A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cocoa Beach vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver. 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 food, beaches, and shopping. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Vancouver travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Vancouver?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Cocoa Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vancouver is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Cocoa Beach is well known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vancouver is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Vancouver has many famous sights for visitors. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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.

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

Both Cocoa Beach and Vancouver 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, Vancouver makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Cocoa Beach or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

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

Vancouver has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

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 Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is great for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

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.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Vancouver is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Vancouver?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

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 Vancouver More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Vancouver Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly beach town. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Cocoa Beach or Vancouver Better for Couples?

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

Vancouver is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around 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 Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

Many students visit Vancouver. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

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

Vancouver is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Vancouver has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

You'll find some public transit in Cocoa Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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).

Is Cocoa Beach or Vancouver a more walkable city?

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Vancouver?

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

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

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

One day in Cocoa Beach or Vancouver?

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.

Vancouver is a diverse city where you can fill many days. 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 Vancouver?

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.

Vancouver is a friendly big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This 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 Vancouver?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing 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.

Vancouver is a diverse city where you can fill many days. 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 Vancouver?

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 museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Vancouver in the Autumn?

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

In October, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Vancouver in the Winter?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vancouver can get quite cold in the winter. Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Vancouver in the Spring?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Cocoa Beach