Plus, it’s less than two hours from Orlando’s theme parks.
In fact, it’s the gateway to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
I could almost feel the heat of the rocket on my face.
Credit:Floridaâs Space Coast Office of Tourism
The ground rumbled and shook.
We tapped Cranis to find out what makes Cocoa Beach a perennially great destination on Floridas Atlantic Coast.
He said, The beaches are in the best shape ever.
Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
The town caters to families.
We had 72 rocket launches last year.
You might even catch a rocket launching or sea turtles hatching while strolling the beach.
Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure
The adults-only property is smoke-free, has an on-site fitness center and pool, and offers free parking.
Like other Hilton properties, visitors can expect free Wi-fi, a fitness center, and a pool.
And if youre traveling with your pup, this property has pet-friendly rooms.
Floridaâs Space Coast Office of Tourism
Its the perfect place to learn the basics of surfing or brush up on your board skills.
TheSchool of Surfoffers group and private lessons, as well as full- and half-day camps during the week.
Cranis added, Kelly Slater, 11-time world champion surfer, grew up here.
Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure
Cranis grew up going to this park and loves the $4 million renovation the destination just completed.
Beyond sunning and surfing, visitors can enjoy a game of beach volleyball.
There are three oceanfront parks with restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, and 40 beach access points.
Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure
And, of course, the Atlantic Ocean has the waves.
According to Cranis, though, the beach is one of thebest places to catch a rocket launch.
He recommends checking theFlorida Space Coast appto find out when the next rocket launches.
JodiJacobson/Getty Images
A world-famous brand, this is their flagship store.
They’ve got everything you need for the beach in this giant two-story property.
Best Nightlife
Jonathans Pub
Established in 1970,Johnathans Pubis Brevard Countys oldest bar.
Sandbar Sports Grill
Located right on the beach,Sandbar Sports Grillstays open until 2 a.m. nightly.
Cranis loves bringing out-of-town visitors here.
Visitors can expect an extensive menu of fresh seafood, meaty sandwiches, and tasty starters.
Whisk & Grind
A drive-thru coffee bar?
If you like bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwiches, youll love the BLTE with the egg added.
Cranis let us in on a few events that occur throughout the year.
The event is free and open to the public.
According to Cranis, though, May is the best time to visit.
This event, one of the largest in central Florida, is fun for the whole family.
Direct flights from Charlotte and Atlanta are offered daily.
Both airports have robust car rental counters.
If you’re driving, take I-95 and get off at exit 75.
Head east on 520 for 10 miles and you’ll arrive at Cocoa Beach.
Highway A1A then runs right through Cocoa Beach.
Once you get there, bike, scooter, and golf cart rentals abound.
I loveFishlips its a great hangout with live music on weekends.
you’re free to wave back while sipping your margarita.
He also recommendsRising Tide Tap & Tablefor fish tacos and local craft brews.
They’ll double-check you get the best opportunity to see a dolphin or manatee.
If you’ve never seen a manatee up close, they’re amazing creatures.
There are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
Visitors can also hop on theCocoa Beach Trolley.
Uber, Lyft, and taxis are also an option and easy to find across Cocoa Beach.
