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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Portland?

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 Portland. 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. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a quirky, eclectic, and tree-lined city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the live music, hiking, and shopping. See Portland travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Portland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach than Portland, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cocoa Beach is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, and beaches, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, small town charm, 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. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Portland.

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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a good destination for its music scene. However, Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Cocoa Beach attract visitors from all over. 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland 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 Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Portland?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Cocoa Beach and Portland.

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.

Portland is a great destination for shopping. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland More Beautiful?

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

Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

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

Portland 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 Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cocoa Beach and Portland.

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 Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Cocoa Beach or Portland a more walkable city?

Portland 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.

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland 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 Portland.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Portland?

The beach town of Cocoa Beach offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the progressive city of Portland. 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 Portland?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city 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 Portland?

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The eclectic city of Portland 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 Portland?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Portland. 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 Portland, we can see that Portland 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 Portland would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portland 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 Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Portland. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Cocoa Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Portland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Portland. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Portland. Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Portland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Portland. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Portland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

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

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Portland and Cocoa Beach