🌴 Area Information – Cape Canaveral & Cocoa Beach
Our home is located in the heart of Cape Canaveral, just minutes from the beach, Port Canaveral, and some of the Space Coast’s best attractions. Whether you’re here for relaxation, adventure, or rocket launches, there’s something for everyone.
🚀 Rocket Launches
During your stay, there is a strong chance you’ll see a rocket launch!
Launches take place from Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
Best places to watch:
- From the house (front yard facing north)
- Along the 528 Causeway
- Port Canaveral (near the cruise terminals)
- Waterfront restaurants (arrive early for seating)
For launch schedules and updates:
- SpaceFlightNow.com
- Local news (Spectrum News 13)
- SpaceX YouTube live stream
Some Falcon 9 launches feature boosters returning to land, often with a sonic boom — an unforgettable experience!
🏖️ Beach Information
The beach at the end of the neighborhood is beautiful and typically not overcrowded.
There is no lifeguard at this access point, but lifeguarded beaches nearby include:
- Jetty Park (¼ mile north)
- Cocoa Beach Pier
- Alan Shepard Park (behind Ron Jon Surf Shop)
Beach volleyball, live music, and a fun atmosphere can often be found near the Pier.
🍽️ Local Restaurants
All major delivery services are available (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub).
Nearby favorites:
- Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar – Great burgers, seafood & live music
- Rusty’s Seafood & Oyster Bar – Local favorite for oysters
- Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill – Waterfront dining with cruise ship views
- Gator’s Dockside – Casual, beach-side dining
- Thai Thai Restaurant & Sushi Bar – Excellent Thai & sushi (less than a mile away)
- Kelsey’s Pizzeria (Cape Canaveral)
- Italian Courtyard (Cocoa Beach)
🌙 Nightlife
- Coconuts on the Beach – Lively beach bar with live music
- Sandbar Beach Grill – Right behind Ron Jon Surf Shop
- Sunset Grill – One of our favorites for sunset drinks
- Grills Tiki Bar – Live music starting early evenings
- Gator’s Dockside – DJ and dancing later at night
- Victory Casino Cruises – Nightly cruises from Port Canaveral
(Next closest casino: Hard Rock Casino Tampa – approx. 2-hour drive)
🛍️ Shopping & Groceries
- Publix – Closest grocery store
- Cape Canaveral Meats & Deli – Great steaks and sandwiches
- Merritt Square Mall – Macy’s, Dillard’s, JCPenney & more
- Ron Jon Surf Shop – World-famous surf shop just minutes away
- Super Flea Market (Melbourne) – For bargain hunters
🎢 Attractions & Activities
Family & Adventure
- Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex – Full-day attraction
- Brevard Zoo – Feed giraffes, kayak & zipline over animals
- Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures – Tree-top obstacle courses
- Andretti Thrill Park – Go-karts, laser tag, mini golf
- Dinosaur Store & Adventure Zone – Hands-on fun for kids
- Exploration Tower – Stunning views of Port Canaveral
Nature & Outdoors
- Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge – Manatees, birds & wildlife
- Airboat Rides at Lone Cabbage Fish Camp
- Fishing & Charter Boats – Jetty Park & Port Canaveral
- Kayaking – Indian River Lagoon & bioluminescent tours (seasonal)
🎥 Movies & Entertainment
- Merritt Square 16 Theaters & IMAX
- Mini-golf & go-karts nearby
- Slingshot Rentals for a unique thrill ride
💆 “Me Time”
- La Bella Spa (Merritt Island) – Massages & facials
- Hollywood Nails (Cocoa Beach) – Pedicures, manicures & waxing
- Spectrum Hair Salon (Merritt Island)
🌞 Stay In & Relax
If you don’t feel like going out, enjoy the beach breeze, sunshine, and relaxed coastal vibe that makes the Space Coast such a special place.