Cocoa Beach Pier

The Cocoa Beach Pier is a popular tourist attraction on the shores of Cocoa Beach, mainly visited by those who want to grab a bite or a drink and enjoy the ocean views. However, others appreciate seeing the pier without actually strolling it; choosing instead to appreciate it against the ocean backdrop. The pier does close on occasion, but you’re free to enjoy the surrounding beach without worry.

• Dogs, bicycles, surfboards, and shark fishing are not allowed on the Cocoa Beach Pier.

• Lifeguards are stationed on the beach at Cocoa Beach Pier year-round.

• The pier is a great, though crowded, spot to watch space shuttle launches.

The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is located on the beach, just off of the intersection of North Atlantic Avenue and Meade Avenue. There’s a paid public parking lot onsite, but it does fill up fast, especially on weekends. A taxi or rideshare is the fastest way to get there without a car while the #9 bus route is the cheapest and closest stop.

The Cocoa Beach Pier typically opens in the early afternoon, but beachgoers will surely flock to the sand (and fill the parking lots) long before that. Arrive early if you want to fish or take surf lessons. The Cocoa Beach Pier tends to take on a more exciting vibe during the evenings when live music gets the nightlife dancing.

One of Cocoa Beach’s most iconic attractions is one mile (1.6 kilometers) south of Cocoa Beach Pier—the Ron Jon Surf Shop. This Cocoa Beach location was the second Ron Jon store opened up and is nearly as old as the pier. It’s a great stop for souvenirs, whether or not you ride the waves.