Cocoa Beach is a must-visit destination on Florida’s Space Coast.
Known for its beautiful beaches, great surf, and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a getaway.
This guide covers the best things to do in Cocoa Beach.
No matter your travel style, you’ll find plenty to explore!
1. Kennedy Space Center
The Kennedy Space Center is one of the most iconic space exploration sites in the world. Since 1968, it has been NASA’s main launch site for human space travel.
Visitors can walk through decades of space history, see real rockets, and even meet astronauts.
Start your visit with the Apollo/Saturn V Center, where you can walk beneath a fully restored Saturn V rocket—the same type that took astronauts to the moon.
Then, explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, home to the retired shuttle that completed 33 space missions.
Here, you can also try the Shuttle Launch Experience, a simulator that lets you feel the power of a real launch.
For an even deeper dive, check out the Heroes & Legends exhibit, which tells the stories of NASA’s pioneering astronauts.
IMAX films provide breathtaking views of space, while interactive displays let visitors experience a virtual moonwalk.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live rocket launch.
Families will appreciate the indoor astronomy-themed play area, perfect for kids who want a hands-on space experience.
Plan to spend a full day here—it’s worth every minute.
2. Discover Cape Canaveral & Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Cape Canaveral is a place where space exploration, maritime history, and nature come together.
Home to the Kennedy Space Center, Port Canaveral, and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, it offers a mix of high-tech innovation and natural beauty.
Visitors can explore space history, watch rocket launches, or enjoy nature trails filled with diverse wildlife, including manatees and countless bird species.
One of its most unique landmarks is the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse, a 150-foot structure built in the 1840s and now managed by the U.S. Air Force.
Unlike most Florida lighthouses, it remains on an active military installation, making it accessible only by guided tour.
These 3.5-hour tours, operated by the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation, take visitors to the 5th floor, where they can enjoy breathtaking coastal views while learning about the lighthouse’s role in maritime navigation and space history.
Over the years, the structure has survived harsh weather and undergone significant renovations, making it a well-preserved piece of Florida’s past.
If you’re planning a visit, booking a tour in advance is required, and both small group and private options are available.
3. Exploration Tower
For a mix of space history and incredible views, head to Exploration Tower in Port Canaveral.
This seven-story educational center features exhibits on space exploration, local history, and marine life.
Each floor offers something different:
- Floor 1: Café and gift shop.
- Floor 2: Sculptures of marine life made from recycled materials.
- Floor 3: History of Port Canaveral’s transformation into a major harbor.
- Floor 5: A deep dive into how Navy submarines and mega-ships pass through the port.
- Floor 6: Space exhibits showcasing the Kennedy Space Center and rocket history.
- Floor 7: An observation deck with panoramic views of the coast and a prime spot for watching rocket launches.
With interactive activities and stunning views, Exploration Tower is both fun and educational.
It’s an easy stop just 12 minutes north of Cocoa Beach.
Entrance fee is $6.50 for adults, and $3.75 for kids.
4. Cocoa Beach Pier (Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier & Rikki Tiki Tavern)
The Cocoa Beach Pier is a historic 800-foot boardwalk stretching over the Atlantic Ocean. Built in 1962, it’s one of the area’s most popular attractions.
The pier is lined with restaurants, shops, bars, and live entertainment, making it a great spot for visitors of all ages.
Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line from the pier, while Rikki Tiki Tavern, located at the far end, offers tropical drinks and ocean views.
The open-air bar has a thatched roof and seating for 100 guests, making it a relaxing place to unwind.
Happy hour specials and sunset views make it a local favorite.
If you visit before 4 PM, parking costs $20, but it’s free after 4 PM.
For a classic Cocoa Beach experience, this is the place to be.
5. Playalinda Beach
For those looking for a more secluded and natural beach, Playalinda Beach offers a 24-mile stretch of unspoiled shoreline.
Located within the Canaveral National Seashore, this beach features windswept dunes, marshes, and scenic ocean views.
There are no restaurants, boardwalks, or shops, so visitors should bring everything they need—snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and surfboards.
The only amenities available are restrooms.
Playalinda is also one of the best spots to watch rocket launches from the Kennedy Space Center.
A section of the beach is clothing-optional, so be mindful when choosing a spot to relax.
6. Lori Wilson Park
Lori Wilson Park is a 32-acre coastal park with free parking, beach access, and nature trails.
It’s known for its calm waters, picnic areas, and a pet-friendly section where dogs are welcome.
A boardwalk winds through a maritime hammock, making it a great place for wildlife observation.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly beach with space to spread out, this is a great choice.
The park is open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM.
7. Alan Shepard Park
Named after astronaut Alan Shepard, this five-acre beachfront park is located in the heart of Cocoa Beach’s tourist district.
It offers picnic areas, a playground, and direct beach access.
The park is a prime spot for beginner surfers and has great views of rocket launches from nearby Cape Canaveral.
Parking is $15 per vehicle, and the park is open from sunrise to dusk.
8. Sidney Fischer Park
If you want a quieter spot, Sidney Fischer Park offers 10 acres of beachfront with restrooms, picnic areas, and showers.
While it’s just a mile south of the Ron Jon Surf Shop, it’s much less crowded than other beaches.
Visitors can park for $15 per vehicle, and the park is open from sunrise to dusk.
It’s a great place to relax without the heavy foot traffic of Cocoa Beach Pier.
9. Center Street Park
For a hidden gem away from the crowds, Center Street Park is a small, peaceful spot popular for manatee sightings and bird-watching.
A gazebo overlooking the water makes it a great place for a quiet sunset view.
While it’s not a traditional beach, it’s a great stop for those looking to experience Cocoa Beach’s natural beauty without the crowds.
The park is open from 7 AM to 9 PM.
10. Go Surfing / Take a Surfing Lesson
Cocoa Beach is one of Florida’s best surfing spots.
With gentle waves and warm water, it’s an ideal place for beginners and longboarders.
Several surf schools offer private and group lessons, making it easy for anyone to get started.
Ron Jon Surf Shop is a great place to book a session.
This beach town is also home to 11-time World Surf League champion Kelly Slater.
Surfing is part of Cocoa Beach’s culture, and during Christmas, the beach hosts Surfing Santas, where hundreds of people dressed as Santa take to the waves.
For the best conditions, head near Cocoa Beach Pier, where experienced surfers enjoy long breaks while beginners get their first taste of riding waves.
11. Kayak Thousand Islands / Bioluminescent Kayaking
The Thousand Islands Conservation Area is a 338-acre wildlife preserve filled with mangrove tunnels, saltwater marshes, and hidden waterways.
It’s a great place for bird-watching, spotting dolphins, and seeing manatees up close.
Sunset paddles here offer breathtaking views of the water and sky.
For a unique experience, try bioluminescent kayaking.
From May to October, tiny organisms light up the water at night, creating a glowing effect when you paddle.
This natural phenomenon is best viewed in the Banana River Aquatic Preserve, especially five days after a full moon.
12. Paddle the Banana River Lagoon
The Banana River Lagoon is a peaceful, scenic waterway perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
It stretches through over 300 acres of saltwater marshes and mangroves, offering a chance to navigate between small islands and spot wildlife like dolphins and shorebirds.
With calm waters and easy routes, it’s great for beginners or those looking for a relaxing paddle.
Sunset paddles here are particularly beautiful.
13. Go Manatee Sighting
Cocoa Beach is a prime location for manatee watching.
These gentle creatures, also known as West Indian Manatees, love the warm waters of the mangroves.
The best time to see them is April through November in the Thousand Islands area.
Several eco-tours offer guided trips where you can see manatees, dolphins, and other marine life.
For a more romantic outing, opt for a sunset tour, where you can enjoy the peaceful waters while spotting wildlife.
14. Cocoa Beach Parasail
For an adrenaline rush, try parasailing over Cocoa Beach.
As you rise into the sky, you’ll get breathtaking panoramic views of the shoreline and ocean.
If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or sea turtles swimming below.
Cocoa Beach Parasail operates these tours with a focus on safety, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
It’s an exciting way to take in the beauty of the coast from above.
15. Go on an Eco Wildlife Cruise / Take a Sunset Cruise
For a laid-back water adventure, take a wildlife boat tour through the Thousand Islands Nature Preserve and Banana River Lagoon.
These guided cruises are perfect for spotting dolphins, manatees, and coastal birds.
If you prefer a romantic evening, hop on a sunset cruise.
Relax with a drink in hand while watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting golden hues over the Atlantic.
Many tours offer cocktail service, making it a great date night option.
16. Ron Jon Surf Shop
Ron Jon Surf Shop is more than just a store—it’s an icon.
Spanning 52,000 square feet, this is the largest surf shop in the world.
It sells everything from surfboards and bodyboards to beachwear, skating equipment, and souvenirs.
Beyond shopping, Ron Jon also offers surf lessons and equipment rentals, making it a great starting point for beginners.
The store is open daily, and parking is free, making it an easy stop during your Cocoa Beach visit.
17. Florida Surf Museum
Located inside Ron Jon Surf Shop, the Florida Surf Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of surfing in Florida.
It features vintage surfboards, historical photographs, and memorabilia that showcase the sport’s impact on the East Coast.
Exhibits rotate throughout the year, and special events and film screenings are held regularly.
18. The Dinosaur Store & Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures
If you’re traveling with kids or have a passion for history, The Dinosaur Store & Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures is a fantastic stop.
This 20,000-square-foot museum features dinosaur fossils, meteorites, and artifacts from Ancient China and Egypt.
The museum is divided into two floors:
- The Dinosaur Museum – Features real fossils, interactive exhibits, and life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures.
- The Ancient Cultures Museum – Showcases artifacts from ancient civilizations, including Egyptian mummies and Chinese relics.
For hands-on fun, visit the Adventure Zone, which has interactive exhibits, slides, and even a raft ride.
The gift shop is free to enter and sells fossils, minerals, space-related artifacts, and educational replicas.
The operating hours for this museum are 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Tuesdays).
19. Golf N Gator
Golf N Gator combines mini-golf, wildlife encounters, and hands-on treasure hunting in one exciting location.
The facility features two 18-hole mini-golf courses that wind through tropical landscapes, waterfalls, caves, and wooden boardwalks.
As you play, you’ll see fish and turtles in the waterways.
What sets this course apart is its live alligator habitat—the only outdoor one of its kind in the area.
Visitors can feed, hold, and even take a picture with alligators.
Beyond golf and gators, the mining company attraction lets guests dig for gemstones, fossils, arrowheads, and shark teeth, making it a great activity for all ages.
20. Cocoa Beach Skate Park
For those who prefer wheels over waves, the Cocoa Beach Skate Park is a must-visit.
This 10,000-square-foot park features ramps, bowls, and rails designed for skaters of all skill levels.
Recognized as one of Florida’s premier skateboarding facilities, it attracts both local enthusiasts and visiting professionals.
Safety is a top priority, so protective gear is required for anyone planning to skate.
21. Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf
For a fun mini-golf experience with a tropical twist, head to Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf.
This themed attraction features two 18-hole courses with water features, caves, tropical fish, and even boats integrated into the course design.
After working up an appetite, stop by the snack bar for ice cream, milkshakes, or even a glass of wine.
It’s the perfect way to cool off after a round of golf.
22. Escape Cocoa Beach
If you love solving puzzles and cracking codes, Escape Cocoa Beach offers a thrilling, immersive experience.
This top-rated escape room attraction challenges players to solve a mystery within an hour using their wits, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Perfect for a rainy day or an evening activity, each escape room has a different theme, from historical mysteries to crime-solving adventures.
23. Surfside Playhouse
For a taste of local theater, visit Surfside Playhouse, home of Surfside Players since 1959.
This community theater puts on a variety of musicals, comedies, dramas, and children’s performances throughout the year.
Some shows are even written by local Florida playwrights.
Check their schedule of performances, as the lineup changes each season.
24. Coconuts on the Beach
Coconuts on the Beach is the only true beachfront restaurant in Cocoa Beach.
Located right on the sand, it offers fresh seafood, live music, and a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy their meal overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot porpoises playing just offshore.
The menu is seafood-focused but has something for everyone.
Signature dishes include the fresh catch of the day, shrimp and grits, reef tacos, and fried shrimp.
For those looking for something heartier, the chef’s house steak and lobster mac and cheese is a must-try.
Outside, you’ll be greeted by a large tiki statue, setting the tone for the relaxed beach bar vibe.
25. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company
For a true taste of Florida, head to The Florida Key Lime Pie Company.
This colorful shop specializes in key lime pie served in a variety of ways—by the slice, on a stick, in a cup, inside a coconut, or even as a whole pie.
Beyond pie, the shop offers a selection of unique Florida treats.
Visitors can try alligator jerky, tropical fruit wines, gourmet hot sauces, and even handcrafted bath products.
The vibrant decor adds to the experience, making it a fun stop for a sweet treat or a unique souvenir.
On weekends, the shop even hosts celebrity alligator visits, adding a bit of Florida wildlife to the mix.
26. Fin and Fly Fishing Charters
Cocoa Beach is known for its incredible fishing, and Fin and Fly Fishing Charters is one of the top-rated charter services in the area.
Operated by locals who know these waters inside and out, they provide five-star fishing excursions that guarantee a great catch.
Anglers can expect to reel in a variety of fish, including sharks, trout, mahi mahi, red snapper, lane snapper, sailfish, and tarpon.
One of the best parts of the trip? Grilling your catch with family and friends afterward.
It’s an experience that combines adventure with the joy of fresh, local seafood.
27. Explore Historic Cocoa Village
Just a short drive from Cocoa Beach, Historic Cocoa Village offers a charming, pedestrian-friendly district filled with local shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Unlike the modern beachfront attractions, this area is known for its beautifully restored 1920s buildings and small-town atmosphere.
Strolling through the village, visitors can browse unique boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops.
Cafés and restaurants line the streets, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining.
It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, grab a coffee, or enjoy a relaxed meal.
One of the highlights of the village is the Cocoa Village Playhouse, a historic theater that hosts Broadway-style musicals year-round.
The playhouse has been entertaining audiences for decades, and its performances attract both locals and visitors.
Check their website for the latest show schedule if you’re interested in catching a performance.
