Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral are two of Florida’s most popular destinations, offering a unique blend of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and space exploration experiences. As a local expert, I’m excited to share the top attractions, activities, and practical information to help you plan your perfect castles touring adventure.
Cocoa Beach: A Beachgoer’s Paradise
Cocoa Beach is renowned for its 6 miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beaches, with excellent public access points throughout the city. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beach activities, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and beach volleyball. The Cocoa Beach Public Beach Access points provide convenient amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it easy to spend a full day soaking up the sun and sand.
Exploring the Banana River Lagoon
One of the must-do activities in the Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral area is exploring the Banana River Lagoon. This protected waterway is home to a diverse array of marine life and wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can take guided boat tours or rent kayaks and paddle through the serene waters, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
No visit to Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral would be complete without a trip to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. This world-class attraction offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history and future of space exploration. Visitors can see rockets up close, tour launch pads, and even witness live rocket launches (when scheduled). The complex also features interactive exhibits, IMAX theaters, and the chance to meet astronauts, making it a must-visit for space enthusiasts.
Port Canaveral: A Bustling Cruise and Fishing Hub
Located just a short drive from Cocoa Beach, Port Canaveral is Florida’s fastest-growing port, offering world-class cruise terminals and a thriving deep-sea fishing industry. Visitors can book affordable cruises to exotic Caribbean destinations, or they can charter fishing boats and try their hand at catching a variety of marine species.
Iconic Cocoa Beach Pier
The Cocoa Beach Pier is a beloved local landmark, stretching 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean. This iconic structure is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and boutiques, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can stroll along the pier, enjoy the stunning ocean views, and even try their hand at fishing.
Retail Therapy at Ron Jon Surf Shop
No trip to Cocoa Beach would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Ron Jon Surf Shop. This 24-hour surf shop is the largest of its kind, offering an extensive selection of beach-related gear, apparel, and souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for the perfect swimsuit, a new surfboard, or a unique beach-themed gift, Ron Jon Surf Shop has it all.
Cocoa Beach Skate Park
For adventure seekers, the Cocoa Beach Skate Park is a must-visit destination. This state-of-the-art skate park features two deep bowls, a half-pipe, and a grassy area for spectators. It’s a popular spot for local teens and visitors looking to test their skateboarding skills.
Outdoor Outfitters: A1A Beach Rentals
A1A Beach Rentals is the leading beach, bike, surf, SUP, kayak, boating, and fishing outfitter in the Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, and Port Canaveral area. They offer the lowest prices on the beach, with delivery and guaranteed service, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.
Exploring the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse
While the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse is generally not open for public access, the Cape Canaveral Lighthouse Foundation offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the history and significance of this historic landmark.
Brevard Zoo: A Family-Friendly Adventure
For families and animal lovers, the Brevard Zoo is a must-visit attraction. This zoo offers a variety of activities, including Treetop Trek, guided kayak tours, and the chance to feed giraffes and lorikeets. It’s a great option for those looking to explore the region’s diverse wildlife.
Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures
Adrenaline junkies will love Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures, an aerial park that offers 48 unique challenges set in a canopy of beautiful live oak trees. This is the perfect activity for adventure seekers and those looking to test their problem-solving skills.
With so many exciting attractions and activities, Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral are the perfect destinations for castles touring enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the great outdoors, or immerse yourself in the world of space exploration, this vibrant beachside community has something for everyone.
References:
– City of Cape Canaveral Local Attractions
– Visit Florida: Cocoa Beach
– City of Cocoa Beach