A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Shenandoah National Park for Families, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah 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 adventurous, fun-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a serene, beautiful, and scenic national park. With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cocoa Beach. Although Cocoa Beach and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations, Cocoa Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cocoa Beach is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cocoa Beach is famous for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. It is also well known for the Kennedy Space Center. Shenandoah National Park is famous for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shenandoah National Park and Cocoa Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cocoa Beach is not a skiing destination.

Head to Shenandoah National Park for some great skiing and other winter activities. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Cocoa Beach is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

Cocoa Beach is great for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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

Cocoa Beach is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Cocoa Beach has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Resorts?

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

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is great for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

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

Shenandoah National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

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

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

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.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors from all around. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Is Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Shenandoah National Park both very good 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 Shenandoah National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

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

Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park 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 limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

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

Cocoa Beach is a beach town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable beach town. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

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

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

How long in Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

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

One day in Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

With food and shopping around the relaxing beach town of Cocoa Beach, there's plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the breathtaking national park of Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park?

With shopping and museums around the adventurous destination of Cocoa Beach, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the beautiful destination of Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park 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 Shenandoah National Park?

With museums and nightlife around the adventurous beach town of Cocoa Beach, there's plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the skiing when visiting the serene national park of Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the skiing when visiting Shenandoah 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 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 Shenandoah National Park, we can see that Cocoa Beach is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

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 Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Shenandoah National Park. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Shenandoah National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Shenandoah National Park. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Shenandoah National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cocoa Beach in October average around 77°F (25°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in October than Shenandoah National Park. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shenandoah National Park. In January, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 63°F (17°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 32°F (-0°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Shenandoah National Park. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in April than Shenandoah National Park. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and Cocoa Beach