Situated on Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach is a barrier island city in Brevard County, approximately 60 miles southeast of Orlando. Borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east, with the Banana River Lagoon to the west, providing a mix of oceanfront and lagoon ecosystems.
Cocoa Beach is known for its sandy beaches, surf-friendly waves, and proximity to Cape Canaveral and the Kennedy Space Center. Cocoa Beach is well-equipped with hotels, vacation rentals, and dining options ranging from casual beach shacks to upscale restaurants. Due to all these features, Cocoa Beach is undoubtedly a great wedding destination in Florida, for both locals and out-of-state visitors.
Planning a wedding in Cocoa Beach, Florida, offers a fantastic opportunity to blend beachfront charm with unique local flair.
Decor and Themes
- Surf Town Chic: Embrace Cocoa Beach’s surf culture with decor inspired by the Ron Jon Surf Shop. Use surfboards as photo props, driftwood centerpieces, and vibrant colors like turquoise and coral.
- Space Coast Twist: Incorporate the area’s space history with star-themed lighting, rocket-inspired table names (e.g., Apollo, Artemis), or a ceremony timed with a Kennedy Space Center rocket launch for a memorable backdrop. Check launch schedules at Kennedy Space Center.
- Eco-Friendly Beach: Use biodegradable decor like fresh flowers and greenery, avoiding plastic or balloons to keep beaches clean.
Sample Itinerary
Day Before: Rehearsal at the venue (included in many packages). Guests enjoy the pier or a welcome dinner at a local spot like Chart House Melbourne.
Wedding Day:
- Morning: Ceremony on the beach at sunrise (e.g., Slater Way Beach Access or Lori Wilson Park).
- Afternoon: Photos on the sand, followed by a reception.
- Evening: First dance under string lights, optional bioluminescence tour for guests.
- Day After: Brunch at a beachfront café, then head to Port Canaveral for a cruise or explore the Kennedy Space Center.
- Permits: Small weddings (50 or fewer) require a $50 Beach Wedding Ceremony Permit, applied for online 30 days in advance. Larger events need a Special Events Application.
- Weather Considerations: Morning ceremonies are best to avoid heat and rain, especially May-September. Have a backup like Surfside Wedding Chapel, 150 steps from the beach, for weather concerns.
- Guest Activities: Suggest guests visit the Kennedy Space Center, Ron Jon Surf Shop, or Cocoa Beach Pier. The area’s proximity to Orlando (1-hour drive) allows trips to Disney or Universal for a fun wedding weekend.
If you are looking for a local guidance and affordable wedding photography in Cocoa Beach, Florida “Best Memories Photography” will be happy to help you plan your perfect wedding and create your best memories!
