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Maybe you are going on a cruise from Port Canaveral and have a day before or after in Cocoa Beach. Or you are making a round trip through Florida and are visiting the Space Coast. These are my recommendations if you have one day only in Cocoa Beach with some options for each time of the day.
Start the day right with a great breakfast
Start the day right with a good breakfast. I love Juice N’Java for its relaxed atmosphere. The smoothies are delicious. If you are into surfing then try the Surfinista with its surf style theme. Or try both as they are just opposite each other on the same street. For more options have a look at our list of favorite breakfast places.
During the morning go to the beach and shop at the largest surf store
No matter whether you are looking for some swim suites or souvenirs you have to visit Ron Jon Surfshop. It is the largest surfshop in the world. It is open 24/7 and during hot days a good option to cool down.
Of course, you can also buy surfboards.
Why not directly head to the beach to try out your new gear. Just behind the shop is a good area. If you are looking for a quieter beach go to the South End of Cocoa Beach.
Enjoy some afternoon drinks and snacks
Are you ready for some drinks and snacks? Two options with great views are the Coconuts on the Beach or the Tiki Bar on the pier.
The Coconuts has great views of the beach, a large selection of food and maybe the best happy hour beer specials (5-7 pm).
The Tiki Bar is at the end of the pier with beautiful views of the beach. Enjoy your drinks sitting above the waves. Happy hour is from 4-7 pm. You will have to pay an entrance fee for that part of the pier, however can use that to pay for your drinks.
Late afternoon activities
What about some mini golf? I like the Lighthouse Cove adventure golf. There you can also take a bucket with drinks along the course. The ice cream is very delicious.
Another option for the late afternoon is kayaking. It is usually less warm, you may see dolphins hunt and could even kayak into the sunset. Some vacation rentals or hotels offer kayaks. If not you can rent them for example at Wildlife Watersports. They also have guided tours.
Finish the day with a nice dinner
After a long day you should be hungry. Is there still some time until the sunset? If yes you could watch it at the Sunset Waterfront Bar and Grill.
If you do not mind sitting inside I would recommend Florida’s Fresh Grill or the Fat Snook. Both places have great Seafood with the Fat Snook offering even more elaborated options (at higher prices). The best is just to check both menus online before you decide.
How would your perfect day in Cocoa Beach look like?
This was my perfect day. Maybe you ave other suggestions, how would your perfect day in Cocoa Beach look like?
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