The Cocoa Beach Pier, originally known as Canaveral Pier, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over six decades. Constructed in 1962 by local businessman Richard Stottler, this iconic structure has evolved into a beloved landmark on the Space Coast, serving as a hub for surfing, entertainment, and tourism.
The Pier’s Humble Beginnings
In the early 1960s, the Cocoa Beach Pier, then called Canaveral Pier, was a vastly different sight than it is today. Stretching 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, the Pier was built with more than 2.5 miles of boardwalk planks and 270 pilings, each 40 feet in length. Interestingly, visitors could even drive their cars right up onto the Pier itself, offering a unique “grandstand seat” for the nearby Mercury, Apollo, and Space Shuttle launches at Cape Canaveral.
The Rise of Surfing Culture
As Cocoa Beach evolved into the “Surfing Capital of the East Coast,” the Pier became the epicenter of surfing activity. It attracted the likes of legendary surfers such as Dick Catri and Cocoa Beach native, 11-time world champion Kelly Slater. In 1963, the first of the original Ron Jon Surf Shops opened directly on the Pier, later relocating to a larger location at its present-day spot on State Road 520 and A1A.
Transformation and Expansion
Over the years, the Cocoa Beach Pier has undergone several transformations and expansions. In 1983, a $2 million remodeling project was undertaken, which included the opening of the award-winning Pier House Restaurant (now known as the Atlantic Ocean Grille). In 1984, the Pier officially changed its name from Canaveral Pier to the Cocoa Beach Pier.
A New Era of Ownership and Revitalization
In the spring of 2014, the Pier was purchased by David Siegel, President and CEO of Westgate Resorts, and his longtime business associate Jim Gissy. Since then, they have invested over $4 million in transforming and redesigning the Cocoa Beach Pier into a family-friendly, world-class tourist attraction. Today, the Pier draws more than one million visitors annually and is home to four restaurants, five tropical bars, gift shops, and boutiques.
Iconic Events and Attractions
The Cocoa Beach Pier has also been the site of numerous iconic events and attractions over the years. The first Easter Surfing Festival was held in 1964, and in the early 1970s, the Pier was home to a bustling dance club called Asylum, which boasted a cosmic lighted dance floor and live rock music. Today, the Pier continues to host immensely popular annual surfing, fundraising, and social events, cementing its status as a beloved and iconic destination on the Space Coast.
In conclusion, the Cocoa Beach Pier has a rich and captivating history that spans over six decades. From its humble beginnings as Canaveral Pier to its transformation into a world-class tourist attraction, the Pier has played a significant role in shaping the culture and identity of Cocoa Beach, Florida.