A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Columbia River Gorge for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Columbia River Gorge. 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 fun-filled, relaxing, and adventurous beach town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cocoa Beach is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, and beaches, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cocoa Beach is well known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Also, Cocoa Beach is famous for the Kennedy Space Center. Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge?

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cocoa Beach can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge offer great 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Columbia River Gorge makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge.

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.

Columbia River Gorge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cocoa Beach. 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.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge.

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.

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge both great 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 Columbia River Gorge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region 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 Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Is Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

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.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable beach town. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

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

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Columbia River Gorge. 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 Columbia River Gorge. 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 Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cocoa Beach. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Columbia River Gorge?

Cocoa Beach is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This region 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 Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Cocoa Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beach town of Cocoa Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

The beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge offers shopping and nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Columbia River Gorge?

The relaxing destination of Cocoa Beach offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge, 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.

When is the best time to visit Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In October, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Cocoa Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

It's quite cold in Columbia River Gorge in the winter. Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Columbia River Gorge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Columbia River Gorge. The beaches are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Cocoa Beach