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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

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 Wisconsin Dells. 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. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a high energy, fun-filled, and lighthearted city. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food.

Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cocoa Beach. Although Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells are both popular with visitors, Cocoa Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cocoa Beach is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, and shopping, while Wisconsin Dells is known for its nightlife and hiking. Wisconsin Dells is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is popular for its many waterparks and unapologetically playful atmosphere. Cocoa Beach is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. It is also home to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Wisconsin Dells?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

While most people don't head to Wisconsin Dells specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of art galleries in the area, but most visitors spend the majority of their time at the theme parks and waterparks.


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

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cocoa Beach. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Pizza, pasta, burgers, and steak in a family-friendly atmosphere are the most common options in the area. There are also a few fine dining restaurants as well as pubs and brunch places to choose from.

Is Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

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

Wisconsin Dells has a large number of nightlife venues. In the evening the fun-filled atmosphere takes on a different vibe. There are bars, clubs, casinos, and shows that keep things lively throughout 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 Wisconsin Dells Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

There are good resorts to choose from in both Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells.

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.

Wisconsin Dells has a handful of resorts to choose from. Many of the waterparks in the area have affiliated resorts that offer family-friendly entertainment.


Is Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for the beache. However, Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Cocoa Beach is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Hiking?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Wisconsin Dells offers some nice hiking trails. Visitors often forget that this was originally a destination for its natural beauty. There are still many hiking trails in the area with some of the favorites found at Mirror Lake State Park, Rocky Arbor State Park, and Chimney Rock Private Park.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Cocoa Beach offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Wisconsin Dells has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers, as well as gift shops in the area.


Is Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Both Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells are amazing 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, Wisconsin Dells is a very family-friendly destination. While it used to be known for its impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River, today it has a more touristy atmosphere with theme parks and amusement parks. It's also become known as the "Water Park Capital of the World", and it won't disappoint. There are both indoor and outdoor waterparks as well as train rides, boat rides, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants.

Is Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Wisconsin Dells is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Wisconsin Dells is a good beach town for couples to visit. There are a number of resorts with spas and romantic atmospheres. There are also wineries and plenty of entertainment options in the area.

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

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its public transit. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cocoa Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 quite limited in Wisconsin Dells. There's no real public transportation in the area.


Is Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Wisconsin Dells

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Wisconsin Dells is a city with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Wisconsin Dells is generally not a very walkable beach town. While the downtown area is walkable, you really need a car to access everything that the area has to offer.

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

Should I spend more time in Wisconsin Dells or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

It's fun to spend time in either Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells. 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 2-4 days is enough time in Wisconsin Dells.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Wisconsin Dells 2-4

One day in Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The fun-filled destination of Cocoa Beach offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lighthearted city of Wisconsin Dells. 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.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

The beach town of Cocoa Beach offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the fun-filled destination of Wisconsin Dells. 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 Wisconsin Dells?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This beach town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

The high energy city of Wisconsin Dells offers nightlife and food. 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 Wisconsin Dells?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cocoa Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Wisconsin Dells. 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, Wisconsin Dells 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 Wisconsin Dells is $142. 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 Wisconsin Dells in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Wisconsin Dells $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Wisconsin Dells $140
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells? 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 Wisconsin Dells


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 Wisconsin Dells Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Wisconsin Dells $35

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Prices for flights to both Wisconsin Dells 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
    Wisconsin Dells $43

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
    Wisconsin Dells $46

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 Wisconsin Dells

Here are a few actual costs in Wisconsin Dells for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • City and History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $24
  • Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Wisconsin Dells $9.14

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 Wisconsin Dells, 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 Wisconsin Dells Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wisconsin Dells. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells, 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 Wisconsin Dells?

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 Wisconsin Dells in the Summer?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Cocoa Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wisconsin Dells for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Wisconsin Dells. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Wisconsin Dells. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wisconsin Dells in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 77°F (25°C) in October, and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Wisconsin Dells. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Wisconsin Dells. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Wisconsin Dells for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Wisconsin Dells can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cocoa Beach in January average around 63°F (17°C), and Wisconsin Dells averages at about 19°F (-7°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in January than Wisconsin Dells. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 19°F (-7°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Wisconsin Dells in the Spring?

Both Wisconsin Dells and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches during these months.

In April, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Wisconsin Dells. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 73°F (23°C), and Wisconsin Dells fluctuates around 49°F (10°C).

In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Wisconsin Dells. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Wisconsin Dells receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C) 
    Wisconsin Dells 49°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Wisconsin Dells and Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Wisconsin Dells
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 36°F (2°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (10°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Oct 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 52°F (11°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)
Nov 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 39°F (4°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Dec 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)