A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Cocoa Beach vs. Tallahassee for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee. 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.

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a lively, vibrant, and youthful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Cocoa Beach and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

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

How is Cocoa Beach different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.


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

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Cocoa Beach is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

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

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.

Tallahassee has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Cocoa Beach is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

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

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.

Tallahassee is a great destination for shopping. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Is Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Cocoa Beach is an amazing beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Cocoa Beach is great for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

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

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

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 Tallahassee Better for Students?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

Many students visit Tallahassee. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.


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

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination 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 generally limited in Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

Is Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Tallahassee

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination 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.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cocoa Beach than Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.


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

One day in Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing 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 shopping when visiting the vibrant city of Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous 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 shopping and museums when visiting the youthful destination of Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventurous 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 youthful city of Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee?

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 shopping when visiting Tallahassee. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Tallahassee $33

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 (MCO) Airport: $278
  • Private Transfer from Cocoa to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $275

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47

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:

  • 3-Hour Indian River Queen Cruise with Dinner: $79
  • Guided Walking Food Tour in Cocoa Beach: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Tallahassee $12

Tours and Activities in Cocoa Beach

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

  • 1 Hour Historic Riverboat Shared Cruise in Cocoa City: $25
  • 2 Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour of the Indian River Lagoon: $75
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $45
  • 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
  • Cocoa Beach 2 Hour Dolphin Sightseeing tour- public: $65
  • Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River: $40

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $245
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $481
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $191
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Tallahassee $53


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


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

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

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Tallahassee in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tallahassee. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Tallahassee. The autumn months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Tallahassee this time of year.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 69°F (20°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Tallahassee. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee in the Winter?

Both Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Tallahassee in the Spring?

Both Tallahassee and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches.

Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

Tallahassee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in April than Tallahassee. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)