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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

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 Richmond. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Richmond

Richmond is a friendly, historical, and growing city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cocoa Beach and Richmond: 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 for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach. Although Cocoa Beach and Richmond are popular destinations, Cocoa Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cocoa Beach is more touristy than Richmond and is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. It is also well known for the Kennedy Space Center. Richmond is famous for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Richmond 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.

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.


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

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Cocoa Beach is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Richmond.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cocoa Beach. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Richmond has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach is very good for its resorts. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Cocoa Beach and Richmond.

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.

Richmond is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly beach town. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond Better for Students?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Richmond is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

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

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach is very good for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Cocoa Beach has a few 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 mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.


Is Cocoa Beach or Richmond a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Richmond

Cocoa Beach and Richmond are nice 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.

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cocoa Beach or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cocoa Beach than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the growing city of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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 food and shopping when visiting the historical destination of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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 growing city of Richmond offers shopping and museums. 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 Richmond?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Richmond. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond 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 Richmond is $161. 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 Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Richmond? 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 Richmond


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 Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Richmond $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cocoa Beach

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond 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
    Richmond $21

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 Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Richmond $13

Tours and Activities in Cocoa Beach

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

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Palm Bay by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • 1 Hour Historic Riverboat Shared Cruise in Cocoa City: $25
  • Banana River Sunset Cruise w/ Dolphin Watching: $40
  • Sunset Cruise on the Beautiful Banana River: $40
  • Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River: $40
  • Thousand Islands Banana River Boat Cruise: $40
  • Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon : $40
  • Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour: $45
  • Dolphin Tour with Local Expert: $45
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $45
  • Wildlife Refuge Dolphin, Manatee & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!: $48
  • Wildlife Refuge Manatee, Dolphin & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!: $48

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond: $44
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Church Hill Segway Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Discover Downtown Richmond Bike Tour: $125
  • Guided Walking Tour of Richmond: $38
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Historic Trolley Tour: $38
  • Hollywood Cemetery Segway Tour in Richmond: $76
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Phantoms of Franklin Ghost Tour: $30
  • RVATukTuk Sightseeing Tour of Richmond: $187
  • Richmond Downtown Walking Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Richmond -

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 Richmond

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

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


When comparing the travel costs between Cocoa Beach and Richmond, we can see that Richmond 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 Richmond Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Richmond in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Richmond. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Richmond in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Richmond in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite rainy in Richmond. Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Richmond. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Richmond in the Autumn?

Both Richmond and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Richmond for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Richmond averages at about 59°F (15°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In October, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Richmond. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Richmond in the Winter?

Both Richmond and Cocoa Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Richmond because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Richmond can be very cold. In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in January than Richmond. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Richmond in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Richmond. The spring months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Richmond in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Richmond. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)