42 Best Things to Do in Cocoa Beach, Florida with Kids
Cocoa Beach is the perfect destination for a family getaway.
It offers endless fun for kids of all ages, from sandy shores to thrilling adventures.
Spend the day at the beach, take a kayak tour, or spot dolphins in the wild.
Visit the Kennedy Space Center for an out-of-this-world experience.
Explore interactive museums, climb through aerial obstacle courses, or play a round of mini-golf.
With so many exciting activities, Cocoa Beach makes it easy to keep the whole family entertained.
Ready to plan your trip?
Here are the best things to do in Cocoa Beach with your kids!
Water-Based Activities
1. Bioluminescence Kayak Tour
Experience nature like never before on a bioluminescence kayak tour.
As you paddle through the Indian River Lagoon, the water comes to life with a glow caused by tiny organisms called dinoflagellates and moon jellies.
This rare phenomenon happens in only six places in the U.S., with the Indian River Lagoon being the only location in Florida.
For the best experience, book a guided tour with BK Adventure.
They offer specialized trips that combine bioluminescence with manatee watching, bird spotting, and sunset paddles.
The glow is most visible during a new moon when the sky is darkest.
Away from city lights, you’ll also get a stunning view of the Milky Way.
2. Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour
For a hands-on wildlife experience, take the Mangrove Tunnel, Manatee & Dolphin Kayak Tour.
Paddle through winding mangrove tunnels, a hidden world where dolphins and manatees swim freely.
Unlike typical attractions, this eco-tour immerses families in Cocoa Beach’s natural beauty.
Kids will love spotting gentle manatees gliding through the water and dolphins playfully jumping nearby.
The tour also offers an educational experience, teaching visitors about the local ecosystem.
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind family activity, this is it.
3. Banana River Aquatic Preserve
Spanning 30,000 acres, Banana River Aquatic Preserve is a paradise for nature lovers.
Located between Merritt Island and the barrier island, this area is rich in marshland, tropical forests, and wildlife.
Families can explore by boat or kayak, spotting alligators, manatees, and diamondback terrapin turtles.
The peaceful surroundings make it a great place for parents to relax while kids enjoy searching for local wildlife.
Several parks and boat ramps provide easy access, and seasonal guided tours offer educational insights into this incredible ecosystem.
4. Dolphin Tours on the Banana River
Dolphins aren’t just found in the ocean—they thrive in the Banana River as well.
The stretch of water between Merritt Island and Cape Canaveral is home to dolphins, manatees, fish, and dozens of bird species.
A Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tour gives families a chance to see these playful creatures up close.
The guided tour provides a mix of fun and education, offering insight into the behaviors of dolphins and other local wildlife.
5. Manatee Spotting
For a chance to see manatees in the wild, visit Manatee Sanctuary Park.
This quiet, nature-filled spot is one of Cocoa Beach’s hidden gems.
While there’s no guarantee of a sighting, the park’s calm waters make it a prime location for spotting these gentle giants, especially in the cooler months when they seek warmer waters.
Other great locations include the Banana River and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Locals often have the latest updates on where to find manatees, so don’t hesitate to ask around.
6. Deep-Sea Fishing
Cocoa Beach is one of the best places in Florida for deep-sea fishing.
If you’re visiting from out of state, this is a great opportunity to experience fishing in the Atlantic.
Fishing charters offer family-friendly trips where you can catch everything from red snapper to nurse sharks.
The captains ensure everyone is engaged and help kids learn the basics of deep-sea fishing.
While some trips can be pricey, there are options for every budget.
7. Catamaran Sailing Trip
Relax and take in the stunning scenery on a Catamaran Sailing Trip.
As you glide through the Intracoastal Waterway and Indian River, you’ll have the chance to see dolphins, seabirds, and other coastal wildlife.
For families, Sail Cocoa Beach offers various tours, including wildlife sails, sunset cruises, and even pedal boat adventures.
Guided by U.S. Coast Guard-certified captains, these tours are both educational and entertaining.
Kids sail free with a paying adult, making this a budget-friendly option for families looking to experience Cocoa Beach from the water.
8. Jetty Park Beach and Campground
Just outside Cocoa Beach, Jetty Park offers a mix of beach fun and outdoor adventure.
Families can camp near the water, watch cruise ships pass by, and even catch a rocket launch if the timing is right.
The park has air-conditioned cabins, RV sites, and plenty of outdoor activities.
Fishing, wildlife spotting, and picnicking are all popular here.
Land-Based Activities
9. Indian River Queen Paddle Boat Tour
Step aboard the Indian River Queen, a three-story paddle boat docked in Historic Downtown Cocoa.
This unique river cruise takes families on a scenic tour of the Indian River Lagoon, one of Florida’s most beautiful waterways.
During the two-hour journey, you’ll see dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds.
The onboard guides share fascinating stories about the area’s history, making it both fun and educational.
While you take in the views, enjoy classic riverboat snacks like hot dogs and cold drinks.
10. Helicopter Tour
For a breathtaking aerial view of Cocoa Beach, book a helicopter tour.
Families can soar over the coastline, taking in stunning sights of the Kennedy Space Center, the Atlantic Ocean, and even rocket launch pads.
Tour operators like Cocoa Beach Helicopters and Beachside Helicopters offer different packages, some covering short scenic flights and others providing extended aerial adventures.
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Cocoa Beach, this high-flying tour is a must.
11. Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures
For a thrilling outdoor experience, head to Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures.
This ropes course is set in a canopy of 100-year-old oak trees and features 49 unique challenges designed for all skill levels.
Families can test their balance, climb across obstacles, and take in the beautiful aerial views.
With courses ranging from beginner to advanced, kids and parents alike can enjoy the challenge at their own pace.
12. Treetop Trek at Brevard Zoo
If your kids love adventure, Treetop Trek at Brevard Zoo takes things to the next level.
This ziplining and obstacle course is built over parts of the zoo, giving visitors a bird’s-eye view of monkeys, crocodiles, and other wildlife.
The course is a separate ticketed attraction, so families can choose to walk through the zoo or climb above it.
14. Jungle Adventures Animal Park
Get up close with Florida’s wildest creatures at Jungle Adventures Animal Park.
This hands-on zoo lets visitors pet baby alligators and watch guides handle massive 15-foot-long alligators, nicknamed the “Last of the Dinosaurs”.
Beyond gators, families can see Florida panthers, black bears, and exotic birds.
15. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
For a nature-filled day, visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Spanning 140,000 acres, this refuge is home to otters, manatees, bobcats, deer, alligators, and over 350 bird species.
Families can take an eco-tour to spot wildlife or explore on their own through scenic trails and waterways.
The refuge is a fantastic place for birdwatching, photography, and learning about Florida’s diverse ecosystem.
16. Historic Cocoa Village
For a break from the beach, take a stroll through Historic Cocoa Village.
This charming downtown area features local shops, ice cream parlors, mini-golf, and open-air dining.
The area is home to historic buildings and the Cocoa Village Playhouse, making it a great spot for a relaxed day of exploring.
If you’re looking for souvenirs, handmade gifts, or a delicious treat, this is the place to be.
It’s also a great option for rainy days when beach activities aren’t possible.
17. Watch a Rocket Launch
Few places in the world offer the chance to watch a rocket launch up close, and Cocoa Beach is one of them.
While you can book tickets to see a launch from the Kennedy Space Center, spots fill up fast.
Luckily, there are plenty of free viewing locations around Cocoa Beach. Popular spots include Jetty Park and Cocoa Beach Pier, where families can watch rockets soar into space.
Even if you’re not at the official viewing site, you can still see the launch from miles away.
If your trip aligns with a scheduled launch, don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Beach Fun & Water Sports
18. Have a Beach Day in Cocoa Beach
Spending a day at the beach is a must in Cocoa Beach.
The area is home to family-friendly beaches like Shepard Park Beach and Fischer Park Beach, both of which offer picnic tables, playgrounds, and volleyball courts.
Shepard Park even provides views of rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center, making it a unique spot to enjoy the sand and surf.
Because Cocoa Beach is on the Atlantic Ocean, the waves tend to be higher than those on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Some days, you’ll find calm waters, while others bring perfect waves for surfing or boogie boarding.
No matter the conditions, it’s an ideal place for families to play in the water, relax on the sand, or enjoy a picnic.
19. Surf Lessons at Ron Jon Surf School
Cocoa Beach is one of Florida’s top surfing destinations, making it the perfect place to learn to surf. Ron Jon Surf School offers private and group lessons for all skill levels.
Each session includes all the necessary gear, so you don’t need to bring your own surfboard.
For families visiting during spring break or summer, Ron Jon also runs a Surf Camp for kids and teens.
These half-day and full-day camps offer multiple lessons, games, and lunch, making it a great way for kids to spend the day learning a new skill.
If surfing has been on your child’s bucket list, there’s no better place to give it a try.
20. Kiteboarding & Flying a Kite
Flying a kite may seem simple, but on Cocoa Beach’s breezy shoreline, it becomes an exciting challenge.
If you don’t have a kite, check out Cocoa Beach Surf Company to pick one up.
Kids can have fun testing their skills against the wind while enjoying the ocean view.
For those looking for a bigger thrill, try kiteboarding.
This extreme sport combines surfing and parasailing, where a large kite pulls you across the water.
It’s a high-energy activity perfect for teens looking for an adrenaline rush.
Lessons are available for beginners, making it an exciting way to experience Cocoa Beach’s waves.
21. Collect Seashells
While Cocoa Beach isn’t the most famous shelling destination in Florida, it still offers a chance to find some treasures.
Whole sand dollars and other unique shells can sometimes be found along the shoreline.
This free activity is perfect for younger kids who enjoy searching for ocean treasures.
Bring a small bucket and take a walk along the tideline, especially after high tide, for the best chance of finding beautiful shells.
22. Rent Bikes & Ride Along the Beach
Biking along the beach is a fun way to explore Cocoa Beach’s coastline.
The sand here is firm enough in certain spots to allow for smooth bike rides, making it easier to pedal along the shore.
If you don’t have your own bike, rentals are available at Ron Jon Surf Shop and A1A Beach Rentals.
They offer wide-tire bikes designed for beach riding.
Take a scenic ride while enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views.
23. Yoga on the Beach
For a peaceful start to the day, try yoga on the beach.
With the sun rising over the Atlantic, Cocoa Beach provides the perfect setting for a relaxing morning stretch.
Some local hotels and yoga studios offer sunrise yoga classes, but you can also create your own session.
Find a quiet spot on the sand, listen to the sound of the waves, and take a moment to unwind.
24. Build Sandcastles
Building sandcastles is a timeless beach activity that never gets old.
Cocoa Beach has soft, fine sand that’s perfect for creating detailed castles, tunnels, and sculptures.
Some of the best spots for sandcastle building include Lori Wilson Park and Sidney Fischer Park, both of which have plenty of space to spread out.
If you didn’t bring your own gear, stop by Ron Jon Surf Shop or Beachwave Beachware to grab a sandcastle kit.
Educational & Interactive Museums
25. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
A trip to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is an unforgettable experience for families.
Located just 25 minutes from Cocoa Beach in Cape Canaveral, this world-famous attraction offers a deep dive into space exploration.
Walk through the Rocket Garden, where real rockets from NASA’s early missions tower above you.
Relive the historic launch of Apollo 8 in the Firing Room, and watch the moon landing in the Lunar Theater.
Kids will love exploring the Space Shuttle Atlantis, where they can see the actual shuttle up close.
The center also features astronaut simulators, hands-on exhibits, and even the chance to meet real astronauts.
If your visit aligns with a rocket launch, this is the best place to witness the magic of spaceflight.
With its blend of history, technology, and hands-on fun, Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit for young space enthusiasts.
26. Dinosaur Store and Museum
Step back in time at the Dinosaur Store and Museum, an exciting destination for kids who love dinosaurs and ancient history.
Spanning 26,000 square feet over two floors, this museum features 80 taxidermy skeletons, fossils, and interactive exhibits.
The Hall of Dinosaurs showcases life-sized skeletons and fossil displays, giving kids a close-up look at prehistoric creatures.
On the second floor, families can explore exhibits on ancient Egyptian culture, complete with artifacts and historical displays.
Beyond the museum, the Adventure Zone offers hands-on activities, games, and even an arcade.
The Reptile Run lets kids see live reptiles up close, making this an exciting mix of science and entertainment.
After your visit, stop by the museum store to pick up unique fossils, dinosaur teeth, and souvenirs.
Rainy day or not, this museum is a perfect indoor activity that keeps kids engaged and learning.
27. Florida Surf Museum
Cocoa Beach is known for its surf culture, and the Florida Surf Museum tells the story of how it all began.
Located inside the Ron Jon Surf Shop rental area, this museum offers an up-close look at Florida’s surfing history.
Founded in 1999, the museum showcases vintage surfboards, classic photos, and exhibits about famous surfers who shaped the sport.
Families can learn about the evolution of surfboards and how Cocoa Beach became a surfing hotspot.
While it’s a small museum, it’s packed with interesting displays and free to visit.
If your kids are interested in surfing—or just love beach culture—this stop is well worth it.
28. The Wizard of Oz Museum
Step into the world of The Wizard of Oz at this one-of-a-kind museum in Cape Canaveral.
Featuring over 2,000 pieces of memorabilia, this museum is a must-visit for fans of the classic story.
Kids will be mesmerized by the life-sized figures of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion.
The museum also displays first-edition books, movie memorabilia, and behind-the-scenes artifacts.
One of the highlights is the interactive experience, where visitors can follow the Yellow Brick Road and explore different scenes from the story.
Kids can even try on replicas of the ruby slippers for a fun photo op.
The museum also hosts special events and workshops, so check the schedule before your visit.
Parks & Recreational Spots
29. Lori Wilson Park
Lori Wilson Park is one of the best family-friendly spots in Cocoa Beach.
Spanning 32 acres, this beachfront park is known for its coastal hammocks, sand dunes, and scenic boardwalks.
The park offers plenty of amenities, including a playground, barbecue grills, and shaded pavilions—perfect for a picnic by the beach.
Families can enjoy a full day of sunbathing, swimming, and playing volleyball on the park’s courts.
One of the best perks? Free parking.
The park also has lifeguards on duty, restrooms, outdoor showers, and even a dog park nearby.
Take a stroll along the 1,000-foot boardwalk, let the kids burn off energy at the playground, and soak in the fresh sea breeze.
For families traveling with babies or toddlers, Lori Wilson Park is a great spot to unwind while still keeping little ones entertained.
30. Alan Shepard Beachfront Park
Named after the famous astronaut Alan Shepard, this five-acre oceanfront park is a go-to spot for families.
With plenty of space, soft sand, and easy beach access, it’s a great place for a laid-back day by the water.
Here, families can surf, swim, build sandcastles, or take a peaceful walk along the boardwalk.
The park is well-equipped with restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it easy to spend several hours enjoying the beach.
One of the best highlights? A rocket launch view.
If your timing is right, you might get to see a spectacular launch from Kennedy Space Center while relaxing on the sand.
31. Cocoa Beach Skate Park
For kids and teens who love action sports, Cocoa Beach Skate Park is the perfect place to test their skills.
This well-maintained concrete skate park, operated by CB Skateboard Company, offers rails, ramps, and bowls for skaters of all levels.
Budding skateboarders can practice tricks, improve balance, and challenge themselves on different obstacles.
The friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make it an inviting spot for beginners and experienced skaters alike.
Even if your family isn’t into skateboarding, it’s still a great place to visit.
The park has picnic tables where you can relax and watch skaters show off their moves.
Entertainment & Adventure Activities
32. Escape Cocoa Beach (Escape Room)
Escape Cocoa Beach offers a unique and interactive experience for families who love solving puzzles.
With four themed escape rooms, including Rocket Science, families can put their detective skills to the test.
Players work together to find clues, crack codes, and solve puzzles to escape within 60 minutes.
The Rocket Science room is especially fitting, as it ties into Cocoa Beach’s Space Coast history.
Other rooms offer different challenges, ensuring there’s something for every skill level.
This escape room is a great rainy-day activity and a fun way to get everyone thinking and working as a team.
When you finally escape, celebrate with a group photo to remember the adventure!
33. Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf
For a classic mini-golf experience with a tropical twist, head to Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf.
This attraction features two 18-hole courses, Paradise Falls and Lost Lagoon, both designed with caves, waterfalls, and winding pathways.
Kids will love navigating the fun obstacles, while parents can enjoy the beautiful scenery and well-maintained courses.
After a round of mini-golf, stop by the on-site ice cream shop for a sweet treat.
Mini-golf is always a hit with families, and Lighthouse Cove’s scenic course makes it even more enjoyable.
34. Golf-N-Gator
Golf-N-Gator takes mini-golf to another level.
Not only does it feature two 18-hole courses, but the courses are designed around live alligator habitats.
Families can putt their way through rocky landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and ponds, all while spotting real gators nearby.
After your game, kids can feed the alligators, hold a baby gator, or even touch a snake.
This attraction blends fun and education, giving kids the chance to learn about Florida’s native wildlife up close.
35. Route 7
For high-energy indoor fun, take a short drive to Route 7 in Rockledge.
This entertainment venue is packed with activities that kids and teens will love.
Families can start with indoor go-kart racing, where kids can experience the thrill of speeding around the track.
The laser tag arena adds another level of excitement, offering fast-paced, friendly competition.
For a more relaxed activity, try mini-bowling, which is great for younger kids.
36. Cocoa Beach Surf Company
Located next to Ron Jon Surf Shop, Cocoa Beach Surf Company is more than just a store—it’s an entertaining stop for families.
While parents browse surf gear, beachwear, and souvenirs, kids can check out the large fish tanks filled with marine life.
The shop also offers educational displays about ocean conservation and marine life, making it an engaging stop for young ocean lovers.
37. Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier
A trip to Cocoa Beach isn’t complete without a visit to the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier.
Stretching 800 feet over the ocean, this iconic pier is a great spot for families to eat, shop, and take in ocean views.
Along the pier, you’ll find gift shops, beachside restaurants, and volleyball nets set up near the shore.
Teens will love taking photos under the pier, while parents can relax with a drink at Rikki Tiki Tavern, located at the far end of the pier.
While there is a small fee to walk the pier, the views, fresh ocean breeze, and live music often make it worth the visit.
38. Kelly Slater Statue
For surfing fans, stopping by the Kelly Slater Statue in Downtown Cocoa Beach is a must.
This bronze statue honors world-champion surfer Kelly Slater, who was born and raised in Cocoa Beach.
The statue makes for a great photo op and a chance to learn more about one of the most famous surfers of all time.
Even if your family isn’t into surfing, it’s a fun way to connect with Cocoa Beach’s surfing culture and history.
Family-Friendly Dining & Treats
39. The Fat Donkey
For a cool and tasty treat, stop by The Fat Donkey.
This beloved dessert shop is known for its wide variety of ice creams, soft serves, sorbets, and baked treats.
What makes this place stand out? Ice cream tacos, cookie sandwiches, and desserts served in jars.
Plus, they offer gluten-free options, making it a great choice for families with dietary restrictions.
The fun and vibrant atmosphere makes The Fat Donkey a favorite stop for kids.
After a long day at the beach, this is the perfect place to cool off and enjoy a sweet treat.
40. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company
A visit to Cocoa Beach isn’t complete without trying a slice of key lime pie, and The Florida Key Lime Pie Company is the best place to do it.
Located near Ron Jon Surf Shop, this shop specializes in fresh key lime pie, offering traditional slices and chocolate-covered versions.
They also sell other key lime-flavored treats, so if you love citrusy desserts, this is a must-visit.
For a fun extra, the store is home to Sweetie, a resident rescue alligator.
Kids will love the chance to snap a photo with Sweetie while enjoying their pie.
41. Café Surfinista
If your family is looking for healthy and refreshing food, Café Surfinista is a great choice.
This local favorite serves vegan, gluten-free, and organic options, making it easy to find something light and nutritious after a beach day.
The café has a laid-back, surf-inspired atmosphere, complete with comfy seating, ping pong tables, and board games.
It’s a great place to relax and recharge while enjoying smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and healthy bites.
42. 4th Street Fillin Station
What was once a gas station is now one of Cocoa Beach’s most unique family-friendly restaurants.
4th Street Fillin Station is known for its outdoor seating under beautiful oak trees, including a hanging table under a 100-year-old tree.
It’s also pet-friendly, and the staff will even bring water for your furry friend.
The menu has something for everyone, including plant-based options, gluten-free dishes, and all-day breakfast.
If you’re in the mood for something special, try the crab cake benedict—a favorite among visitors.
Save room for dessert.
The homemade ice cream, milkshakes, and waffle sundaes are as delicious as they are Instagram-worthy.
Since this spot is especially popular on weekends, try to arrive early or visit on a weekday to avoid long waits.