Unique Things to Do in Cocoa Beach, Florida

Beliza
•
Jan 24, 2025

Are you thinking of escaping for a relaxing vacation? If so, stay tuned for the following article. Here, we offer you a summary of some of the things to do in Cocoa Beach, Florida, that will leave you eager to visit as soon as possible. Also, we provide you with a list of essential tips that will help you during your stay. Everything you need to know is here!

Cocoa Beach Pier, Florida, USA

Photo by James Cheney

Things To Do In Cocoa Beach Florida

Visit the Iconic Cocoa Beach Pier

Cocoa Beach Pier is one of the must-see destinations in the region. It extends 243 meters over the Atlantic Ocean and offers spectacular views of the sea and coastline. It is an ideal place to fish, enjoy water sports, and explore gift stores. Enjoy various dining options in a relaxed atmosphere and live music events.

Cocoa Beach is popular for its excellent surfing conditions. Schools offer lessons for beginners and experienced surfers. It is a perfect place to spend the day with friends or family while exploring Florida’s coastal culture.

Cocoa Beach Pier, Florida, USA

Photo by Ginger Jordan on Unsplash

Explore the Kennedy Space Center

Exploring the Kennedy Space Center is one of the things to do in Cocoa Beach, Florida. This launch center for all U.S. manned spaceflight since 1968 offers an in-depth look at the history and future of space exploration.

In the Rocket Garden, you can walk among replicas of historic rockets from the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. The U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame pays tribute to outstanding astronauts with interactive exhibits and artifacts celebrating their achievements. Also, the Shuttle Launch Experience simulates a space shuttle launch, where you’ll experience a realistic feeling of blasting off into space.

NASA Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral, USA

Reinhard Link from Germany, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Shop at Ron Jon Surf Shop Cocoa Beach

Did you know that Ron Jon Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach is considered the largest surf store in the world? It is the chain’s flagship store and has been in operation for over 60 years.

It’s open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. so you can shop at convenient times. It offers a variety of items, including swimsuits and beachwear for men, women, and children; surfboards and related equipment; and accessories such as sunglasses, sandals, hats, and jewelry. In addition, you can find various souvenirs such as key chains, magnets, and decorative items for the home.

Go Kayaking in Thousand Islands Lagoon

The Thousand Islands, near Cocoa Beach, is known for its great biodiversity and attractive landscapes, perfect for kayaking. Several companies, such as Cocoa Kayaking and Fin Expeditions, offer guided tours through the mangrove tunnels. These tours are perfect for spotting wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and various seabirds.

A popular experience is the bioluminescent kayak tour, during which you can watch the water glow in the dark thanks to microscopic organisms. This tour is especially magical during the new moon. Daytime tours also allow you to explore the area’s natural beauty while navigating the calm waters and observing the local wildlife.

Kayak on an unspecified beach

Photo by Benson John on Unsplash

Take a Boat Tour on Banana River Lagoon

One of the best things to do in Cocoa Beach, Florida, is to explore the natural beauty and enjoy the local wildlife on a boat tour of the Banana River Lagoon. Most tours last approximately two hours and explore the entire lagoon and its surroundings. During the tour, it is common to spot dolphins, manatees, migratory birds, and sometimes alligators.

There are several types of tours available, for example, Eco-Tours focused on education about the local ecosystem and wildlife, and bioluminescent Tours during the summer months, to experience the magic of tiny organisms that illuminate the water in the dark. Sunset cruises offer spectacular views as the sun sets over the lagoon, with a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.

Banana River side, Florida, USA

Leonard J. DeFrancisci, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Relax at Lori Wilson Park Beaches

Relaxing at Lori Wilson Park Beaches is another of the top things to do in Cocoa Beach, Florida. The beach has clean, soft sand, perfect for relaxing, making castles, or enjoying the sun. The shallow waters and the waves are gentle, making it a great place for families and surfing beginners.

The park offers several amenities, including 6 dune crossings to access the beach, outdoor restrooms and showers, picnic tables and barbecue grills, a children’s play area, and a beach volleyball court. Park admission and parking are free, and it is open from dawn to dusk.

Lori Wilson Park is part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, where you can observe several migratory and shorebird species. The park has an interpretive boardwalk that allows you to explore native vegetation and coastal ecosystems.

Cocoa Beach at Lori Wilson Park, Florida, USA

Rusty Clark from merritt usland FLA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Join a Dolphin Watching Cruise Tour

A dolphin-watching cruise in Cocoa Beach is a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and observe these animals in their natural habitat. It is an ideal activity for families or groups of friends looking for a unique experience on the Florida coast.

Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours offers daily tours through the islands of Cocoa Beach, where you can observe dolphins, manatees, and various birds. Wildside Tours are known for their interactive, up-close experience with the different species, including frequent sightings of dolphins and seabirds. Cast Away Adventures has a 2-hour tour for you on a comfortable catamaran. Prices are affordable, starting at $40 for adults and $35 for children under 12.

Learn at Cocoa Beach Surf Museum

For surfing and history buffs, visiting the Florida Surf Museum, formerly known as the Cocoa Beach Surf Museum, is an entertaining activity in Cocoa Beach, Florida. The museum has a rich collection related to the history of surfing in Florida, including rare and exceptional surfboards. It also has information about surfing pioneers like Kelly Slater and musicians related to this culture.

Here you can enjoy public events, surf competitions, and activities that encourage community participation. One of its most recognized events is the “Surfing Santas of Cocoa Beach”, which supports local charities.

Visit Historic Cape Canaveral Lighthouse

The Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is a must-see destination that combines history, architecture, and breathtaking views. It stands 46 meters tall and was originally built in 1868 to replace a shorter lighthouse that did not meet navigational needs.

To visit the lighthouse, you must participate in one of the organized tours that offer detailed information about its history and its importance in maritime navigation. The place is ideal for children and offers interesting educational activities for the whole family. In addition, there is a museum featuring exhibits on the region’s maritime history and a gift store where you can purchase souvenirs.

Walk at the Cocoa Beach Boardwalk

A walk along the Cocoa Beach Boardwalk is a special way to enjoy the seaside atmosphere. It runs along the famous Cocoa Beach Pier. It is approximately 800 feet long, providing a pleasant and accessible walk for all visitors.

On your tour, you will find several boutiques and souvenir stores where you can purchase unique souvenirs, beachwear, and surf gear. There are multiple dining options, including restaurants or bars offering refreshing drinks. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes, such as fresh seafood and hamburgers.

Expert Tips for Visitors in Cocoa Beach, Florida

Spring and summer are the best times to visit Cocoa Beach for activities such as surfing and swimming, but it tends to be more crowded. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, visit in the fall or winter, when there are fewer tourists and special events such as Christmas festivities.
Winter has pleasant temperatures (between 15 °C and 25°C), perfect for exploring without the intense heat of Florida’s summer.
Don’t miss the Cocoa Beach Pier. This iconic pier offers spectacular ocean views, shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s ideal for strolling or enjoying the sunset.
The Ron Jon Surf Shop is a must-see destination for surf lovers. This flagship store offers surfboards, beachwear, and souvenirs. It also has fun attractions such as aquariums and waterfalls.
The Kennedy Space Center offers an educational experience about space exploration with interactive exhibits and rocket launches.
Cocoa Beach’s beaches have lifeguard stations. Familiarize yourself with their location for safety while swimming.
Apply sunscreen frequently, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.). The sun in Florida can be very intense.
Bringing glass containers to the beach is prohibited to ensure the safety of all visitors.
During sea turtle nesting season (May to October), avoid marked areas and do not use bright lights on the beach at night.
Rent electric bikes or cruisers to explore Cocoa Beach in a fun and eco-friendly way. It’s a great way to visit places like the Ron Jon Surf Shop or Jetty Park.
Try the fresh seafood at local restaurants. Some recommended places include The Fat Snook, Coconuts on the Beach, and The Tiny Turtle, which offers delicious Caribbean food.
During the summer, join a night tour by kayak or boat to watch the waters glow with microscopic bioluminescent organisms. It is a magical and unforgettable experience.
Book a Banana River Lagoon cruise to observe dolphins, manatees, and local birds.