A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Yellowstone National Park for Families, Backpackers, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

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 Yellowstone National Park. 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 beaches, shopping, and museums.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and vast national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Cocoa Beach and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Yellowstone National Park and Cocoa Beach have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Cocoa Beach is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Yellowstone National Park to choose from. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.


Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is well known for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Yellowstone National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Cocoa Beach to go shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach and Yellowstone National Park both superb destinations for a couple.

Cocoa Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable beach town. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Cocoa Beach and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in Cocoa Beach. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Yellowstone National Park. 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 Yellowstone National Park. 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 Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

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. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast national park of Yellowstone National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cocoa Beach. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Yellowstone National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking national park of Yellowstone National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


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, Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Yellowstone National Park? 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 Yellowstone National Park


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 Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Yellowstone National Park $37

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 Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park 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
    Yellowstone National Park $46

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
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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 Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Yellowstone National Park $19

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 Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.