24 Activities & Attractions to Explore in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Looking for some fun and exciting activities to explore on your next trip to Cocoa Beach, Florida? There is plenty to do depending on your budget and timeline. In this article, travel enthusiast and former Florida resident Brianna Carter shares her favorite Cocoa Beach attractions you can't miss!
Last updated: April 11, 2024
13 min read
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Cocoa Beach has the best of everything: scenic sands, marvelous and mixed wildlife, beaches, water sports and even aerial adventures. As a former Florida resident, I’ve spent plenty of time in the Cocoa Beach area, and have spent many afternoons in the sand with my family.
What makes it super special: It’s affectionately referred to as the Space Coast due to the rocket launch zones it is home to. You can actually watch these spaceships take flight!
So, maybe it’s time for the annual Florida family vacation or just a romantic weekend escape. Whatever the reason, this popular section of Florida coastline is the ideal location to immerse yourself in amusement. Let’s take a look at some of my favorite activities and attractions that you can do while visiting Cocoa Beach, Florida!
Lounge in the Sand
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Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Beach Lovers, Surfers, Sunbathers, Families Seeking Seaside Fun, Nature Lovers
It’s finally sun time. A moment to rest, decompress, and absorbed those negative ions that are oh-so-positive for the soul. Rightfully so, as Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular beaches in all of Florida. Many hotels and beach rentals are adjacent to the ocean making it seamless for a day by the water.
Cocoa Beach invites you to sink your toes into the sand and breathe in the salty air. With a plethora of activities, you’ll be endlessly entertained. But sometimes, there’s nothing better than a sunny snooze.
Bring your gear if you must, but Cocoa Beach has rentals available for every beach need. Chairs and umbrellas, boogie boards and surfboards, whatever is required to make it the perfect sandy outing. A1A Outdoors, Beach Tripz, and Eastcoast Board Rentals can handle the hassle. There are also various rental stands along the coast. Don’t forget the shovel and pail, or borrow that too.
Go to the Cocoa Beach Pier
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Beach Lovers, Surfers, Fishing Enthusiasts, Outdoor Diners, Souvenir Shoppers
This iconic site has just been refurbished and is ready for visitors. The Cocoa Beach Pier is 800 feet of woodwork hovering over the Atlantic. Cast a line to pass the time or dig into a beach volleyball game. Home to shops and restaurants, the pier invites you to relax and settle into the sandy life.
Hit the Nearby Tennis Courts
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Tennis Enthusiasts, Sports Lovers, Beachgoers, Fitness Enthusiasts, Social Butterflies
A few local parks are home to clay and hard courts for the racket enthusiast. Cameron Barkley Park, located at 102 Alachua Lane has pickleball and tennis courts to get you in the swing. This neighborhood entity also has a playground to keep the kids entertained and a picnic area for a much-needed energy break.
Ramp Road Park is another local area that offers tennis and pickleball facility options, hosting lights for evening play. It also boasts amenities like a kayak launch, boat ramp, and fishing dock for a full day of outdoor pleasure. It can be found at 401 Ramp Road.
The Racquet Club of Cocoa Beach is a great option for practicing your strokes. As a public facility, it offers two clay and ten hard courts. Buy some swag in the pro shop for inspiration or book a private lesson to get in the swing of the game.
See the Sights From the Sky
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Aviation Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers, Tourists Seeking Aerial Views
Enjoy the view of the shoreline from above. Sweep through the skies by taking a helicopter or biplane ride with Florida Air Tours to splurge on a one-of-a-kind aerial experience. Located at Merritt Island Airport, the departure site is ten minutes from Cocoa Beach. Soar along the coastline and river area searching for wildlife and sea creatures.
Scope out the port view, or expand your adventure to hover over the Kennedy Space Center. For genuine thrill seekers, upgrade your flight with some aerobatics. Make it a romantic evening by viewing a sunset from the sky. No matter the experience, the time is sure to fly by.
Tour the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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History Enthusiasts, Maritime Lovers, Lighthouse Admirers, Beachgoers
It’s more than a lighthouse tour, it’s a walk through history when you venture to the Canaveral Lighthouse. About an hour of this outing is a tour through the lighthouse with an experienced docent on hand to answer all those burning questions.
Ascend five flights of stairs or keep your feet on the grounds and pursue the giftshop and lighthouse museum. The visit continues to the Space Program museums with memorabilia from Air Force projects. See the inaugural launch site of the first astronauts the US sent to space and see the launch complexes from the beginning of the missile program.
It takes approximately four hours to complete the entire excursion. Reservations are essential and must be made two days in advance to secure a space, four days prior for foreign visitors.
Parking for the tour is located at Port Canaveral. Closed-toe shoes are required to climb stairs and guests must also be at least 48 inches tall.
Play The Nearby Golf Courses
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Golf Enthusiasts, Outdoor Sports Lovers, Nature Admirers, Socializers, Event Planners
This beach area hosts a public golf location, the Cocoa Beach Country Club. Situated on the peninsula of the Banana River lagoon makes its location a gorgeous landscape to visit. Wildlife abounds and the waters glisten as you attempt to make par on the 27 holes. Stop into the 19th Hole, the club restaurant for some refreshments once you’ve mastered this feat. Full information on booking tee times, regulations, and rules can be found online.
Or Mini Golf With Gators and Go-Karts
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Winter Months (December to February)
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Golf Enthusiasts, Families Seeking Entertainment, Nature Lovers
Maybe the real deal golf course isn’t your thing. Perhaps you’re looking for a family outing. Either way, try the putt-putt courses at Golf-N-Gator are a great way to enjoy the ambiance of Cocoa Beach and spend quality time together.
Choose between two 18-hole paths or do both. And be sure to make time for the 30 gators lounging about. Here you can pose for pictures and even hold these epic creatures. Golf-N-Gator is also home to lizards, snakes, and other creatures.
Adjacent to the mini golf, is the go-kart track. Beachside Grand Prix is an extra twisty, curvy course that will get you revved up and ready for NASCAR speeds. Hug the curves and bolt through the straightaways.
Each car is equipped with sturdy bumpers just in case you get too close for comfort. If one race doesn’t quench your adrenaline, pay for more. They can be used the same day or saved for a future escapade.
Explore a State Park
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Beach Lovers, Sunbathers, Families Enjoying a Day Out, Nature Enthusiasts
Hide in nature’s abundant tranquility at Cocoa Beach. State parks are very accessible. Many are already popular destinations. Lori Wilson Park is a beach-adjacent area with pavilions and playgrounds. There’s even a dog park for the pooch to have some fun.
Cape Canaveral is known for being home to the Kennedy Space Station and rocket launches, but it’s also home to the national seashore, a protected region, and home to fascinating insights about Florida’s history. Within the grounds, there is fishing, sea turtle monitoring, and the Seminole Rest main house, a historic site of the Timucua people. This area is ripe for exploring, connecting to Florida’s past, and savoring the splendor of nature.
Thousands Islands Conservation area is a group of Indian River islands. It is accessible mostly by water, except for one nature path. This area is ideal for kayaking excursions and boat tours, many of which educate about the area’s robust biodiversity.
Venture to a Theme Park
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Lovers of LEGO, Families With Young Children, Amusement Park Enthusiasts
Orlando is only an hour away, making it a short drive to many theme park excursions. Whether you are a Magic Kingdom fan or craving a Legoland adventure, Cocoa Beach offers a convenient way to tick that box and return to the serenity of the water.
And Florida is not lacking in themed escapades. There are numerous options for all ages and those who remain kids at heart. Consider visiting Universal Studios, Epcot, SeaWorld, Animal Kingdom, and Crayola Experience, just to name a few.
Take a Fishing Excursion
Peak Season
Spring to Fall (March to November)
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Fishing Enthusiasts, Outdoor Adventurers, Nature Lovers, Ocean Enthusiasts
There are plenty of fish in these waters, plenty to catch that is. Cocoa Beach offers some of the best fishing, inshore or deep sea. Scan the rivers for a peaceful mission or cast a line into the deep. There’s something delicious waiting on the end of the line.
Fin and Fly Charters caters to in and off-shore fishing. They also specialize in shark fishing and bioluminescent tours for some truly memorable mayhem. Prices vary based on boat, time, and number of people. Book in advance, dates can fill up quickly during peak season.
This crew takes pride in being Florida grown. With half and full-day options, you’ll get local insight into some of the best fishing from Native Sons Fishing Guides. Bait, rods, tackle, and fishing licenses are all covered in the fee. Just bring sunglasses and definitely some sunscreen.
Rev it up at Andretti Thrill Park
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Thrill-Seekers, Adrenaline Junkies, Family Fun Enthusiasts, Arcade Gamers
For any adrenaline junkies, Andretti Thrill Park is the place to be. Arcade games, carnival rides, race track bumper boats, here, you’ll find everything you need to push the pedal to the metal and beyond.
Test your spy skills with laser tag and your agility with the climbing wall. With indoor and outdoor activities, there is plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained. Open daily at 11 am, Andretti Thrill Park is just a 30-minute hop from the beach.
Cruise and Dine on the Indian River Queen
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Winter Months (December to February)
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Cruise Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Scenic Admirers, Photography Aficionados
A paddle-wheel boat sporting three decks, the Indian River Queen is a unique water to cruise along the river to capture the wild river life. The area is known to be one of the most diverse ecosystems. Mantatees, various birds, and other animals call this river and lagoon home.
The company offers public outings Fridays, Sundays, and special occasions like Mothers of Father’s Day. Once a month, live music will accompany the Sunday lunch excursion. The menu includes a flare of Southern staples like mac and cheese, creamy coleslaw, pulled pork, and smoked turkey. Beverages are available for purchase. Boarding occurs from Cocoa Village Marina at 90 Delannoy Avenue, Cocoa, Florida.
Take the Canaveral Wildlife Tour
Peak Season
Winter and Spring (December to April)
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Nature Lovers, Birdwatchers, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Outdoor Adventurers
Immerse yourself in the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The Canaveral Wildlife Tour takes you on a magical adventure through this diverse and overflowing ecosystem. Spanning 140 acres, this grand landscape is home to over 300 bird species, hundreds of plant life, and over 30 mammals.
Local pick up and drop off are part of the service. Binoculars for viewing are provided for convenience, as is the ever-essential sunscreen and insect repellent. Tours are either four or six hours and can be scheduled via the website. Lunch, snacks, and drinks are included for the extended journey.
See the Animals at Brevard Zoo
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Animal Lovers, Families With Children, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Nature Explorers
The local zoo hosts animals from the rainforests to the plains to the land down under. Get your adventure started by kayaking through the Nyami Nyami River. This guided adventure takes you through the African plains for a new perspective on giraffes, rhinos, and lemurs. Ready for a sit-down? Board the train for a 10-minute journey through the parkland coast past antelope and camels along the way. Then cool off in the splash area.
The zoo opens at 9:30 am for non-members while tickets can be purchased on location, there is a two-dollar discount when purchased online. Children three and under are free.
Search for Animals on an Eco-Tour
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Winter and Spring (December to April)
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Nature Lovers, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Birdwatchers, Outdoor Adventurers
Cocoa Beach’s converging rivers and the Atlantic Ocean access make for incredible biodiversity. Cruising the river with guides is one of the best ways to search and see animals in their natural environments. Wildside Tours is one such group specializing in aquatic excursions.
As a catamaran tour, it’s a spacious ride through the river during this two-hour tour while the captain and crew share a wealth of knowledge on the animals and area. The company also offers private charters for your special occasion or large group adventure.
Another option to scout for animals is Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours. This company offers several different outings depending on your desires. If it’s animals you seek, scope out the waters for sea life on the wildlife tour. Listen to sweet tunes while you watch the sun say good night on the sunset cruise.
Even BYOB for this lowkey, romantic adventure to sip the day away. Try a spectacular water angle to witness a rocket launch. This river ride departs one hour prior to the launch to ensure every magical moment is captured. Prices vary by tour two and younger ride free.
Try Kiteboarding or Windsurfing
Peak Season
Fall to Spring (October to April)
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Beachgoers, Watersports Enthusiasts, Kiteboarding Aficionados, Adrenaline Junkies
Soar through the ocean waves whether you’re a novice or next level, Cocoa Beach has what you need to get started with windsurfing and kiteboarding. Lessons are the best way to begin.
The calm waters of the rivers make a great location to learn the core elements and master the maneuvers. Good Breeze Kiting Boarding and 321 Kiteboarding offer lessons and gear to make a successful day gliding over the waters. Instruction is catered to the individual so get ready to fly.
Grab a Day Pass to a Hotel Pool
Peak Season
Spring Break (March to April)
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Swimming Enthusiasts, Sunbathers, Families With Children, Relaxation Seekers
Whether you’re a visitor or a local, this is an incredible way to scope out the area…and see where you want to stay next. Several apps that allow you to pay for access to hotel pools and amenities for the day. Resort Pass, Daycation, and DayPass are options that allow you to pursue the perks you want and dive into a day of R&R. Prices start at $20. So if you’re envious of your neighboring cabana or lazy river, try it out before you splurge and vacation better.
Sample a Local Brew
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Winter Months (December to February)
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Beer Enthusiasts, Craft Beer Lovers, Social Butterflies, Casual Drinkers
If you’re looking for something to quell the Florida humidity, a few breweries in the area have a solution for that.
Dirty Oar Beer Company is 20 mins inland from the Atlantic, over the Banana and Indian Rivers. Former homebrewers decided to up the game. The taproom is now home to 22 inspired brews all the brainchild of the duo of owners, who promise “Nobody has more fun than us.” The location boasts a full array of merchandise as well as select canned beers to enjoy at home.
Pets are welcome and the pub is family-friendly. Food trucks are a regular event to curb your appetite. Check out the offerings: 329 King St, Cocoa, FL 32922
Bugnutty Brewing Company: West of the rivers, you’ll find Bugnutty Brewing Company, a locally-owned pub dedicated to crafting the best beers. This brewpub makes its home in a former Buick dealership where the full brewing process is on display.
Bugnutty offers a full food menu. Lobster pizza, cheese fries, wraps, and other snacks make a delicious way to graze as you sip down the suds. Warm up the vocal cords for an open mic night, each week on Wednesdays, or let the more seasoned musicians take the stage to entertain on Saturdays. Find them at 225 King St Unit B, Cocoa, FL 32922.
BeachFly Brewing Company began in 2018 with three beers. It was renovated and reopened in 2022. Now, it has five handles for it’s unique brews and rotates 11 other options from outside entities. Food is also available in this brewpub. With wings, soft pretzels and cheese, and paninis, there’s a snack to pair with the fresh pour.
Special events appear regularly, like trivia nights. They even host the occasional paint night. But for dog moms and dads, this place is a must. Incorporated o the grounds is a dog park. The perfect way to get the pup out so mom or dad has leisure time. Grab a brew when you visit 513 Barton Blvd Rockledge Florida 32955.
Visit the Surf Museum
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Surfing Enthusiasts, Beach Lovers, Cultural Explorers, History Buffs, Museum-Goers
In Cocoa Beach, there is an homage to the culture of surfing. The Florida Surf Museum is home to the artifacts and history that shaped one of Florida’s most treasured pastimes. The museum is dedicated to preserving and chronicling the past, present, and future of this novel sport.
The Florida Surf Museum rotates exhibits and memorabilia and highlights various facets of the sport. From women in surfing to the evolution of surfboards, there is plenty of heritage preserved in these walls.
If you’re in the market for some surfer chic looks stop into the Ron Jon surf shop, a corporate sponsor of the museum. The flagship location in Cocoa Beach is the largest surf clothing store in the world.
Kayak in the Rivers
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Fall to Spring (October to April)
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Kayaking Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Adventurers, Wildlife Watchers
Cocoa Beach is also home to two other bodies of water; the Banana and Indian Rivers, allowing for various water adventures and wildlife encounters.
For a kayaking expedition, Cocoa Kayaking has a plethora of experiences to consider. Choose a clear bottom rig to watch the water creatures swim below or the night bioluminescent tour to truly light up the excursion. Venture through the mangroves to spot the stunning sea cows–the ever-gentle manatees–as they float amongst the grass, or search the water for friendly dolphins.
Fin Expeditions is a family-owned tour company that guides you through the rivers. Believing in an intimate experience, groups are no larger than 12. Paddle in the water while you feast your eyes on the sunset. Opt for a fishing tour to catch something delicious. Memories are in the making when you splash through the rivers around Cocoa Beach.
Visit a Local Park
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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Beachgoers, Sunbathers, Surfers, Families Enjoying a Day Out, Picnickers
Swings, climbing frames, walks, and more, parks are great for many reasons. Kids can run wild, parents can unwind and individuals can pack a picnic to pedal through the paths. The best part is they are free and accessible whenever you need them.
Parks have different offerings as well. Several host ramps, kayak launches, horseshoe pits, and fishing docks, while others are ideal for picnics, playgrounds, and beach time.
Swing Through Cocoa Beach
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Spring Break (March to April)
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Adventure Seekers, Nature Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Thrill-Seekers
Channel your inner Tarzan as you soar through the trees. Cocoa Beach Adventure Park takes thrills to new heights with zipline tracks and aerial obstacles. Slide across the vines and crawl through treetops to gaze at the world below. With three different levels, there’s a course for every ability level starting from three years old. Visits last two hours and reservations and strongly encouraged to guarantee your space.
Take Surf Lessons
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Spring to Fall (March to November)
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Surfing Enthusiasts, Beach Lovers, Water Sports Aficionados
Maybe you won’t be Kelly Slater, but you can still learn to carve a gnarly swell. Cocoa Beach offers several opportunities to get your feet on board. Cocoa Beach Surf School provides individual or group lessons for up to eight people ranging from one to three hours. School of Surf helps you conquer the sea with sessions of up to two hours either privately or with a group. These locations also have rental options to keep you rolling over the waves.
Wave Masters Surf School is another option to get in on the surf scene. Or visit good ol’ Ron Jon Surf School to get started. No matter where you choose, these wave catchers will get you started so you continue your quest for World Champion Surfer glory.
Watch a Rocket Launch and Visit the Kennedy Space Center
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Winter Months (December to February)
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Space Enthusiasts, Science Lovers, Families With Curious Children
It is nicknamed the Space Coast for a reason. Rocket launches occur frequently in Florida. Kennedy Space Center is just under 30 minutes from beaches, meaning there’s always a good view. Camp out from your hotel and see the trail left behind as the rocket rises beyond our hemisphere.
Visiting the Kennedy Space Center campus is a must when in Cocoa Beach. The complex is full of history, paying tribute to the pioneers who broke through the exosphere and future goals to go beyond. Behind-the-scenes tours on rocket launches show how much detail is required for a ship to launch—former space crafts on display tower in their otherworldly glow. You may even have the chance to chat with an astronaut for true insight into life among the stars.
And for the space fanatic, make it the ultimate viewing experience by reserving a seat to watch the spacecraft lift off…from the launch area. With three options to witness rockets take off–the main visitor complex, the Banana Creek Launch viewing area, and the LC-39 Observation Gantry, the options are plentiful and the memories priceless. Don’t forget your noise-canceling headphones.
