In the last quarter of 2021, over 29 million domestic tourists visited Florida, which exceeded the count from 2019. The Sunshine State attracts people from near and far, as it has beautiful weather, gorgeous beaches, and fun attractions.
While many visitors go to Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, you might be looking for other state gems. In that case, why not head to Cocoa Beach? This city is renowned for its beaches and great surf spots, and there are plenty of excellent places to sate your hunger after an afternoon on the beach.
Here’s where to eat in Cocoa Beach, or find out where the locals love eating!
Squid Lips Overwater Grill
Squid Lips Overwater Grill is a seafood restaurant that serves up the freshest catches of the day. Not only that, but they’re also known for their menu creativity; for example, you can order smoked fish dip and bacon-wrapped scallops here.
On their menu, you’ll find appetizers, soups and salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, and pasta. This restaurant’s main entrees include grilled shrimp, Thai Mahi, lobster-n-crab cakes, and stuffed flounder. You can even order from their raw bar if you’re feeling adventurous.
You’ll get to dine on their dock over the water. If you’re out boating, you can even pull up to the dock for a meal! Either way, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet in time to the live entertainment they have on throughout the week.
Coconuts on the Beach
Coconuts on the Beach is an amazing place to go if you love people-watching. This establishment is located right on the beach, where you can munch on delicious food while gazing out at the ocean.
Their menu has appetizers, fresh soups and salads, sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and other main dishes, including fresh fish, chicken, and steak. Enjoy your meal with some live music, as this restaurant has bands on often.
You can even stay or come back later for some top-notch drinks at the bar. They’re open until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11:00 pm for the rest of the week.
Fish Camp Grill
For a casual eatery, go to Fish Camp Grill. You’ll instantly know you’re there when you see the 70-foot flyrod spanning the eatery’s outside wall. There are also colorful awnings, so you can’t miss it.
Inside, Fish Camp Grill is just as astounding. It’s decorated with nautical things like sails, fish statues, and more.
Their menu has appetizers, salads, burgers, and sandwiches. To really please your taste buds, try one of their specialties, like the beer can chicken or crawfish boil. There are also smokehouse favorites, like voodoo chicken wings and camp Cajun ribs.
Like the other Cocoa Beach restaurants on this list, Fish Camp Grill often has live entertainment on. So you’ll get dinner and music!
Cocoa Beach Ale House
Cocoa Beach Ale House is a sports bar and restaurant in one, so if you need to catch some games on your trip to Cocoa Beach, then they’ve got you covered. This establishment has 40 TVs, draft beer, and a full liquor bar. It’s also conveniently located one mile away from the cruise port, so if you’re planning on taking a cruise, you can head over here before or after.
While watching sports, you can dine on casual dishes like chicken, pulled pork fries, hamburgers, pizza, sandwiches, and wings.
On some nights, there will be DJs or live bands, so feast your ears on outstanding love music. Otherwise, you can put some quarters into Cocoa Beach Ale House’s touch-tune jukebox and play your favorite tunes.
The Starlite Restaurant & Bar
The Starlite Restaurant & Bar is located at the Hilton Garden Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront.
Inside, you’ll get fine dining, so treat yourself and your loved ones to an exquisite meal here. You can have breakfast, lunch, dinner, or boozy brunch at this restaurant. They serve anything from salads and pizzas to skirt steaks and fresh fish.
There’s also an outdoor pool bar, where you can lounge in the hot Floridian sun and sip on refreshing drinks. This bar also serves some light starters, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and pizzas if you’re hungry. This is the perfect way to relax and unwind from everyday life.
The Pig and Whistle
If you’ve always wanted to try food from across the pond but have never gotten around to it, then you’ll have your opportunity in Cocoa Beach. The Pig and Whistle is a traditional English pub, so you can start the day right with a hearty English breakfast.
During the day, you’ll find a quaint pub menu that includes both British and American favorites. For example, you can order sandwiches, bangers and mash, meat or fish pies, fish and chips, and crab cakes. Don’t forget to check out the daily specials, as you’ll get fantastic food for fair prices.
What’s great is that The Pig and Whistle is open late (until 2:00 am). So you can stop by for late-night munchies and get a personal pizza, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, ham and cheese toastie, or an English hot dog.
Know Where to Eat in Cocoa Beach
If you know where to eat in Cocoa Beach, then you’ll have a fantastic gastronomical time. There are plenty of casual beachside establishments, as well as fancier restaurants if you prefer those instead. Regardless, visiting Cocoa Beach will be a treat when you have so many choices for food!
So while planning a trip to this city, make sure you put all of these places on your list. You won’t regret it when you’re sitting by the beach, chowing down on tasty food, and listening to some amazing live music!
If you’re ready to plan your trip to Cocoa Beach, then check out these hotel offers now.