15+ Unforgettable Date Ideas in Cocoa Beach, Florida
Cocoa Beach is a charming beachside town on Florida's Atlantic coast known for its laidback surf culture, white sand beaches, and proximity to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center.
While the beach itself offers plenty of opportunity for romantic walks, swimming, and sunsets, there's much more to experience as a couple in and around Cocoa Beach. This fun beach town offers an array of exciting activities that will surely make your date one to remember.
There are some affiliate links below, but they are all products I highly recommend. For more info, view my disclosure.
We'll take you on a journey through some unforgettable date ideas, including a visit to charming, historic Cocoa Village, that will make your time in Cocoa Beach truly special!
Get A Free Blossom & Bloom Garden Date Guide!
Romantic Dinner Spots In Cocoa Beach
If you're looking for a romantic dinner spot with stunning ocean views, Cocoa Beach, Florida has several options to choose from.
Whether you're on a romantic getaway or just want a special evening with your loved one, Cocoa Beach offers the perfect place for a memorable beachside dining experience.
One of the top choices for an intimate dinner is Florida's Fresh Grill, known for serving incredible locally-sourced seafood and steak. Their menu focuses on fresh Florida ingredients, so you can expect dishes like locally caught swordfish, lobsta truffle mac & cheese, and perfectly cooked filet mignon. Plus, the TripAdvisor reviews are incredible!
Don't skip dessert – their key lime pie gets rave reviews. With impeccable service and creative cuisine, it's a wonderful option for celebrating special occasions like an anniversary or birthday. The romantic ambiance will make it a dinner to remember.
For a more casual but still romantic sweets setting, head to the Florida Key Lime Pie Company, located near the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop. This charming spot specializes in key lime pie along with other homemade desserts, local wines and hot sauces.
The cozy outdoor patio seating and the friendly service make it an ideal snack destination. Be sure to try a slice of their famous key lime pie – it's some of the best in Florida!
For another flavorful option, book a table at The Fat Snook. Sample creative seafood dishes and handcrafted cocktails as you watch the sunset.
Or grab a blanket and picnic basket and head to Lori Wilson Park. Spread out on the sand while you dine and enjoy stunning views of sunset over the horizon. A beach picnic is one of the most romantic and quintessential Florida activities. Grab some Publix fried chicken for the true Florida experience!
No matter which option you choose, Cocoa Beach offers a variety of romantic dinner spots with breathtaking beach views that will make your evening unforgettable.
Fun and Adventurous Outdoor Activities
For an exciting and memorable date night, there are plenty of fun and adventurous outdoor activities to try in the Cocoa Beach area. With its beautiful coastline and abundance of natural attractions, this destination offers many options to make your date adventurous and unique.
Start your day with an inspiring visit to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Cape Canaveral, where you can explore the awe-inspiring exhibits and learn about the history of space exploration.
Try to plan your visit on a day when you might get lucky and witness an actual rocket launch – seeing a spacecraft blast off into space is an unforgettable experience.
If you're looking for an adventurous fishing expedition, book one of the many fishing charters available that depart from local marinas. Spend the day out on the open water, reeling in big game catches like mahi-mahi, grouper and snapper as your captain guides you to the best fishing spots. The thrill of landing a huge fish makes for an exciting couples' adventure.
For a more relaxed outdoor experience, head north to Canaveral National Seashore. Take a romantic stroll hand-in-hand down miles of uncrowded sandy beaches. Pause to admire undisturbed dunes, marshes and lagoons that are home to diverse wildlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's coves.
Wind down with a breathtaking sunset stroll along Cocoa Beach capped off with a cozy beach bonfire. End the night gazing up at the stars together from the comfort of beachfront accommodations with the sound of waves in the background.
With so many natural settings for adventure, Cocoa Beach offers endless options for an active and memorable date outdoors. You're sure to come home with amazing stories and photos capturing all the excitement.
Unique and Quirky Date Ideas in Cocoa Beach
Looking for something beyond the usual dinner-and-a-movie date night? Cocoa Beach offers plenty of quirky and unexpected date options to make your night out special and memorable.
Start your evening off with a stroll hand-in-hand down the iconic Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier. Pop into the various restaurants and bars for appetizers and cocktails while you watch the sunset over the horizon.
Check out the quirky gift shop and souvenirs at the pier. End with drinks at the relaxed, laidback Rikki Tiki Tavern, the perfect spot for a chill ambiance and delicious tropical cocktails.
For some outdoor fun, head to Alan Shepard Park which stretches along the coastline. Go for a jog or bike ride together on the paved trail that winds through lush greenery. Have a picnic on the beach and get competitive in a game of volleyball.
Get your culture fix at the Cocoa Village Playhouse which puts on community theater productions year-round. Enjoy an intimate live show ranging from dramas to Broadway musicals. You may even spot a future star on the stage.
For the ultimate quirky experience, book a helicopter tour with Cocoa Beach Helicopter Tours. Feeling adventurous? Opt for an exhilarating ride in a helicopter with no doors! Marvel at iconic sights like Kennedy Space Center, Port Canaveral, and Cocoa Beach from a unique aerial view.
If you're looking to unwind, visit the Cocoa Beach Wellness Center for relaxing couples' massages or facials. Recharge together so you're ready for your next adventure.
Breakfast on The Beach
Start your morning off right with a romantic breakfast on the beach. Wake up early and pack up some coffee and breakfast essentials to enjoy an al fresco meal on the sand.
Spread out a blanket or beach towels, and take in the peaceful sights and sounds of the ocean as you dine. Stop at a local market or bakery on the way to the beach to pick up breakfast classics like bagels, doughnuts, fruit, yogurt, and juice.
Sip your coffee while munching on pastries as the sunrise paints a golden glow over the water. Cuddle up close and savor having this quiet time together to start your day in paradise. Washing down your meal with refreshing orange juice while barefoot in the sand is a delightfully laidback way to begin your Cocoa Beach escape.
With its gorgeous beaches, old Florida charm, and endless options for adventure or relaxation, Cocoa Beach offers truly unique date night inspiration that you won't find anywhere else.
Explore the Local Art and Culture Scene
Immerse yourself in Cocoa Beach's vibrant arts, culture and history scene by visiting some of the town's unique museums and galleries on your next date. This charming beachside community has wonderful opportunities to appreciate local talent and learn about what shaped this iconic coastal destination.
Start at the Studios of Cocoa Beach in downtown Cocoa Beach which features work by local artists. Wander through the bright spaces displaying incredible paintings.
Next, visit the Florida Surf Museum to learn about the history of surfing along the Space Coast beaches as far back as the 1920s. See how surf culture grew into an integral part of the town's identity.
Check out historic surfboards and photos showcasing legends like Kelly Slater who honed their skills on Cocoa Beach. Don't miss the museum's neat collection of vintage Florida tourism posters.
After exploring the museums, take a romantic beachside stroll to admire the real life backdrop that inspired so much local art. Let the sights and sounds of the ocean waves spark creative conversations about your hopes and dreams. The peaceful seaside setting combined with the rich cultural experiences create a one-of-a-kind date.
From appreciating local talents to learning the stories behind Cocoa Beach's surf legacy, a date spent immersed in arts and culture helps you truly connect with the heart and soul of this coastal community.
Sunset Cruises and Dolphin Watching Tours
For a truly memorable date night, take to the open waters off Cocoa Beach for a sunset cruise or dolphin watching tour. These boat excursions provide breathtaking views and exciting wildlife encounters to make your time together unforgettable.
Start your evening by embarking on a relaxing sunset cruise. As you glide across the calm waters, cuddle up close and admire the colors painting the sky as the sun sinks below the horizon. Toast to your special night with a glass of champagne and savor elegant appetizers as live music plays. Many tours offer an open bar so you can drink in the gorgeous views.
Tours often have opportunities to get adventurous like viewing bioluminescence in the night waters. Or for relaxing, stretch out on lounges near the bow and have deep conversations with each other as the boat floats gently through sanctuary waters.
With its picturesque scenery and abundance of marine life, Cocoa Beach offers the ideal setting for a memorable date. So why not take your special someone on a sunset cruise or dolphin watching tour, and create lasting memories together?
Whether you choose a peaceful sunset cruise or dolphin watching, Cocoa Beach's boat tours allow you to connect amid beautiful views and amazing wildlife. The memories made will stay with you long after leaving the dock.
Thrilling Water Sports and Surfing Lessons
Cocoa Beach is the ideal destination for adventurous couples looking to experience thrilling water sports together. With renowned surf breaks and plenty of outfitters, it's the perfect place to learn how to surf and take part in other watersports.
Start by visiting the Florida Surf Museum in the heart of Cocoa Beach. Check out vintage surfboards and historic photos that showcase how instrumental Cocoa Beach was to the rise of East Coast surf culture. Gain inspiration for your own surfing endeavors.
Next, take a beginner surfing lesson with the trusted professionals at Ron Jon Surf School, right on the beach. Learn how to paddle out, pop up on the board, and ride the waves in a safe environment with expert guidance. Before you know it, you'll be able to ride the swells together!
Once you've gotten comfortable surfing, try other water sports offered along the coast like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or boogie boarding for a different adventure. Many outfitters like Cocoa Beach Surf Company rent all kinds of water sports gear.
Wind down with a relaxed game of beach volleyball on the public courts at Shepard Park. Nothing caps off an adrenaline-filled watersports date like friendly competition!
With encouraging instructors, ideal surf and miles of golden sand Atlantic Ocean beaches, Cocoa Beach has everything you need for an active and thrilling date on the water. Learn a new watersport skill together while making exciting lifelong memories.
Make a Stop at Ron Jon's Surf Shop
No trip to Cocoa Beach is complete without a visit to the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop. Recognized as the world's largest surf shop, this massive two-story complex is a must-see attraction.
Located right on the beach, spend some time wandering through the sprawling store browsing surfboards, skateboards, swimwear, beach gear and more. The sheer volume of merchandise is astounding – you could spend hours exploring it all.
Don’t miss the second floor devoted entirely to surfwear and accessories. Also check out the beachy shirts and flowing summer dresses perfect for the coastal lifestyle. Pick up a souvenir t-shirt or hat to commemorate your Cocoa Beach getaway.
With its retro styling and massive selection, Ron Jon Surf Shop is a must-see during your Cocoa Beach couples’ getaway. Capture a photo in front of the iconic sign before continuing your seaside stroll down the boardwalk.
Enjoy Live Music and Entertainment in Cocoa Beach
After a thrilling day of water sports and surfing lessons, you'll be ready to wind down and enjoy some live music and entertainment in Cocoa Beach. This vibrant coastal city is a great place to experience the local music scene and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Cocoa Beach is not only known for its beautiful beaches and cruise ships, but also for its rich history and cultural heritage. As you explore the city, you'll discover its deep connection to space exploration, as it is located on Florida's east coast, just a short drive from the Kennedy Space Center. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this historic landmark and learn about the incredible achievements of human space travel.
For a more laid-back evening, you can head to one of the many bars and restaurants that offer live music performances. Immerse yourself in the local history and enjoy the melodic tunes that fill the air.
No matter how you choose to spend your evening in Cocoa Beach, you're guaranteed to have a delightful experience filled with live music, entertainment, and glimpses into the city's rich history. Listen to local bands jam while enjoying craft beers at beach bars, upbeat tunes perfect for dancing, or quiet cocktails that lead to conversation, evenings in Cocoa Beach promise good times filled with joyful entertainment and chances to connect more deeply as a couple.
Date Night in Historic Cocoa Village
Just a short drive from the beach, the charming historic district of Cocoa Village offers a wonderful setting for a romantic date night. Strolling hand-in-hand through the brick-lined streets lined with oak trees draped in Spanish moss sets the perfect romantic tone for the evening.
Start with an intimate lunch at one of Cocoa Village's excellent restaurants. Enjoy a cozy table for two at Murdocks Bistro & Char Bar. Be sure to save room for dessert – coffee or a pastry at Ossorio Cafe hit the spot.
After dining, stop into some of the unique indie boutiques and art galleries that give the neighborhood its flair. Pop into Carolyn Seiler & Friends – An Artists Co-Op to admire art from over 30 local artists. Enjoy the paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glass, collage, and wood, all with coastal themes.
As the evening winds down, catch some live music and entertainment at Cocoa Village mainstays like Dog N Bone English Pub. Sway and sing along to favorite tunes in an intimate venue, or join in on their trivia night!
End your night strolling hand-in-hand down the lamp-lit streets, relishing the small town charm. Cocoa Village offers the perfect blend of romance, delicious cuisine, and mom-and-pop shopping for an unforgettable date night.
With its laidback surf town charm, miles of pristine beaches, and proximity to Cape Canaveral adventures, Cocoa Beach offers the perfect romantic seaside getaway. From adventurous dolphin cruises and surf lessons to intimate dinners and strolls through Cocoa Village, you'll find endless options for creating unforgettable memories together.
Looking for your next beachy vacay spot? Here are great date night ideas in West Palm Beach!
One Comment