river at Beachside
Get dinner and watch the sunset at Rikki Tiki Tavern
Day #3
Chill at the beach
Get lunch at Rock the Guac Mexican
Save some room and get a slice of pie from The Florida Key Lime Pie Company
Travel Home
The salty air of the Atlantic mixed with the Florida sun make Cocoa Beach the perfect beach getaway. Whether you're hoping to sit on the beach with your toes in the sand, float in a lazy river, or be fascinated by space technology, there's something for everyone.
We’d love to see your adventures–tag us at @wanderingwenzels on Instagram!
Comments