Cocoa Beach: Address, Cocoa Beach Reviews: 4.5/5
Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach
4.5
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Top ways to experience Cocoa Beach and nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
166 within 3 miles

Pita Paradise
736
157 ft$$ - $$$ • Lebanese • Mediterranean • Greek

Nosh
151
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Japanese • Seafood • Sushi

Nolan's Irish Pub
463
265 ft$$ - $$$ • Vegetarian Friendly

Rock The Guac
372
0.1 mi$ • Mexican • Southwestern • Vegetarian Friendly

Long Doggers
673
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Seafood

Mangia & Bevi Pizzeria Napoletana
139
240 ft$$ - $$$ • Italian • Pizza • Healthy

A N.Y. Pizza House
1,027
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • Sicilian • Southern-Italian • Shojin

Florida's Seafood Bar & Grill
2,344
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Seafood

Sandbar Sports Grill
1,571
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Mexican • American • Bar

Shark Pit Bar and Grill
839
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Bar • Vegetarian Friendly
Attractions
32 within 6 miles

The Dinosaur Store
492
197 ftSpeciality Museums

Florida Surf Museum
43
0.1 miSpeciality Museums

Alan Shepard Beachfront Park
85
0.3 miState Parks • Beaches

Rikki Tiki Tavern
502
0.9 miPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks

The Wizard of Oz Museum
116
1.6 miSpeciality Museums • Art Museums

Cocoa Beach Pier
4,631
0.8 miPiers & Boardwalks

Lori Wilson Park
972
1.4 miParks

Jetty Park Beach & Pier
744
Beaches • Parks

Exploration Tower
527
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers

Brevard Veterans Memorial Museum & Military Museum
147
History Museums
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,749 reviews
Excellent
2,091
Very good
1,120
Average
387
Poor
83
Terrible
68
Casi V
Chardon, OH204 contributions
It was so great for my 11 yo daughter to be able to surf this world-famous beach. The waves were just right and it was a welcomed change for her to be able to walk her board out versus having to swim to the far waves forming. It was also great to have other surfers around with whom she could surf, but my favorite part was the lifeguard shack within yards. They were super attentive, and called everyone out of the water for 30 mins with a shark sighting, which was comforting. The sand is clean and powdery and there are free umbrellas and chairs available. Downside, one must don a mask just to use the restrooms. Great food and shops available right on the pier. It was a great time experiencing this historic site. Parking was $10 and the travel company will pounce on you walking onto the beach to try to sell you a timeshare, but they're friendly enough to wave off. Parking shack attendant was friendly as well. If you get there early you might score a spot on the road for $2.50/hr, which is cheaper if you're not staying long. There are also boards for rent, but we rented one from Ron Jon.
Written November 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ron M
St. Catharines, Canada193 contributions
This is our fourth year holidaying in Cocoa Beach after 10 years on the Gulf side from Treasure Island to Venice. It was great there but becoming too busy and expensive. Here we can stay at an oceanfront condo for two months for the equivalent cost of one month on the Gulf. This area is also quite once you step way from A1Aand even then I can ride my bike on the bike lane from Port Canaveral to Melbourne Beach and yell at only a few cars to get out of my lane. You can walk on the beach for the same distance obviously driving to one of the many parks along the way to try new sections. I also love kayaking the Thousand Island park starting from Ramp Road Park and doing it on your own or going on a group kayak tour to see waterfowl,
flying fish and dolphins and manatee all of which I have seen myself.
For food lovers like ourselves you can walk to great restaurants or drive short distances. Many restaurants have water views too.
We are bringing our grandkids for a visit too.
flying fish and dolphins and manatee all of which I have seen myself.
For food lovers like ourselves you can walk to great restaurants or drive short distances. Many restaurants have water views too.
We are bringing our grandkids for a visit too.
Written March 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Laurie J
Kansas9 contributions
Family
We enjoyed Cocoa Beach! It wasn't very busy at the beginning of June. It was clean and fun to play in the waves. We found a spot to hang out about 1/2 mile north of the pier and a small public parking lot by searching on Google and Trip advisor. Parking at the Pier was $20. 😐
Talked to one of the locals that told us not many locals go to the pier much anymore bc a big development company bought it or the area around it. They didn't like all the changes. We didn't spend anytime at the Pier, it was all about the ocean for us!
Talked to one of the locals that told us not many locals go to the pier much anymore bc a big development company bought it or the area around it. They didn't like all the changes. We didn't spend anytime at the Pier, it was all about the ocean for us!
Written June 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Explore151498
9 contributions
Family
All my daughter wanted to do was go to the beach. My husband drove her there so she could go in the water. when they returned to our hotel she said she had to get in the shower right away. All it took was one look at her to see she had red stuff in her hair. She has very long blonde hair. She said that the water was full of red stuff floating in it. I asked both of them why they didn't get out and they said because there were people in the water. I was a bit furious because water should not have red stuff floating around in it and they both know better that if it doesn't look right it isn't right. It took over an hour for her to get it out of her hair and off of her body. She had to use a hair brush to get it out. After doing some research it appears it is bad for people who have respiratory issues. All I can say is YUCK. Find a different place to go to the beach. It seems to be red algae that kills fish.
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
dennis2go
Alexandria, VA127 contributions
This beach is wide and sandy. Packed sand near the water makes it easy to walk on the sand. Did not see many seashells. Surf was pretty strong with good sized waves. .Lifeguard station covers a section of the beach near the pier.
Did see several beautiful blue jellyfish washed up on the beach which a bit of googling identified as Portuguese Man of War. Definitely to be avoided. Their sting is known to be very very painful. Weather in early Feb 2020 was unseasonably warm, about mid-80s.
We walked near the Cocoa Beach Pier which provides the usual beach businesses on the pier. About a half dozen restaurants and gift shops. There is a $2 fee to go to the end of the pier to either fish or visit the tavern at the end of the pier.
Did see several beautiful blue jellyfish washed up on the beach which a bit of googling identified as Portuguese Man of War. Definitely to be avoided. Their sting is known to be very very painful. Weather in early Feb 2020 was unseasonably warm, about mid-80s.
We walked near the Cocoa Beach Pier which provides the usual beach businesses on the pier. About a half dozen restaurants and gift shops. There is a $2 fee to go to the end of the pier to either fish or visit the tavern at the end of the pier.
Written February 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Becky C
Colfax78 contributions
Where to start?? It was very crowded, and expensive. We paid 20$ for parking. Another $20 to rent an umbrella, which we could only use for a hour or so, then the wind was so strong, the rental company came and pulled all the umbrellas. No close place to use bathroom, or change clothes. There are life guards on duty, so that's a good thing...
Written April 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Joe Mahmuh
1 contribution
It smells like weed, pollution, and cheeseburgers. Not that the last part is a bad thing but the sand was just right to draw a huge dino and write gay in the sand multiple times because Florida!! The pelican restaurant tasted delicious and the view was nice once we left (again the weed smell was horrific). On my way there I saw a bumper sticker that said 'I like women' and another that said 'Joe and the Hoe have to go'. Which was questionable, but overall good time :)
Written April 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JudyLuray_VA_
Luray, VA56 contributions
Couples
We love visiting Cocoa Beach. We find that the beach is clean and everyone we meet is friendly. We were happy that there were plenty of umbrellas and beach chairs to rent at a reasonable price. It is a wonderful beach.
Written July 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Michael W
Edison, NJ784 contributions
We were staying at the Inn at Cocoa Beach so Cocoa Beach was at our front and back doors.
Much of the city of Cocoa Beach is walk-able with many restaurants close together.
The beach itself is beautiful and well maintained, we saw city cleaning crews on the beach early every morning cleaning up.
Although we didn't swim while we were there walking the beach was very enjoyable.
Much of the city of Cocoa Beach is walk-able with many restaurants close together.
The beach itself is beautiful and well maintained, we saw city cleaning crews on the beach early every morning cleaning up.
Although we didn't swim while we were there walking the beach was very enjoyable.
Written January 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jackie H
109 contributions
Solo
Enjoyed a quick trip to Cocoa Beach. Parking was about $2.50 per hour or $10 for the entire day. The water was extremely cold. Bring your own beach chairs. The area that we visited didn't have chair rentals. Not crowded.
Written January 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nate C
Kissimmee, FL
How is the beach now; is it clear; I was thinking about going there tomorrow 8/14/22
Enza M
Schenectady, NY1 contribution
Hello! My husband and I are visiting in a few days and the weather calls for 80% chance of storms one day and 50% the next. Does it typically rain all day in late May or are they showers on and off? Thank you!
WestgateGuestRels
Orlando, FL9 contributions
Hi! Enza, Thank you for reaching out. Typically we receive on and off showers. Hope this information helps.
WorldTraveler0008
Cincinnati, OH21 contributions
Is there an area on the beach more recommended than the other. For example near the pier or stay away from the pier and go south on the beach?
Casi V
Chardon, OH204 contributions
The sharks like the pier area, just beware if you're surfing - body smart. Lifeguards are diligent.
WorldTraveler0008
Cincinnati, OH21 contributions
Hello! 4 of us are looking to visit in May. What is the area walking hot spot, with shops and restaurants.
sskroll
Orlando, FL753 contributions
Along with what was suggested the 16th St Beach parking lot is a great place to go a little out of the main traffic area.
zookeeper30165
Rome, GA123 contributions
What is the closet hotel literally next to the pier?
Laura
Houston, TX10 contributions
There is a La Quinta Inn very close to the pier. Do you have any specific requirements or amenities that are a must? Do you have a budget? How many nights do you need? I know, I’m full of questions, but I’ve learned that those questions help determine the best option for hotels, especially in this strange world we are living in right now. 🙂
I am heading to Florida next week, we are planning one beach day. Is cocoa beach safe for young kids to swim in or would Clearwater on the gulf side be a better option?
183Jerry
Newton, IA136 contributions
I've been to both beaches. This time of year Clearwater on the gulf side is going to be warmer. Next week as long as its not spring break Clearwater will be great. It's overrun during spring break though and too busy. Coco beach is an excellent, clean beach with plenty of access and free parking near Ron Jon Surf shop. Either place will be a joy but from personal experience the water is always warmer on the gulf side. And because its warmer there are different varieties of shells that wash up on shore than coco beach. They are not as damaged as the water might be a bit more rough at Coco. Best to you and travel safe.
Is there a free shower?
WestgateGuestRels
Orlando, FL9 contributions
We do have rinse-off outdoor showers available.
Cassie Hillier
Brandon, Canada3 contributions
Is there a place where you can rent chairs and umbrellas at this beach? If so, is there several vendors or just one?
WestgateGuestRels
Orlando, FL9 contributions
There are chair and umbrella vendors available to rent from.
Barry S
Matlacha, FL2 contributions
Is there public parking?
corollaclub98
Lakeland, FL2,628 contributions
They have paid parking or you have to find parking on the streets legally
Victoria A
Lima, Peru1 contribution
Tours a cocoa beach
Angelo S
Hilliard, OH2,658 contributions
Find Cocoa Beach on Trip Advisor and select the "all Things To Do" menu item. Tours are listed there.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cocoa Beach
- We recommend booking Cocoa Beach tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 Cocoa Beach tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Cocoa Beach:
- (0.10 mi) The Sea Glass Cottage
- (0.11 mi) Stay Aboard The Swell Hotel in a Beautiful Beach-Side Marina
- (0.27 mi) The Inn At Cocoa Beach
- (0.15 mi) Fawlty Towers Motel
- (0.22 mi) Four Points by Sheraton Cocoa Beach
- Restaurants near Cocoa Beach:
- (0.01 mi) Old Fish House Restaurant
- (0.03 mi) Simply Gelato
- (0.03 mi) Pita Paradise
- (0.04 mi) Le Monthi Cafe
- (0.05 mi) Nolan's Irish Pub
- Attractions near Cocoa Beach:
- (0.00 mi) 321 Kiteboarding and Watersports
- (0.01 mi) Ship to Shore Luggage & Gifts Store
- (0.04 mi) The Dinosaur Store
- (0.14 mi) The Florida Key Lime Pie Company
- (0.04 mi) Nolan's Irish Pub