Summary
The world’s best surf spots have more than just reliable waves. To achieve the ultimate surf vibe, you need warm water, numerous breaks, and a nice long beach. Moreover, it certainly helps if there’s a lively surf community out in the water.
The travel blog ParkSleepFly took these factors into consideration while evaluating the top surf spots in the U.S. The site analyzed natural elements, such as the number of surf breaks, water temperature, and coastline length, alongside social indicators like Google searches and Instagram tags. Consequently, Cocoa Beach in Florida emerged at the forefront with an impressive score of 8.32 out of a possible 10.
The long-time surf town outperformed other notable locations such as Waikiki Beach in Hawaii and Huntington Beach, California. Cocoa Beach, known for producing world-renowned surfer Kelly Slater, boasts an average sea temperature of a balmy 80 degrees and features 78 surf breaks along nearly 12 miles of coastline. Additionally, the beach is trending online, enjoying over 3,000 surfing-related Instagram hashtags and approximately 5,800 Google searches.
However, as any surfer understands, a great surf spot incorporates more than just good breaks and fellow surfers. To maintain the surfing spirit, one must eat and sleep, and if you’re a novice, you’ll likely require some guidance. Here’s how to plan your surf break in Cocoa Beach, Florida.
Where to Book a Lesson and Rent a Board
One of the premier surf shops in Cocoa Beach is a familiar name among surfers: Ron Jon. A foam surfboard rental for four to eight hours is priced at $10, while a fiberglass board rental costs $20. Furthermore, they offer body boards, beach cruisers, chairs, wetsuits, umbrellas, and even stand-up paddleboards for rent.
If you wish to learn the fundamentals or refine your surfing technique, consider a lesson with the School of Surf, which comes highly recommended. A one-hour group lesson begins at $50 per person, with a one-hour private lesson available for $65. They also provide full and half-day camp sessions during the week.
What to Do (Other Than Surf)
Cocoa Beach may hold the title of Florida’s surfing capital, yet it offers a plethora of activities when the waves are flat or when you need a break. Surf enthusiasts can explore the Florida Surf Museum located within the Ron Jon Surf Shop, which features an array of exciting events and exhibits.
Moreover, it’s impossible to overlook the proximity of Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, located just north of the beach. The entire coastline is famously referred to as the Space Coast. Visitors can check out various exhibits and shows at the space center or embark on a bus tour of the spaceport.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Riki Tiki Tavern, while perhaps sounding a bit touristy, serves as an ideal venue for a post-surf drink. Nestled under a thatched roof on the pier, guests are treated to spectacular sea views alongside a refreshing ocean breeze. Enjoy the scenery while indulging in a Bahama Mama cocktail.
For shrimp lovers, a visit to the well-established and family-run locale, Florida’s Seafood Bar & Grill, is a must. This spot is celebrated for its shrimp dishes found in everything from po’ boys to tacos. If you’re seeking lighter, healthy options, consider The Green Room Cafe, located just a few blocks from the beach. They provide a wide selection of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, making it a great place to grab lunch before hitting the waves.
Where to Stay
The Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront has everything that surfers desire, along with additional amenities. The hotel offers direct beach access, bike and boogie board rentals, and even surf lessons. When in need of a break from the sun, guests can relax by the hotel’s sunny pool deck with a refreshing drink in hand.
Alternatively, if vacation rentals are more appealing, explore the options at Beach Place Guesthouses. Benefits include a fully equipped kitchen, access to a more private section of the beach, and a personal patio, perfect for stowing your surfboard.
