So you’re planning a visit to Cocoa Beach and you’re not sure what to do when you get there? Have no fear—we’re here to help with 20 things worth adding to your itinerary.
Located along Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach offers much more than beautiful Atlantic beaches. You can learn to surf, explore local attractions, see Florida wildlife and even experience America’s space program nearby.
In this guide, we’ll explore 20 of the best things to do in Cocoa Beach, plus how ACE Luxury Transportation can make your trip easier with private transportation from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Cocoa Beach.
20 Things to Do in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, couples getaway or a few extra days before a Port Canaveral cruise, there are plenty of ways to experience Cocoa Beach and Florida’s Space Coast.
1. Spend a Day at Cocoa Beach
Start with the reason most people come: miles of Atlantic shoreline where you can swim, sunbathe, walk the beach or simply enjoy Florida’s coastal scenery.
2. Visit the Cocoa Beach Pier
The historic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier extends over the Atlantic and has been a Cocoa Beach landmark for more than 50 years. Visitors can enjoy dining, drinks, fishing, surfing and panoramic ocean views.
3. Take a Surf Lesson
Cocoa Beach is one of Florida’s best-known surfing destinations. Local surf schools offer lessons for beginners, families and experienced surfers looking to improve their skills.
4. Shop at Ron Jon Surf Shop
Cocoa Beach is home to Ron Jon Surf Shop’s famous 52,000-square-foot flagship store, packed with surfboards, beachwear, swimwear, souvenirs and beach gear.
5. Visit the Florida Surf Museum
Located at the Ron Jon complex, the Florida Surf Museum explores the history, culture and people who helped shape Cocoa Beach’s surfing legacy.
6. Explore Downtown Cocoa Beach
Head to Downtown Cocoa Beach for colourful murals, locally owned boutiques, coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants and tiki bars, all within easy reach of the beach.
7. See the Kelly Slater Statue
Snap a photo with the statue honouring Cocoa Beach native Kelly Slater, the legendary professional surfer who has won 11 world surfing titles.
8. Visit Kennedy Space Center
Nearby Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex lets you explore NASA history, see Space Shuttle Atlantis, learn about the Apollo missions and discover the future of space exploration.
9. Watch a Rocket Launch
Cocoa Beach offers some of the Space Coast’s closest beachside launch views. Check the current launch schedule before your trip for the chance to see a rocket lift off.
10. Explore Lori Wilson Park
This oceanfront park offers beach access, boardwalks and picnic areas, making it an easy place to enjoy a quieter beach day.
11. Kayak the Thousand Islands
Explore mangrove tunnels and the Thousand Islands Conservation Area by kayak. Guided tours may encounter dolphins, manatees, wading birds and other native wildlife.
12. Experience Bioluminescent Kayaking
During favourable conditions, nighttime kayak tours on the Indian River Lagoon reveal glowing microorganisms that illuminate the water as you paddle.
13. Take a Dolphin or Eco Tour
Boat and lagoon tours give visitors another way to explore local waterways while looking for dolphins, manatees, turtles and coastal birds.
14. Go Fishing
Try surf fishing from the beach, cast a line from the Cocoa Beach Pier or book a local charter for a day on the water.
15. Play Lighthouse Cove Mini Golf
Lighthouse Cove offers two miniature golf courses, making it an easy family activity when you want a break from the beach.
16. Visit the Museum of Dinosaurs & Ancient Cultures
This three-storey museum features prehistoric exhibits, ancient Egyptian displays and a 46-foot Giganotosaurus skeleton, plus adjoining live reptile exhibits.
17. Try Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures
Climb above Cocoa Beach on aerial obstacle courses designed with different difficulty levels for visitors looking for a more active adventure.
18. Go Parasailing
See Cocoa Beach from above while parasailing over the Atlantic, with views stretching along the coastline and toward the Space Coast.
19. Enjoy Local Seafood and Dining
From casual beachfront restaurants to cafés, seafood spots and lively downtown dining, make time to explore Cocoa Beach’s local food scene.
20. Visit The Wizard of Oz Museum & Van Gogh
Step into an immersive world inspired by The Wizard of Oz and Vincent van Gogh. The Cocoa Beach museum features themed exhibits, memorabilia and immersive digital experiences, offering a unique indoor attraction for families and visitors of all ages.
Private Orlando Airport to Cocoa Beach Transportation
Once your itinerary is planned, the next step is getting there.
ACE Luxury Transportation provides private, pre-arranged transportation from Orlando International Airport to Cocoa Beach hotels and accommodations. Since 1985, ACE has helped families, couples and groups travel throughout Central Florida with professional chauffeured service.
Why Choose ACE for Your Cocoa Beach Airport Transfer?
- Private, direct airport transportation
- VIP Meet & Greet service on eligible reservations
- Flight monitoring for airport pickups
- Child car seats and boosters upon request for eligible vehicles
- Sedans, SUVs, limousines, vans, minibuses and motorcoaches
Book Your Orlando Airport to Cocoa Beach Transportation
From surfing and wildlife encounters to space exploration and days spent beside the Atlantic, there are plenty of reasons to make Cocoa Beach part of your next Florida vacation.
Let ACE Luxury Transportation take care of your private transportation from Orlando International Airport to Cocoa Beach so your vacation can start comfortably from the moment you arrive.
Contact ACE Luxury Transportation
From Orlando Airport to Cocoa Beach, ACE Luxury Transportation makes it easy to begin your Space Coast vacation with comfortable, private and professionally chauffeured transportation.