A Fun-Filled Four-Day Family Vacation in Cocoa Beach and Surrounding Areas
Cocoa Beach, Florida, is the perfect destination for a family vacation, offering sun, surf, and plenty of fun activities to keep everyone entertained. In the fall, the temperatures are milder, the crowds are smaller, and the beautiful Atlantic coastline provides an ideal backdrop for your trip. If you're planning a four-day family getaway, here’s an itinerary packed with memorable things to do in Cocoa Beach and its surrounding areas.
Day 1: Beach Day and Exploration
Morning: Hit the Beach ⛱
Start your vacation with what Cocoa Beach is famous for—the beach! Grab your sunscreen, beach toys, and boogie boards, and head to the soft sands. Fall weather in Cocoa Beach is warm but pleasant, making it the perfect time to enjoy a morning by the water. Build sandcastles, splash in the waves, or try some bodyboarding.
Afternoon: Lunch and Explore Cocoa Beach Pier
After a fun morning at the beach, head to Cocoa Beach Pier for lunch. The pier offers several restaurants with ocean views, serving everything from seafood to burgers that will please the whole family. Afterward, take a stroll along the pier, where you can spot surfers riding the waves or try your hand at fishing.
Evening: Putting Green ⛳ and Ice Cream
Gather the family for a fun and relaxing time under the fall moon on the putting green at Coral Palm Beach House or Sunny Lane Beach House. The crisp autumn air and soft glow of the moon create a perfect atmosphere for some friendly competition. Whether you’re practicing your short game or just enjoying a casual round with the kids, it's a great way to bond and create lasting memories. The peaceful setting, combined with the cool fall breeze, makes it an evening to remember as you laugh, cheer each other on, and unwind together outdoors. If you are looking for a longer game of mini golf, try ⛳Golf N Gator. This alligator-themed mini-golf course also features live alligators that kids can safely observe or even hold with staff assistance! (Tip: check out Groupon for Golf N Gator-they have great deals) End your day with some ice cream at The Fat Donkey, a local favorite for unique and delicious frozen treats.
Day 2: Space and Science Day
Morning: Kennedy Space Center
Cocoa Beach is only about 25 minutes away from the Kennedy Space Center, making it a must-visit attraction for families. Start your second day with an out-of-this-world experience by exploring NASA’s space history. Kids and adults alike will love the interactive exhibits, the Rocket Garden, and the Astronaut Encounter, where you can meet a real astronaut. Be sure to check out the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit and, if your timing is right, you may even witness a rocket launch!
Afternoon: Lunch and Space-Themed Play
After a morning at the 🚀 Kennedy Space Center, grab lunch at one of the on-site restaurants or venture into nearby Titusville for some great family-friendly dining options.
Evening: Relaxing Night In.
For a laid-back evening after a day of exploring, consider ordering 🍕 pizza or takeout and enjoying a relaxing night at your vacation rental, ☀ Sunny Lane Beach House or Coral Palm Beach House. Take advantage of the crisp fall weather by dining outside in the beautiful backyard or on the rooftop deck, where you can soak in the cool breeze and listen to the sounds of nature. Meanwhile, the kids can have their own fun playing in the game room, giving everyone a chance to unwind in their own way. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a cozy family night together without leaving the comfort of your home away from home.
Day 3: Outdoor Adventure
Morning: Kayaking and Nature
Start your third day with a guided kayak tour through the Indian River Lagoon. Several tour operators in Cocoa Beach offer family-friendly eco-tours where you can paddle through mangrove tunnels and see wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and a variety of birds. Fall is a perfect time to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the peaceful beauty of Florida’s natural waterways. If you are staying at Sunny Lane Beach House, kayaks are provided and the river is just steps away.
Afternoon: Cocoa Village and Riverfront Park
After your 🛶 kayaking adventure, head to Historic Cocoa Village, a charming area filled with local shops, boutiques, and cafes. It’s a great place to stroll around, grab lunch, and maybe pick up some unique souvenirs. After lunch, spend some time at Riverfront Park, where the kids can play on the playground while the adults relax by the water.
Evening: Sunset Cruise
As the day winds down, treat the family to a scenic 🌇sunset cruise Many local companies offer family-friendly boat tours where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the water, as well as the chance to spot more wildlife.
Day 4: Wildlife and Winding Down
Morning: Brevard Zoo
Start your final day with a visit to the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, just a 30-minute drive from Cocoa Beach. This small but beautifully designed zoo is perfect for families. You can feed 🦒 giraffes, pet kangaroos, and even zip-line over the animal exhibits! For younger kids, the zoo’s splash pad and playground offer a chance to cool off and have some fun.
Afternoon: Lunch and Last-Minute Souvenirs
Head back to Cocoa Beach for a relaxing lunch at 4th Street Fillin' Station and maybe a final stop at the Ron Jon Surf Shop, the world’s largest 🏄 surf shop, which is a Cocoa Beach icon. It’s a fun place to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, and kids will love exploring the massive store.
Evening: Fire Pit or Yard Games
End your vacation with relaxing by the firepit at Coral Palm Beach House. Grab some s’mores, stargazing, and family time as you reflect on the memories you’ve made during your Cocoa Beach adventure at Coral Palm Beach House. At Sunny Lane Beach House, spend the evening playing yard games like jumbo Connect Four, Bocce Ball, or Cornhole with the family. As the sun sets and the cool fall breeze settles in, these classic games add the perfect mix of fun and competition to your night.
