Are you planning to visit Orlando? Did you know that the closest beach to Disney World is a captivating place to stay and do Disney rounds? I get it! If you book your stay in Orlando, you will not have to drive an hour from Cocoa Beach!
But guys, wouldn’t you want your vacation to be more interesting and filled with fun activities instead of just hustling Orlando’s city air? Read this article to learn about Cocoa Beach, the closest to Disney World.
I will also list the places you can stay and the things you can do while living in Cocoa Beach. It will make you happy along with your kids, considering only some adults enjoy the parks at Disney World and the Universals.
The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World!
So, you ask what beach is closest to Disney World? Cocoa Beach it is! My idea of staying at Cocoa Beach and traveling to Disney World for your children is a small sacrifice, especially with the host of activities I will suggest in this article.
If your children are adventurous and a little bigger than 5 years old, I am sure they will be hooked on the water sports available in Cocoa Beach. Don’t forget the Kennedy Space Center if you have a space junkie of a kid!
What can be better than giving them a treat of watching a rocket launch? So read more about how you can make the trip more memorable for your kid and you! The closest beach to Walt Disney World is the one we are planning around.
Closest Beach To Disney World: Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is the closest beach to Disney World, located south of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. It is, therefore, a perfect location to watch rocket launches while enjoying the delicious food at the Cocoa Beach Pier!
Cocoa Beach is well known for its surfing sports shops, such as the Cocoa Beach Surf Company and the Ron Jons. There are also several parks close to the beach where you can go with your kids or if you are just a nature lover!
The water is shallow enough to wade in, with perfect opportunities to surf! The waves are calm and consistent, and it is one of the safest places worldwide to surf.
The beach is accessible daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visitors! The weather at the beach is a bit humid! Take advantage of the beauty of the water at Cocoa Beach that glows after the sun goes down due to the brightest dinoflagellate bio-luminescence.
The algae are the brightest from July to October, so as visitors, you cannot miss this beauty. The comb jellies glow during November, so you are in for a show when the sun goes down!
Things To Do At Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is one of the best places to visit if you are in Florida or have plans to go to Disney World. The town has much to offer and is a perfect destination for day trips, water-related activities, family-based activities, and attractions.
I will share some of my favorite spots to visit and activities to try out in Cocoa Beach. All amenities are available, such as restrooms, a dog park, a picnic area, service animals, showers, parking, and others.
Considering Cocoa beach near Disney World will offer you a variety of activities to perform. Read the article to learn about the best spots and activities you must try if you are staying or visiting Cocoa Beach!
1. Cocoa Beach Pier
It is one of Cocoa Beach’s iconic places, perfect for tourists, especially with the wide variety of beach activities, shops, and restaurants. From Sunday to Thursday, the pier is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., while on Friday and Saturday, it is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
There is no entrance fee! However, you will need to pay at the shops or the surf stores! There are shops where you can buy clothing items, decor, or toiletries. Further, inside the park, you can go surfing and play volleyball.
2.Ron Jon Surf Shop & Surf School
You must visit this beach lifestyle store for anything related to surfing. Ron Jon Surf Shop is a popular surf school that is quite iconic and is one of the best places to visit in Cocoa Beach.
There are surfboards, swimsuits, and tourist merchandise across the whole shop! You can participate in surf lessons and camps here too!
3.Historic Cocoa Village
This village is pretty close to the beach, and do not get confused with the Barrier Island here! It is some 10 miles inland. When you reach the village, you will realize what a visual treat it is, considering there are colorful buildings across the village, some of the best restaurants, and unique shops.
4. NASA’s Kennedy Space Center
You have a kid with you who is a space geek; you have to go to the Kennedy Space Center. Even if your child is unaware, this is a good way to introduce them to the concept of space and watch them fall in love.
The attraction is home to educational and historical exhibits like the Space Shuttle Atlantis. There is also an IMAX theater for visual content, which is interactive and impressive. Human spaceflight and rocket launches are done here, considering it is a primary site.
Check the KSC’s launch schedule when you plan to visit Cocoa Beach. You might catch a rocket launch, a cool site for adults and children.
Note: Not getting your hopes high or anything for the rocket launches considering the launches get rescheduled or scratched constantly.
5.Eat At A Beach Bar
Planning a day at the beach, and you are not going to try out bar food or, for that matter, seafood? Cocoa Beach is among the best places to check out the Floridian beach bars. The most popular bar joint on Cocoa Beach is ‘Coconut‘!
With a menu and full bar, it provides the best location, especially just a step away from Cocoa Beach. If you want a more laid-back vibe, go to the Beach Shack just next door.
You will also get live music in the shack. Another significant beach bar is Rikki Tiki Tavern, where you can enjoy the water because it is directly situated on the beach.
You also cannot miss the seafood offered in popular restaurants such as Squid Lips, The Fat Snook, Fat Kahuna’s, and Florida’s Seafood Bar & Grill. Some of the best food dishes are pompano, snook, or speckled sea trout.
6.Take A Kayak Tour
You have to take a Kayak tour to enjoy the Banana River Lagoon inside the barrier island, Cocoa Beach. It is a vibrant ecosystem, and the adventure you will have is one of the best, especially with the sightings of dolphins and manatees.
7. Lori Wilson Park
Visit Lori Wilson Park, with calm, shallow water and open beach space. The park has free parking with a picturesque beach so that you can click beautiful pictures.
There are nature trails, forested areas, and boardwalks inside the park! What can be better than inside the park? There is a dog park where you can take your pets for a walk.
8. Brevard Zoo And Brevard Musuem Of History & Natural Science
The zoo has almost 900 animals across this 75-acre area, and they are collected worldwide. The place has hands-on experiences where you can kayak along the expedition Africa exhibit, feed birds and giraffes, and zipline across the trees.
Many moments are captured as exhibits across the Brevard Museum of History & Natural Sciences. You can observe Wind-over archaeological artifacts that belong to prehistoric times. The museum is also situated across 22 acres of natural trails.
Places To Stay At Cocoa Beach
You need to book accommodation when you visit these places and participate in diverse, fun activities. Further, when booking the places, you must evaluate your budget and the accessibility of different places from the place of accommodation.
Wakulla Suites
The accommodation at Wakulla Suites is all two-bedroom suites with a king-size bed, a double bed, and a twin bed. It is a perfect place to stay, especially if this is a family-based vacation.
There is also a living room in the suites. Families can use a full-size refrigerator in the kitchen and an oven at their convenience. There is free Wi-Fi, and the gas BBQ grill is open for guests.
There are also options for beach volleyball, a shuffleboard court, a game room, a pool, and a kid’s pool. You can also rent beach chairs, kayaks, boogie boards, and umbrellas from the hotel.
One suite for a night costs around $267 and is rated 4 out of 5 on TripAdvisor based on 1537 reviews. In case of a supply of toiletries, you can buy diapers or suntan lotions from the online gift store.
Royal Mansions Resort
The hotel is the most convenient accommodation if you are visiting Florida or, even better, Cocoa Beach, especially because of the mix of convenience, comfort, and value. The Royal Mansions Resort offers a friendly setting where travelers like you can enjoy diverse amenities.
The rooms in the hotel offer free Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. Barbecue facilities and pools are available for you while staying at the resort, along with free parking.
If you are craving barbecue dishes, you can book this resort as it is close to Gator’s Dockside, Smokehouse Foods, and Graham’s Smokehouse. You will be charged $133 for a room in the inn.
Take advantage of the exploration tower, which is located pretty close to the resort, considering it is one of the most popular landmarks of Cape Canaveral.
Homewood Suites By Hilton
The hotel Homewood Suites By Hilton has rooms with theme park features. You can access free Wi-Fi, a fitness center that you can access, free hot breakfast as a part of your booking, and a heated outdoor pool accessed all year round.
You can visit the Orange County Convention Center. It is close to the hotel so you can also see it! The hotel has a kitchenette, suites, a coffee machine, and a 50-inch flat-screen cable TV!
You need to pay $25 for a room per night, and it is centrally located with theme parks. According to Tripadvisor, the hotel has been rated 4.5 out of 5.
A dining area and a sofa bed accompany every room in the hotel. Apart from that, the toiletries are free while each room of the suite has a private bathroom. If you want to visit the theme parks, there is a complimentary shuttle.
Courtyard By Marriott Cocoa Beach
The hotel by Marriott Cocoa Beach has almost 156 contemporary and spacious rooms, each offering beautiful river and ocean views and a private balcony.
You can access free Wi-Fi apart from the streaming digital services accessed from every room on the HD TV. The hotel recently opened a new restaurant called the Courtyard Cabana Bar at the poolside.
You can also access evening room service offering healthy food and beverages from their in-house restaurant, The Bistro, which is quite refreshing! Based on the 1331 reviews on Tripadvisor, the hotel has been rated as 4.5 out of 5, charging $275 per room per night!
Surf Studio Resort Cocoa Beach
Are you planning a romantic getaway with surf, sand, and water? Well, book your rooms at Surf Studio Resort Cocoa Beach! The air-conditioned rooms of the hotel have a kitchenette along with a refrigerator. You will also get free Wi-Fi in this hotel as well.
A picnic area, beach chairs, and sun umbrellas are also available in the Surf Studio Resort Cocoa Beach. There is also a pool on the property, which you can enjoy all year! There are also free parking services.
The price of the rooms in the hotel charges $205 on a per-day basis. If you are a Chinese food lover, there is a restaurant called Yen Yen Chinese Restaurant close to the resort.
Where Do We Stop?
You will be pretty busy with all the activities, including surfing, fishing, swimming, wildlife, food, and others! With children, you have to visit the Disney World theme parks and the Universal Studio.
What other plans might you have when you visit Orlando considering the beach area is one of the best for fun? You can also access playgrounds and parks, which will help you keep your children in line.
Comment below to let us know about your favorite place in Cocoa Beach or the one spot out of the list that you will visit!
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
For the vast majority of people in Australia, their wedding day is a pretty big deal, and it is something that they have been thinking about for most of their life.
Due to its importance, it is a day that needs an incredible amount of planning, and many would-be brides start planning the moment that their partner proposes to them.
This is an incredibly important day for both the bride and groom, but it is equally important for all of the guests that you are going to invite to celebrate your big day. If you have been lucky enough to have been proposed to quite recently, then you should know that planning should start straight away.
Starting Off With The Wedding Plan…
One of the first things that you have to make sure that you get right is finding the right venue, and lucky for you, there are a number of quality wedding venues in Northern Beaches.
Don’t try to do everything by yourself and so turn to your family members and friends to help you plan out everything. It is going to be a very exciting time, but it is also going to be stressful as well, and so the following are just some of the top tips that will help you to plan your wedding & honeymoon.Why Is It Important To Plan Your Wedding And Honeymoon? They say, “failing to plan is a plan of failing,” which is quite right. Especially when it comes to the most important event of your life - the wedding. It doesn’t matter how long you have been planning your wedding and honeymoon- it always falls short. Thus, the best thing to do is to plan early. Exactly like your wedding, the honeymoon is another important phase. It helps to set the tone for the new life that’s coming forward. These are the first personal moments between a couple, which should never be wasted. And to ensure your honeymoon is a big success, planning is very essential. Tips To Plan Your Honeymoon And Wedding EfficientlyThere can never be the “right” way of planning your wedding and honeymoon in Northern Beaches. These are some of the special days in life, and they must be unique, just like your relationship. So, here are a few tips to strategize about your big day:
Begin making plans today -
If you and your partner have decided on a date and it’s at least one year away, then you might think that there is lots of time, so there is no need to worry. This is a mistake that many couples make, and they go on to regret it when they have nothing decided upon and the wedding is just around the corner.
Start planning today, and you get to take advantage of booking it early and maybe getting yourself some much-needed discounts. Many venues get booked up rather quickly so don’t make the mistake.
Plan the wedding together -
Some brides are guilty of taking on the reins of responsibility and running with them without asking their other half about their opinions. This can make the other person feel very left out and so the day isn’t as special to them as it should be.
Talk together and make sure that all wedding plans are made together, and that includes the destination for your honeymoon. Disagreements are very common while planning such an important thing in life. Embrace it, move on, and settle on a common choice. That’s the key to happiness as you embark on a new journey of life.
Go see the venue yourself -
You should never look at any wedding venue based on what you have heard or what you see on their website. Many in the hospitality industry use photographs from when it was first done up and maybe the pictures that you’re looking at are from 10 to 15 years ago.
Go see the venue in person, and then you know exactly what you are getting into. However, this is something you should do in advance. Because if you don’t like the venue, you can simply skip it and move on to a better one!
Discover Your Vision –
Ever since we were kids, we have been planning our wedding. As we continue to age, the plans improve and new elements are added. But the vision remains the same. We plan to marry in this particular month or in this particular location. Make sure you discover your unique vision and stick to it.
Doing so eventually makes you prepare for several backup plans in case something goes wrong. And the same is true for honeymoon, too. Remember the first place that comes to your mind when you think of this romantic journey! Stick to it and plan a proper budget for that.
Don’t Forget To Capture These Memories –
Most people are after this- we are so busy capturing memories that we forget to create one. Don’t let that happen. You are out there with a person you have chosen as your life partner- make the most of your time.
Go on picturesque beaches, romantic dinners, and exotic getaways. Take millions of pictures together- but most importantly, learn to live in the moment, too. Nothing truely matches the feeling of coming home to tons of your special memories. For the wedding party, hire a professional photographer to get away with the work yourself.
Parting Thoughts
Your wedding is the most special thing that can ever happen to you. Hence, ensure that you do not waste it just like that. These are some excellent tips that will help you to plan the best wedding & honeymoon ever. Never lose sight of the fact that this is for both of you, but remember that you will have guests also.
With this, we put this article to an end. If your big day is approaching, make sure to implement these tips to have a successful wedding day. Thank you for reading till the end. Communicate your thoughts in the comment box below.
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Welcome to Missouri, the Show-Me State! Often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors, Missouri is home to an impressive array of hidden gems and lesser-known attractions. It offers unforgettable experiences for both tourists and locals. In this guide, we'll uncover some of the state's unique destinations that even many locals may not be aware of. So get out your maps and cameras, and let's start exploring!
As you explore these hidden gems in Missouri, remember to stay updated on traffic rules and regulations. If you find yourself dealing with Missouri traffic tickets, then familiarize yourself with the local laws and seek professional assistance. Drive safe and have a great time exploring the Show-Me State!
City Museum
The City Museum in St. Louis invites visitors to crawl, climb, and slide their way through an architectural labyrinth. It was created from repurposed urban and industrial objects. Converted from a former shoe factory, the museum features attractions like a 10-story spiral slide, a rooftop Ferris wheel, and MonstroCity, an outdoor space with multiple interconnected metal climbing structures.
Meramec Caverns
Located in Stanton, Missouri, Meramec Caverns is a breathtaking underground wonder. A vast system of limestone caves stretches over 4.5 miles, making it the largest commercial cave in Missouri. Inside, you'll find spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations, as well as a unique wine table formation that took millions of years to form. The cave also played a vital role in the Underground Railroad movement and is believed to be a hideout used by the infamous outlaw Jesse James.
The World's Largest Rocker
Who wouldn't want to snap a photo with the World's Largest Rocker? Sitting at a whopping 42 feet, 4 inches tall, this gargantuan rocking chair can be found in the small town of Fanning, Missouri. Don't just stop for the photo-op, though. Stick around and enjoy the small-town charm and nearby attractions, such as the Fanning 66 Outpost, home to the eclectic Route 66 Red Rocker.
Graham Cave State Park
Delve into history at Graham Cave State Park, where ancient Native American tribes once sought shelter within the cave's depths. The 6,000-year-old structures and artifacts found within the cave make it one of North America's most significant archaeological sites. In addition to exploring the cave, the park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing opportunities on the Loutre River.
Elephant Rocks State Park
Located near Graniteville in the St. Francois Mountains, Elephant Rocks State Park features giant granite boulders that resemble a herd of elephants. This unusual geological formation offers visitors a one-of-a-kind hiking experience. The park also showcases Missouri's intriguing mining history and offers a playground for children and a picnic area for a relaxing family outing.
The Jesse James Wax Museum
Following the theme of Missouri's deep connection to the outlaw Jesse James, the Jesse James Wax Museum in Stanton presents a unique collection of lifelike wax figures depicting key moments in the life of the legendary figure. The museum also poses an intriguing question: Was it really Jesse who died in 1882, or is there a different story to be told? Discover the evidence and decide for yourself.
The Missouri Botanical Garden
With 79 acres of beautifully maintained gardens, the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis is an oasis for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. Discover rare and endangered plants, walk through themed gardens, and admire the historic architecture of the Climatron, the world's first geodesic dome greenhouse. Seasonal events and festivals make the garden an ever-changing and vibrant destination.
The Saint Louis Loop Trolley
Take a ride back in time on the Saint Louis Loop Trolley. This vintage electric trolley system connects St. Louis City with University City, passing through the historic Delmar Loop entertainment district. Hop on and off as you please, visiting art galleries, restaurants, and live music venues along the way.
Missouri State Penitentiary
Experience the eerie and fascinating history of the Missouri State Penitentiary in Jefferson City. This decommissioned prison, which operated from 1836 to 2004, offers guided tours that delve into its dark past. Learn about infamous inmates, daring escapes, and the penitentiary's role in Missouri's justice system. Ghost tours are also available for thrill-seekers looking for a paranormal experience.
With the inclusion of specialized ghost hunting equipment, such as electromagnetic field (EMF) meters, infrared thermometers, and digital voice recorders, participants can actively engage in the quest for otherworldly encounters.
Big Cedar Lodge
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Big Cedar Lodge near Ridgedale is a luxurious and serene destination for relaxation, adventure, and outdoor pursuits. With exceptional accommodations, a world-class spa, and an array of activities like golfing, fishing, and horseback riding, it's a perfect retreat for those seeking an unforgettable getaway in Missouri's scenic wilderness.
Conclusion
Missouri's hidden gems offer a wide range of unique, unforgettable experiences for everyone. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or simply unique attractions, you're bound to have an amazing time exploring these lesser-known sites. So get your friends and family, and set out on a Show-Me State adventure like no other.
If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you.
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Traveling is liberating; it’s one of the most celebrated hobbies in the world.
However, your celebration can be masked by distress and more severe consequences if you don’t travel safely. Traveling safely means always updating your vaccination chart before you set out on your latest adventure.
Your travel plans should always have your travel vaccination on top right after the destination you are choosing to travel to. When planning your travel health, your destination plays a considerable role. Whichever part of the world you are choosing to explore next, make sure you have a list of vaccinations handy and checked before you set out on your travels.
Here are some of the most common vaccinations one needs to take care of before setting out to explore the world and its many wonders.
Before You Travel
Are your plans made? Have you decided where you are heading to?
Here’s what you need right after you have made and set your goals: get your vaccination up-to-date. The easiest way to get your vaccination is to make an appointment with your healthcare professional and discuss your vaccination needs in light of the destination you are traveling to.
Travel vaccinations vary from routine vaccinations. When traveling to underdeveloped countries, you have to be extra careful with your vaccinations. For more information, you can even visit the embassy page of your destination to check their vaccination requirements. These protective measures are highly recommended to keep travelers safe from fast-spreading and deadly viruses like Yellow Fever, typhoid, etc.
Your healthcare professional will help you get up-to-date with destination-specific vaccines, preventive medication, and other materials you may need to keep your travel health in check.
Apart from that, make sure you ask as many questions as you can regarding general health concerns, itineraries, and planned activities when traveling to underdeveloped countries.
Pro Tip: Many vaccinations like COVID-19 require multiple doses, so make sure you seek medical attention as soon as you are sure about traveling.
Apart from vaccinations, discuss preventive medication such as medicines that prevent malaria; these are great for keeping you healthy and protecting you from fevers during your travel.
Reasons Why You Should Get Vaccinated To Ensure Travel Health
Travel health must be one of the core considerations for an individual. If the individual fails to keep healthy, they will disrupt the entire tour, especially if it is a family-oriented or business tour. You do not have the right to make life difficult for others.
Therefore, you must have adequate protection against the issues. However, here we discuss some of the issues that are strictly related to travel. So, let us get started with the discussion so that you have a better understanding of safety concerns. In this section, we discuss why you need to be vaccinated.
The Vaccine Prevented Disease Still Persists Even Today
As we mentioned and discussed below, vaccination is considered one of the major issues linked to the individual; some of them still exist. They pass on to another individual, especially to one who is not vaccinated. The person suffers, being unguarded. Travel health is one of the major concerns; therefore, you need protection to save yourself from these diseases. That's the major problem associated with the spread of disease.
Vaccines Will Help You Maintain Your Health
When you go to a new place, there is a high chance of getting affected by the deadly virus. If you suffer from physical health disruption, it may harm your schedule badly. You must, therefore, understand the value of travel health, vaccinate yourself with the requirements of the government in that country, and also adhere to the norms of the individual.
Additionally, exploring the use of preventative treatments such as rapamycin can provide further protection against age-related diseases and improve your resilience while traveling.
When you skip the vaccines, it will leave you vulnerable, especially on foreign soil. Let me give you a warning here: you might not know that shingles, HPV, and the flu lead to the cause of cancer.
Vaccines Are Important From The Point Of View Of Overall Health.
One of the most complex issues that harm an individual at this point is obesity. A healthy lifestyle is essential to keeping you fit and fighting bacteria and viruses. There has been wide-scale awareness of maintaining good health with regular health check-ups.
Just like it, you need to keep up-to-date with the latest vaccination requirements so that you can be healthy, fit, and fine. It is one of the safest preventives that is available to you.
Vaccines: A Must For Travel Health
Different studies on the internet indicate the need for more tourists' adaptability in inclement weather conditions. Moreover, there are hundreds of instances of tourists affected by the deadly viruses succumbing to death when they return to their own country.
In a way, vaccination draws the line between life and death. So, touring without vaccination is antithetical to travel health, and you remain vulnerable in the new destinations. According to a study, around 50000 adults died from COVID-19 viruses.
The Vaccines Are Safe And Secure
Making these vaccines took great effort, and they are standardized after many successful trials. Even the licenses were made stringent for the vaccines. They helped the common people and not the travelers.
They can also take them as they are one of the must-haves while traveling to another country. Hence, travelers must not doubt vaccinations and conform to travel health requirements.
Where To Get The Vaccination From?
Always get your vaccinations from authorized entities; you can ask your primary healthcare
provider as well.
Some of the most common vaccinations to keep in check before you travel are,
COVID-19
Chickenpox
Cholera
Flu (Influenza)
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Japanese encephalitis
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Meningococcal
Pneumococcal
Polio
Rabies
Shingles
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Typhoid
Yellow fever
You may not need all of these, as some of these vaccinations are destination-specific. However, to be sure, have a lengthy chat with your primary healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Whether you are traveling alone, with kids or with senior citizens, vaccination should be your priority. You wouldn’t want the happiness of your travels dampened by an unforeseen event like contracting a severe virus. Travel safe, get vaccinated, and conquer all your trips.
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