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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Newport?

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 Newport. 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.

Newport

Newport is a seaside, historical, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Newport travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Newport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Cocoa Beach and Newport are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach attracts visitors for its resorts. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Newport 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 Newport?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Newport and Cocoa Beach.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cocoa Beach. 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.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


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

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Both Cocoa Beach and Newport offer high quality 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, Newport makes for a great culinary experience. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Cocoa Beach or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

The nice nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Newport.

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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Cocoa Beach or Newport Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Cocoa Beach is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Cocoa Beach or Newport Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Cocoa Beach and Newport 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.

Newport is considered a top beach destination. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Cocoa Beach or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Newport is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Newport?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Newport 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 Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

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 Newport More Beautiful?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Newport is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Newport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Newport Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Cocoa Beach is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Newport is a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Cocoa Beach or Newport Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

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

Newport is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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

Cocoa Beach
Newport

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cocoa Beach and Newport.

Cocoa Beach has some 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).

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Is Cocoa Beach or Newport a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Newport

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

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Newport?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport 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 Newport.


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

One day in Cocoa Beach or Newport?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the coastal town of Newport. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Newport?

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 and shopping when visiting the coastal destination of Newport. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 Newport?

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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the seaside town of Newport. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Newport?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Newport. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Newport 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
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cocoa Beach $176
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in Cocoa Beach is $176, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Newport $36

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 Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $78

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 Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Cocoa Beach

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

  • 1-Hour Virtual Reality Experience Skull & Books VR - Cocoa Beach: $45
  • LED Bio Comb Jelly Clear Bottom Kayak or Paddleboard Tour!: $75
  • 2 Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour of the Indian River Lagoon: $75
  • 2 Hour Tiki Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Cocoa Beach: $65
  • 2 Hr Dolphin & Manatee River Cruise . Melbourne, Cocoa Beach,Fl. : $30
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $49
  • Bioluminescence Clear Kayak or Paddleboard Tour Near Orlando: $75
  • Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $70
  • Bioluminescence Night Craigcat Tours : $190
  • Bioluminescence Rafting Boat Tour Wildlife Refuge: $78
  • Bioluminescence Rafting Tour - Wildlife Refuge (Titusville): $60
  • Bioluminescence Rafting Tour Cocoa Beach: $79

Tours and Activities in Newport

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

  • Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour: $32
  • Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40
  • America's Cup Evening Sailing Adventure Newport, RI: $125
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Hour Cruise: $45
  • Guided Tour of Newport in Open Air LSV : $129
  • Historic Highlights with the Gilded Age Private Van Tour: $100
  • Historic Scenic Tour Through Newport With Elms Admission: $45
  • Lighthouse and Mimosa Cruise of Narragansett Bay from Newport: $41
  • Morning Mimosa Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Newport $14


When comparing the travel costs between Cocoa Beach and Newport, we can see that Newport is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Newport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Newport?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Newport in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Newport. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Cocoa Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Newport for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Newport averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Newport. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Newport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Newport. 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 Newport because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Newport can be very cold. In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Newport. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Newport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Newport. The spring months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Newport in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in April than Newport. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)