A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cocoa Beach vs. Jasper National Park for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park?

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 Jasper National Park. 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.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cocoa Beach is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Jasper National Park 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. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Cocoa Beach different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jasper National Park 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 Jasper National Park?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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 Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cocoa Beach makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Cocoa Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park 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.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is well known for its beaches. However, Jasper National Park 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.

Jasper National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Jasper National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.


Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Jasper National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular 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, Jasper National Park is very family-friendly. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach and Jasper National Park 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 Jasper National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.


Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Jasper National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

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 Jasper National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Cocoa Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Jasper National Park

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known 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.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable beach town. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.


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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park?

In either Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Cocoa Beach has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Jasper National Park. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Jasper National Park. 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 Jasper National Park. 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 Jasper National Park 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.


  • How many days in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park?

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 when visiting the stunning national park of Jasper National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Jasper National Park?

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 when visiting the stunning destination of Jasper National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park 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 Jasper National Park?

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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking national park of Jasper National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Jasper National Park?

The adventurous 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 when visiting Jasper National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park 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
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cocoa Beach $176
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Cocoa Beach is $176, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park? 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 Jasper National Park


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 Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Jasper National Park $19

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Cocoa Beach or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park 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
    Jasper National Park $40

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Jasper National Park $7.75

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 Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Canadian Rockies Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour Bundle: $50
  • Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper: $105
  • Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper: $230
  • E-Bike Safari Eco Tour: $176
  • Explore Jasper Tour: $184
  • Explore Jasper Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise: $184
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Jasper Ice Climbing Experience: $174
  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Jasper National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cocoa Beach and Jasper National Park, we can see that Cocoa Beach is more expensive. And not only is Jasper National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jasper National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jasper National Park 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 Jasper National Park.

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 Jasper National Park Expensive?.