Flights to Orlando

You'd be hard-pressed to find a more interesting beach town in what is dubbed "The Space Coast" of Florida, and you likely won't find one more affordable and down-to-earth. Cocoa Beach has been luring vacationers ever since the area began to develop following the establishment of the space program in the 1960s.

That aspect, of course, is still a major draw, as John F. Kennedy Space Center is close by. But it's the tan sands, rolling waves and variety of fun activities that are garnering all the attention these days.

Like most beaches, Cocoa Beach is ideal for most of the water activities that beach-goers like, such as swimming, fishing and wind and water sports. The surfing here is spectacular — Cocoa Beach is widely known as a top-notch East Coast surfing destination.

Exploring the oceanfront parks is fun, too, and you'll spot a lot of families picnicking or playing volleyball.

Book an eco-tour if you'd like to get to know the region better; you can kayak near lush Thousand Islands, spot aquatic life at the Banana River Lagoon, or get a close-up look at the marshes of St. Johns River and Lake Poinsett.

Choosing where to have lunch or dinner is a breeze. Simply head to the AIA, where dozens of businesses have set up shop and are ready to serve hungry beach-goers. Cafes and restaurants boast fresh seafood, international cuisine and down-to-earth family favorites.

For ocean views while dining, head to the Cocoa Beach Pier, home to several restaurants and bars that get patrons up close and personal with the Atlantic Ocean.

Watch fishermen cast their lines, or simply wait to experience the golden sunset. A tip about the pier, though: There's a small fee to enter, which you can avoid by paying to park in the pier's lot or by making a purchase at one of the restaurants.