Cocoa Beach FloridaBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Cocoa Beach, Florida.
1. Cocoa Beach Pier
ICONIC OCEANFRONT DESTINATION
Cocoa Beach Pier stretches 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and is a vibrant hub for both locals and visitors. The pier features restaurants, bars, gift shops, live music, and offers some of the best surfing on the East Coast. Its lively atmosphere and panoramic ocean views make it a must-visit for those seeking classic beachfront recreation.
2. Cocoa Beach
CLASSIC BEACHFRONT ESCAPE
Cocoa Beach is renowned for its wide stretch of sandy shore, gentle waves, and warm waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is ideal for families and offers opportunities for beach volleyball, shell collecting, and watching rocket launches from the nearby Space Center. Its laid-back vibe and easy access make it one of Florida's most recognized and beloved beaches.
3. Lori Wilson Park
BEACH AND NATURE TRAILS
Lori Wilson Park features a clean, wide beach with golden-hued sand, free parking, and family-friendly amenities. Visitors can enjoy the oceanfront for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics, while a nature trail winds through a maritime hammock rich with native flora. Its tranquil setting offers both vibrant beach fun and peaceful natural escapes within the city.
4. Sidney Fischer Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OCEANFRONT
Sidney Fischer Park is a 10-acre oceanfront park featuring ample parking, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, and direct beach access. It's popular with families for its convenient amenities and wide sandy beachfront, making it easy to spend the entire day by the water. The park's laid-back environment is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing by the Atlantic.
5. Alan Shepard Park
CENTRAL BEACHFRONT PARK
Alan Shepard Park offers scenic ocean views, a sandy shoreline, and is equipped with picnic areas, playgrounds, and beach volleyball courts. The park provides direct access to the beach and is a popular launching point for surfing and water sports activities. Its central location and accessible facilities make it especially appealing for families and groups.
6. Coconuts on the Beach
LIVELY BEACHFRONT SPOT
Coconuts on the Beach is a vibrant oceanfront destination known for its energetic atmosphere, live music, and waterfront dining. Visitors can enjoy direct access to the beach for swimming and sunbathing, as well as casual food and drinks with a view of the Atlantic waves. Its beachfront setting and festive ambiance make it a favorite for both daytime relaxation and evening entertainment.
7. Maritime Hammock Preserve
WILDLIFE AND NATURE TRAILS
Maritime Hammock Preserve offers a scenic escape where visitors can explore nature trails winding through coastal hammock habitats and observe native wildlife. While not a traditional beach, it borders the Banana River and provides peaceful views, opportunities for birdwatching, and tranquil walks. Its unique blend of waterfront scenery and natural preservation sets it apart as a serene retreat.
8. Manatee Sanctuary Park
RIVERSIDE PARK EXPERIENCE
Manatee Sanctuary Park is a riverfront haven along the Banana River, offering boardwalks, a fishing pier, and manatee observation areas. The park has open green spaces, playgrounds, and exercise trails, making it a versatile spot for family recreation. Its shoreline setting provides an alternative to the ocean beaches while connecting visitors with the area's natural river environment.
9. Jetty Park Beach
HARBORFRONT BEACH ADVENTURE
Jetty Park Beach features a wide sandy beach set alongside Port Canaveral's entrance, offering excellent fishing, swimming, and camping opportunities. The area is known for its fishing pier, on-site campground, and frequent views of cruise ships and rocket launches. Easy access, family amenities, and a unique harborfront location make it a popular coastal destination.
10. Banana River Park
RIVERFRONT RECREATION AREA
Banana River Park provides shoreline access along the Banana River, with opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring nature trails. The park is less crowded than the ocean beaches, offering a peaceful setting for water activities and wildlife observation. It's an excellent spot for launching small boats or simply enjoying the riverfront scenery.