A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Detroit for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cocoa Beach and Detroit. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a relaxing, adventurous, and fun-filled beach town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Cocoa Beach and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Detroit. Although Cocoa Beach and Detroit are both popular with visitors, Detroit has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Detroit is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Cocoa Beach is known for its museums, food, resorts, and beaches. Cocoa Beach is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cocoa Beach can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.


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

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Cocoa Beach has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Detroit is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Detroit has a large number of nightlife venues. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

Cocoa Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit Better for Music?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Detroit is very popular for its music scene. However, Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Cocoa Beach makes a nice vacation spot. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for the beache. However, Detroit is not a beach destination.

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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Cocoa Beach and Detroit.

Cocoa Beach has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Detroit is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.


Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

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

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cocoa Beach has some public transit options. 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 generally limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.


Is Cocoa Beach or Detroit a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Detroit

Cocoa Beach and Detroit are good when it comes to 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.

Detroit is somewhat walkable. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cocoa Beach and Detroit. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cocoa Beach than in Detroit. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Detroit.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Detroit 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 Cocoa Beach or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the under-rated city of Detroit. Most people visit for the live music. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cocoa Beach has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the hardworking destination of Detroit. This city 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.


Five days in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cocoa Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The under-rated city of Detroit offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cocoa Beach. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cocoa Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Detroit. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the live music. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Cocoa Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cocoa Beach is $145, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. 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 Cocoa Beach and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Detroit? 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 Cocoa Beach


Hotels in Detroit


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 and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cocoa Beach

Also for Cocoa Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Melbourne to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $293
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $279
  • Private Transfer from Cocoa to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $277
  • Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral Hotel transfers : $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

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

  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $142
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $142
  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Cocoa Beach 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
    Cocoa Beach $43
    Detroit $44

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
  • Guided Walking Food Tour in Cocoa Beach: $79
  • Village Food Tours Lunch & History Tour: $100

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

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

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Detroit $21

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
  • 1 Hour Historic Riverboat Shared Cruise in Cocoa City: $25
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $45
  • Bicycle Tours and Rentals Throughout the Space Coast: $50
  • Bioluminescence Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Adventure Tour: $75
  • Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $70
  • Bioluminescence Night Kayaking Tour of Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge: $80
  • Bioluminescent Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboard Sit-On-Top Kayak Hybrid Tour!: $75
  • Bioluminescent Clear Kayak Tours in Titusville: $120
  • Clear Kayak Bioluminescence Tour: $85
  • Clear Kayak Florida Bioluminescence Tour | Beacon 42 (Titusville): $85
  • Clear Kayak Guided Kayak Tours in Titusville: $65

Tours and Activities in Detroit

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

  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $11
  • Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour: $115
  • Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Segway Tour Strait to the Point: $99
  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan Admission Ticket: $26
  • Motor City Ghosts Tour: $33
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Detroit $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Cocoa Beach

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cocoa Beach:

  • Waterfront Happy Hour Bar Crawl: $39


When comparing the travel costs between Cocoa Beach and Detroit, we can see that Cocoa Beach is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Detroit, 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 Cocoa Beach or Detroit?

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 Cocoa Beach or Detroit in the Summer?

Both Detroit and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cocoa Beach is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Detroit in the Autumn?

Both Detroit and Cocoa Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Detroit because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 77°F (25°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Detroit. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Detroit in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Detroit. The winter months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Detroit this time of year.

It's quite cold in Detroit in the winter. In the winter, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cocoa Beach in January average around 63°F (17°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Detroit. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Detroit in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Detroit. The beaches are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the activities around the city.

In April, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 73°F (23°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in April than Detroit. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)