Cocoa Beach

Welcome to Cocoa Beach

World-famous Cocoa Beach was put on the map by the tourist attraction of Ron Jon Surf Shop and its close proximity to Orlando. Known as “Orlando’s closest beach” Cocoa Beach does get its fair share of tourists, however, the southern section is also a great beach town for families featuring a variety of real estate options to choose from.

Families are drawn to Cocoa Beach for its highly-rated school system and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Banana River. Full-time residents and second homeowners are drawn to the highly desirable oceanfront homes along A1A. These properties start at $800 – $1 MM for a small 50ft wide lot. The oceanfront properties with 75ft – 100ft+ of frontage sell at a premium, bringing anywhere from $1.3MM – well over $2 MM. Along the Banana River, you’ll find properties overlooking the preserve, abundant with wildlife. This preserve is a series of little islands known as the Thousand Islands which are the perfect scenery for kayaking, boating, or stand-up paddleboarding.

As you continue to head south, the island narrows towards Patrick Air Force Base. The condos on the higher floors in this area will enjoy both the Atlantic and Banana River views. There are many good restaurants to try in South Cocoa Beach, the best being The Fat Snook!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cocoa Beach, FL

Considering a move to this famous beach town? We have answered the top 10 questions to help you understand the local lifestyle, the housing market, and what it’s really like to live in Cocoa Beach.

1. Is Cocoa Beach a good place to live year-round? 

Yes! While it is a popular spot for tourists, Cocoa Beach has a very active community of full-time residents. Locals enjoy the quiet seasons and the fact that most shops and restaurants stay open all year.

2. What are the "Thousand Islands" I keep hearing about? 

The Thousand Islands is a group of small islands in the Banana River. It is a protected area filled with wildlife. It is one of the best spots in Florida for kayaking and paddleboarding because the water is calm and full of nature.

3. Can you really see the ocean and the river at the same time?

In the southern part of Cocoa Beach, the land gets very narrow. If you live in a condo on a higher floor, you can often see the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean and set over the Banana River from the same building.

4. How is the traffic in Cocoa Beach?

Since there is only one main road (A1A), traffic can get busy during spring break or on holiday weekends. However, during the rest of the year, getting around is usually very easy and quick.

5. Are the schools in Cocoa Beach good? 

Yes, the schools here are excellent. Freedom 7 Elementary is a top-rated school that many families move to the area specifically to attend. The local high school also has a great reputation for both academics and sports.

6. What is the "Fat Snook" that people talk about? 

The Fat Snook is one of the most famous restaurants in South Cocoa Beach. It is known for serving fresh, local seafood in a cozy atmosphere. It is a favorite for locals celebrating special occasions.

7. Is it expensive to buy a home on the beach?

Homes right on the ocean are at a premium. Small lots usually start around $800,000, while larger properties with more beach frontage can sell for well over $2 million. There are, however, many condo options that are more affordable.

8. How far is Cocoa Beach from the Orlando airport?

Cocoa Beach is about a 45-minute to 50-minute drive from Orlando International Airport (MCO). This makes it very easy for residents to travel or for friends and family to come visit.

9. Can you see rocket launches from Cocoa Beach? 

Absolutely! Because it is just south of Cape Canaveral, you can see every rocket launch from the Kennedy Space Center clearly from the beach or your own balcony. It is one of the most exciting parts of living here.

10. Is the beach crowded with tourists? 

The area near the Cocoa Beach Pier and Ron Jon Surf Shop can get crowded. However, as you move further south into the residential areas, the beaches become very quiet and are mostly used by locals.