Sunrise over the Atlantic and warm surf just an hour from the theme parks—Cocoa Beach is Orlando’s easiest beach day. Grab your Orlando MCO car rental, point east on SR‑528 (Beachline), and you’ll be cruising past the Banana River in about 55–65 minutes.
Route, Tolls & Timing
SR‑528 is a fast, toll road with clear signage toward Port Canaveral and A1A. Keep a card ready for toll plazas and watch for sea‑breeze showers. If you’re packing boards or a family beach kit, a roomy minivan hire in Orlando keeps sand under control and everyone comfy.
Parking & Beach Access
- Alan Shepard Park: Central, paid parking near restaurants and showers.
- Lori Wilson Park: Free lots, shaded paths, and a mellow vibe—arrive early on weekends.
- Port Canaveral: Great for ship‑spotting; mind posted rates around the piers.
Ron Jon Stop
Make time for the 24‑hour Ron Jon Surf Shop: grab wax, rent soft‑tops, or stock up on sunscreen. Stash wet gear in a lightweight tub and bring a travel towel for the trunk.
Safety & Surf Tips
- Check flags and lifeguard stations; rip currents spike after storms.
- Rinse boards and sandals before tossing them back in the car.
- Drink water—ocean days sneak up on you in the Florida sun.
Why Book with Hola Car Rentals
Hola Car Rentals keeps your coast day simple: Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up, Cashback on tolls, and All‑Inclusive+ protection on selected itineraries. Prefer to compare brands? Add Avis car rental at MCO or go straight to Orlando car hire for the fastest handover at the airport. For extra space, an SUV hire in Orlando handles coolers and boogie boards with ease.
Beach day, sorted. Reserve with Hola Car Rentals and drive from MCO to Cocoa Beach with confidence and full coverage.
Beach‑Day Checklist
- Sun protection: reef‑safe sunscreen, hat, and a pop‑up shade.
- Sand kit: brush, gallon bag for phones, and a trunk liner.
- Snacks & water: coolers ride well in an SUV hire in Orlando and keep beach days budget‑friendly.
FAQs
How much is parking? City lots range from free to around US$20; arrive early for the best spots near showers.
Can I rinse off? Many parks have outdoor showers—pack a small towel to protect seats on the drive back.
What’s the best pickup time? Mid‑morning avoids commute traffic eastbound; for sunrise sessions, use Orlando car hire for first‑light handovers.
Best Time to Go
Early mornings bring light winds and mellow crowds; late afternoons glow at sunset. If Kennedy Space Center has a launch, arrive extra early—A1A backs up around Port Canaveral.
Alternate Route
Prefer fewer tolls? SR‑520 is a slower but scenic alternative across the St. Johns River marshes. Add 10–15 minutes, and watch for wildlife near bridges.
Where to Refuel & Eat
Cape Canaveral’s strip along Astronaut Blvd is lined with casual seafood joints and coffee stops. Rinse sandy feet at the park, then swing by for a post‑surf bite before the twilight drive back to MCO.
Beach Etiquette
Stay off the dunes, pack out what you bring in, and give surfers right of way near the lineup. Keep music considerate—families and locals share these sands year‑round.
Kid‑Friendly Stops
Check playgrounds at Lori Wilson Park, then wander the Cocoa Beach Pier for pelican watching and soft‑serve cones. Shade tents help little travelers nap between swims.
Final Return
Rinse gear, shake towels outside the vehicle, and top up fuel near SR‑528 before returning your Orlando MCO car rental. Evening returns are busiest—build a few extra minutes into your schedule.
