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

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Sedona?

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 Sedona. 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 beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a dramatic, scenic, and striking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Sedona travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Sedona?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sedona. Although Cocoa Beach and Sedona are both popular with visitors, Sedona has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sedona is more popular for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach is known for its museums and attractions and beaches. Cocoa Beach is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Sedona is popular for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also home to Red Rock Crossing Park.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Cocoa Beach is great for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


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

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Both Cocoa Beach and Sedona offer superb 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, Sedona makes for a great culinary experience. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Sedona.

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.

Sedona has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Sedona is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Sedona to choose from. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

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.


Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Cocoa Beach is great for the beach. However, Sedona is not a beach destination.

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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Sedona is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

Sedona has an old town worth visiting. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Sedona?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Sedona is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Sedona specifically to go shopping. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona More Beautiful?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

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

Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Cocoa Beach is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.


Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

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

Sedona is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.


Is Cocoa Beach or Sedona a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach
Sedona

Cocoa Beach and Sedona 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.

Sedona is somewhat walkable. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Sedona?

In either Cocoa Beach or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Sedona has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sedona 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 Sedona.

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

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


  • How many days in Cocoa Beach or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cocoa Beach 2-5 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Cocoa Beach or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cocoa Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 Sedona?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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 Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cocoa Beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Even though Sedona is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Cocoa Beach. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Since Sedona is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the shopping. 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, Sedona 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
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cocoa Beach $176
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Cocoa Beach is $176, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cocoa Beach $85
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cocoa Beach $170
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Cocoa Beach and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Cocoa Beach or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $26
    Sedona $40

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 Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $83

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 Sedona

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

  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cocoa Beach $16
    Sedona $19

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sedona.

  • Sedona's Best Private Vortex Tour: $199
  • 2 Hours Private Spiritual Healing Tour in the Nature of Sedona: $200
  • 2.5-Hour Sedona Sightseeing Tour with Sedona Hotel Pickup: $76
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Arizona Winery All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch & Tastings: $199
  • Best E-Bike Tour of Sedona with Private Local Guide: $140
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $85
  • Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $186
  • Everything Sedona SUNSET (20+ Miles) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $255
  • Explore Sedona's Vortexes: 2.5 Hour Jeep Tour of Mysticism: $136
  • Five Star AZ Wine Crawler Tour 4- 12 PPL : $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cocoa Beach $20
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Experience E-Bike with Wine Tasting Activity: $126
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • Grape Train Escape: Wine Tasting and Verde Canyon Railroad Adventure: $208
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $250


When comparing the travel costs between Cocoa Beach and Sedona, we can see that Sedona 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 Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Sedona?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Sedona, 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.