A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Napa Valley for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley. 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 nightlife, food, and beaches.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Cocoa Beach and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Napa Valley. Although Cocoa Beach and Napa Valley are popular destinations, Napa Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Napa Valley is famous for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Napa Valley, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cocoa Beach makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley has a large number of nightlife venues. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cocoa Beach attract visitors from all over. 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.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Cocoa Beach is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is an extremely popular beach 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is very popular for couples. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Napa Valley is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

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

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Napa Valley

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a walkable beach town. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cocoa Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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


  • How many days in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled beach town of Cocoa Beach. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque area of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the food. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun-filled destination of Cocoa Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Napa Valley. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This area 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled beach town of Cocoa Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The scenic area of Napa Valley offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cocoa Beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Napa Valley. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the food. 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, Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley is $288. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Napa Valley $183

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 Napa Valley

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

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Napa Valley $28

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 Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Napa Valley $66

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Napa Valley, 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 Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Napa Valley. The autumn months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

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

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the spring for the natural beauty.

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

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)