A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Big Sur for Families, Couples, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cocoa Beach and Big Sur. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a adventurous, fun-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. Big Sur is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches. See Big Sur travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach. Although Cocoa Beach and Big Sur are popular destinations, Cocoa Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cocoa Beach is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Big Sur attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. It is also well known for the Kennedy Space Center. Big Sur is famous for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and Cocoa Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Cocoa Beach is great for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Cocoa Beach specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cocoa Beach is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Cocoa Beach has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Cocoa Beach has a few great resort options. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach and Big Sur both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Cocoa Beach for it's beautiful beaches. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Big Sur is considered a top beach destination. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Cocoa Beach is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Cocoa Beach has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Big Sur is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular family destinations. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is very popular for couples. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Cocoa Beach or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Big Sur is not a walkable beach town. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cocoa Beach and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cocoa Beach than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Big Sur. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cocoa Beach, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Big Sur. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cocoa Beach that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Big Sur if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Cocoa Beach.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic natural area of Big Sur. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

In Cocoa Beach, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cocoa Beach has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Big Sur. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This natural area offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cocoa Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The scenic natural area of Big Sur offers food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cocoa Beach. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cocoa Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cocoa Beach and Big Sur, we can see that Cocoa Beach is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cocoa Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cocoa Beach than you might in Big Sur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cocoa Beach Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cocoa Beach or Big Sur?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Big Sur in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Sur averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Big Sur. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Big Sur in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Cocoa Beach