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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Monterey?

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 Monterey. 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 adventurous, fun-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cocoa Beach and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Cocoa Beach and Monterey are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Cocoa Beach attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Monterey and Cocoa Beach.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cocoa Beach. 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.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

Both Cocoa Beach and Monterey offer excellent 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Cocoa Beach or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

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

Monterey has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

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 Monterey Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Cocoa Beach has a few great resort options. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Cocoa Beach for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Monterey?

Monterey is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Cocoa Beach or Monterey Better for Families?

Both Cocoa Beach and Monterey are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Is Cocoa Beach or Monterey Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Monterey both excellent destinations for a couple.

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.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Cocoa Beach or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

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

Cocoa Beach is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey 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 Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Cocoa Beach or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Monterey?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Cocoa Beach 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 Monterey.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Monterey?

The beach town of Cocoa Beach offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The laid back city of Monterey 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 Monterey?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cocoa Beach and Monterey, we can see that Monterey 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 Monterey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monterey 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 Cocoa Beach Expensive? and Is Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Monterey. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Cocoa Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Monterey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Monterey. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

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

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Monterey. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Cocoa Beach