6 Things To Do In Cocoa Beach Before Or After You Cruise

If you’re ready to set sail, then you have to try some of our 6 favorite things to do in Cocoa Beach before or after your cruise. Port Canaveral is the world’s 2nd busiest cruise port with sailings for Carnival, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian, and Disney Cruise lines every single day.

With countless family-friendly attractions in Cocoa Beach and the surrounding area, it is a popular destination before and after cruise embarkation day! Cocoa Beach is home to beautiful beaches, lively surf, scrumptious seafood, and myriad attractions that will please every member of the family. If you’re looking for things to do in Cocoa Beach before your cruise, these options should please adventure seekers, nature lovers, history buffs, and foodies alike.

Grab Some Food and Picnic on Cocoa Beach

What could be better than a picnic on the beach? Head to Bagel 13 and grab a fresh bagel sandwich and iced cold brew and head out to one of the nearby public access parks. Some, like the Alan Shepard Park and the Sidney Fischer Park require a $15 parking fee. If you’re looking for free parking, Lori Wilson Park has beach access, a nature trail, bathrooms, outdoor shower and a dog park. If its seafood you crave, Jazzy’s Mainely is the place to be! Maine lobster two ways; Connecticut style (with butter) or New England style (with mayo), is brought in daily. Jazzy’s also offers a kids menu, non-seafood options and even veggie-burgers!

Get out on the Water on This Two-Hour Banana River Eco-Tour

Wildside Tours offers a narrated two-hour excursion along the Banana River where you can see dolphins, manatee and osprey in mangrove-lined waters. Visitors young and older will enjoy this tour. The Banana River is a lagoon filled with plant and marine life located between Merritt Island and Cape Canaveral. 

Get Hands-on at the Exploration Tower at Cape Canaveral

With seven floors of hands-on family fun a short drive from Cocoa Beach, the Exploration Tower is a must-see (and do!) Check out some marine life art exhibits, and learn about early populations with a historical exhibit or the history of Port Canaveral. At the top level of the tower visit the air and space exhibit and experience the outdoor observation deck! The Exploration Tower is an inexpensive option and a fun way to spend some time on a rainy day before or after your cruise.

Explore the World Famous Cocoa Beach Pier 

Consider a stop at this area landmark. Try out one of the restaurants, purchase a few Cocoa Beach souvenirs or try your hand at fishing; you can rent equipment. Settle in at the tiki bar at the end of the pier and just stare out at the water, watch surfers or cruise ships pass by.  The beach area adjacent to the Cocoa Beach Pier is a great spot for relaxing or playing in the surf and sun.

Don’t Miss The Top Cocoa Beach Shopping Spots 

Whether you’re looking for fun beachwear and souvenirs, luxury items or not sure exactly what you’re shopping for, you’ll find it at Cocoa Beach. Ron Jon’s Surf Shop, and Cocoa Beach Surf Company are within walking distance of one another. Don’t forget to stop by Florida Key Lime Pie Company if you’re craving a sweet treat. Their key lime pie, homemade ice cream, and cheesecake should all do the trick. Finally, if you’re seeking more one-of-a-kind items like handmade soaps, fused glass gifts and artisan jewelry, Rjk Studio is your spot.  

Education and Vacation Go Hand in Hand at Cocoa Beach

Finally, for those seeking a bit more in the way of educational activities, Kennedy Space Center is a short ride from Cocoa Beach. You may even be able to time your cruise with a launch so be sure to check the KSC calendar. For the dinosaur fans in your party, The Dinosaur Store is home to the Museum of Dinosaurs and Ancient Cultures and a great way to incorporate a little history into your vacation.

If you’re cruising from Port Canaveral and looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the port area before your cruise, the not-so-sleepy little town of Cocoa Beach is a great option. With something to suit all ages, tastes, and interests, it is the ideal spot for pre-cruise fun or post-cruise getting back to reality activities. What are your favorite things to do before or after you take a cruise?