About Cocoa Beach, Florida

Cocoa Beach has the appearance of being just an uncrowded quiet beach but appearances can be deceiving. Of course there are tall swaying palm trees, rows of pastel colored shops and long stretches of hard packed sandy beaches but beyond the glamour you will find history and charm. Cocoa Beach is home to two colleges, several museums Surfer on Cocoa Beach

and The Surfside Players.

Cocoa Beach is located on a barrier island in the Central-East section of Florida. It is separated from the city of Cocoa by the Intracoastal waterway and the Banana River. In 1894 the railroad was extended south to Lake Worth, opening up a whole new opportunity for travelers and businesses. Cocoa Beach was not joined to the mainland until 1918 when a series of wooden bridges were erected over the river giving access to many travelers.

Cocoa Beach has Citrus Groves in Close Proximity

The Central East coast of Florida is a huge producer of citrus fruits. Indian River oranges and grapefruits are shipped worldwide. Douglas Dummet, a Barbadian immigrant helped to develop the citrus industry in Florida around 1807. The Seminole Wars, freezes and devastating hurricanes destroyed the Dummet groves. Today a historical marker located Cocoa Beach's Ron Jon

on Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge commemorates the groves. Technology and the space age mix with historical buildings, scenic views and natural wonders. The federal government takes strong actions on preserving the natural habitat of the area to maintain a balance. The natural habitat is home to over 200 species of birds and many raccoons, bobcats and alligators. North of Cocoa Beach is the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Canaveral National Seashore.

Cocoa Beach is Readily Accessable to Cape Canaveral

The close proximity to Cape Canaveral makes the area convenient for travelers who want a little slower pace but still enjoy the view. The beach is a special place Bird Relaxing on Cocoa Beach

to watch a space shuttle lift off. Cocoa Beach is in the heart of the Space coast. The importance of the space program is evident by the roadside missile exhibit along SR A1A. The Astronaut Memorial Planetarium & Observatory at Brevard Community College offers several displays on natural history and the space age. The planetarium is home to the largest telescope available to the public in the state of Florida. Space memorabilia overflows into the lobby to mesmerize visitors and future astronauts. Located on the same campus is the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science. Travel back into the time of the early inhabitants of the coast. Exhibits have furniture, American Indian tools, pottery, the remains of extinct animals and an impressive shell collection. The museum has 22 acres of nature trails open to the public. The Florida Solar energy Center is on the campus of the University of Central Florida and their main attraction is Warm Sun on Cocoa Beach

sunshine. Tour the visitor center of this fantastic place for valuable information and hot exhibits. For additional information, maps and brochures contact the Cocoa Beach area Chamber of Commerce, located on Merritt Island.

In Cocoa Beach, A1A Meanders Along the Coast

Florida's A1A meanders along the coast and through the barrier islands bringing you face to face with nature at its finest. Drive by Mosquito Lagoon, Indian River, Banana River and a few ditches filled with turtles, and alligators. Park your vehicle at the public beach access, stroll along the hard packed sandy beaches and watch a shuttle sail through the blue sky. Stay awhile and look for the man on the moon.