Cocoa Beach(Space Beach)

Cocoa Beach offers a diverse dining scene with a variety of restaurants that cater to different tastes. Coconuts on the Beach is a popular spot for seafood and live music, known for its beachside ambiance and casual dining experience. For a taste of Caribbean fusion, The Tiny Turtle is a great choice, offering a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating. Sandbar Sports Grill is another favorite, providing a lively sports bar atmosphere with a wide selection of pub grub and drinks. Cocoa Beach Fish Camp offers a unique dining experience with offbeat seafood dishes, while Long Doggers serves casual American fare with a beach-house vibe.

Cocoa Beach features a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. The Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront offers modern rooms and a beachfront tiki bar, while the Hilton Garden Inn Cocoa Beach Oceanfront provides a more laid-back experience with private beach access. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cocoa Beach Oceanfront is another popular choice, offering complimentary breakfast and beach access. For a more budget-friendly option, Cocoa Beach Suites Hotel provides functional suites with free Internet access.

Cocoa Beach is well-equipped with amenities to enhance your beach experience. The area features three oceanfront parks with restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, making it easy to spend a day outdoors. Additionally, there are numerous children's playgrounds and a public tennis and pickleball complex with lighted courts. For water sports enthusiasts, local rental shops offer equipment for activities like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The beach also provides excellent access for fishing, with spots like the Cocoa Beach Pier being popular for both casual and experienced anglers.

Cocoa Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to enjoy. Surfing is a major draw, with consistent waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. Visitors can also engage in paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing for a thrilling experience on the water. For nature lovers, exploring the nearby Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge or participating in a guided turtle walk during nesting season are great options. The beach itself is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

Cocoa Beach strives to be accessible for all visitors. Many of the restaurants and attractions offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms. The beach itself has accessible pathways and some facilities provide beach wheelchairs for those who need them. However, specific accessibility features can vary by location, so it's advisable to check ahead of time to ensure that your chosen spots meet your needs.

Parking in Cocoa Beach is generally convenient, with over 30 public transportation stops and ample parking options available. Many of the oceanfront parks and beaches offer free parking lots, although spaces can fill up quickly during peak season. Additionally, there are free street parking options available throughout the city, though finding a spot can sometimes be challenging. For those planning to spend the day at the beach, arriving early is recommended to secure parking.

Cocoa Beach is known for its rich surfing history, earning it the title of 'East Coast Surfing Capital.' It is also a significant nesting ground for sea turtles, with local conservation efforts in place to protect these creatures. Visitors can enjoy watching space launches from the beach, as the Kennedy Space Center is nearby. Additionally, Cocoa Beach hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Cocoa Beach Seafood and Music Festival, which celebrates local seafood and live music.

Cocoa Beach is surrounded by exciting attractions that cater to various interests. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-visit, located just a short drive away, offering insights into space exploration and the opportunity to witness rocket launches. The Cocoa Beach Pier is another popular spot, stretching 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and featuring shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. For nature enthusiasts, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge provides a unique opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including manatees and dolphins.