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!
Spending quality time with your partner helps foster intimacy and allows you to learn more about each other’s interests. If you’re planning a surprise getaway for your significant other or searching for a delightful destination to celebrate your love, Florida’s Cocoa Beach delivers an epic couple’s vacation experience. From its pristine beaches to world-class eateries and excellent outdoor Cocoa Beach activities, this Sunshine State gem is the ideal location for a romantic couple’s getaway. Here’s how to enjoy the perfect date night in Cocoa Beach.
Kick things off with a charming stroll down one of Cocoa Beach’s beautiful sandy beaches. Playalinda Beach offers a gorgeous seashore along Florida’s East Coast. This famous beach features soft dunes, a laidback ambiance, and numerous wildlife species, ideal for a romantic, hand-in-hand walk. Lori Wilson Park Beach offers a secluded space with extensive boardwalks stretching along the coast and meandering through the local forests and mangroves. If you prefer a beach with several amenities, check out Howard E. Futch Memorial Park Beach and access bathrooms, a lifeguard station, and several shops within walking distance.
Settle down by the edge of the ocean and share an intimate picnic as you take in the beauty of the water. Sidney Fischer Park is a serene, 10-acre park offering lovely oceanfront views, ideal for a picnicking session. The park has specific picnic areas with tables and shelters, ensuring you enjoy an undisturbed experience. Pack light foods such as Caprese bites, chicken avocado roll-ups, avocado chips, or fruit and nut bars, and relish romantic outdoor oceanside dining.
Once you’ve had your fair share of oceanside escapades, check in for a soothing couple’s massage. Cocoa Beach Spa is one of the best spots for relaxing rub-downs with your partner. The spa offers first-class services in a vintage beach house with a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy a couple’s session in a private room as professional therapists provide a calming Swedish massage. The experience includes aroma therapy, relaxing spa music, and Steamed towel compresses. You may also opt for a hot stone massage, which involves placing heated stones on particular pressure points to ease tense muscles and relieve pain.
Now that your bodies and minds are at ease, head out to the water and enjoy an evening cruise as you take in the lovely sunset. Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours has been a mainstay since 2002, providing memorable sunset tours off the Florida coast. The company offers daily two-hour cruises on the Banana River, giving you access to aquatic wildlife species. The boat meanders through Thousand Island before steering out to the river’s most expansive section, where you’ll experience the beautiful sunset. Other renowned boat tour agencies in Cocoa Beach include Paddle Pub Cocoa Beach and Wildside Tours.
After your evening thrills on the water, check into one of the local eateries for a romantic dinner. Pampano Grill is the ultimate go-to for delicious seafood options, including filet mignon, creamy shrimp pasta, and signature tuna. For a taste of sumptuous German cuisine, reserve your seat at Heidi’s Jazz Club & Restaurant and relish tasty entrees that include goulash, several schnitzel varieties, grilled pork chops, and beef fillet stroganoff. The Tiny Turtle serves one of Cocoa Beach’s best Caribbean menus, with tacos, burritos, and rancheros on the list. Brano’s Italian Grill serves delightful Italian dishes, while Nosh is the best spot for sushi.
Once you’ve treated your taste buds to Cocoa Beach’s delicious cuisine, head to Merit Square 16 & IMAX for the latest blockbusters. This modern multiplex features ultra-large screens with digital projection, creating the ultimate movie experience. The cinema’s stadium seating offers comfort, while the concession options allow you to combine your movie with your favorite savory snacks. Relish an immersive cinematic experience thanks to a state-of-the-art sound system, as the massive recliners provide additional comfort and enhanced viewing angles.
End the perfect date night with the right lodging choice. After your intimate experiences, turn to Stay In Cocoa Beach for the best couple’s accommodations in the city. We have delightful one-bedroom properties with numerous amenities, quick beach access, spectacular ocean views, and access to Cocoa Beach activities. Enjoy spacious living rooms with comfortable furnishings, fully equipped kitchens with ample appliances, inviting bedrooms with plush bedding, and modern bathrooms. Additional amenities include hot tubs, outdoor barbecues, heated pools, large high-definition flatscreens, and Wi-Fi for all your streaming and online needs. Our properties offer easy access to the city’s thrilling attractions. Contact us to book your romantic vacation rental and relish a memorable Cocoa Beach couple’s getaway in the city’s best vacation properties.
As the pages of the calendar flip by at a stunning speed, our favorite season of all is about to make its first glorious appearance. Fall, a season of fiery colors and crisp cold mornings does not present itself in Cocoa Beach as it does in colder climates but if your fall journey has you heading this way, you will soon discover why we love it so much. The days are still warm enough to enjoy a day at the beach and the nights are pleasantly cool, encouraging visitors to extend the moments spent on the balconies and patios of our Stay in Cocoa Beach seasonal sanctuaries. Watching the sun set over the sea, lighting up the sky with a kaleidoscope of colors is an experience you will never forget (We have been known to stop in our tracks and applaud the beauty of a Florida sunset) and as you relax a little longer, sip a little more, savoring the simple beauty of a fall night in Cocoa Beach, you may discover that this is the only way you want to spend every fall vacation! This guide to why fall is the perfect time to vacation in Cocoa Beach.
White sand beaches and turquoise waters are what draw visitors from all over the world and although the change of season provides no exception to this rule, the crowds tend to lessen as people return to real life. Summer vacations end, schools start again, and for most of the world, people fall back into their regular routines, which means when you travel to Cocoa Beach, you won’t have to fight the crowds. Stake your claim on a section of the sandy shores and spend a day frolicking in the surf, building sandcastles with your tiniest travelers, or simply walking along the water’s edge, letting the salt air and sea breezes soothe your soul. With temperatures that range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s, your beach days will be idyllic ones!
Cocoa Beach is known as the Surfing Capital of the East Coast and fall is actually one of the best seasons to dip your toes into the surfing scene! Book a lesson or two with Cocoa Beach Surf School (321-410-7243) and learn how to hang ten with the best of them or simply enjoy watching others from your perch on Cocoa Beach Pier. Our Chateau by the Sea condos recently had a camera installed in partnership with Surfline, allowing guests to watch live footage of the surf and the beach that will be the highlight of your stay.
Cocoa Beach offers more than just beaches and sunsets, we are also home to a diverse population of wildlife, and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, located at 1987 Scrub Jay Way #32782 in nearby Titusville offers our favorite way of enjoying a beautiful fall day. Offering over 140,000 acres that serve as home to migratory birds, dolphins, alligators, manatees, and 1500-plus plant species and animals, the walking trails and roads that lead through the refuge will bring natural adventures you will wish never had to end.
The beautiful weather we experience in the fall will encourage you to get outside and play as often as possible as you explore the Banana River aboard Kayaks or paddleboards that can be rented at most outdoor stores, including Cocoa Kayaking, 5000 Tom Warriner Boulevard, the beauty of nature will be yours. Be sure to take plenty of photo breaks and return home with a huge array of frame-worthy pics that will help keep your memories of this fall vacation alive! Fishing is another traditional fall activity, especially in the late fall when the Kingfish, sailfish, and Wahoo are biting! Bring home a trophy fish or make your catch of the day the meal du jour when you charter a deep-sea fishing expedition; Fin & Fly Fishing Charters are just one of many charter companies available in Cocoa Beach.
Kennedy Space Center is located on Merritt Island and is definitely a fall adventure you will kick yourself for missing if you don’t schedule a visit on your itinerary, but even if you don’t go to the Space Center, you may have the opportunity to witness a launch right from the balcony of your Stay in Cocoa Beach space race sanctuary! The ideal weather conditions of the season make this time of year the best time to explore the universe and you will have a ringside seat to the show!
Every dinner will be your favorite as you indulge in epicurean adventures of all nationalities but be sure to experience the fresh sweet taste of local seafood found at Pier 62 Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar enjoying a meal you will never forget. Shopping at cozy boutiques (there are no wrong choices in this venture!) will help you bring home mementos of your fall getaway to Cocoa Beach, again, keeping the memories alive just as the pictures you take!
Coming home to the luxuries, comforts, and beauty of our Stay in Cocoa Beach seasonal sanctuary will be the highlight of days filled with beautiful adventures and exciting experiences! Contact us to reserve your favorite today! Be sure to ask about Indian Harbour ocean view rentals as well!
The need for a getaway that includes the ultimate in rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation can come at any time of year. Make beach relaxation a part of the experience, too, and point your compass to a locale full of fun, sun, sand, and water to go along with the relaxing spa vibes. Cocoa Beach is the perfect place for your beach spa retreat. Before you book all your Cocoa Beach spa treatments, the first thing to do is book a private vacation rental with Stay In Cocoa Beach so you have a private place to complete your relaxation after a day of pampering.
Enjoy a healing massage and choose from Swedish relaxation, deep tissue, or even medical/neuromuscular massage to cure what ails you. Try a specialty massage like hot stone, trigger point therapy, aromatouch, Shiatsu/acupressure, craniosacral therapy, or reflexology. Couples on a relaxing Cocoa Beach getaway can book a couples massage, couples hot stone massage, or the special honeymoon massage that includes champagne and strawberries! Enjoy a facial, peel, body wrap, waxing services, and more.
Choose from a myriad of services that include massage, organic body scrubs, hydrating and detoxifying body wraps, custom skin care and facial services and more. Massages include couples’ massages, relaxation, deep tissue, prenatal, and many others. Take your message out to the private Tiki hut cabana for a more unique experience. Get a head-to-toe makeover and add nail services, eyelash and eyebrow services, waxing, salon services like hair styling and cuts and professional makeup application.
Feel refreshed and renewed after your visit. Choose from an array of facials and skincare treatments like dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, back facial, or an exfoliating or chemical peel. Get the finishing touches with waxing and threading services, brow and lash treatments, and professional makeup services.
Get all the kinks worked out with Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and many other massage options. Special treatments include foot reflexology and Shiatsu therapies. Add on a custom facial, go for the “Age Smart Power Treatment,” medicated clearing treatment, or a soothing skin peel, like a glycolic peel, multivitamin power exfoliant peel and others. To balance body and mind, ask about Reiki or cranial sacral treatments.
Located inside Cocoa Beach Health & Fitness, the spa boasts relaxing neuromuscular therapy, massage, and skincare services that will spoil you. Enjoy a Swedish or deep tissue massage, and add-ons like hot stones or aromatherapy. End a massage with a foot scrub. Treat your skin like you do your body with some extra pampering. Facials, peels, dermaplaning, and other services are available for a refreshed-all-over feeling. Get the finishing touches with waxing, shaping, tinting, and other hair services.
Get the look and feel of lush, long eyelashes with lash extensions. They offer classic, hybrid, and volume styles in full set, two-week fill, and three-week fill packages. Get the look you want with brow and lash tinting, lash lift, microblading, or brow lamination for your unique look. Remove unwanted hair with waxing or threading procedures, then cleanse your skin with an invigorating and refreshing facial treatment. Refresh your manicure or pedicure while you’re at it and walk away feeling good from head to toe.
Enjoy being fully relaxed. Get a deep tissue massage that kneads all your stress away for a relaxed, balanced feeling. Cure what ails you with specific treatments for sports injury, reflexology, and pregnancy massage for expectant mothers. Experience a Bach floral essence therapy – a mixture of herbs, homeopathy, and medications that corrects emotional imbalances and through specific combinations related to the targeted emotion. They offer Reiki and yoga sessions that tie mind, body, and spirit together in relaxation.
Coming to a beach destination like Cocoa Beach means spending plenty of time on the beach when you’re not enjoying a spa day. After a relaxing day at the spa, enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. You can choose to lay out and sunbathe, plant a beach umbrella and spread out a blanket and read, picnic, take a swim in the ocean, or get your exercise with a run or walk on the sand.
Create a spa getaway to Cocoa Beach and start by booking a vacation rental home full of relaxing vacation vibes provided by Stay In Cocoa Beach. From a cozy one-bedroom for a solo spa getaway all the way up to a spacious five-bedroom home for a spa retreat with loved ones, we have something that will work for you. 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 or retreat to a private bedroom for some rest and relaxation at the end of the day. Choose a premium unit for upgrades like flat-screen TVs, stainless steel appliances, and more. If you’re seeking amenities such as a private pool, consider our Space Coast vacation homes with a pool as well.
Call us today to start planning your Cocoa Beach spa respite!
A trip to Cocoa Beach is a chance to make the most of shoreline fun. However, if you find yourself here on a rainy day or you’re looking for a change of vacation pace, a movie is always a good option! There are a few great movie theaters in Cocoa Beach to check out whether you’re looking to enjoy a first release showing or you’re excited to catch an indie film.
Travelers heading to Cocoa Beach that are in the mood for a great movie night will find everything they’re looking for and more at Merit Square 16 & IMAX. Head over to 777 E Merritt Island Causeway in nearby Merritt Island to make the most of a modern multiplex showing all of the newest Hollywood releases year-round! At Merit Square 16 & IMAX, moviegoers will enjoy access to ultra-large screens that host digital projection. Of course, when you’re looking to enhance the cinematic experience even further, booking a ticket to one of the IMAX or 3D showings here is always a good idea. Stadium seating provides guests with the best in comfort from previews through to credit while the comprehensive concession options make it simple to pair your flick with fantastic and savory options. Those who enjoy a movie at Merit Square 16 & IMAX will find themselves immersed in an elevated movie experience at every turn! The theater is owned by CMX Cinemas which offers state-of-the-art surround sound systems in all of its locations. Advanced online ticketing makes it simple for guests to reserve their seats early on while kiosks are also available at the theater if the mood to see a movie strikes you on a whim. The oversized theater recliners are endlessly inviting, and you won’t want to miss out on pairing that popcorn with a variety of candy selections too! When a movie is top of mind, this is a great place to set your sights the next time your travel plans bring you to the Cocoa Beach area.
The next closest movie theater in Cocoa Beach for moviegoers in the Cocoa Beach area would be a night out at Premier Theaters Oaks 10. This theater is located at 1800 W. Hibiscus Boulevard in nearby Melbourne and provides guests with a comprehensive movie-going experience with all the details in place cinema enthusiasts crave when they settle in to see a film. Premier Theater Oaks 10 is a multi-screen destination where guests can pick and choose between the latest film releases every day of the week. While many guests come to see what Hollywood’s most recent release has in store, this theater also hosts special showings of cinematic classics for those who are in the mood for a bit of film nostalgia! If you happen to be in the area hosting an event, or you’re traveling with a large group, there are options to rent out a theater here and make it a movie night to remember. Of course, the movie experience wouldn’t quite be complete without those mouthwatering concessions. The menu at Premier Theaters Oaks 10 hosts everything from traditional fountain drinks, popcorn, and candy to specialty beverages and options like milkshakes and fruit smoothies as well. Hot foods on the menu include personal pizzas, corn dog nuggets, and hot dogs just to name a few. Those 21 and up will enjoy the fact that beer, wine, and cider selections are also available to enjoy during a film when you choose Premier Theaters Oaks 10 as your destination. With a stunning surround sound system in place in every theater paired with digital projection and cozy seating—this is an experience you’re sure to enjoy!
A second movie theater option for those making their way to Melbourne from Cocoa Beach is AMC Avenue 16. Situated at 2241 Town Center Avenue, this cineplex is loved for its jumbo digital screens and 3D showing options too. In addition to first-run films, the theater also hosts viewings of special opera productions as well as sporting events throughout the year much to the delight of guests! Visiting AMC Avenue 16 is a breeze for audiences thanks to advanced ticketing options online and in-lobby kiosks. These theaters host inviting stadium seating, sensational surround sound as well as Dolby Cinema. Concessions are always within reach at AMC cinemas and if you happen to be a film enthusiast with a passion for artisan and indie films, keep your eye on the upcoming shows as this theater screens those as well! The AMC Stubs rewards program works at all AMC theaters so if you’re stopping by to see a film at AMC Avenue 16, be sure to reserve using your member number and app to get discounts on concessions and other exciting rewards!
Make the most of your Cocoa Beach adventure when you let the team at Stay in Cocoa Beach handle your accommodations while you’re in town. Reach out today to learn more about our incredible lineup of area rentals and how we can help you turn travel plans into a reality.
Memorial Day weekend is a wonderful time for travelers to swap out a daily routine for a focus on the fun instead. If you’re fortunate enough to be heading to Cocoa Beach, Florida for the holiday, you’re in for a treat! The following are just a few of the many reasons it’s well worth your while to stay in Cocoa Beach this Memorial Day.
Booking a trip to Cocoa Beach, Florida over Memorial Day weekend just wouldn’t be complete without some well-deserved time set aside on the itinerary for beach-focused fun! Cocoa Beach is known year-round for being a great place to settle into the sand and soak up the sun in style. A visit here at the end of May is no exception to that well-loved rule. For those travelers making their way in this direction over the holiday weekend, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to inviting shorelines but when the focus is meant to be on versatile fun, enjoying time at Lori Wilson Park is a must. Located at 1500 N Atlantic Avenue in Cocoa Beach, Lori Wilson Park is a spacious, inviting and undeniably eye-catching beach park to enjoy during your visit. There’s no charge to drop by and enjoy this 32-acre space that comes complete with sand dunes and idyllic stretches of shoreline snuggled up to blue surf. Those visitors who are entirely prepared to spend every second settled into a beach chair will love how much space there is to spread out at this beach park. Alternatively, those looking to pair beach time with hiking adventures will be thrilled with the fact that this park offers up access to short nature trails where birding and sightseeing are easy to enjoy in tandem. Many visitors also choose to cool off with a swim in the water before hitting the sand volleyball courts when a little friendly competition is called for. If you happen to be traveling this holiday with a canine companion in tow, this beach park is a great choice thanks to the dog park found right on-site.
If you’re a Memorial Day traveler to Cocoa Beach who also happens to be an angler, the waters in this area are brimming over with options for fun. While independent fishing is always a delight, a great refresher or even new insight into some of the best areas to cast a line around can be found when you book a fishing charter or two during your stay. Led by friendly and local professional guides, fishing charters out of Cocoa Beach are bound to impress and often include all of the gear you might need in the cost of the excursion. Some popular company choices when making plans to get out on the water and see what bites include Southern Mayhem Fishing Charters, Captain Ed’s Family Fishing& Nature Charter, Fishing Devotion Charters, and Fin Addict II Fishing just to name a few. No matter what company you select, the vast majority of tour options can be customized according to guest preference and skill level as well.
There are many travelers that head to Cocoa Beach over Memorial Day who can’t imagine a stay anywhere this time of year without a tee time on the itinerary. For these adventurers, a trip this way is bound to please! Cocoa Beach is known and loved for its many golf and mini-golf courses that provide a place for golfers of all skill levels to make the most of the fun on the links. Whether you’re looking for a challenge, can’t wait to work on your short game, or have a heart for whimsical miniature golf courses in general, Cocoa Beach can provide access to what you crave. Avid golfers looking to enjoy around with a focus on skill and fun will want to consider booking a tee time at the Cocoa Beach Country Club while they’re in town. This destination is located at 5000 Tom Warriner Boulevard. For a family fun day on the links, consider making time for a trip over to Lighthouse Cove Mini Golf at 3811 N. Atlantic Avenue instead. Need a refresher or looking to learn the basics for the first time? An afternoon lesson at GolfLab located at 142 N Orlando Avenue suite 400 is sure to inspire.
For all of the activities and attractions that Cocoa Beach offers to its Memorial Day weekend revelers, sometimes the best way to kick back over the holiday is to simply take a stroll along the Cocoa Beach Pier. This historic and inviting destination stretches out 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean waters and is dotted with restaurants, bars, gift shops, and water sport rental options alike. A stroll this way offers up views of surfers and anglers alike in the water below while a vantage points out over the blue horizon is always a delight. The Cocoa Beach Pier can easily be accessed at 401 Meade Avenue.
There’s never been a better time to book your Cocoa Beach getaway. Reach out to stay in Cocoa Beach today to learn more about our incredible area vacation rental options and how we can help you start planning your trip!
When it comes to top spring travel spots, Cocoa Beach checks every must-have on many adventurer’s lists. This vacation destination hosts sand, sun, and surf in abundance as well as the restaurants, shopping, and entertainment to match. When you’re ready to turn your spring road trip to Florida plans into a reality, Cocoa Beach is calling your name!
Those who make their way to Cocoa Beach in the spring are in for a savory experience. This area’s location on the coastline puts travelers in the perfect position to make the most of delicious stops while they’re in town! Cocoa Beach is the ideal vacation destination for those looking to make the most of a sunset view complete with a handcrafted cocktail by the shorelines. It’s also an oasis of flavor for those who can’t get enough of savory seafood selections! Whatever your tasty preferences may be, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from while you’re here this spring. Places like Fat Kahuna’s Pelican’s Bar & Grill as well as Coconut on the Beach are some of the more iconic eateries you’ll want to be sure to check out. Of course, The Fat Snook, Rikki Tiki Tavern and The Green Room Café should be added to your must-try list too.
If you’re the type of traveler that has a passion for wildlife and a heart for the beauty of nature, all time spent at Banana River Aquatic Preserve is sure to inspire. This inviting and undeniably beautiful destination is situated between a beach barrier island and Merritt Island. In total, the preserve encompasses more than 30,000 acres of land and is packed with incredible sights and creatures to encounter. From the manatee population on the north end of the river to the pelican rookery and diamondback terrapin turtles that call this preserve home, it’s an oasis of potential for getting a look at some amazing wildlife along the way. Those who love birding will want to be sure to check out the Ulumay Wildlife Sanctuary within. This area also hosts Banana River Park, Cocoa Beach Recreational Complex, and Kiwanis Island Park just to name a few. With so much to do here, it’s likely you’ll end up lingering longer than you originally planned.
A trip to Cocoa Beach this spring isn’t complete without time set aside to take a stroll along iconic Cocoa Beach Pier at least once. This infamous landmark draws visitors from near and far with good reason. Stretching 800-feet out over the Atlantic Ocean, this pier is packed with options for making the most of views and enjoying fun too. While taking time to take in the sight of rolling waves is inspiring, the pier also houses bars, restaurants, gift shops and more. It’s a family-friendly attractions where you can just as easily spend an afternoon photographing the water and following it up with a stop at Mai Tiki Bar as you can casting a line. Those that head to the pier to enjoy fishing will find that everything from snapper and wahoo to red fish are waiting to bite below the waves. The pier is located at 401 Meade Avenue.
Whether you’re one for enjoying time on the waves with a surfboard, or you’re simply fascinated by surf culture, a trip to the Florida Surf Museum promises to be an educational and eye-opening experience to enjoy while you’re here! This museum preserves the history of East Coast surfing through a comprehensive collection of exhibits and displays. Visitors will be able to explore the incredible evolution of surfing through the years as well as learn more about some of the sport’s most iconic names. Before you go, be sure to check out the museum gift shop where you can purchase a Hang 10-worthy t-shirt, mug, or keychain to commemorate your spring visit! The museum is located at 4275 North Atlantic Avenue in Cocoa Beach.
When spring entertainment is top of mind, spending time in Historic cocoa Village is the best thing to do. The streets here are meticulously lined with lush trees which shade a collection of boutique shops and dining establishments below. The village spirit is alive and well in this area and often, spring visitors will find themselves in the midst of a car show or two while visiting. Since its founding in 1860, Cocoa Village has continued to capture the imaginations of visitors from near and far. Today, it’s still home to two historic sites which include the Cocoa Village Playhouse and Porcher House. Start your journey at 600 Florida Avenue to make the most of the fun.
There’s no reason to wait when your Cocoa Beach spring getaway beckons. Reach out to Stay in Cocoa Beach today to learn more about how we can help you get settled into a luxurious area rental during your next visit!
Finding time to unwind, relax, and enjoy life is best done when you book a beautiful getaway somewhere scenic and fun. If you’re the type of traveler that loves stunning shorelines, can’t wait to get out on the water and is excited about area attractions, dining, and shopping too, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Situated just south of the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Cocoa Beach provides visitors with seamless access to the waves and sand as well as exciting stops like the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex! Cocoa Beach has long been a surfer’s paradise but is also a locale loved by those with a passion for wildlife. No matter what your itinerary may entail, planning early is always a good idea when you’re hoping to make the most of every moment of your stay. The following are just a few things to consider when you’re starting to plan your spring journey to Cocoa Beach.
Spring is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the beauty and fun of Cocoa Beach, Florida. It also has the potential to be a budget-friendly season if you plan ahead! Taking time to book tours, activities, and vacation rentals in advance can save you significantly in the long run. Summer tends to be a high travel time to this area, but anytime you book last minute, you’re bound to pay more for the experience. When spring is bringing you to Cocoa Beach and you’re hoping to save for the many activities you can’t wait to enjoy, taking time to book in advance is always going to be worth your while.
These days, perhaps more than ever before, travelers are turning to vacation rentals when they’re looking to customize their stay according to home style, amenities, and location. That means the earlier you look into booking your accommodations in Cocoa Beach, the better chance you have of securing the property you love! Whether you’re on the hunt for a cozy beachside bungalow or a sprawling multi-level residence by the water, having time to browse your options and pick a property that meets your every need is key to an amazing spring getaway experience.
Between March and May, average Cocoa Beach, Florida temperatures fluctuate between the 80s and the lower 60s with plenty of sunshine included. That means that you’ll be in a great place to make the most of time in the water comfortably. Don’t let the mild temperatures fool you though—that Florida sunshine is still powerful year-round. If you’re going to pack a swimsuit for on-the-water fun, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen as well for this spring journey.
While Lori Wilson Park is beautiful year-round, there’s something exceptionally appealing about this scenic locale in the spring. Visitors to Lori Wilson Park can enjoy wide, golden beaches if you’re up for settling into the sand. That said, this park also boasts beautiful nature trails to explore and many wind into maritime brush lush with oaks, greenery, and palmetto. Lori Wilson Park is notorious for attracting a variety of bird species in the spring as well so if you happen to have your binoculars with you—even better.
Summer sees plenty of surf enthusiasts head to Cocoa Beach. That means if you’re traveling here in the spring and you’re excited to learn, now is a great time to enjoy the water without having to contend with so many crowds. Head over to Cocoa Beach which is known for its calm and consistent waves when you’re ready to book that private or group lesson. The water here is shallow past the breakers which gives beginners the confidence they need to put their new skills to the test. The Cocoa Beach area has plenty of surfboard rental options if you don’t have your own with you. As an added bonus, it’s a beautiful stretch of shoreline to learn something new and exciting on!
Stretching out over 800 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, the Cocoa Beach Pier and boardwalk is a must when it comes to highlight attractions to add to your itinerary for your spring journey. Here, visitors can enjoy popping in and out of shops, restaurants, and one-of-a-kind boutiques as well. Of course, if you’re simply in the mood for a stroll and time spent enjoying the scenery, the pier is perfect for that too. It’s the ultimate day to spend a spring afternoon in Cocoa Beach.
When you’re excited to enjoy the best of Cocoa Beach, you’ll need amazing accommodations to match. Reach out to Stay in Cocoa Beach today to learn more about our many vacation rental options in the area and how we can help you start planning your next trip.
Many parts around the country are still to get colder as the holiday season fast approaches. We know Thanksgiving is just around the corner when we have to break out our jackets during the day time. Thanksgiving is the perfect time of year to appreciate everything you have to be thankful for including your family. This year, show your family your appreciation for them by taking them on a vacation getaway to Cocoa Beach. Our Florida home is the perfect destination to start brand new family traditions instead of staying back at home. Take a look at how Thanksgiving can be spent this year in Cocoa Beach:
Of course, the most popular activity for any Thanksgiving holiday is going to be the delicious meal prepared. Most often these meals are made at home by the parents and feature all kinds of delicious comfort food such as turkey and mashed potatoes. You can still enjoy a great home cooked meal during your stay on Cocoa Beach. Our vacation rentals come supplied with everything you need to make your meal just as you would at home. This includes having access to all the cooking ware and utensils you need along with plenty of countertop space. The full-size appliances offer more than enough room to prepare multiple dishes at once with the fridge being more than capable to store any tasty leftovers. Once you have your meal ready to go simply set up the dining room table and enjoy the meal with family. Your family will appreciate having a new locale for their Thanksgiving dinner this year.
Sometimes you do not want to be stuck in the kitchen all day preparing a meal especially when you are on vacation. Most restaurants have returned to in person dining this year as opposed to many being closed last year. Local restaurants that you can find open this Thanksgiving include Flavour Kitchen & Wine Bar, The Mansion, River Rocks, and Luna – Food and Wine. Many of these restaurants will feature special entrees perfect for the holiday while others may stick with their usual menu. Either way, you will find that the food is superb and worthy of your family holiday meal.
One of the most common traditions that most cities have each year for Thanksgiving is what is called a “Turkey Trot.” This involves a race that typically helps benefit local charities. Participants are able to walk or run. Cocoa Beach features the Cocoa Beach Turkey Trot 5K is our local trot and is the second part of a three-race series held in the fall and winter seasons. There will be the full 5K race for adults and shorter races that include a ¼, ½, and full mile for younger runners. Participants are also able to earn a medal for their participation. Guests who return to Cocoa Beach over the fall and winter seasons can also participate in the Fall into Winter 5K and Reindeer Run 5K to round out the full series. Earn your turkey this Thanksgiving with the Cocoa Beach Turkey Trot 5K.
If a 5K is not long enough of a race for you there is also the Space Coast Half Marathon. This longer race is perfect for more experienced runners who will be able to enjoy the beautiful landscape of the beach during their run. Don’t miss out on all the running opportunities you have right here on Cocoa Beach.
You can get a head start on your holiday shopping by visiting Cocoa Village during your stay. This location features a variety of boutique shops that offer special trinkets perfect for gifts back home. you will also find international restaurants that offer cuisine of all types including Japanese, French, and German. Grab a cup of coffee early in the morning to fuel your shopping spree. The holiday season will be in full swing after the holiday lights and decorations start to go up!
Of course, you cannot visit Cocoa Beach without spending some time at our beautiful beaches. We still have beautiful tropical weather during the month of November so you can continue to soak up the sun. Visitors will find that a light jacket is more than enough during the day to spend time at the beach with. The water will still be warmer from the summer season so you may be surprised to be able to take a dip in.
These and so many more activities are at your fingertips when you visit Cocoa Beach around Thanksgiving. Book one of our vacation rentals today for the most comfortable stay in town.
If you are looking for the ideal vacation getaway that takes you away from the giant cities and onto a relaxing beach, look no further than Cocoa Beach. Our Central Florida vacation destination is the perfect spot to relax for the fall season. As with most coastal destinations, our summer season is often the busiest of the year. Take advantage of a slower fall season where there are less crowds and more opportunities to explore the coast. Here are some of our favorite fall activities in Cocoa Beach:
Perhaps one of Cocoa Beach’s most famous attractions is one that is actually found on a nearby barrier island. We are talking about the Kennedy Space Center, the famous shuttle launch center that leads our country’s space exploration. The Kennedy Space Center is open for visitors, letting you explore a variety of incredible exhibits that highlight NASA and our space programs. Attractions focus on space pioneers over the past decades, the NASA space shuttle, the Apollo Moon Landing, and plenty more. Each attraction is designed to be exciting yet educational for individuals of all ages. Visitors can even plan ahead and purchase tickets to see a live shuttle takeoff, a moment that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Take advantage of the slower fall travel season so you can experience the Kennedy Space Center without large crowds around you.
Spending a few hours at the beach might sound crazy to anyone if you were visiting somewhere else, but Cocoa Beach sees average daily highs around 80 degrees in the fall season, making it enjoyable to be oceanside. You will find over 70 miles of pristine beaches in and around Cocoa Beach. If you want to see surfers take on the mighty waves, check out Cocoa Beach Pier. This area is popular with the local surfers since it has several lifeguards nearby and some of the best waves in the area. Make sure you get the chance to walk the pier as well and check out the numerous shops and restaurants nearby. If you want a quiet moment with family or loved ones, check out Playalinda Beach. This 24-mile stretch of beach feature dunes and a lagoon that typically does not have a lot of visitors at once. There are plenty of other beach opportunities for you to explore and find during your fall stay at Cocoa Beach.
Another activity that is very popular in the summer and is just as fun in the fall is golf. Cocoa Beach golf courses feature beautiful fairways and plenty of sunshine throughout the fall season. Take advantage of the temperate weather and play any time of the day. Local golf courses to check out include Baytree National Golf Links and Viera East Golf Club. You will find unique hazards and engaging challenges with these local courses.
Hidden in Cocoa Beach is an area called Thousand Islands that features over 4,500 different plant and animal species. The Indian River Lagoon is a diverse locale that is sprawling with some amazing things to see in person. If you wish to get out and see what makes the area so unique, take a kayaking tour with Cocoa Beach Kayaking. This local tour company provides guided tours of nature that takes you around different canals and island. Expect to see bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and a variety of migratory birds. Each tour is offered at a leisurely pace and lasts for up to two hours in length. Another great way to see local wildlife is with an airboat tour offered by Twister Airboat. You will zip down the water on a thrilling airboat for a truly unique experience. Don’t miss out on this must-see activity right here in Cocoa Beach.
Cocoa Beach features an abundance of incredible fishing opportunities during the fall season when you know where to look. The ocean is your playground when you choose a professional fishing charter such as Fin and Fly Fishing Charters to help you explore. This company knows what they are doing and will show you the best spots to find trophy size catches with fish such as tarpon, redfish, and speckled sea trout, among others. Try to reel up your biggest catch or see if you can catch something that can be prepared for dinner back at your vacation rental.
These incredible activities in Cocoa Beach and many more can be yours when you choose this amazing place as your fall getaway destination. Reserve one of our vacation rentals just off the coast to have an incredible experience like no other.