If you’re craving a beach getaway with a side of wow, Florida’s Space Coast delivers in a way few destinations can. Where else can you spend the morning surfing, the afternoon lounging on the beach, and the evening watching a rocket launch light up the sky? From Cocoa Beach to Kennedy Space Center, this long weekend itinerary packs in adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.

Where is Florida’s Space Coast

Known as the home of Kennedy Space Center and a popular place to watch rocket launches, Florida’s eastern coast is called the Space Coast, which includes Titusville, Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, and Melbourne.

Cruising out of Cape Canaveral makes it a popular spot to spend a few extra days before or after setting sail.

Traveler Tip: If you are visiting during the winter months, ensure you check the temperatures. Cold fronts are known to pass through, dropping temperatures into the low 40s. While the cold only lingers for a few days, you will want to ensure you pack appropriately.

How To Get To Florida’s Space Coast

Getting to Florida’s Space Coast is easy, with direct flights into nearby airports like Melbourne (MLB) or Orlando (MCO), followed by a short, scenic drive to the coast.

If flying into Orlando, expect a 45-minute drive to the coast, and a 30-minute drive if you fly into Melbourne.

My personal preference is Melbourne because it is a smaller airport and so easy to navigate. The rental car lot is at the airport, so there isn’t a bus or a long walk to get to it.

Cincinnati Locals: Allegiant has started nonstop service from CVG to MLB, and did I mention it gets you there in less than 2 hours!

Where To Stay On Florida’s Space Coast

Beachfront accommodations and oceanfront hotels line the shores of Florida’s Beaches. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly resort, a budget-friendly hotel, or an Airbnb, there is the perfect accommodation waiting for you.

Throughout our travels to the Space Coast, we have stayed at two hotels that make ideal escapes for families.

Holiday Inn Vacation Club

If you are looking for the best resort to catch a rocket launch, be steps from the beach and have a waterpark onsite, look no further than the Holiday Inn Vacation Club in Cape Canaveral.

Kids will love zipping down the water slides, floating in the lazy river, and darting in and out of the splash zone. The Holiday Inn Vacation Club is a destination in itself, with mini-golf, movies, activities, and restaurants.

One thing that sets this resort apart from others is its options for large families, including two- and four-bedroom units! Complete with a full kitchen, washer and dryer, along with a walk-out balcony or patio, these units are great for multi-family or multi-generational stays as well.

Tip: This resort is best for catching rocket launches and cruise ship sailings, as it is right next to Jetty Park. You will want to walk to the park and catch a spot on the pier. Cruise ships tend to start departing around 4 pm-5 pm.

Hilton Beachfront Cocoa Beach

Guests looking for a more beach-forward vacation with island vibes and a sprinkling of space should take a look at the Hilton Beachfront Cocoa Beach. With a lower price tag than the Holiday Inn Vacation Club, Cocoa Beach offers plenty of family fun without the hustle of the nearby cruise port.

A highlight of this resort has always been their splash pad, which is why we started coming here when my daughter was a toddler. Now she dives into the pool or catches waves while surfing, all of which are steps from your hotel room.

WAVES Craft Bar and Kitchen, located inside the hotel, serves up locally sourced seafood, craft cocktails, and delicious steaks. Make a reservation, as it tends to book up, and, if possible, snag a table outside overlooking the ocean.

Note: Breakfast is not included unless you have Hilton status. I find breakfast buffets overpriced, so I look to grab a coffee and a pastry inside the lobby at the Mercado for a cheaper alternative.

3 Day Space Coast Itinerary

Day One: Arrive at the Space Coast

After a day of travel, the first thing you will want to do is check into your accommodations and relax (order that rum punch)! If you have kids in tow, they will be begging to jump into the pool or hit the beach the second you touch down.

Many hotels will hold your bags until your room is ready if you arrive prior to check-in. I recommend keeping swimsuits in a separate carry-on, so they’re easy to access if your goal is to hit the beach or the pool upon arrival.

1:00 pm- If you are arriving early and need a great lunch spot, look no further than Runway Rooftop Grill, located in the Hyatt Place Hotel and only minutes from the Melbourne airport. Soak up spectacular views while enjoying light bites and delicious cocktails. It is a great spot to grab lunch if you have a late flight out, too!

4:00 pm- Check into your hotel and get settled in. At this point, if traveling with kids, I would just chalk up the rest of the evening to swimming and beach time. Plan on grabbing dinner at the onsite restaurant before calling it a night!

Day Two: Kennedy Space Center

First and foremost, this is an all-day experience. I do not recommend coming if you can only stay a few hours. You will need all day to see everything and possibly even two days.

Cruise Traveler Tip: You will need to add a full day either before or after the cruise to visit the space center; you will not be able to fit it in during a travel day. You can try, but be prepared to be disappointed when you spend $80 and can only see 1/3 of the space center.

The Kennedy Space Center has been ranked a #1 US attraction for years, and after visiting, it is easy to see why visitors flock from around the globe. Hop on a tour bus to see restricted NASA areas up close, stroll the rocket garden, and get hands-on with astronaut training simulators. You can even feel the thrill of a space shuttle launch in the ascent simulator or shoot moon rocks in the Hyperdeck VR.

History surrounds you as you walk around the Space Shuttle Atlantis, stand underneath the largest rocket ever flown, and walk through the Astronaut Hall of Fame. The Kennedy Space Center is a must-do attraction, and here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Before You Arrive at the Kennedy Space Center

• Download the Kennedy Space Center App. You can make reservations for the HYPERDECK VR (which is included with admission) on the app. Make them early because spaces go quickly.
• Make reservations for special attractions such as the Astronaut Training Experience and Chat With An Astronaut. These experiences cost extra and can be added to your ticket at check-out or at the Space Center.
• Buy your tickets and parking online. It makes the whole process 100% smoother.

Tips For Visiting The Kennedy Space Center

• Arrive early. You will want to arrive when the space center opens. Guests must go through security to enter the Space Center. The park is open from 9 am -5 pm.
• Expect to spend 6-8 hours here. We spent 7 and still didn’t see everything.
• Do the bus tour first! The bus tour takes roughly 3 hours with two stops: The Gantry at LC-39 and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. We were there when they were pulling out Artemis II, so a stop at the Gantry was not available.
• Sit on the right side of the bus for the best views (if you are sitting and facing forward).
• If you have kids with hearing sensitivities, you will want to bring headphones, as some attractions can get loud.
• Take time for the kids to play at Planet Play. This is a three-story space-themed indoor playground, and it is epic. I found this a great thing to do after lunch to break up all the space exhibits. Parents can even sip on coffee, beer, or wine as the kids play.
• See a launch at the Space Center! The closest you will get to witnessing a rocket launch in Cape Canaveral will be at the Space Center. Hop online to get the latest information and launch dates.

After spending all day at the Kennedy Space Center, you will likely want to come back to the hotel and rest or head out to dinner.

Dinner In Cocoa Beach

We decided to splurge after a full day exploring the space center and went to the Fat Snook. As an upscale, pricier restaurant in Cocoa Beach, we were expecting top-notch service, atmosphere, and dinner options. While the appetizers and dessert were outstanding, we were disappointed with our entrees, which were very expensive and not very flavorful.

Other options in the area that are not as high-dollar include Cocoa Beach Fish Camp, Coconuts on the Beach, and Florida’s Fresh Grill.

Catch A Rocket Launch

Catching a rocket launch at Cape Canaveral is one of the most unforgettable experiences on Florida’s Space Coast. There’s nothing quite like watching a rocket soar into the sky while feeling the rumble echo through the air.

Jetty Park is one of the best places to watch a launch, offering clear views of the launch pads, ocean breezes, and a relaxed, beachside setting. Whether you’re visiting during the day or watching the sky light up after sunset, seeing a rocket launch from Jetty Park is a truly bucket-list moment that perfectly captures what the Space Coast is all about.

Tips For Catching A Rocket Launch:

• Many launches can get delayed by hours or days!
• Check the website to see upcoming launches and watch them live on YouTube!
• If you plan to launch at Jetty Park, you will need to purchase your day pass online before arriving. They don’t take payment at the park.
• Bring a blanket to sit on or folding chairs.
• The best spot to catch the launch is on the pier or the rocks that enter the port.

Day Three: Surf, Kart, and Golf

Kick off your morning with breakfast at Juice and Java or Cafe Surfinista before grabbing your suits and heading to your morning Surf Lessons with Ron Jon Surf School.

10:00 am Surf Lessons With Ron Jon Surf School

One of our top experiences while visiting the Space Coast was doing family surf lessons! I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Cocoa Beach offers excellent surfing conditions! With my daughter begging to go surfing for years, we seized the opportunity and signed up for lessons.

Biggest Tip: Splurge on the photo package! It is worth every single penny to have those moments and videos captured.

You start your surfing lesson at the Ron Jon Surf School, where your teacher reviews basic surfing techniques, skills, and safety. Then you get fitted for a wetsuit and then head off to the beach with your surfboard above your head! These instructors are licensed, trained, and some of the best out there!

The water is shallow, so adults can touch, making wipeouts less scary since you can pop right out of the water. Listen to your teacher, as they will help each family member catch a wave and coach on technique and stance.

Parents, set your fears and doubts aside and get out there with the kids if you can. Don’t worry about whether you will look silly, if you can’t get up, or if you won’t be able to master the art of surfing. What matters is being in the moment together, wipeouts and all. Experiences like these create lasting bonds and memories that they will carry with them for life.

After your surf lessons head to the Ron Jon Surf Shop to pick up a fun souviner from your experience.

1:00 pm Lunch at Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Bar

One of our favorite spots to grab a bite to eat is at Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Bar! Overlooking Port Canaveral, Rusty’s offers excellent seafood with incredible views. Watch the ships come and go while listening to live music and slurping oysters.

3:00 pm Golf N Gator

Golf N Gator in Cocoa Beach is a classic Space Coast stop that’s fun for all ages and perfect for breaking up a beach day. This laid-back attraction features two tropical-themed mini golf courses with waterfalls, bridges, plus a live alligator exhibit where you can safely see (and even feed) real gators up close. It’s an easy win for families, couples, and anyone looking for a low-key activity that feels uniquely Florida.

One of the most unique experiences here is their Power-Up Go Karts, which take racing to the next level with interactive elements that let drivers activate special boosts and surprises while speeding around the track. Think Mario Kart in real life!

6:00 pm Grab Pizza

When it comes to pizza in Cocoa Beach, there’s no shortage of great pizza options, but a few stand out as must-try spots. Mangia & Bevi Pizzeria Napoletana is a favorite for authentic Neapolitan-style pies, serving wood-fired pizza with fresh ingredients and perfectly charred crusts.

For a classic, no-frills slice, Oceanside Pizza delivers New York–style pizza with a thin, crispy crust that’s perfect after a long day at the beach. Rounding out the list is Bruno’s Pizzeria, a longtime local staple known for its casual beach-town vibe, generous portions, and crowd-pleasing pies that are great for families.

8:00 pm Get A Scoop Ice Cream

A visit to the beach isn’t complete without a scoop of Ice Cream! The Ice Cream Hut was our go-to with so many fun flavors and even a bourbon-infused ice cream for adults!

More Fun Things To Do Along Florida’s Space Coast

Brevard Zoo
Consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the country, Brevard Zoo offers immersive exhibits, kayaking through animal habitats, and hands-on experiences that make it a hit for families and animal lovers alike.

Dolphin Tour
Seeing dolphins in their natural habitat is a Space Coast must. Dolphin tours depart from nearby ports and offer a relaxing way to spot playful pods while learning about the area’s coastal ecosystem.

Airboat Rides
For a little adventure, hop on an airboat and glide through the marshes and wetlands. These guided rides offer a thrilling way to see Florida wildlife, including birds and alligators, up close.

Kayaking with Manatees
Paddling alongside gentle manatees is an unforgettable experience, especially during cooler months when they gather in warmer waters. Guided kayak tours make this a safe and educational outing.

Turkey Creek Sanctuary
This peaceful nature preserve in Palm Bay features shaded boardwalks and scenic trails that wind along Turkey Creek. It’s perfect for a quiet walk, wildlife spotting, and a break from the beach crowds.

Before heading home, squeeze in one final beach walk or sunrise coffee by the ocean. Cocoa Beach mornings are calm, breezy, and the perfect way to wrap up a long weekend that feels both relaxing and adventurous.

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