Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CATCHING A WAVE
Eleven-time surfing world champion Kelly Slater, born and raised in Cocoa Beach, learned
his moves in the Space Coast surf - this is arguably the best place in Florida to catch a
wave. Surfing culture thrives around here. You'll have no problem finding a place to rent a
board, and there are surfing events year-round. The
Ron Jon Easter Surf Festival
, the
country's second-oldest surf competition, attracts 30,000-plus cool surfers, tanned
beach bunnies and sunburned college kids.
The long-running
Ron Jon Surf School
( 321-868-1980;
www.cocoabeachsurfingschool.com
; 150 E Columbia Lane, Cocoa Beach; per hr $50-65) offers les-
sons for everyone from groms (that's surf talk for beginners) to experts, and there are
plenty of other schools. For children aged five to 17, Beach Place Guest House hosts week-
long
Surf Art Camps
(
321-799-3432;
www.marymoonarts.com
; per child $295;
9am-3pm
Jun-Aug).
Tours
Fin Expeditions
KAYAK TOUR
321-698-7233;
www.finexpeditions.com
;
599 Ramp Rd; per person $30;
)
Linger to watch a cormorant dry his wings, coast gently over horseshoe crabs and pause as
Cinnamon explains the differences between mangrove species. The calm waters, stable
boats and attentive and enthusiastic guides make this an excellent choice for families.
Indian River Queen
BOAT TOUR
( 321-454-7414;
www.indianriverqueen.com
; Cocoa Village Marina, 90 Delannoy Ave; cruises
$35-60)
Take a trip back in time on this romantic paddleboat. The history-themed tour includes a
narrated presentation on 19th-century Cocoa Village, when paddleboats were the norm and
homesteaders hung a white cloth at the end of their pier to flag them down. Dinner and
sunset booze cruises are also available. Check out the website for the schedule.
