A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Cape Canaveral vs. Cocoa Beach for Attractions, Families, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a wonder-filled, unique, and iconic town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a adventurous, fun-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach. Although Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations, Cocoa Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cocoa Beach is very popular for its food, nightlife, and beaches, while Cape Canaveral attracts visitors for its museums. Cape Canaveral is famous for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. It is also well known for the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Cocoa Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Canaveral has many famous sights for visitors. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Cocoa Beach has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Most people don't head to Cape Canaveral specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

With a similar set of options, nice resorts can be found in both Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach.

Cape Canaveral has a few great resort options. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.


Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for the beach. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cocoa Beach. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cape Canaveral. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach both offer plenty of nice spots.

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach are both world-class destinations for the whole family.

Cape Canaveral is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

Cocoa Beach is an extremely popular town to visit for families. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.


Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach are both great to visit as a couple.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

In either Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Cape Canaveral because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cocoa Beach.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Cape Canaveral. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cocoa Beach, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Cape Canaveral. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cocoa Beach that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Cape Canaveral if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cocoa Beach.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Cocoa Beach 2-5

One day in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic town of Cape Canaveral. Most people visit for the museums. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the unique destination of Cape Canaveral. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

The wonder-filled town of Cape Canaveral offers museums and food. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cocoa Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cape Canaveral. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beach town of Cocoa Beach. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cocoa Beach or Cape Canaveral?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $220, while the average daily cost in Cocoa Beach is $145. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Cocoa Beach $85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Cocoa Beach $170
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Canaveral


Hotels in Cocoa Beach


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cocoa Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Cocoa Beach $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

Also for Cape Canaveral, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Round Trip NASA Space Center/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $67
  • Round Trip MCO Orlando Airport/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $170
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $120
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Vista Cay: $234
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $241
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport: $284
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $284
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $218
  • Orlando Airport to/from Port Canaveral Sedan Transfer up to 3 pax: $145
  • One Way MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $85
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO)-Departure Transfer: $85
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Prices for flights to both Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Canaveral $43
    Cocoa Beach $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cocoa Beach

For Cocoa Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Guided Walking Food Tour in Cocoa Beach: $79
  • 3-Hour Indian River Queen Cruise with Dinner: $79
  • Village Food Tours Lunch & History Tour: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Cocoa Beach $16

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Canaveral.

  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $58
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95
  • Self-Guided Kayaking Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $55
  • Two Hour Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $60
  • Wizard of OZ Museum Ticket with Guided Tour by the Owner: $125
  • Wizard of OZ Museum tour: $30

Tours and Activities in Cocoa Beach

For Cocoa Beach, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • LED Bio Comb Jelly Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboard Tour!: $64
  • 2 Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour of the Indian River Lagoon: $65
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $45
  • Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $70
  • Bioluminescent Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboard Sit-On-Top Kayak Hybrid Tour!: $60
  • Clear Kayak Bioluminescence Tour: $85
  • Cocoa Beach 2 Hour Dolphin Sightseeing tour- public: $65
  • Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River: $40
  • Banana River Sunset Cruise w/ Dolphin Watching: $40
  • Daytime Guided Kayak Eco-Tour: $49
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak or Paddle Tour: $49
  • Polaris Slingshot 3-Wheel Motorcycle Adventure: $189

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Cocoa Beach $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. And not only is Cocoa Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cocoa Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cocoa Beach and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cape Canaveral would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Canaveral than you might in Cocoa Beach.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Canaveral Expensive? and Is Cocoa Beach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cape Canaveral gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cocoa Beach. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Cocoa Beach. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Cocoa Beach averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. Cape Canaveral receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cape Canaveral usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cocoa Beach. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach in the Winter?

Both Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cape Canaveral is generally around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cocoa Beach. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Cocoa Beach in the Spring?

Both Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the beaches. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cocoa Beach. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)