Cocoa Beach vs Melbourne Beach – Which Will Win Your Heart?

Every time I bring up the heated debate about Cocoa Beach vs.

Melbourne Beach, my so-called friends always make me do the Cocoa Beach thang.

But let me tell you, I’m a Melbourne Beach kinda guy, and I ain’t afraid to show it!

There’s just something about the serene vibes and lack of crowds that gets me hooked on Melbourne Beach.

While my buddies prefer to party like there’s no tomorrow and join the lively crowds, I find solace in the peaceful ambiance that Melbourne Beach offers.

Now, don’t misunderstand me, I’m not here to take sides.

Instead, I’m here to provide you with an honest rundown of what to expect when you visit either of these magnificent beaches.

How Far is Melbourne from Cocoa Beach?

Alright, my friend, if you’re planning an unforgettable road trip, here’s the scoop: Melbourne and Cocoa Beach are approximately 73 miles apart, creating the perfect recipe for a thrilling journey.

Imagine this: it’s like embarking on a quest from one end of a gigantic game board to the other, but instead of rolling dice, you’ll be surrounded by picturesque landscapes and jaw-dropping ocean vistas.

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details.

If you’re a fan of scenic drives, buckle up because you’re in for a treat!

Take State Road A1A, and in just about 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Cocoa Beach.

During your coastal voyage, make sure to keep an eye out for charming beachfront neighborhoods, quaint beach houses, and maybe even a pod of dolphins playing in the waves!

But wait, my eager traveler, there’s another option for those who crave a speedier adventure.

If you’re up for some highway action, hop onto the I-95 South, and in approximately 1 hour—depending on traffic and your ability to dodge rubber duckies—you’ll be basking in the sunshine of Cocoa Beach.

Now, picture this scenario: you’re cruising along, enjoying the scenic route, and suddenly realize you forgot to pack your essential beach gear.

Fear not, my forgetful friend!

Along your journey, you’ll find convenient pit stops and gas stations where you can grab sunscreen, beach towels, and even a fancy beach umbrella to shield you from the scorching Florida sun.

As you approach Cocoa Beach, prepare for an unforgettable sensory experience.

The refreshing salty breeze will tickle your nose, seagulls will serenade your arrival, and the inviting aroma of sunscreen and coconut oil will fill the air.

But the fun doesn’t stop there!

Once you reach Cocoa Beach, get ready to immerse yourself in an oceanic wonderland.

Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking to catch the perfect wave or a beachcomber in search of seashell treasures, Cocoa Beach has it all.

Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier, indulge in a surfing lesson, or simply soak up the sun on the powdery sand.

Now, let’s talk about food because, let’s face it, no trip is complete without satisfying your taste buds.

In Cocoa Beach, you’ll discover an array of beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood delicacies that will make your mouth water.

From succulent shrimp and mouthwatering fish tacos to delectable crab cakes and flavorful lobster rolls, your culinary cravings will be satiated in style.

Melbourne Beach

Let me start with Melbourne Beach.

This hidden gem boasts a population of only 3,000 peeps, making it a cozy little bedroom community located on a barrier island just across the Indian River Lagoon from Palm Bay and Melbourne.

And here’s a little history for you: back in 1883, a Union vet named Cyrus E.

Graces bought acres of land for a measly $1.25 each, and started cultivating pineapples on that very land.

Talk about a come up!

Now, I gotta tell you about my personal connection to Melbourne Beach.

One summer, I was feeling down in the dumps and decided to take a solo trip to clear my head.

I stumbled upon Melbourne Beach and instantly fell in love.

I spent my days reading on the beach, taking long walks and basking in the tranquility.

It was exactly what I needed to recharge my batteries and return home feeling like a new man.

Touring Melbourne Beach

Back in the day, before highways were a thing and cars were pimped out with heated seats, Melbourne Beach was the holy grail for beach bums.

But getting there was a whole lotta schlepping.

You had to trek through miles of jungle and dodge all sorts of funky flora just to reach the ocean.

It was like a scene straight outta Jumanji!

But here’s the kicker – the only way to get there was by ferry!

And not just any old ferry, but a real-life adventure on the high seas (or at least the Indian River Lagoon).

Once you arrived at the Melbourne Beach Pier, you had to hop on a narrow gauge railroad with a push car to finally get to the beach.

Talk about a wild ride, right?

Nowadays, Melbourne Beach is still lit with plenty of shops, motels, and hotels.

But what really sets it apart is its history and chill vibe.

You can saunter around town and scope out all the dope historic buildings, hit up the town hall and playground, and just soak in the laid-back vibes.

And the beach?

It’s totally gnarly, dude!

With access points all along State Road A1A, you can catch some sick waves and soak up some serious sun.

And if you’re lucky enough to visit during sea turtle nesting season, you might just witness one of the coolest things ever.

Oh, and don’t forget about the Barrier Island Sanctuary South of Melbourne Beach.

It’s a total game-changer if you’re into learning about the ecosystems of the beaches and lagoons.

Best things to do in Cocoa Beach

You can get to Cocoa Beach in just an hour from Orlando by car.

Cocoa Beach has been nicknamed the Capital of Surf Culture in Florida owing to its clear waters, decent-sized waves and closeness to Kennedy Space Center.

You can also find Ron Jon’s famous surf shop here.

Cocoa Beach Is a very family-friendly destination but it also welcomes couple and solo travelers who would like abundant beach towns.

In Cocoa Beach, you can engage in many activities.

These vary from eco-tours and water sports to golf and museums and so much more.

2nd Light Beach

The 2nd Light Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Cocoa Beach.

This beach earned its name from its location, which is just at the second traffic light once you travel south out of the city.

If by chance you missed count, you can just search for cars that have surfboards tied to the roof, as this is one of the best surf spots around.

Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures

During your stay in Cocoa Beach, the Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures is a place you should definitely visit before leaving.

The dinosaur section of the museum is located on the top two floors of the Dinosaur Store, and it has exhibits that feature real fossils.

On the third floor, you’ll see ancient cultural exhibits with hundreds of artifacts from different locations in Egypt, China, and Africa.

This museum also includes a recreation of King Tut’s Tomb and the Terracotta Soldiers.

Cocoa Beach vs Melbourne Beach

One remarkable thing  I like about vacating in Cocoa Beach is that the prices of things here are very affordable.

Big destinations like Daytona Beach and Miami Beach are not as budget friendly as Cocoa Beach.

Regardless, Cocoa Beach remains a top vacation destination in Florida.

The Cocoa Beach Spa is nothing short of awesome.

While it may not look like it has a lot to offer from the outside, it is definitely worth it once you get inside.

This spa is famous for its pre-cruise services for people who are driving to Cape Canaveral for a cruise vacation.

In addition, people who would like to pamper their feet can step in to get a proper pedicure while relaxing in the large comfortable chairs provided at the spa.

On the other hand, in 1984, Melbourne Beach Pier was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and since then, it has preserved many of its very old houses and buildings.

Adjacent to the pier is the Melbourne Beach Community Center in Ryckman Park.

You can find shady gazebos where you can relax and even have a picnic.

Day Trips & Nearby Excursions

Are you ready to go beyond the sun-soaked beaches of Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach?

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as I reveal the thrilling possibilities that await you during day trips and nearby excursions:

1. Kennedy Space Center: Where Dreams Take Flight

Step into the realm of space exploration at the legendary Kennedy Space Center.

Get up close and personal with iconic rockets like the Saturn V, marvel at the enormity of the Vehicle Assembly Building, and witness the sheer power of a rocket launch!

Take the opportunity to meet real-life astronauts, hear their captivating stories, and gain insights into the fascinating world of space travel.

Brace yourself for an experience that will ignite your passion for exploration.

2. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Nature’s Wonderland

Escape to the untamed beauty of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Traverse scenic trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, where you might spot graceful manatees peacefully grazing in the water, majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, and playful dolphins frolicking in the waves.

Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to observe the colorful bird species that call this refuge their home.

Immerse yourself in nature’s wonders and discover the magic of this untouched wilderness.

3. Coastal Delights: Exploring Neighboring Beach Towns

Embark on a coastal road trip to explore the charming neighboring beach towns that dot the coastline.

Visit Indialantic, a laid-back town brimming with local boutiques offering unique treasures and vibrant art galleries showcasing the talent of local artists.

If you’re craving more beachside beauty, head to Satellite Beach, known for its pristine stretches of sand perfect for long walks and shell hunting.

Indulge in the local flavors at quaint cafes and seafood shacks, and immerse yourself in the relaxed coastal vibe that defines these hidden gems.

4. Off the Beaten Path: Natural Wonders

Venture off the beaten path and uncover the hidden natural wonders surrounding Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach.

Embark on a thrilling airboat ride through the untouched marshes of the St.

John’s River, where you might spot alligators lazily sunbathing on the banks.

Dive into the crystal-clear springs of Blue Springs State Park, home to manatees seeking refuge in the warm waters during the winter months.

Explore enchanting caves at Florida Caverns State Park and witness breathtaking geological formations that have been millions of years in the making!

FAQs

Is Melbourne Beach pretty?

Yes!

Melbourne Beach is one of the finest beaches in Florida.

Whether you just love to swim, Wade, Beachcomber, or relax on the sand, Melbourne has some amazing spots where you can do the things you like on the beach and have fun.

Is the water clear on Cocoa Beach?

No.

It is because the sand is disturbed by the waves, so the water in Cocoa Beach is not very clear.

However, the water in Cocoa Beach is very clear, mostly during calm weather and periods without wind or wave action.

Spots that have more crowds are mostly near the Pier and areas to either side

Can you swim in the ocean at Cocoa Beach?

Yes!

In Cocoa Beach, there are four lifeguard stations where you can swim in the ocean safely and they work  throughout the year.

These include:

• Lori Wilson Park
• Shepard Park
• Cocoa Beach Pier and
• Minuteman Causeway

Before going into the ocean, it is important to take cautionary measures, for instance:

1. Never swim alone
2. Always swim in areas where there are other people swimming.

Are there any good restaurants in Melbourne Beach?

Absolutely!

Melbourne Beach has a range of dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale waterfront restaurants.

Some popular spots include Sand on the Beach, Djon’s Steak and Lobster House, and Ocean 302 Bar & Grill.

You can grab a quick bite or indulge in a full-course meal while taking in the stunning views.

Is Melbourne Beach a good place for families?

Definitely!
Melbourne Beach is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained.

Kids can build sandcastles, swim in the ocean, and play at the playgrounds while parents can relax on the beach or take a stroll around town.

There are also family-friendly restaurants and nearby attractions like the Brevard Zoo and Kennedy Space Center.

Can you go fishing in Melbourne Beach?

Yes, sir (or ma’am)!

Melbourne Beach is a prime location for fishing, with plenty of opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

You can cast your line from the beach, pier, or charter a fishing boat for a deep-sea adventure.

Common catches include snapper, grouper, and redfish.

Just make sure to follow local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses.