It’s fair to say that when travelers take time to plan a trip to Cocoa Beach, they often do so with visions of spending countless hours on the sand, soaking up the sun in mind! While this gem of a vacation destination in Florida is certainly a fantastic place to relax, unwind, and savor life on the shoreline, it’s also a prime place to get out and explore at a fast clip when you’re in the mood to adventure. A trip to Cocoa Beach puts those with a passion for lacing up their hiking boots and hitting the Cocoa Beach hiking trails well within reach of great local routes to check out as well as nearby marvels across Merritt Island and Cape Canaveral too. The beauty of hiking your way through Cocoa Beach and the surrounding area is that the exploration can almost always be paired with added excursions like paddling mesmerizing waterways, wildlife watching and more. From puzzles of mangrove tunnels to hiking trails near Cocoa Beach, FL that focus on sand, trees, and a variety of ecosystems in between, hiking here is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. There are plenty of options when it comes to venturing out and the following trails are well worth adding to your itinerary when travel plans next take you this way.
Day 1: Enjoy Cocoa Beach Hiking Through Jetty Park
Those who are looking to pair hiking adventures with access to a full-service beach park too will find what they’re looking for at Jetty Park. This nearby destination is a popular place to enjoy outdoor recreation of all kinds, including hiking at your own pace and taking in the sights. Jetty Park is home to a restaurant and bait shop alongside a bathhouse and restroom facilities. However, you can also take a paved path out to a fishing jetty that extends 1,200 feet into the water. This is a prime place to reward your trek with views of cruise ships going by or perhaps getting a glimpse of a manatee, dolphin, or whale as well. The sand here is scenic and hard enough to enjoy strolling along for about a mile, making hiking enjoyable and easy to customize. If you want to expand your adventure, consider packing a picnic lunch and enjoying a savory moment after you’ve hiked as well. Head toward the on-site campgrounds for a more off-the-beaten path picnic vibe during your visit.
Day 2: Trek Through the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary
Family hiking is at its very best at the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary near Cocoa Beach in Titusville. This sanctuary is part of the Brevard Environmental Endangered Lands initiative and truly offers hikers a magical place to explore and discover at their own pace. Here, you’re sure to encounter a little bit of just about everything from incredible geological wonders to historical sites too. A highlight of your hike through the Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is bound to be the collection of gardens, towering trees, and many creatures that call these ecosystems along the well-marked trails and loops home thanks to the Atlantic Coastal Ridge it encompasses. Don’t forget to drop by the nature center before you go to check out the array of interactive exhibits that highlight the area’s history and habitats. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary is located near Kennedy Space Center and is a must-visit the next time you’re in town.
Day 3: Head Over to the Maritime Hammock Preserve Loop and Hike Your Way to Fun
Stay closer to central Cocoa Beach when you make plans to hike the Maritime Hammock Preserve Loop while you’re here. Found at 1235 North Atlantic Avenue, this preserve is the perfect place for those who are looking to pair their hiking experience with views of lush grasses, palm trees, and shorebird spottings of all types. The loop here is less than a mile long making it a great option when you’re looking for an easy trek or hiking alongside kids or beginners. Feel free to bring your canine companion along for the journey as long as they remain leashed at all times. In the spring, wildflowers are in full bloom along this trail making the experience even more scenic and offering nature photographers some truly tantalizing moments to capture. The loop connects with others in the area if you’re looking to expand your hiking fun.
Book Your Florida Getaway in Style Today
No matter when you make your way to the hiking trails near Cocoa Beach, FL, what your itinerary entails, or how long you have to spare in the name of vacation fun, the team at Stay In Cocoa Beach is here to make sure you have the luxurious accommodations in place to top it all off in impeccable style. Reach out to our team of property professionals today to learn more about booking one of our inviting and elegant area rentals when travel plans bring you this way. We look forward to welcoming you to sunny Florida soon!
