Welcome to
Cocoa Beach
Legendary Cocoa Beach – Your Gateway to the Ultimate Florida Escape!
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Cocoa Beach stands out as one of Florida’s top family-friendly destinations. With a variety of activities for all ages, it’s easy to fill your days and nights with fun, whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers. While this small east coast beach town is known for its connection to space exploration, visitors quickly discover there’s so much more to experience along the Space Coast.
Where to stay in the
Cocoa Beach area
How far is Cocoa Beach from Orlando?
Visit the Beach!
Cocoa Beach’s shoreline offers an enticing mix of natural beauty, exciting activities, and accessible amenities. With golden sands and clear Atlantic waters, it’s a perfect retreat for relaxation and adventure. The area is renowned as the “Surfing Capital of the East Coast” for its consistent waves and thriving surf culture.
Popular Beaches:
- Cocoa Beach Pier: A historic landmark offering beach access, fishing, shopping, and oceanfront dining.
- Lori Wilson Park: A family-friendly beach with free parking, picnic areas, playgrounds, and barbecue grills.
- Alan Shepard Park: Named after the astronaut, this beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, with nearby restaurants and shops.
- Sidney Fischer Park: Known for its picnic areas, restrooms, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park: A quieter beach option for those seeking a peaceful escape.
- Cherie Down Park: Located nearby in Cape Canaveral, it’s great for families with calm waters and flat sandy stretches.
Each beach offers something unique, from active surf spots to serene family areas, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.
Discover Legendary Cocoa Beach
Learn About Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach emerged as a popular destination in the early 20th century when entrepreneur Gus Edwards developed it into a beachside retreat. Its Atlantic coastline and improved accessibility via new railways and roads made it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
The mid-20th century space age brought further recognition, with the nearby Kennedy Space Center becoming a hub for NASA. Historic moments like Alan Shepard’s 1961 space flight and the Apollo 11 moon landing in 1969 drew global attention, solidifying Cocoa Beach’s connection to space exploration.
Today, Cocoa Beach combines its rich history with modern attractions and a relaxed beach atmosphere, making it a vibrant destination for visitors.
Best Restaurants in Cocoa Beach
Local Cuisine in Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach’s culinary scene reflects its coastal charm, offering everything from fresh seafood to international flavors.
Highlights:
- Seafood: Enjoy freshly caught shrimp, fish, and lobster at local favorites like Coconuts on the Beach or Fat Snook.
- Surf and Turf: Indulge in classic combinations at upscale eateries like Florida’s Fresh Grill.
- Global Flavors: From Italian and Mexican to Asian cuisine, Cocoa Beach’s dining scene caters to all palates.
- Tropical Drinks: Sip fruity cocktails or locally brewed beers at beachside bars for the perfect oceanfront vibe.
For a full list of dining options, check out our guide to Restaurants and Bars in Cocoa Beach.
Don't Miss a Launch!
Rocket Launches
Come to the Cocoa Beach area and witness history in the making as legendary minds work to make space exploration a reality for everyone. Companies like NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin, and more launch their rockets into space from Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center launch sites. Enjoy the marvel of space as you watch a rocket launch from almost anywhere in the Cocoa Beach area!
Let's Go On a Cruise!
Cruises from Port Canaveral
Thinking about taking a cruise? Port Canaveral has many of the top names in cruise lines like:
- Disney Cruise Line
- Victory Cruise Casino
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- and more…
Legendary Cocoa Beach in the Community
14th Annual Gala: Supporting Brevard’s Homeless Children & Families
On Friday, September 12, 2025, the community will gather at the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront for the 14th Annual Gala, a signature event benefiting Brevard’s
Cocoa Beach Hotel Association Supports Local Talent at CTE Recruitment Fair
Members of the Cocoa Beach Area Hotel & Motel Association recently participated in Brevard County’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Recruitment Fair, an event designed
Supporting Convoy of Hope
We wish we could always just talk about the fun things in Florida. However, Hurricane Ian devastated communities in other counties of Florida. Our hearts
Newly Added Articles
14th Annual Gala: Supporting Brevard’s Homeless Children & Families
On Friday, September 12, 2025, the community will gather at the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront for the 14th Annual Gala, a signature event benefiting Brevard’s homeless children and families. From
Explore Historic Cocoa Village with Free Shuttle Service from Cocoa Beach & Cape Canaveral
Visitors staying in Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral can now enjoy a stress-free way to shop, dine, and explore Historic Cocoa Village, without worrying about traffic or parking. Thanks to
Friday Fest Cocoa Beach 2025
Looking for something fun to do in Cocoa Beach? Friday Fest is a monthly street party held every third Friday from 6 PM to 10 PM along Minutemen Causeway in
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Hilton Garden Inn’s Grand Brunch Buffet
Treat Mom to a special day she won’t forget with the Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at the Hilton Garden Inn. Happening Sunday, May 11th from 11 AM to 4 PM,
Cocoa Beach Hotel Association Supports Local Talent at CTE Recruitment Fair
Members of the Cocoa Beach Area Hotel & Motel Association recently participated in Brevard County’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Recruitment Fair, an event designed to connect local students with
Sage Bistro
A refined dining experience where bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and sophisticated ambiance come together on Florida’s Space Coast. Check more amazing restaurants in the Cocoa Beach Area here! Refined Dining