Florida's Relaxed Surf Community Offers Spectacular Sunrise Scenes Along the East Coast.
Let's Unleash the Thrill of Cocoa Beach
If you're seeking a vigorous, action-packed beach getaway, Cocoa Beach should be your next stop. Nestled on Florida's Space Coast, this beach gem, distinct from the nearby city of Cocoa, boasts six miles of radiant shores, easy access to the Banana River, and the Thousand Islands Conservation Area. A choice between the Atlantic Ocean and the Banana River offers a smorgasbord of water activities, adding to the allure of this unforgettable weekend retreat. Here are some top-notch activities to make the most of your Cocoa Beach experience.
Feel the Adrenaline Rush on the Water
Reel in a Catch
Savor the liberty of fishing inshore or deep sea around Cocoa Beach. Offering access to the Atlantic, you can opt for sportfishing at Ron's Fishing Cabanas. For a full or half-day charter, check out Dirty Dolly Fishing Charters, where you can reel in sailfish, tuna, grouper, and more. They even clean and filet your catch for free, and recommend area restaurants that will cook it for you. Explore the Banana River with captain Frank Catano, who specializes in fly fishing trips around the Indian River Lagoon System. Captain Alex Hughey of Florida Coast Fishing Expedition leads guided fishing trips both inshore and nearshore (out in the ocean) that include everything you need.
Ride the Waves
Known as the "East Coast Surf Capital", Cocoa Beach is famous for its powerful waves and is home to one of the greatest American surfers-Kelly Slater. American Surf magazine recommends the water around Cocoa Beach Pier, Tables Beach, and Lori Wilson Park, but there are numerous other areas to explore. Newbies can learn the basics with Cocoa Beach Surf School or School of Surf.
Paddle Your Way Through Adventure
Exploring the Banana River with kayaks is one of the best ways to discover parts of the Banana River Lagoon off the beaten path. Cocoa Kayaking and Adventure Kayak of Cocoa Beach organize a variety of expeditions, including mangrove tours through the Thousand Islands and nighttime trips to see bioluminescent jellyfish. During the daytime, you might spot manatees, bottlenose dolphins and other intriguing sea creatures.
Soak Up the Sun on the Sand
Whether you're seeking peace and quiet or a lively atmosphere for kids to frolic, Cocoa Beach has a stretch of sand for everyone. Coconuts Beach is a bustling hub, located downtown and even boasts a popular bar right on the sand. Tables Beach, near Patrick Space Force Base, tends to be less crowded, although it is popular with surfers. Lori Wilson Park, with six access points, a dog park, a playground, and a scenic boardwalk, offers the most amenities and a lovely beach.
Discover Surfing Landmarks
The world's largest surf shop, Ron Jon Surf Shop, located in Cocoa Beach, isn't just massive, it's also home to the Florida Surf Museum. Rotating exhibits on the state's surfing history, as well as photographs and boards belonging to famous surfers, can be found here.
Experience the Pier
The heart of Cocoa Beach beats in its beloved pier, built in the 1960s and preserving its nostalgic aura. More than just a place to enjoy ocean breezes or cast a line, the 800-foot pier houses restaurants ranging from the casual beach bar Rikki Tiki Tavern to the snack shack Sea Dogs, souvenir-filled shops, and live entertainment.
Savor the Tastes of Cocoa Beach
Local seafood is a must, and Cocoa Beach does not disappoint. Some notable dining highlights include Coa, The Fat Snook, and Fat Kahuna's, which offer upscale dishes, Caribbean- and seasonally-inspired fare, and creative seafood inspired by Hawaii, respectively. For a more laid-back atmosphere filled with surfing memorabilia, check out Cocoa Beach Fish Camp Grill and The Shark Pit Bar & Grill.
Take a Space Adventure
Sunrises in Cocoa Beach are magical, but witnessing a space launch adds a whole different level of excitement. The pier offers a great vantage point for launches on the Space Coast-stay updated on launch schedules at Space Coast Launch Watch.
Cocoa Beach offers a thrilling blend of water sports, natural parks, vibrant landmarks, and coastal cuisine, making it an essential destination on Florida's Space Coast.
- Cocoa Beach, a popular destination on Florida's Space Coast, offers sportfishing experiences at Ron's Fishing Cabanas, as featured in Southern Living magazine.
- For those who appreciate the surf lifestyle, Cocoa Beach is known as the "East Coast Surf Capital," with top-rated surf schools like Cocoa Beach Surf School and School of Surf.
3.HOME-AND-GARDEN enthusiasts may appreciate exploring the Banana River Lagoon through kayaking adventures organized by Cocoa Kayaking and Adventure Kayak of Cocoa Beach, providing an opportunity to observe local wildlife such as manatees and dolphins.
