Cocoa Beach seems to have the best of everything: scenic sands, marvelous and mixed wildlife, beaches, water sports, and even aerial adventures. As a former Florida resident, I’ve spent plenty of time in the Cocoa Beach area and have spent a lot of afternoons sitting in the sand in the hot Florida sun.
But there is so much more to Cocoa Beach than just beach and vacation spots. Affectionately referred to as the Space Coast due to the rocket launch zones it is home to, you can actually watch these spaceships take flight right from the shores of the beach. Or maybe you’re into watching cruise ships pull out of port! No matter what you want to get our of your vacation, there is a lot to do and see in Cocoa Beach.
Before you pack up the car and the family and head out to the beach, let’s take a look at some of my favorite activities and attractions that you can do while visiting Cocoa Beach, Florida!
Lounge in the Sand
Rightfully so, Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in all of Florida. Many hotels and beach rentals are adjacent to the ocean, making it seamless to enjoy a day by the water.
If it’s easier to bring your own gear, feel free to do that, but Cocoa Beach has rentals available for every beach need if you’re flying in or you don’t have the gear you need to enjoy your day at the beach. Chairs and umbrellas, boogie boards and surfboards, whatever is required to make it the perfect sandy outing. A1A Outdoors and Eastcoast Board Rentals can handle the hassle. There are also various rental stands along the coast. Don’t forget the shovel and pail, or borrow one if you need to.
Go to the Cocoa Beach Pier
This iconic site was recently refurbished and is ready for visitors once again!
The Cocoa Beach Pier is 800 feet of woodwork hovering over the Atlantic. Cast a line to pass the time or dig into a beach volleyball game. Home to shops and restaurants, the pier invites you to relax and settle into the sandy life.
Hit the Nearby Tennis Courts
A few local parks are home to clay and hard courts for the racket enthusiast. Cameron Barkley Park, located at 102 Alachua Lane, has pickleball and tennis courts to get you in the swing. This neighborhood entity also has a playground to keep the kids entertained and a picnic area for a much-needed energy break.
Ramp Road Park is another local area that offers tennis and pickleball facility options, hosting lights for evening play. It also boasts amenities such as a kayak launch, boat ramp, and fishing dock, providing a full day of outdoor pleasure. It can be found at 401 Ramp Road.
The Racquet Club of Cocoa Beach is a great option for practicing your strokes. As a public facility, it offers two clay and ten hard courts. Buy some swag in the pro shop for inspiration, or book a private lesson to get in the swing of the game.
See the Sights From the Sky
Enjoy the view of the shoreline from above. Sweep through the skies by taking a helicopter or biplane ride with Florida Air Tours to splurge on a one-of-a-kind aerial experience. Located at Merritt Island Airport, the departure site is ten minutes from Cocoa Beach. Soar along the coastline and river area, searching for wildlife and sea creatures.
Take in the port view, or expand your adventure to explore the Kennedy Space Center. For genuine thrill seekers, upgrade your flight with some aerobatics. Make it a romantic evening by viewing a sunset from the sky.
Tour the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
It’s more than a lighthouse tour; it’s a walk through history when you venture to the Canaveral Lighthouse.
Ascend five flights of stairs or keep your feet on the grounds and just pursue the giftshop and lighthouse museum. The visit continues to the Space Program museums with memorabilia from Air Force projects. See the inaugural launch site of the first astronauts the US sent to space and see the launch complexes from the beginning of the missile program.
The entire excursion takes approximately four hours to complete. Reservations are needed and have to be made at least two days in advance to secure a space four days prior. Parking for the tour is located at Port Canaveral. Closed-toe shoes are required to climb stairs, and guests must also be at least 48 inches tall.
Play The Nearby Golf Courses
Situated on the peninsula of the Banana River Lagoon, this location makes for a gorgeous landscape and is why you should pay a visit to the Cocoa Beach Country Club.
Wildlife abounds, and the waters glisten as you attempt to make par on the course. Stop into the 19th Hole, the club restaurant, for some refreshments once you’ve mastered this feat. Full information on booking tee times, regulations, and rules can be found online.
Or Mini Golf With Gators and Go-Karts
Maybe putting on real greens and driving down the fairway isn’t your thing. Or perhaps you’re looking for an activity for a family outing. Either way, try the putt-putt courses at Golf-N-Gator, which are a great way to enjoy the ambiance of Cocoa Beach and spend quality time together.
Choose between two 18-hole paths or maybe just do both. Here, you can pose for pictures and even hold the gators that call the course home! Golf-N-Gator is also home to lizards, snakes, and other creatures. Don’t worry; you’re not in any danger when mini-golfing at this course!
Adjacent to the mini golf is the go-kart track. Beachside Grand Prix is an extra twisty, curvy course that will get you revved up and ready for NASCAR speeds. Hug the curves and bolt through the straightaways.
Explore a Park
Hide in nature’s abundant tranquility near Cocoa Beach since parks are pretty accessible.
For example, Lori Wilson Park is a beach-adjacent area with pavilions and playgrounds for the whole family. There’s even a dog park for the pooch to have some fun.
Cape Canaveral is known for being home to the Kennedy Space Station and rocket launches, but it’s also home to the national seashore, a protected region, and home to fascinating insights about Florida’s history. Within the grounds, there is fishing, sea turtle monitoring, and the Seminole Rest Main House, a historic site of the Timucua people. This area is ripe for exploring, connecting to Florida’s past, and savoring the splendor of nature.
Thousands Islands Conservation area is a group of Indian River islands. It is accessible mostly by water, except for one nature path. This area is ideal for kayaking excursions and boat tours, many of which educate about the area’s robust biodiversity.
Take a Fishing Excursion
There are plenty of fish in these waters, well plenty to catch, that is. Cocoa Beach offers some of the best fishing around, inshore or deep sea. Scan the rivers for a peaceful mission or cast a line into the deep. There’s something delicious waiting on the end of the line.
Fin and Fly Charters caters to in and off-shore fishing. They also specialize in shark fishing and bioluminescent tours for some truly memorable mayhem. Prices vary depending on the boat, time, and the number of people. Book in advance, dates can fill up quickly during peak season.
This crew takes pride in being Florida-grown. With half and full-day options, you’ll get local insight into some of the best fishing from Native Sons Fishing Guides. Bait, rods, tackle, and fishing licenses are all covered in the fee. Just bring sunglasses and definitely some sunscreen.
Rev it up at Andretti Thrill Park
For any adrenaline junkies, Andretti Thrill Park is the place to be. Arcade games, carnival rides, race track bumper boats, here, you’ll find everything you need to push the pedal to the metal and beyond.
Test your spy skills with laser tag and your agility with the climbing wall. With indoor and outdoor activities, there is plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained. Open daily at 11 a.m., Andretti Thrill Park is just a 30-minute hop from the beach.
Cruise and Dine on the Indian River Queen
A paddle-wheel boat sporting three decks, the Indian River Queen is a unique way to cruise along the river to capture the wild river life. The area is known to be one of the most diverse ecosystems. Mantatees, various birds, and other animals call this river and lagoon home.
The company offers public outings on Fridays, Sundays, and special occasions, such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Once a month, live music will accompany the Sunday lunch excursion. The menu features a variety of Southern staples, including mac and cheese, creamy coleslaw, pulled pork, and smoked turkey. Beverages are available for purchase. Boarding takes place at Cocoa Village Marina, located at 90 Delannoy Avenue, Cocoa, Florida.
Take the Canaveral Wildlife Tour
Immerse yourself in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The Canaveral Wildlife Tour takes you on a magical adventure through this diverse and overflowing ecosystem. Spanning 140 acres, this grand landscape is home to over 300 bird species, hundreds of plant life, and over 30 mammals.
Local pickup and drop-off are part of the service. Binoculars for viewing are provided for convenience, as is the ever-essential sunscreen and insect repellent. Tours are either four or six hours and can be scheduled via the website. Lunch, snacks, and drinks are included for the extended journey.
See the Animals at Brevard Zoo
The local zoo hosts animals from the rainforests, the plains, and the land down under. Get your adventure started by kayaking through the Nyami Nyami River. This guided adventure takes you through the African plains for a new perspective on giraffes, rhinos, and lemurs. Ready for a sit-down? Board the train for a 10-minute journey through the parkland coast, past antelope and camels along the way.
The zoo opens at 9:30 a.m. for non-members while tickets can be purchased on location, there is a two-dollar discount when purchased online. Children three and under are free.
Search for Animals on an Eco-Tour
Cocoa Beach’s converging rivers and the Atlantic Ocean access make for incredible biodiversity. Cruising the river with guides is one of the best ways to search and see animals in their natural environments.
Another option to scout for animals is Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours. This company offers various outings tailored to your preferences. If it’s animals you seek, scope out the waters for sea life on the wildlife tour. Listen to sweet tunes while you watch the sun say good night on the sunset cruise.
Even BYOB for this lowkey, romantic adventure to sip the day away. Try a spectacular water angle to witness a rocket launch. This river ride departs one hour prior to the launch to ensure every magical moment is captured. Prices vary by tour, but those aged two and younger ride free.
Try Kiteboarding or Windsurfing
Soar through the ocean waves whether you’re a novice or next level, Cocoa Beach has what you need to get started with windsurfing and kiteboarding. Hey! Lessons are the best way to begin!
The calm waters of the rivers make a great location to learn the core elements and master the maneuvers. Good Breeze Kiting Boarding and 321 Kiteboarding offer lessons and gear to make a successful day gliding over the waters. Instruction is catered to the individual, so get ready to fly.
Sample a Local Brew
If you’re looking for something to quell the Florida humidity, a few breweries in the area have a solution for that.
Dirty Oar Beer Company is 20 minutes inland from the Atlantic, over the Banana and Indian Rivers. Former homebrewers decided to up their game. The taproom is now home to 22 inspired brews, all the brainchild of the duo of owners, who promise “Nobody has more fun than us.” The location offers a wide selection of merchandise, as well as a variety of select canned beers to enjoy at home.
Pets are welcome, and the pub is family-friendly. Food trucks are a regular event to curb your appetite. Check out the offerings: 329 King St., Cocoa, FL 32922
Bugnutty Brewing Company is west of the rivers, and you’ll find a locally-owned pub dedicated to crafting the best beers. This brewpub is situated in a former Buick dealership, where the entire brewing process is on display.
Bugnutty offers a full food menu. Lobster pizza, cheese fries, wraps, and other snacks make a delicious way to graze as you sip down the suds. Warm up your vocal cords for an open mic night every Wednesday, or let the more seasoned musicians take the stage to entertain on Saturdays. Find them at 225 King St., Unit B, Cocoa, FL 32922.
BeachFly Brewing Company began in 2018 with three beers. It was renovated and reopened in 2022. Now, it has five handles for its unique brews and rotates 11 other options from outside entities. Food is also available in this brewpub. With wings, soft pretzels and cheese, and paninis, there’s a snack to pair with the fresh pour.
Special events appear regularly, like trivia nights. But for dog parents, this place is a must. Incorporated on the grounds is a dog park. The perfect way to get the pup out so mom or dad has leisure time. Grab a brew when you visit 513 Barton Blvd Rockledge, Florida 32955.
Visit the Surf Museum
Cocoa Beach loves to pay homage to the culture of surfing. The Florida Surf Museum is home to the artifacts and history that shaped one of Florida’s most treasured pastimes. The museum is dedicated to preserving and chronicling the past, present, and future of this novel sport.
The Florida Surf Museum rotates exhibits and memorabilia and highlights various facets of the sport. From women in surfing to the evolution of surfboards, there is plenty of heritage preserved in these walls.
If you’re in the market for some surfer chic looks, stop into the Ron Jon surf shop, a corporate sponsor of the museum. The flagship location in Cocoa Beach is the largest surf clothing store in the world.
Kayak in the Rivers
Cocoa Beach is also home to two other bodies of water, the Banana River and the Indian River, allowing for various water adventures and wildlife encounters.
For a kayaking expedition, Cocoa Kayaking has a plethora of experiences to consider. Choose a clear bottom rig to watch the water creatures swim below or the night bioluminescent tour to truly light up the excursion. Venture through the mangroves to spot the stunning sea cows — the ever-gentle manatees — as they float amongst the grass or search the water for friendly dolphins.
Fin Expeditions is a family-owned tour company that guides you through the rivers. Believing in an intimate experience, groups are limited to 12 participants. Paddle in the water while you feast your eyes on the sunset. Opt for a fishing tour to catch something delicious. Memories are in the making when you splash through the rivers around Cocoa Beach.
Swing Through Cocoa Beach
Channel your inner Tarzan as you soar through the trees. Cocoa Beach Adventure Park takes thrills to new heights with zipline tracks and aerial obstacles. Slide across the vines and crawl through treetops to gaze at the world below.
With three different levels, there’s a course for every ability level starting from three years old. Visits last two hours, and reservations are strongly encouraged to guarantee your space.
Take Surf Lessons
Maybe you won’t be Kelly Slater, but you can still learn to carve a gnarly swell. Cocoa Beach offers several opportunities to get your feet on board. Cocoa Beach Surf School provides individual or group lessons for up to eight people, ranging from one to three hours. School of Surf helps you conquer the sea with sessions of up to two hours, either privately or with a group. These locations also have rental options to keep you rolling over the waves.
Wave Masters Surf School is another option to get in on the surf scene. Or visit good ol’ Ron Jon Surf School to get started. No matter where you choose, these wave catchers will get you started so you can continue your quest for World Champion Surfer glory.
Watch a Rocket Launch and Visit the Kennedy Space Center
It is nicknamed the Space Coast for a reason. Rocket launches occur frequently in Florida. Kennedy Space Center is just under 30 minutes from beaches, meaning there’s always a good view of any potential launches. Camp out from your hotel and see the trail left behind as the rocket rises beyond our hemisphere.
Visiting the Kennedy Space Center campus is a must when in Cocoa Beach. The complex is full of history, paying tribute to the pioneers who broke through the exosphere and future goals to go beyond. Behind-the-scenes tours of rocket launches reveal the meticulous detail required for a ship to launch and former spacecraft on display tower in their otherworldly glow. You may even have the chance to chat with an astronaut for true insight into life among the stars.
And for the space fanatic, make it the ultimate viewing experience by reserving a seat to watch the spacecraft lift off from the launch area! With three options to witness rockets take off — the main visitor complex, the Banana Creek Launch viewing area, and the LC-39 Observation Gantry, the options are plentiful, and the memories priceless. Don’t forget your noise-canceling headphones.