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In a wintry world, the joy found from a summer day can never be overstated, and we at Stay In Cocoa Beach know how lucky we are to live in a place where summer is eternal. We wake every day to warmth, we plan December celebrations on our white sand beaches, and parkas, gloves, and snow boots are foreign words to us. We also know that not everyone is lucky like us, and if your roots are planted in snowy grounds but your dreams are filled with blue seas and the scent of suntan oil, chances are you are planning a vacation over Memorial Day to Cocoa Beach right now, and this guide to celebrating the holiday with us will help those dreams become reality!
The reasons behind this extra day off are more solemn, and your celebration opportunities will also be able to honor those reasons, but first, it is time to do what you have been waiting for since you first booked your holiday hideaway with Stay In Cocoa Beach: Drop your bags in the room you have chosen for your own, don your swimsuit and flip flops, visit the beach gear closet that is in nearly all our escapes, and make your way to the white sand beaches that have been starring in your dreams! Whether this is your first time visiting the water or even if you have been hundreds of times before, the first moment when you cross the boardwalks or walk across the trail that leads across dunes with sea oats swaying in the breeze and suddenly see the horizon open before you is one that never fail to awe. Take in the sight of sand, sea, and sea birds for a few precious seconds before staking your claim on your own section of paradise and spending the day frolicking, relaxing, and savoring the serenity it provides.
As you explore all that makes this part of the world exciting and wonderful, we’d like to take a couple of minutes to discuss a few Florida traditions that will be an important part of your Memorial Day adventures. First, when not at the beach, flip flops and shorts are the uniform of the day, which travelers love because it saves room in their luggage for souvenirs and shells. Secondly, life moves at a slower pace at the beach, and as you meander casually through space centers and aquariums, taking the time to truly examine that space suit worn by heroes or to laugh at the friendly manatee bumping his nose against the glass while appearing to smile, you may notice your blood pressure dropping and the noises in your brain beginning to quiet. The last Florida tradition, however, is the most important, and that is finding a beach bar with sandy floors and views of the sea, something like the Beach Shack located at 1 Minuteman Causeway #2906 in Cocoa Beach, and sipping rum runners on a lazy Saturday afternoon! Beach bars are our favorite tradition, and after this adventure, we think they will become yours as well.
The simple pleasures of life are fading from the landscape of America as we find ourselves too busy to take a walk around the neighborhood on a quiet evening after dinner, having too much on our schedule for a picnic in the park on a Saturday afternoon, and, sadly choosing to sleep in (everyone is tired these days) instead of attending a parade, but on Memorial Day in Cocoa Beach, Florida, that is about to change. Cocoa Riverfront Park, 401 Riveredge Boulevard in Cocoa, is the site of this year’s celebration, offering a parade that snakes through Cocoa Village, a guest speaker, a 21-gun salute, even a moment of silence in honor of all those who sacrificed everything so we could continue to enjoy the freedoms we experience today. Also offering live entertainment and a wonderful time for all, we are so proud that in a world that often forgets Memorial Day is not just the unofficial kick-off to summer, we in the Space Coast never will.
The moments spent enjoying the comforts of our Stay In Cocoa Beach vacation rentals are ones you’ll never forget. The amenities we offer add an extra sparkle to your celebration, and as you enjoy a family barbecue, spend a day hanging by the pool sipping margaritas, or simply sit out on the balcony of your sea escape, watching the action on the beach below, the realization that you are living your best life may be slightly overwhelming. Reserve your favorite condo today and plan a long holiday weekend filled with comfort, luxury, and serenity that can only be found by the sea.
As you begin planning your Cocoa Beach vacation, you may find yourself wondering about the foods that you may be enjoying during your stay. Every traveler loves a taste of the town they are visiting, sampling new flavors that may not exist in their own home towns while appreciating the different views seen out the windows and in Cocoa Beach, of course you will want to dine at restaurants that offer water views. And so you aren’t left to your own device, struggling to find the best spots where the food is fantastic and the views are magical, we at Stay In Cocoa Beach have created this ultimate water view dining guide to the Cocoa Beach restaurants with a view in the area that serves the meals that we crave.
Starting the day off on the right foot is always important and although you may not be used to enjoying breakfasts with a view, Cocoa Beach is filled with dining options that allow guests to blend water views with waffles and egg dishes that will give them the perfect start to another perfect day in paradise. Please note that some of these restaurants may be in our sister towns, not in Cocoa Beach proper.
Although they have discontinued their weekend breakfast hours for the moment, Discovery Beach Café offers beach views and a Sunday Bottomless Bubbles Brunch that will truly make Sunday a fun day. Best of all, reasonable prices will ensure that your vacation budget doesn’t take a huge hit.
Serving breakfast every day from 7 AM until 11 AM, Grills Riverside Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar is destined to become your favorite place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Breakfast is what we want to talk about today and if you happen to wake up feeling especially hungry, Grills will provide. Their Shotgun Start is for the hungriest eaters, featuring a plate filled with eggs, pancakes, your favorite breakfast meats, choice of hash browns, home fries, or grits, AND a choice of toast. The views of the water will serve as a reminder of why you chose Florida as your vacation destination.
Not a lot of thought is put into our lunch hours. At work, we toss a frozen meal into a lunch bag and nuke it until it is tolerable in the middle of the day, and on weekends, we may grab a drive-thru burger in the midst of doing our errands. But on vacation? No one ever talks about how hungry we were after spending the morning at the beach, swimming, surfing, or fishing. We don’t really know where to go when our hike finishes at noon, but we know that if we don’t eat soon no one will be safe from our moods. Stay In Cocoa Beach, however, understands the conundrum, and these lunch spots offer water views that will help you relax while the food works its magic on your energy levels.
Open every day of the week from 11 AM until 10 PM, visitors might want to head back to Coconuts for dinner, but for the moment, we want to discuss lunch. Offering a great place for people watching, the menu is filled with beach foods and southern favorites, including shrimp and grits and island conch fritters, your lunch on the beach will be the site of some of your favorite memories.
Open from 11 AM until 8 PM, Squid Lips isn’t fancy, but its menu is filled with more beach favorites that somehow taste better when enjoyed with water views. Their menu is large, featuring everything from appetizers to desserts, and whether you are simply sipping and savoring their conch fritters, or are down for a full lunch of Oak Grilled Grouper Sandwiches, or are just enjoying a coffee and a piece of key lime pie, your lunch at Squid Lips will satisfy.
Restaurants and young kids don’t always mix so well, but these family friendly restaurants will ensure that every member of your traveling party will feel comfortable and at home as they enjoy water views and an excellent meal.
Open from 11 AM until 10 PM every day of the week, Captain J’s combines sunset views of the water with sandwiches and handhelds that aren’t fancy but are certainly delicious. Their cocktail menu is expansive, and their signature Rum Runner is destined to be your new favorite drink.
Although this cool spot on Cocoa Beach Pier is a bar primarily, they do offer a menu of beach eats and appetizers that are delicious and filling. Crab Cake Sandwiches are always popular, and their tacos come with a variety of fillings including shrimp, grouper, chicken, and beef.
Vacations can also be celebrations of something momentous. A milestone birthday, a destination wedding, even a new job or promotion at work is worthy of celebrating, and when you want to celebrate in style, a fine dinner at a fancy restaurant brings joy and happiness. These restaurants will be an integral part of whatever you are celebrating, offering fantastic food, great service, and of course, those water views you will never tire of seeing.
White tablecloths, sea views, and the best seafood in town are just a few reasons you will want to visit Chart House during your Florida getaway celebration. Sunset views over the water will strike a chord deep in your heart, rising to the service even years later when you think back to this special time and their seafood-centric menu will tickle your taste buds.
This chef-driven restaurant never fails to impress, offering an elegant ambience, flavorful meals, and views that will calm the most frazzled of souls. Sitting on the banks of the Indian River, the vibe is casual, but the service and décor is absolutely top notch, working together to create a dining experience that will never be forgotten.
The quintessential Florida experience involves sand, sea, and sipping your favorite cocktails and these beach bars are known for providing all three, as well as offering quick bites and pub grub on occasion.
While the rest of the world requires shirts and shoes, Longboards Tiki Beach Grille has long appreciated diners and sippers dressed in their beachiest best. Offering an oceanfront deck on which rum runners and crab cake sandwiches will turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary and delicious adventure worth repeating as often as possible.
Cocoa Beach Pier is a prime destination for dining and shopping and Riki Tiki Tavern is one of our favorite examples. Sitting directly on the ocean, the drinks are frothy and tropical, the thatched roof brings up thoughts of the tropics, and because they do offer a limited food menu, visitors can sip and savor some of Florida’s best beachy eats.
Although this guide is about water view restaurants, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention some of the other restaurants that make the Cocoa Beach area shine. We are surrounded by the sea and we promise, after eating your meal you can go back to the beach and revel in the sand and surf, feeling full, satisfied, and eager to experience more adventures. Let’s start with breakfast first.
Closed on Tuesdays and open at 8 AM on the remaining days, Simply Delicious Café & Bakery does not offer false advertising; everything on its menu IS simply delicious. Featuring baked goods, classic egg dishes, and a variety of sandwiches, you really can’t go wrong with a stop here.
Some mornings we wake up hungrier than on others and when that happens during your Cocoa Beach adventures, Whisk & Grind, one of our newer restaurants, is where you should be. Their expansive menu covers almost every breakfast dish you can think of, and their mimosas make it impossible to be in a bad mood.
We won’t lecture anyone on the importance of not skipping lunch, we just encourage you to visit the following restaurants when hunger pangs strike midday.
Long Doggers has long been a Cocoa Beach favorite, providing a laidback vibe and casual foods that include burgers, seafood, and as you might expect, a wonderful selection of foot-long hot dogs! The High Life Dog, topped with bacon, chili, cheddar cheese, onions, and a side of jalapeños is highly recommended.
The guacamole here is fantastic, and so is every other item on the menu at Rock the Guac. Providing counter service and a casual vibe, guests can choose between six different types of meals, including bowls, tacos, burritos, and nachos, and then will continue their order by choosing their favorite toppings.
Food is an international language and the international delights you can consume while on a vacation in Cocoa Beach never ceases to amaze. Here’s a list of some must try international restaurants that will expand your horizons.
Indian food is a spicy treat with flavors that will open your mind to all the possibilities, but if you are worried that it will be too hot, you can crank the heat down as low as you need.
The Pig & Whistle Pub provides the meals you will love and have no problem pronouncing their names. Shepherd’s pie, bangers & mash, even sausage rolls will fill your stomach and feed your soul.
Most people have sampled the wonders of Mexican food, and although we tend to believe that there are no bad Mexican meals, La Catrina does offer proof that there can be some tacos that shine brighter than others.
This next restaurant deserves its own category, providing an elegant dining experience, followed by a comedy show. Gregory’s Steak & Seafood Grille & Upstairs Comedy Club, located at 900 N Atlantic Avenue in Cocoa Beach, is a treat for all the senses and will add sparkle to your Florida vacation. Offering a menu of haute cuisine favorites and winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2023, the only thing better than the meal you will enjoy is the show that will make you laugh harder than you have in years. Gregory’s offers the only professional comedy club in Cocoa Beach and some of the nation’s best comedians have performed on its stage.
Whether you visit just one of the restaurants listed here or decide that all of them are worthy of trying, coming home to the comforts found in our Stay In Cocoa Beach sanctuaries promises to be the highlight of your Florida getaway. Sit on balconies overlooking the sea, sipping chardonnay and snacking on treats you concocted in our fully equipped kitchens, play board games at dining room tables, relax in a hot tub, and sleep deeply in beds where the only acceptable dreams are happy ones. Reserve your favorite Cocoa Beach vacation home or Cocoa Beach condo for rent today!
While we normally take this page to talk to the guests that may be considering renting our Stay In Cocoa Beach vacation escapes, today, we thought we would take a few minutes to share a little advice with the investors who are contemplating purchasing a short-term rental property, perhaps for the first time. Short-term rentals, also known as vacation properties, can be the best way to make a good investment if you know all the things you should do, or they can be a drain on bank accounts and future retirement plans simply because you aren’t sure of what you should avoid. Stay In Cocoa Beach has been in the vacation property management business for a long time, and over the years we have learned more than a few things about the dos and don’ts of short-term rentals, and this guide to Cocoa Beach short term rentals is designed to explore the 10 things you shouldn’t do as a short-term rental owner.
This may sound excessively simple, but we are often surprised at how many investors do not know the vacation rental market. The idea is to make money, to be able to use the rental money you take in for paying off the mortgage and hopefully have some left over for repairs, maintenance, and for saving. Additionally, even if the price sounds right, the ratio of rooms in the space to the rental fees that can be charged is important, and sometimes, even though the price sounds right, too few rooms can lead to far lower rental fees, negating the deal you thought you found. Doing your research can help eliminate this issue as well, and even though house prices right now are skyrocketing, making it a little more difficult to find a good deal, we can reassure you that there are some deals still to be found and remind you that property investment is a long term game to be played. You may not make as much in the early days of ownership, but rents are constantly changing and that can change sooner than you thought.
In beach towns, it is always a bummer when you buy a home with views of the beach, only to discover six months down the line that the open lot in front of your home is being built upon and those views will suddenly be blocked. The loss of the view can seriously impact the money you make, and with a little research before buying, this situation can mostly be avoided, but this isn’t the only problem the neighborhood of your potential rental can cause. Neighbors that don’t understand the importance of taking care of their homes can make guests hesitant to choose your rental, even if yours is pristine and modern. Concert halls, wedding venues, and bars with loud music can make it difficult for guests to sleep, and although it won’t be immediately apparent, eventually renters will scroll right past your listing to ones located in quieter neighborhoods. Doing your research is actually the number one item on our list of all the things short-term rental owners SHOULD be doing.
Today’s travelers are a discerning bunch, no longer willing to accept anything that doesn’t enhance their vacation experience, and as such, they expect more from their vacation homes in Cocoa Beach, FL. They want microwaves, coffee makers, and blenders in the kitchens, they expect air conditioning and ceiling fans in warmer climates, and they require fireplaces (or woodburning stoves) in colder ones. The old tube televisions should be replaced with super-sized Smart televisions, preferably ones from the last couple of years, and if you can afford it, steam showers are an amenity that encourage guests to choose your home or condo. Kitchens and baths should be completely updated with stone countertops, high-end appliances, and fixtures, if you have the room, a bar with a mini fridge or wine refrigerator is always appreciated. And with the advent of technology, keyless entry makes check-in easier than ever, something that today’s travelers appreciate and that can be included under the amenities tab of your listing. Pet-friendly Cocoa Beach rentals are also another convenience that pet lovers will appreciate.
Guests can tell, even from listing photos, if the owner cares enough to provide a clean rental, and if your tub has mold in the grout, the porcelain sink is stained and chipped, and the sofa shows stains, we can promise that your open nights will be more plentiful than the ones in which your property is booked. Long gone are the days of travelers accepting questionable cleaning practices, and after the pandemic, they are more aware of the importance of sanitation than ever before.
If you can’t clean it yourself (and you probably don’t want to), property management companies understand the importance of cleanliness and include cleaning crews as a part of their services. Cleaning the property before and after each guest will actually help increase the profits you make, making guests realize that you care about their health and wellbeing, not just about how much money you can bring in at the end of the day.
Unless you are a professional photographer, avoid taking your own pictures of the property you have purchased. The pictures on the listing are what should grab the attention of potential renters, showing off your property in its best light, and cell phone pics, no matter how updated your phone is, are not capable of doing that. Shadows hide important details, colors come out looking strange, and seeing the photographer in the mirror of the bathroom is always off putting and a sign of a property that is unprofessionally managed. There are even social media sites that make it their job to find the worst pictures, and no short-term rental owner wants to find themselves highlighted on those sites! Professional photographers understand the ins and outs of property photography and their crisp and clear shots will definitely be the attention grabbers you need, showing your rental in its best light.
Luxury amenities attract higher rents, and game rooms, swimming pools, and Cocoa Beach vacation homes with hot tubs can increase your rental intake exponentially. Obviously, if your short-term rental is a condo, you won’t be able to add swimming pools or hot tubs, but if the community the condo is located in offers both, guests will be eager to pay more. Inside the home, wood floors add style, stone counters add elegance, and name-brand appliances last longer as well as showing guests that you pay attention to ALL the details. Do a little research beforehand, reading home magazines or watching home improvement shows on television to determine what is popular and what is not. For example, carpeted rooms are often looked at as dirty, no matter how carefully they are cleaned, so opt for wood, laminate, or tile floors instead. And remember, adding upgrades and amenities isn’t a one and done event; the longer you own your specific property, the more likely you will need to repeat the process, thereby making your property appealing to new groups of travelers.
Most investors purchase properties in areas where they would like to vacation themselves, and while we do expect that you will want to stay there at least a week or so out of the year, if you take up too many nights during prime vacation season, you are eating up your own profits. Additionally, it is always fun to be considered the generous family member, letting your relatives stay there rent free, but remember, this is a business and every night you or family occupy the space, you are possibly turning away renters who are willing to pay full price and your profits will dwindle. At the beginning of each year, sit down with your vacation property management company, and determine what would be the best times to visit with the minimal amount of interruption to business. If you are flexible, you can always take advantage of last minute vacancies, stepping in when travelers are forced to step away, and not lose any revenue that wouldn’t have been lost anyway.
Somewhere along the line, giving guests a long list of chores that need to be done became the norm, even as there have been no lessening of the cleaning fees. It is understandable that you want and need this home to stay in top shape, but remember, they are the guests, not your cleaning crew. It is fine to ask them to put dirty linens in the laundry rooms, to empty trash, or even to make sure the dishes are clean, even if all they do is load and run the dishwasher, but beyond that, it is your responsibility to keep it clean. We have seen instances where required “chores” include mopping floors, cleaning toilets, and vacuuming and if we were renting Cocoa Beach vacation rentals for our own families, we would keep scrolling. Additionally, if you are willing to risk increasing your business and are going to insist on a little more than the basics for your guests, do not expect your guests to accept paying large cleaning fees.
In 2023, it was reported that there are millions of short-term rentals available to people all over the world, with nearly two million of those properties being managed by vacation property management services in the US alone. Now obviously, all of those rentals won’t be located in your specific area, but some areas, more specifically, places with beaches or theme parks such as Cocoa Beach and Orlando, are going to have higher than average competition. This means that every day you own your short-term rental property you need to continue to find new ways to get it seen and SEO work does the job, making it their business to get your property in front of as many people as possible, and successful vacation property management companies know this, helping to build relationships with your current guests as well, seeking repeat business. There are multiple methods of advertising, and to be successful, owners will need to participate in as many methods as possible. The numbers can be scary, but if done right, your property will continue to bring you profit for as long as you own it.
The perfect short-term rental for you may not be in your neighborhood, it may not even be in your state, but that doesn’t mean you should pass it by. Vacation property management Companies can be your best friend, taking care of all the details while you rest easy every night, knowing, especially when you choose Stay In Cocoa Beach, everything that can be done to keep your business running smoothly IS being done. Even if you are lucky enough to live in the same town, neighborhood, or condo building as your investment, it is still wiser to hire a company to manage than to deal with everything yourself. Do you really want to take middle-of-the-night phone calls when storms send limbs through windows, and do you need your short-term tenants knowing that they can knock on your door whenever they think they have a problem? Of course, you don’t, and that is why not choosing a vacation property management company is the number one item on our list of what not to do!
If you have already purchased your property and are finding it difficult to navigate the vacation rental market, following these tips can be a game changer. We at Stay In Cocoa Beach are invested in making you a success. Contact us today for more information to find out all we can do for you.
Traveling over the holidays is a time-honored tradition, as we head off to visit family members that may live in different areas or dip out of family responsibilities in your own hometown, and even though Easter isn’t normally considered a regular traveling holiday, the weather in Cocoa Beach makes it essential that you do. For those who live in colder climates, you may be used to winter storming back in long after spring has sprung, stomping its feet like a sulky toddler, but in Cocoa Beach, spring, and the Easter holiday offer the perfect time to escape the madness back home. This guide to the top ways to celebrate Easter in Cocoa Beach while staying in our holiday hideaways will help you fill every minute with fun, excitement, and of course, more than a few beachy adventures.
You may be used to waking up for sunrise services on Easter morning, and even if you aren’t planning on a church visit during your holiday in Cocoa Beach, watching the sun rise over the sea will make you believe there is a heaven. Stand in awe of the quiet of the night, punctuated by the splashing of the waves, the feel of sand between your toes and cool waters washing over your feet, and the colors that set the sky on fire as the world comes to life all around you. Sunrises can be witnessed every day, but a sunrise on the beach may be the dream you have always aspired to and will be that much more special because you are enjoying it here in Cocoa Beach on the most serene holiday of the year.
As with most holidays, a feast is often at the center of the celebration, but Easter’s meal is different, usually taking the form of brunch. Our Stay In Cocoa Beach holiday hideaways offer fully equipped kitchens in which meal prep can be a fun and joyful experience, but if the thought of doing work on vacation does not thrill, the following restaurants have been known to offer Easter Brunches that will be the highlight of your vacation experience.
Offering a Southern inspired menu filled with a variety of benedicts, Backwater’s make your own pancake griddle tables still involve a little work on your part, but with the delicious results, we don’t think you will mind.
Although their Easter menu may be no different than their standard menu, this is the place you go when you want good home cooking. The menu is the star of the show at Muddie’s Diner offering the breakfast dishes you love the most, including omelets, biscuits and gravy, and Muddie’s deluxe breakfast consisting of eggs, biscuits and gravy, your choice of meat, your choice of potato, and two small pancakes, ensuring that you will start out the Easter holiday well fed.
The Brunch Menu at Flavor Kitchen and Wine Bar offers an elevated dining experience, including such delicacies on its menu as Braised Short Ribs of Beef Omelet and Green Eggs and Ham. (herbs make the eggs green).
If you are traveling with children, their first concern upon learning you were traveling over Easter was probably all about the Easter Bunny and the Easter egg hunts that are an integral part of this holiday. Fortunately, the Easter Fest and Egg Hunt offered by the First Methodist Church of Cocoa Beach will ensure that the egg hunt will go on. Offering lunch, an egg hunt, and photo opps with the Easter Bunny allowing the littles to enjoy the Easter experience to the fullest. Of course, our Stay In Cocoa Beach holiday havens allow parents and kiddos to boil, dye, hide, and find eggs that the surrogate Bunny (Yes, that would be you!) has left behind.
Easter baskets are required by law (or should be, according to our kiddos) and a visit to the Sugar Planet will ensure that your children’s baskets will be well stocked, much to their relief. Located at 5240 N Atlantic Avenue #120 in Cocoa Beach, if you can think of a candy, we are pretty sure this sweet spot will offer it!
Your Easter adventures will be that much more exciting when you spend this holiday with us in Cocoa Beach. Offering luxurious kitchens that will bring you joy if you decide to make Easter brunch at home, state of the art televisions on which you can watch or stream your favorite holiday shows, and serene and tranquil bedrooms where the littles will dream happy dreams of the Easter Bunny, every moment will be your favorite when you choose Stay In Cocoa Beach. Reserve your favorite holiday haven today!
The food truck has come a long way from its humble beginnings, no longer looked at as construction site grub but instead serving up gourmet delicacies that please all the senses. Cocoa Beach has joined in the food truck fan club, and when you find yourself enjoying a Florida vacation from the comfort of our Stay In Cocoa beach escapes, we think exploring a traveling taste of the town with a tour of our food trucks in Cocoa Beach will ensure that you will return home at the end of your stay, missing Cocoa Beach even more than you would otherwise!
Combining humor with deliciousness, Notorious P.I.G. hits all the right notes with its menu filled with, as you can imagine, everything related to the pig and so much more. We try to follow this truck as often as we can, and although we haven’t completely made our way through its menu, we do suggest that hearty eaters try their boneless rib nachos, a take on the standard nachos but created with boneless ribs, cheese, two types of barbecue sauce, sour cream, jalapeños, and scallions.
A prime example of how far the food truck has come in its nearly a century of existence, Bizzle’s Bistro, based out of Melbourne, serves an eclectic menu that includes a pulled pork mac n’ cheese Egg Roll that will quite literally change your life. Their Southwest fish tacos mix south-of-the-border spice with the sweetest fish from local waters, and because they understand that the kiddos aren’t blessed with mature taste buds, they also serve a children’s menu that stars macaroni and cheese.
Taking the ordinary ice cream truck to stratospheric levels of taste, please don’t ask us to choose a favorite treat, as everything we have tried here seems to taste even better than the last one we tried. Serving ice creams with memorable names that include Green Martian with mint ice cream as the star, Cosmic Unicorn created with multi-colored vanilla ice cream, cupcake bites, and whipped cream glitter, every bite is destined to be your favorite.
Offering a Florida twist to a traditional barbecue menu after tasting anything on their menu, don’t be surprised when you instantly agree that the savory delights you are ingesting are definitely more than just good! If you really want your taste buds to cheer, you have to try their Rib Boat, a delicious dish of ribs served with a choice of their homemade barbecue sauces.
Taking food truck food to a new level of yum, Mama’s Blazin Kitchen offers the most versatile menu of them all. Featuring Southern favorites such as fried chicken dinner and pulled pork sandwiches topped with coleslaw, they also offer up some innovative dishes including braised oxtail and grilled lamb chops. If you are a lemonade lover, (and even if you are not) do yourself a favor and order their blueberry lavender lemonade.
When surrounded by the sea you can expect that you will capture something delicious and the seafood tacos at Coastal Kitchen Food Truck are the perfect example. Spicy, sweet, and oh so very tasty, their tacos are divine and their bowls are equally wonderful.
Into every life a savory pizza should be enjoyed, a motto in which Nunzi’s Wood Fired Cuisine firmly believes. Offering a selection of Argentinean food as well as their wood-fired pizza that will make you thankful that Raffaele Esposito decided to mix cheese, sauce, and dough together all those hundreds of years ago, creating what is thought to be the world’s very first pizza.
The world is made up of very different types of diners, and although the majority, being carnivores, will love the sliders offered from Peep N’ Tom’s, the vegetarians ad vegans of the world often are overlooked. This gourmet food truck, however, welcomes diners of all varieties, adding many vegan and vegetarian dishes to their menu. Kale Yeah, a simple bowl of sauteed kale served with avocado, tomato, and beer cheese, a Bean n’ Kale slider made with black bean and kale and topped with cheddar cheese, avocado, and citrus aioli, and their Bean’s Basket, fries topped with the bean and kale patty, are just a few of our favorite examples.
All of this talk of food is definitely making us hungry, and even if you aren’t in Cocoa Beach yet, we suggest running out and discovering what food trucks make your own hometown special, holding you over until your unforgettable Florida vacation. And when you do arrive, no matter which of the food trucks in Cocoa Beach you choose to frequent, bringing your food back to your Stay In Cocoa Beach escape will be the highlight of your vacation. Reserve your favorite hideaway today!
When you are tired of being cold and you miss the sunshine, even as it sparkles from your Valentine’s eyes, it is time to make your way south for the most romantic day of the year. Wondering how far south? We at Stay In Cocoa Beach think heading straight to our town and our beautiful and romantic love nests should be just far enough and this guide will help you fill the seconds, minutes, and hours of Valentine’s Day in Cocoa Beach with love, fun, and excitement!
Real life is exhausting, and traveling many miles doesn’t make you any less tired, although it may not seem romantic at first, we can promise the benefits of a “lie-in” are wonderful on every level. Even if you are awake, snuggling under the softest linens, talking about the plans for the day ahead, and just delaying the ultimate moment of having to place your feet on the floor next to the bed, these early moments will be the ones you return to in your mind on the crazy days that lie ahead in real life.
While most people concentrate on dinner as the romantic meal of the day (and we will have some suggestions for that, later down the page) we see breakfast as offering another opportunity for a meal filled with love and emotion. Maybe this will be the day you start a new tradition of serving your Valentine a breakfast in bed, being sure not to forget the mimosas, or maybe a Valentine’s Day brunch is what makes both your hearts beat a little quicker. If the former is your favorite idea, our fully equipped kitchens will help the meal-making process go smoothly even if you do nothing more than serve donuts and mimosas. For a love-filled Valentine’s brunch, Whisk & Grind, located at 410 N Atlantic Avenue, offers a hearty menu of your breakfast favorites, all designed to fuel up your bodies in the most delicious of ways.
As the sun shines down on your adventures for Valentine’s Day in Cocoa Beach and warm temperatures invite you to keep the heavy coat you traveled in hanging in your closet, not be used until your return to reality, the waters that make Cocoa Beach such a beloved vacation destination may be calling and our first sea-themed adventure will take place a board a couple of colorful kayaks. Rent your own from Cocoa Kayaking, 5000 Tom Warriner Boulevard, following the maps or instructions provided by helpful staff or let the knowledgeable guides at Fin Expeditions lead you to the best spots on the water. Located at 599 Ramp Road, their sunset tours will give you yet another romantic adventure.
One of our favorite couple’s activities is a massage and Cocoa Beach Spa, (321) 613-2943 is known for having the best hands in the business. Serving Cocoa Beach for over 15 years, their couple’s massages are completed with soft music, aromatherapy, and steamed towels in a room built for two. The beds will be side by side and as you lose yourself in the moment, a quick glance, a quiet comment, and the sighs that can be heard from both of you will serve as reminders that you are not alone.
Now is the time to discuss the most beautiful way to end a day of love and romance, and of course, we are talking about the Valentine’s Day meal. There are, in our minds, three requirements for a perfect holiday meal: The food should be local seafood, the meal should include views of the sun setting over the sea, and your Valentine should be sitting in the chair across from you. We all remember the days when we would share a booth with our loves, but the reality is you want to look in their eyes with every bite, and you just can’t do that when sitting side by side. Our favorite romantic restaurant brings us back to Cocoa Beach Pier, Pier 62 Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar, which offers a patio that looks over the sea, (see requirement number 1) fresh seafood harvested from the waters around the pier (requirement two can be checked off) and of course, your Valentine staring across the table at you with stars in her eyes.
Now, except for the couple’s massage and the kayak tours, all the above activities can be enjoyed by just the two of you in the love nest you chose to make your own. Fully equipped kitchens invite lovebirds to create meals together, comfy couches placed in front of state-of-the-art televisions encourage watching Hallmark movies together, and patios and balconies staring out on the most beautiful of views offer the best sightings of the Florida sunset. Reserve your favorite escape today!
As we pack away another year with the Christmas decorations and toss out the negativity with the last of the empty champagne bottles, many people in the world are starting to feel a little blue. Fortunately, many of our Stay in Cocoa Beach favorite people have included the resolution of traveling more, and what could be a better way to liven up 2024 than with a winter getaway to the tropical paradise of Cocoa Beach? This guide to kicking off the new year with a fabulous Florida vacation in Cocoa Beach will help bring the color back into your life!
Now, for the most part, we are going to encourage our guests to take this time to relax and savor some really important downtime before diving back into their busy schedules that accompany real life, with this one exception. The Game On! Run for Responders 5K benefits Survive First, a charity that supports first responders during their most stressful times. After all the calories consumed through the holidays and all the extra food you will be dining on during your stay in Cocoa Beach, you will also be crossing another resolution off your list, the one about working out more, while you participate in this worthy event. Costing $35 for adults and $25 for children, costs will go up after January 4th, so register online today.
After the run, you and your family will be more than ready to come back to your seasonal sanctuary to rest, relax, and recuperate from the steps you put in, and if a nap seems like a good idea at the time, we encourage you to go for it. Whether you lie back on super soft sofas with the television providing a little background noise to help make the transition easier or you go all out, slipping out of your street clothes and sliding between the silky soft linens that top our premium beds, this week of fun deserves to be filled with a plethora of naps. When was the last time you had the luxury of sawing z’s for a few hours in the middle of the work week? During your escape to Florida you will have all the luxury in the world, napping whenever you want!
The Brevard Zoo, located at 8225 N Wickham Road in Melbourne, offers a chance to slow down the pace a bit as you introduce your kiddos to the joys of a day at the zoo. Home to over 900 animals that represent nearly 200 different species from all over the world, they offer a variety of events, animal encounters, and the opportunity to explore the importance of zoos and how they preserve wildlife, this charming animal habitat also features a sea turtle healing center to help the endangered species not just survive in difficult times but to thrive and hopefully be removed from the endangered rosters.
Relaxation is key to a successful Cocoa Beach getaway and if your moments of relaxation are accompanied by tropical beverages, all the better. Rikki Tiki Tavern, located on a pier at 401 Meade Avenue, offers an exciting way to sip a cool drink as you savor the sun setting over the sea. Winter temps in the 70s allow for outdoor seating on its patio and a full menu of seafood-centric and land lubbers meals will encourage leisurely meals and repeat visits. Be sure to take a selfie under the colorful Cocoa Beach pier sign while you are here, but remember, you don’t have to go far to enjoy your sipping and savoring experiences. All our Stay in Cocoa Beach escapes provide balconies, patios, and decks that invite you to do the same thing you would do at Rikki Tiki Tavern while staying at home in your comfiest clothes! (minus the selfie at the Cocoa Beach pier sign, of course)
Cocoa Beach lies in the heart of the Space Coast and if you have the time, a visit to Kennedy Space Center is destined to bring you magical memories. Explore Rocket Gardens where full-sized rockets from previous launches are planted, visit the US Astronaut Hall of Fame, and walk in the footsteps of all the heroes who have dedicated their lives to the exploration of the final frontier. This adventure is a family-friendly one guaranteed to create memories that your tiniest travelers will remember their entire lives and may even become a new family tradition as you return in 2025, 2026, and every year after, just to explore all the Kennedy Space Center offers.
2024 is looking brighter with each new plan you make, starting with choosing Stay in Cocoa Beach for your first vacation in Cocoa Beach of the new year!
Time speeds by whether we want it to or not, and right on schedule, the end of the year has arrived, and it is time to start looking forward to what the new year has in store for us. Could there be a promotion in your future, a new member of your family joining in, or could travel to places that stay warm in the darkest depths of winter be what makes 2024 great for you? We at Stay In Cocoa Beach believe the best way to manifest what you dream about is to spend New Year’s Eve doing it, and as such, we have created this guide to ringing in the new year in our tropical paradise!
There are a lot of parties and celebrations taking place on New Year’s Eve in the Cocoa Beach area and whether you are planning on attending them all or simply want to stay home in your holiday hideaway watching the ball drop over Times Square, the best way to start this last day of the year is by starting out early and making the day last as long as possible. Rise with the sun for an early morning walk on white sand beaches, watching the world come alive around you. Take these quiet moments to breathe, to contemplate the year ahead, and perhaps, to even start your list of resolutions, and then, once the sun has completed its morning journey, head back to your comfortable bed and grab at least a couple more hours of sleep. Today is going to be a long one and you can never be too rested!
The final day of 2023 should be spent doing the things that feel good for your soul and although normally kitchen chores would not be a part of that, for many travelers, preparing a meal that should bring luck to the new year is a tradition they wouldn’t skip. Fortunately our fully equipped kitchens are cheerful spaces filled with light, cheer, and modern appliances that will make your annual preparation of Hoppin’ Johnnie a breeze to complete. Stop by the Publix to pick up the ingredients you need (black eyed peas, rice, and pork) and spend a happy hour or so working towards a future filled with luck and prosperity.
After the lucky meal has been prepared and tucked away in the refrigerator, waiting to be enjoyed on the first day of 2024, it is time for a little more toes in the sand time. The weather in Cocoa Beach in December encourages beach going, rarely dropping below 70 degrees, and as the ocean waves crash against sandy shores, the fine white granules of sand gather between your toes, and the sun shines down brightly overhead, you may find another nap is in store, this one refilling the coffers of your soul with peace, serenity, and joy.
Cocoa Beach on New Year’s Eve can be a crazy place to play and we are just going to list a few places below, to give you an idea of the fun you can have on this very last night of 2023.
Not everyone wants to fight traffic and worry about designated drivers and if you choose to stay in on this beautiful night, you can expect to have the best night of the year! Dine on Hoppin’ John or just pick up a bunch of appetizers from Publix and savor the flavors of a bunch of different tastes. Watch the ball drop over Times Square on state-of-the-art televisions from the comfy coziness of our plush sofas. And raise a toast to 2024, sharing the moment with your favorite traveling companions. Reserve your favorite Stay In Cocoa Beach holiday haven today!
The magic of Christmas is not dependent upon blankets of snow and colorful mittens, especially as winters tend to feel as if they go on and on and on. Perhaps your idea of the perfect holiday involves sunny skies, palm trees swaying in sea breezes, and afternoons spent on beautiful beaches while your nights are filled with the happiest of holiday dreams. The latter isn’t just a dream that helps you get through the coldest days of winter; it can be a Christmas reality when you choose to visit Cocoa Beach and our beautiful Stay In Cocoa Beach holiday hideaways for your Noel celebrations. This guide to the top reasons to spend Christmas in Cocoa Beach, Florida will help you see that dreams really do come true in paradise!
Holiday traditions are important, and if seeing The Nutcracker live is one of your traditions, and you are planning on arriving in Cocoa Beach a little earlier in the month, planning a night out at our historic Cocoa Beach Playhouse will let you keep this very important tradition. Offering four nights of fun and magic, the Galmont Ballet’s rendition of this holiday favorite will bring you to tears and as you and your family watch young Clara dance her heart out, your Christmas spirit will be renewed.
With temperatures hovering in the 70s and the turquoise waters matching the air temps, you too can enjoy a Merry “Beachmas” with all the trimmings—and by trimmings we mean golden sands, turquoise waters, and fire in the sky every evening at sunset. Swimming, snorkeling, or simply laying back on your beach towel, your new earbuds that were under the tree just that morning, playing your favorite tunes. Leave the snow shoveling to your family and friends back home and shovel sunshine in Florida, knowing the only salt you will come across is the salt on the rim of your margarita glass.
You have options. You can lug wrapped presents with you cross country, hoping that TSA doesn’t think your gifts look suspicious, or you can spend the days leading up to the holiday shopping in local stores. We think the answer to that dilemma is quite clear, and when you shop till you drop in Cocoa Beach you will always find the gifts that will make recipients cheer, especially when you choose the shops we have listed below.
• Banana River Square, 2005 N Atlantic Ave – Offering an assortment of shops and restaurants in historic storefronts. You’ll find something for everyone to enjoy in these small businesses.
• Cocoa Beach Harley Davidson, 3670 N Atlantic Avenue – The Biker in your life will be thrilled to receive a Cocoa Beach tee shirt (or poker chips, hats, even watches and earrings) from the Harley Davidson Store.
• The Avenue Viera, 2261 Town Center Ave – Visit some of the classic stores like Bath & Body Works, Kohls, and Lululemon to get the crowd-pleasing shopping experience. Then try some lesser-known stores such as Talbots, Thrive Local, and Belk.
• The Florida Key Lime Pie Company, 102 Dixie Lane – Ok, this last store is more of a gift for everyone, offering the best tasting pies in the state. In our humble opinion, Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas in Cocoa Beach, Florida without this delicacy ending the meal.
Of course, we all know that for our kids, it’s a visit to Santa that helps keep the magic of the holiday alive, and while you are doing some more holiday shopping at the Merritt Square Mall, why not set aside some time for a visit with the jolly old elf himself? Appearing at the mall every day from November 30th through Christmas Eve, the bearded wonder can get a little busy so reservations are recommended and can be made here. Offering a guaranteed spot on Santa’s lap, those who make reservations can also expect a phone call from the North Pole and enjoy free access to My Photo (where your special pic will be uploaded to) the entire season.
The spirit of Christmas is in all of us and can be strengthened by the traditions you keep, many of which will take place without leaving the comfort of our Stay In Cocoa Beach holiday hideaways. Binge-watch all the new Hallmark Christmas movies on televisions offering pictures so clear, you may feel like you are a part of the story playing out on the screen. Sip eggnog on the balconies of your beachfront escape, watching the sun sink into the sea as your children practically vibrate with excitement in anticipation of the late-night visitor you will welcome after all have gone to sleep on Christmas Eve. And dream happy dreams in cozy bedrooms, anchored by soft beds topped with even softer linens. Every Christmas dream can come true when you choose Stay In Cocoa Beach. Reserve your favorite property with us today!
Welcome to the sun-kissed paradise of Cocoa Beach, Florida, where Thanksgiving transforms into an extraordinary coastal celebration. As the holiday season approaches, we invite you to indulge in a unique Thanksgiving experience, drenched in the warmth of the Florida sun and the embrace of the Atlantic Ocean. This year, Thanksgiving 2023 in Cocoa Beach promises to be a delightful journey filled with delicious feasts, exciting activities, and a vibrant community spirit. Get ready to bask in the sun, savor mouthwatering cuisine, and create unforgettable memories. Our guide to Cocoa Beach Thanksgiving in 2023 will unveil a world of festive possibilities that will make this holiday truly special.
Cocoa Beach’s allure is undeniable, thanks to its year-round sunshine. Even during Thanksgiving, when much of the country is bundling up against the cold, Cocoa Beach remains kissed by the sun. With temperatures hovering in the pleasant 70s, you can leave your winter coats behind and opt for swimsuits and flip-flops. Here, you can savor your Thanksgiving feast with the gentle sea breeze on your skin and the serene sound of the waves in your ears. The sun-drenched shores await you for leisurely walks, sunbathing, or adventurous water sports.
When it comes to dining, Cocoa Beach doesn’t disappoint. The local culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Thanksgiving dishes and fresh seafood. You can choose to relish the classic turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce or opt for the catch of the day from the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you prefer a cozy family meal or a beachfront dining experience, you’ll find numerous options to satisfy your palate.
One of the best options for where to eat for Thanksgiving dinner is the Radisson at the Port’s Gather and Give Thanks meal. Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving fare served buffet-style with turkey and other meat options, sides, and a full dessert buffet prepared by their gourmet chefs. Reservations are required for this dinner option so make sure you make yours today. There are three seating times for you to choose from, 12 PM, 2:30 PM, and 5 PM. The cost for this dinner is $44 for adults, $24 for children, and %10 off for military. Also, note that a %22 gratuity will be added.
There are a variety of Thanksgiving-specific activities and events happening in the area. Including the Space Coast Marathon on November 26th which takes place along the Cocoa Village, this event is perfect for those wanting to get active after your Thanksgiving meal. Another event to check out is the Cocoa Beach Art Show which is taking place over Thanksgiving weekend. There will be something for everyone at this event as there will be a variety of vendors, food trucks, and live music. Also make sure you check out the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning and the 4th Annual Gobble Wobble Party happening the night before Thanksgiving.
In essence, Thanksgiving in Cocoa Beach, FL, is about embracing the extraordinary. It’s a chance to break away from the conventional and experience the holiday in a truly unique setting. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, culinary delights, artistic exploration, or simply a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Cocoa Beach has it all.
When it comes to making the most of your Thanksgiving holiday in Cocoa Beach, our vacation rentals are your ultimate home away from home. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or simply a peaceful retreat, our properties offer a host of features and amenities designed to make your stay extraordinary.
First and foremost, our vacation rentals lie in the heart of Cocoa Beach, ensuring that you’re never far from the action. From the moment you step outside, you’ll find yourself mere moments away from the sun-soaked shores, vibrant local culture, and exciting activities.
Our properties also boast spacious and comfortable interiors, providing ample room for families and friends to come together and celebrate. You’ll enjoy fully equipped kitchens, perfect for whipping up a traditional Thanksgiving feast or trying your hand at fresh seafood dishes with a local twist.
Most of our rentals offer stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach, so you can start your day with the sound of the waves and breathtaking sunrises. Plus, private balconies and outdoor spaces are ideal for savoring your Thanksgiving meal while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
That said, Cocoa Beach, Florida, promises an extraordinary Thanksgiving experience. With sun, surf, and a vibrant community spirit, this coastal paradise is the perfect backdrop for holiday memories. You can talk to us to book your stay in our vacation rentals now and savor the magic of Thanksgiving in Cocoa Beach.