A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or San Diego?

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 San Diego. 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. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See San Diego travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Cocoa Beach and San Diego are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Cocoa Beach is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both San Diego 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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Both Cocoa Beach and San Diego offer excellent 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, San Diego makes for a great culinary experience. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Cocoa Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Resorts?

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

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.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for the beach. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego 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 San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or San Diego?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Cocoa Beach and San Diego.

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.

San Diego is a great destination for shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego More Beautiful?

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

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Families?

Both Cocoa Beach and San Diego are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. 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.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

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

Cocoa Beach is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Cocoa Beach or San Diego a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach and San Diego are good when it comes to walkability.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. 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.

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or San Diego?

In either Cocoa Beach or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Cocoa Beach. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Cocoa Beach. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Diego, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Cocoa Beach or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beach town of Cocoa Beach. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the dynamic coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Cocoa Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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 live music and food when visiting the relaxed destination of San Diego. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal city 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 San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the adventurous beach town of Cocoa Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic coastal city of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting San Diego. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cocoa Beach and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and San Diego. The summer months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In July, Cocoa Beach is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than San Diego. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as San Diego. The shopping scene are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 77°F (25°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cocoa Beach in January average around 63°F (17°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than San Diego. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cocoa Beach is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 73°F (23°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Cocoa Beach