A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Breckenridge for Families, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

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 Breckenridge. 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 relaxing, adventurous, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a adventurous, scenic, and nature-filled ski resort. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Breckenridge travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge are both popular with visitors, Breckenridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cocoa Beach is known for its museums and attractions, food, and beaches. Cocoa Beach is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also home to The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cocoa Beach is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Cocoa Beach is not a skiing destination.


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

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cocoa Beach. 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.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cocoa Beach. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Breckenridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

There are good resorts to choose from in both Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge.

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.

Breckenridge has a handful of resorts to choose from. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for the beach. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Cocoa Beach is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.


Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Breckenridge offers some nice hiking trails. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge More Beautiful?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

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

With stunning beauty, Breckenridge attracts visitors from all around. The beautiful mountains make a great backdrop for one of the area's best ski resorts.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Cocoa Beach is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge both superb destinations for a couple.

Cocoa Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Breckenridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Breckenridge. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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 Breckenridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Cocoa Beach has a few public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Breckenridge. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Both Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Breckenridge than in Cocoa Beach. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in Breckenridge.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Breckenridge than Cocoa Beach 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 Breckenridge.


  • How many days in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Breckenridge 3-7

One day in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

In Cocoa Beach, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this adventurous beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. Most people visit for the skiing. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Cocoa Beach is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This ski resort offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

In Cocoa Beach, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Even though Breckenridge is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people visit for the skiing. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this ski resort.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Breckenridge or Cocoa Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cocoa Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Breckenridge Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cocoa Beach $176
    Breckenridge $301

The average daily cost (per person) in Cocoa Beach is $176, while the average daily cost in Breckenridge is $301. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Breckenridge $143
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Breckenridge $286
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cocoa Beach


Hotels in Breckenridge


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cocoa Beach Hotel Prices and Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Breckenridge $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cocoa Beach

Also for Cocoa Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Melbourne to Port Canaveral: $295

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge and Cocoa Beach change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cocoa Beach $75
    Breckenridge $119

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cocoa Beach

For Cocoa Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hour Indian River Queen Cruise with Dinner: $79
  • Village Food Tours Lunch & History Tour: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Breckenridge $82

Tours and Activities in Cocoa Beach

For Cocoa Beach, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Palm Bay by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • 2 Hr Dolphin & Manatee River Cruise . Melbourne, Cocoa Beach,Fl. : $30
  • Brevard County Tours, dolphin and manatee tours in Palm Bay, FL: $40
  • 1-Hour Virtual Reality Experience Skull & Books VR - Cocoa Beach: $45
  • Cocoa Beach Dolphin and Wildlife Tour: $48
  • Cocoa Beach Sunset Tour: $48
  • Cocoa Beach Dolphin and Wildlife Tour: $48
  • Sunset Cruise: $48
  • Dolphin Eco Cruise Nature Adventure in Cocoa Beach: $49
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $49
  • Guided Kayak Tour with Manatee & Dolphin Sightings: $50
  • Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour: $50

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Astronomy Tour in Breckenridge : $59
  • Breckenridge Downtown Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour : $7.75
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $35
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $33
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Backcountry Ski Tour: $303
  • Breckenridge, CO: Guided Rock Climb Adventure: $204
  • Continental Divide Tour: $155
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $65
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Breckenridge $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden-Fall Foliage Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85
  • Ridden-Breckenridge Fat Bike Beer and Distillery Tour: $85


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Cocoa Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cocoa Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cocoa Beach 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 Breckenridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Breckenridge than you might in Cocoa Beach.

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 Breckenridge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Breckenridge?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Breckenridge, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.