Downtown Cocoa Beach & Beyond: Surf, Space & Local Flavor

Head to Florida’s Space Coast to explore Downtown Cocoa Beach and beyond—where surf culture, space launches, and laid-back local vibes collide. Cocoa Beach is not only a top spot for rocket launch viewing and beachside relaxation, but also an ideal destination for affordable, family-friendly travel, including pre- and post-cruise getaways out of nearby Port Canaveral. Darley meets up with longtime local Jack Kirshenbaum to walk downtown North Orlando Avenue, checking out art galleries, wine bars, and favorite local hangouts like Café Surfinista, where surfboards line the walls and smoothies fuel conversations about Cocoa Beach’s past, present, and future. Listeners also go behind the scenes at Cocoa Beach Surf Company, a women-led retail and hospitality complex across from the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop. Darley chats with Sandi McBride, Janet Antoon, Megan Campbell, and Amy Jones, who share insights on surf fashion, favorite beach activities, and space-themed gear that celebrates the area’s NASA connection. From space-inspired t-shirts to bikinis, shopping turns into a local experience—and wraps up with peach margaritas and BLT pizza in the on-site restaurant. With special events like Thunder on Cocoa Beach, world-class surfing at First Peak and Monster Hole, and welcoming locals ready to offer tips, Cocoa Beach is a destination where you can stroll downtown, cycle to the shore, or watch rockets launch into the sky. Whether you're planning a weekend beach trip or a stopover before a cruise, this episode offers authentic travel ideas for making the most of your Cocoa Beach vacation.Get more trip itineraires, travel advice, Darley's Revolutionary Road Trip book and more at darley-newman.com