You may have never heard of Cocoa Beach unless you are within the proximity of Orlando Florida. I know I didn’t know much about it.

Although many people say it is not well developed (hence it’s not a big beach city), but it’s still a beautiful beach to visit. 

A little something about Cocoa Beach, Florida.

Located in the outskirts of Orlando Florida lies a smaller beach called Cocoa Beach.

No, this beach isn’t a crazy beach town, but you’ll be surprised it has a lot to offer.

Whether your visiting for a day or 7 days, there is something for everybody to enjoy here. If you just got back from visiting Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, then swing by Cocoa Beach.

Even if you are taking an amazing road trip through the coastlines of Florida, Cocoa Beach will create a memory for you. 

You can find everything from sun, sand, beaches, food, and dining.

It may be that little slice of paradise you need to refocus.

One of the things that Cocoa Beach is famous for is being within distance to Port Canaveral, where the majority of the cruise ships depart Florida.

15 ATTRACTIONS AND THINGS TO DO IN COCOA BEACH, FLORIDA

1.cOCOA bEACH

You cannot disregard the beach. This is one of the things you came here for!

Or at least I would have imagined.

2.Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier

Another very popular area is anything and everything surrounding the Cocoa Beach pier area.

Although you can only walk so far on this beach before reaching the restaurants, It’s still a nice place to walk on.

Though to be honest, the pier itself is more restaurants than the pier.

3. Grab Some Drinks at Rikki Tiki Tavern

Because the pier is mostly made up of restaurants, one of the things you may enjoy is grabbing lunch and drinks at the Rikki Tiki Tavern.

A lot of people love relaxing and catching the sunsets right on the pier.

Who doesn’t love drinks and sunsets? 

4. Lori Wilson Park

This park is actually nestled in the beach itself. It is one of the nicest and cleanest parks that I have been too. I enjoy how the walking distance to the actual beach is very close to it. It comes with a boardwalk, picnic table, two pavilions, restrooms, and even outdoor showers.

If you happen to have a volleyball then bring it along since there are volleyball courts here. Next to it you can find a dog park to even bring your pups! 

5. Walk around the Historic downtown of Cocoa Beach

If time gives I enjoy spending my afternoon exploring the local downtown that this beach city has to offer. Honestly, one of the things that most locals do here is shop around the local boutique stores, ice cream stores, and other shops.

6. Rent a Bicycle

If you really want to get a chance to explore more of the beach and downtown area, then the best thing you could possibly do is rent a bicycle at a local shop nearby.

Usually, you can pay by the hour or by the day. I really enjoy exploring everything including the beach and the downtown area. Getting a bike is the fastest way without having to deal with parking. 

7. Check out the Liberty Bell Memorial Museum

One of the free things to do on this list is to check out this museum. With a lot of history, this museum is composed of Freedom Hall, the story of the Liberty Bell, and the Rotunda of American History.

It is an interesting educational part of history that deserves to be explored. You can visit their site to learn more.

8. Museum of Dinosaurs

Another great museum to explore is the museum of dinosaurs. This place is full of dinosaur fossils where you can learn so much about it. Not only do you get to learn about prehistoric times and civilizations, but also learn about the dinosaurs themselves.

You can find everything from King Tutakkomen’s tomb to the fossil bones of a T-rex.  In addition, they offer a dinosaur store where you can buy souvenirs to take home. 

9. Hang out at the Manatee Sanctuary Park

The Manatee Sanctuary Park has become a place where you can relax, picnic, BBQ, walk your dogs, and enjoy the playground, etc. Because of its location near Banana River, a section that houses and protects the manatee population, you may spot a manatee.

But of course, there are no guarantees. It is still a sweet spot to picnic at. 

10. Exploration Tower

One of the coolest things you can do while exploring Cocoa Beach is to check out the exploration tower. Its unique structure and seven floors of exploration include a gift shop and a food place.

Though there is an entrance fee, it is definitely worth checking out. With the outdoor observation deck, you see cruise ships departing off Port Canaveral or even see a rocket launch!

11. Go Mini Golfing

Mini Golfing has become more popular near beach locations! And with the popularity of the sport, it has become a fun event for anybody. There are plenty of nice mini-golfing places to check out near the beach.  

If you google mini-golfing in the area then definitely find some good ones near the cocoa beach area.

12. Ron Jon Surf Shop

This famous Shop is actually located within distance to Cocoa Beach. They offer everything you could possibly need including swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, or any other beach accessory you can think of.

You never know, you may just forget your most important beach accessory when you land.

It happens to the best of us! This place has you covered 🙂

13. Sea Turtle Preservation Society Turtle Walks

This non-profit organization is making a difference in the world. If you have time to check this place out, it is worth it. Not only are they making a difference in the survival of sea turtles but also protecting them from extinction. 

During sea turtle nesting season they provide guided walks in May, June, and July where they educate you on nesting areas while you’re so close to sea turtles!

14. Window shop at the outdoor mall called The Avenue Viera

If you do enjoy shopping around and exploring, then I highly recommend the outdoor mall called The Avenue Viera. Not only can you enjoy the wonderful fresh air, but you can also enjoy restaurants, a movie theater and more.

During Christmas, you take pictures with Santa if you wish. One more thing about this mall: It is a pet-friendly mall, which means you can bring your dog to walk around.

Though you must follow rules and regulations of making sure you pick up after your dog. Your dog must be leashed and with current vaccinations at all times. It is a must!

15. Shop the indoor mall called Merritt Square Mall

Another place to get some shopping done is called Merritt Square Mall. Though it may be a little further than the Cocoa Beach itself, this place offers plenty of things to meet all your shopping needs.

Everything from JcPenny, Dillards, Macy’s, and Sears. So If you are looking for more of an indoor mall then this is your place to be. 

Other activities in Cocoa Beach Florida

Because Cocoa Beach is like most beaches you can do other outdoorsy activities in the water. I have seen many people, swimming, kayaking, and even paddleboarding here.

There are a couple of local shops that will rent out the equipment for a day. Take advantage since some places are reasonably perfect to create some memories. 

1. Brevard Zoo

One of my favorite places to go to is Brevard Zoo. Though it is a bit further from the beach and you’re looking for things to do, then I suggest Brevard Zoo.

Not only is it a perfect place to enjoy a nice walk there, but you can learn about many species when visiting. When my sister and I went, we enjoy watching the sea otters run around and saw many different bird species including a large alligator. 

2. Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center is a perfect interactive museum that allows you to explore space without actually traveling a million light-years away! Learn everything from space launches, rockets, and even get a chance to meet an astronaut.

If you plan your day correctly you may even experience a launch day! It’s amazing to see the rockets take off!

Conclusion

As you can see there are lots to do in Cocoa Beach. Whether you are here visiting for one day or a week, it doesn’t really matter. What I enjoy most about Cocoa Beach is the low key type of beach it is.

It offers everything from beach, dining, shopping, and anything in between. If you ever go to a beach you know that you’re looking for the best. Cocoa Beach Fl has what you’re looking for.

So after exploring Orlando Florida spends a day at the beach exploring. Not only will you get to have fun but you will also enjoy taking yourself or your family there. There really is a lot to do. 

If you’re looking for other activities outside the Cocoa Beach area then be sure to check out the Kennedy Space Center where you learn about launches and rockets. They have a very informative museum you can enjoy there. 

If you want to enjoy getting some fresh air while you’re at it, then be sure to check out Brevard Zoo.  This was one of my favorite thing to do while visiting. I enjoyed seeing the animals and being a tourist here. 

Finally, Cocoa Beach Florida may not have the white sands of Florida, but it is often considered the top 7 magnificent Florida Beaches to visit closest to Orlando.

So if you’re looking for a Florida beach vacation, then definitely plan for Cocoa Beach. It’s tranquil as it is beautiful.

Have you ever been to Cocoa Beach? What did you do while visiting? Let me know if you have any other places you suggest while visiting. 

About Jess and Jeanette

Jess and Jeanette are two sisters who created Unseen Beaches. This beach travel site was inspired by their family beach vacations while growing up. Helping you discover the best U.S. beach destinations worth visiting, staying, and eating at.