Cocoa Beach Pier, a renowned landmark on Florida’s Space Coast, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of the Atlantic Ocean. As a popular tourist destination, the pier provides easy access to the stunning Cocoa Beach, allowing you to immerse yourself in the coastal lifestyle and enjoy a variety of activities and amenities.
Accessing the Cocoa Beach Pier Beach
The Cocoa Beach Pier is located in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The city of Cocoa Beach operates several parks with parking and beach access, including Alan Shepard Park, Sidney Fisher Park, Lori Wilson Park, and Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park. These parks offer a range of facilities, such as picnic areas, restrooms, showers, and even lifeguards on duty year-round.
Alan Shepard Park
Alan Shepard Park is a popular choice for beachgoers, with over 300 parking spaces for both cars and recreational vehicles. This family-friendly park provides a convenient access point to the Cocoa Beach Pier and the surrounding coastline.
Sidney Fisher Park
Sidney Fisher Park offers approximately 200 parking spaces and is a great option for those looking to enjoy a day at the beach. The park features picnic pavilions, a playground, and a parking fee of $15 for cars and RVs.
Lori Wilson Park
Lori Wilson Park, operated by Brevard County, is a 20-acre, ocean-front park with 274 parking spaces for cars and RVs. The park boasts a boardwalk, restrooms, and even a dog park, making it a versatile destination for visitors.
Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park
Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park is a 2-acre, ocean-front park maintained by Brevard County. It offers bathrooms, showers, and picnic areas, providing a comfortable and convenient access point to the Cocoa Beach Pier.
In addition to the parks, the City of Cocoa Beach also provides parking at 40 stub-end streets, east of A1A, with direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. Each street has a dune to cross over, metered parking spaces, and a litter barrel, making it easy for visitors to find a spot and enjoy the beach.
Surfing and Fishing at Cocoa Beach Pier
For those interested in surfing or fishing near the Cocoa Beach Pier, it’s important to note that both residents and non-residents must have a license to surf fish in Florida. A general saltwater fishing license is required, while residents can obtain a free license for shore fishing.
The Cocoa Beach Pier is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting both experienced and novice surfers from around the world. The pier’s location and the unique wave patterns created by the structure make it a prime spot for catching some of the best waves on the East Coast.
Amenities and Facilities at the Cocoa Beach Pier
In addition to the beach access and parking options, the Cocoa Beach Pier offers a variety of amenities and facilities to enhance your visit. The pier is home to several restaurants, bars, gift shops, and live musical entertainment, providing a lively and vibrant atmosphere for visitors.
The pier also offers beach rentals, including umbrellas, chairs, and other beach gear, as well as fresh water showers and regulation beach volleyball courts. With lifeguards on duty year-round, visitors can enjoy a safe and comfortable day at the beach.
Conclusion
Cocoa Beach Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the iconic Florida coastline. With its convenient beach access, diverse amenities, and world-class surfing opportunities, the pier offers a unique and unforgettable experience for beachgoers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, catch some waves, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, the Cocoa Beach Pier is sure to leave a lasting impression.