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The year-round sun and warm temperatures of Florida’s coastal towns make them an ideal destination for your getaway, no matter what time of year you come. There are several coastal towns to choose from, but surf buffs and space buffs will want to set their sights on Cocoa Beach on Florida’s “Space Coast.” It’s the perfect mix of sand, sun, water, and fun that’s close to Cape Canaveral and even Orlando. There are plenty of things to do and see, right in the surrounding area as well as within a one-hour drive or less. But even beautiful beach towns can get gloomy from time to time. When the rain and gloom hit and spoil your outdoor or beach plans, there are still many Cocoa Beach activities and attractions that can get you out and explore, while also staying warm and dry.

Florida Surf Museum

Formerly the Cocoa Beach Surf Museum, the Florida Surf Museum was founded in 1999 in a small space barely big enough to turn a longboard around! It grew with the help of local volunteers who donated surf magazines, pictures, trophies, and other memorabilia you can still see today at its location at the Ron Jon Surf Shop watersports building. Check out their website and plan your stay around one of the many events it hosts, including surf contests held in the waters off Cocoa Beach.

Escape Cocoa Beach

You came to Cocoa Beach to escape the stress of everyday life, but now you need to escape the rain. Come inside and enjoy one of the country’s most popular indoor activities – rain or shine – and conquer an escape room at Escape Cocoa Beach. Each themed room has a difficulty level. Choose your comfort level or favorite topic, including Bank Heist, Rocket Science, Jail Break, and others.

Spa Day

There are several day spas throughout the Cocoa Beach area. When your day for a relaxing sunbathing and swimming session at the beach turns gloomy, relax your cares away with a treatment like a mani/pedi, facial, body scrub or wrap, and more. You’ll end the day completely relaxed and recharged, and ready for outdoor fun and adventure after the rain clears.

Shopping

There are plenty of things to do and see during your Cocoa Beach vacation. Many of the Cocoa Beach activities and attractions you visit will have an opportunity to pick up a fun souvenir, but in case you want a little more than a gift shop memento, there is a myriad of boutiques, stores, as well as the Merritt Square Mall where you can browse and stay out of the rain while scoring a unique find to take home.

Cobb Theatres-Merritt Square 16

The rainy weather outside your door is just a slight obstacle to your rental car and plenty of indoor Cocoa Beach fun. Take a rainy day to see one of the newest releases at Cobb Theatre Merritt Square on nearby Merritt Island. Current showings include Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, The Fabelmans, Babylon, and Avatar: The Way of Water, to name a few.

The Dinosaur Store & Museum

The store is home to the Museum of Dinosaurs & Ancient Cultures. The store is the gift store associated with the museum and sells fossils, minerals, meteorites, jewelry, and more. The hall of dinosaurs features exhibits from the Devonian period all the way to the Cretaceous period including fossils, cast skeletons, and true-to-life dinos in their natural habitat. It also includes a mineral cave that boasts minerals and crystals from around the world, and an exhibit about the dawn of man, paleolithic tools, and more. Learn about the ancient cultures of Egypt, China, Mesoamerica, and Tribal Africa, including their customs, art, architecture, and way of life. The Adventure Zone is a hands-on activity area for all ages where you’ll find science stations, free arcade games, the live-animal Reptile Run, and even a Nile River raft ride!

Your Vacation Rental

The rainy weather outside your door may be reason enough to stay in. Don’t worry about packing up the rental car and trying to find a parking spot at your destination or worrying about not having an umbrella. There is plenty to do right at your rental. Entertainment centers have large TVs and all the electronics for a movie night, and many homes have a selection of board games, toys, books, and magazines to while away the time while the rain falls.

Fun Cocoa Beach Activities on a Rainy Day

If you’re looking for fun and activities to occupy yourself on a rainy day, Cocoa Beach has plenty of places to go. You could also watch the rain pattern through the windows of your vacation rental provided by Stay in Cocoa Beach. From a cozy one-bedroom all the way up to a spacious five-bedroom for a larger family or group looking for plenty of Cocoa Beach and Space Coast action. Our kitchens come fully equipped with everything you’ll need to make a delicious home-cooked meal. Stretch out with some popcorn and your favorite show or movie, retreat to a private bedroom for some rest and relaxation at the end of the day, or to take a nap while the rain falls. Choose a premium unit for upgrades like flat-screen TVs, stainless steel appliances, and more.

Call us today to start planning your Cocoa Beach adventure!

3 Local Businesses You Should Support!

 

As a family-owned business, we understand the importance of supporting other independent, local businesses. Now more than ever it is important to show our appreciation for those in our community.

Please keep reading to see 3 of our favorite local businesses that positively contribute to the community and deserve the support! If you’re in the area, we highly recommend stopping by and checking them out. We encourage you to support your local businesses too 😀

Lighthouse Cove Mini Golf

 

lighthouse cove mini golf cocoa beach staff

 

“Since opening its doors in February of 2016, the team at Lighthouse Cove has loved bringing outdoor fun to both the local and tourist community in Cocoa Beach. In addition to mini-golf, we offer an amazing selection of ice cream, wine & beer – that can be delivered directly to you on the course.”

 

Lighthouse Cove Mini Golf
3811 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
https://www.lighthousecoveminigolf.com/cocoa-beach/

 

Nosh Restaurant

 

Nosh restaurant cocoa beach staff

 

“Nosh Restaurant & Bar focuses on serving the freshest Sushi, Asian Fusion, and Craft Cocktails to Cocoa Beach and surrounding areas. Started by two brothers in the Fall of 2019, the menu features playful twists on family recipes passed down through generations. As a new restaurant, the support of our local community is crucial to our success and we choose to give back by providing meals to those in need and who serve others.”

 

Nosh Restaurant & Bar
3800 N Atlantic Ave Ste. 6, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
https://www.nosheats.com

 

Juice ‘N Java

 

juice n java cocoa beach team

 

“Juice ‘N Java has been serving the Cocoa Beach community for nearly 11 years. We proudly roast our coffee beans in house and make a unique scratch breakfast and lunch menu. We are so grateful for all who have supported us this year. It’s truly a place for good coffee, homemade food & fun.”

 

Juice ‘N Java
75 N Orlando Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
https://juicenjavacafe.com/menu-1

 

We are so grateful to be able to share some of our favorite local businesses and help support them during this time of need. We kindly ask that you share this article with family or friends that may be visiting the area or even if they are already local. And of course, please support local small businesses in your own area as well. Stay safe and healthy <3

 

-The Stay in Cocoa Beach Family

 

stay in cocoa beach family

5 of the Best Seafood Restaurants in Cocoa Beach with Patio Seating & Live Music

 

In the mood for fresh seafood, live music, outdoor seating with a view, and great drinks to top it all off? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading for the “locals’ scoop” on some the best seafood restaurants in Cocoa Beach that’ll give you that true feeling of vacationing in paradise!

 

1) Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar

 

 

Located in Port Canaveral, Grills is one of the most popular seafood restaurants in the area and offers both indoor and outdoor dining options with waterfront views of the incredibly massive yet beautiful cruise ships heading out to sea. This spot is perfect for relaxing along the water with a beer or cocktail while listening to live music.

 

Known for their: Grilled mahi sandwiches and shark kabobs
Local Tip: Try out their “Grills Margarita” for a strong, local favorite!

 

Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar
500 Glen Cheek Dr,
Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
(321) 868-2226
https://www.grillsseafood.com

 

2) Fish Lips

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Also located in the Port, Fish Lips offers 2 levels of dining experiences. The first floor is a more intimate setting that is great for a quiet date night or special occasion. The second floor offers 2 bars with high top seating as well as a generous outdoor (covered and uncovered) seating area. Live music brings the upstairs area to life and makes for a laid back get together with friends or family. Enjoy a bucket of beer and fresh air while taking in the best views of the cruise ships leaving the Port!

 

Known for their: Drink specials and award-winning clam chowder
Local Tip: Check out their delicious Brunch on Sundays!

 

Fish Lips Waterfront Bar & Grill
610 Glen Cheek Dr
Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920
(321) 784-4533
https://www.fishlipswaterfront.com

3) Coconuts

 

 

Enjoy great food and drinks only steps away from the beach! Coconuts has a beach view you can’t beat. They also boast one of the best happy hours in town along with ongoing special events and live music entertainment. Coconuts is a great place to get some fish tacos and a cocktail before walking to the beach.

 

Known for their: Casual atmosphere and drink specials
Local Tip: If you’re coming with a group of people, make sure you call ahead to see if they can reserve special seating on their deck!

 

Coconuts On The Beach
2 Minutemen Cswy,
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
(321) 784-1422
https://coconutsonthebeach.com

4) Rikki Tiki Tavern

 

 

If you’re looking to get as close to the ocean that waterfront dining will offer you, then look no further. Rikki Tiki Tavern is located at the end of the 800-foot long Westgate Pier, directly over the ocean. Cool off in the shade while enjoying a refreshing tropical drink and spectacular ocean views in this open-aired seating. And yes, they do have live music at designated times! What more could you want?

 

Known for their: Having the most incredible ocean views
Local Tip: Expect a limited food menu, but delicious drinks!

 

Rikki Tiki Tavern
401 Meade Ave
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
(321) 783-7549
https://www.cocoabeachpier.com/dining/rikki-tiki-tavern/

5) Florida Seafood

 

 

Experience quality seafood, service, and drinks at this waterfront paradise. Sit inside and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise or relax out on the deck while listening to the lively band play and take in the beautiful views. This spot is perfect for getting that waterfront dining experience but away from the busy beaches.

 

Known for their: Oysters and pineapple bowls
Local Tip: Try their “Honey Siracha Shrimp” entrée served in a freshly grilled pineapple!

 

Florida Seafood
480 W Cocoa Beach Causeway
Cocoa Beach, FL 32921
(321) 784-0892
https://www.floridas-seafood.com

Of course, there are plenty of great restaurants in Cocoa Beach for you to explore, but we enjoyed sharing some of our local faves. We hope you found this helpful during your stay in Cocoa Beach and be sure to let us know what you think if you try any of these places out!

Enjoy!