
Cocoa Beach, Florida, to Port Canaveral is a scenic drive that's perfect for a day trip or a longer vacation. The driving distance is approximately 15 miles and takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out, as the coastal areas can be prone to fog and rain, especially during the summer months.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-visit attraction on your way to Port Canaveral, offering a glimpse into the history of space exploration and a chance to meet an astronaut.
Plan your trip during the week for smaller crowds and easier parking at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
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Getting There
The journey from Cocoa Beach to Port Canaveral is a shift from a laid-back beach vibe to a bustling cruise and launch hub. The 15-mile drive typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
You'll notice a significant change in atmosphere as you leave the beach behind and head towards the launch hub.
Accommodations
If you're looking for a hotel near Port Canaveral, consider the Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites, which offers a shuttle service to the cruise terminals for a fee of around $10 one way.
The property is attractively designed, with comfortable rooms, a stylish bar, and a spacious swimming pool, making it a great choice for a pre-cruise stay.
The hotel is just 9 minutes from the Port Canaveral cruise terminals, making it an ideal location for cruise passengers.
You can also opt for the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port, which provides transportation to and from Port Canaveral for $10 per person each way.
Best Neighbourhoods
Port Canaveral has a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs. Port Canaveral boasts vibrant neighborhoods that cater to travelers' diverse interests.
Some neighborhoods are perfect for beach lovers, while others are ideal for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. Port Canaveral has a variety of neighborhoods that offer easy access to the beach.
Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort or a budget-friendly option, Port Canaveral has you covered. The city's neighborhoods are designed to provide a unique and memorable experience for every visitor.
Homewood Suites

If you're looking for a place to stay near the Port Canaveral cruise terminal, Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral-Cocoa Beach is a great option.
The hotel offers a range of cosily traditional suites and rooms with comfortable and attractive furnishings that will make you feel right at home.
You'll have easy access to attractions like the stunning Exploration Tower and the tranquil Manatee Sanctuary Park.
The hotel is close to the port and has a pool for those in need of a relaxing dip.
The shuttle rate at this hotel is around $10 per person, each direction, and overnight parking fee is $10.00+tax per night.
The hotel is just a 5-minute drive from the port entrance, making it a convenient choice for cruise travelers.
A dip in the pool or a relaxing evening in your suite is just what you need before or after a long day of exploring.
Accommodations
If you're planning a trip to Port Canaveral, you'll want to stay at a hotel that's close to the cruise terminals. The Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites is the closest to the adjacent port, making it a great choice for easy access to attractions.

This hotel offers a shuttle service to Port Canaveral cruise terminals for a fee of around $10 one way. The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Canaveral, FL is another option with a shuttle service costing $8 per person, but it's best to book in advance.
Some hotels offer free parking while you're staying, but others charge a daily fee. The Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral charges $12 a day for parking, while the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port, Fl has self-parking for $10 a night.
If you're looking for a hotel with a shuttle service, the Days Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach Port Canaveral is a good option, with a shuttle service costing around $10 per person. The La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral also offers a shuttle service for $12 per person.
Cruise parking fees vary by hotel, but the Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port, Fl charges $25 a day, while the Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral has limited cruise parking for $25 a day on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you're planning to book a Park, Stay and Go package, it's best to book directly through the hotel. The Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral offers a special Park, Stay and Go package that includes long-term parking and shuttle service, but you'll need to book it directly through the hotel.
Transportation Options
If you're planning to travel between Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral, there are several convenient transportation options to consider. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore both locations at your own pace, and local car rental companies can provide options tailored to your needs and budget.
Shuttle services like the Cocoa Beach Shuttle offer a hassle-free way to commute between the two destinations, often with added convenience features. You can also opt for the Space Coast Area Transit, a budget-friendly option that's a reliable way to travel between Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral.
Here are some transportation options to consider:
- Car Rental: Rent a car for flexibility and freedom to explore both locations.
- Shuttle Service: Take the Cocoa Beach Shuttle for a hassle-free commute.
- Public Transportation: Use the Space Coast Area Transit for a budget-friendly option.
For more information on transportation options and bookings, visit the official Visit Cocoa Beach website or Space Coast Area Transit website.
Year-Round Weather Expectations
Port Canaveral enjoys a warm, humid subtropical climate, making it ideal for year-round visits.
The best times to explore Port Canaveral are during the cooler months from November to April.
Summer storms can impact outdoor plans, so checking forecasts is useful for making the most of your travel experience.
Port Canaveral's subtropical climate means you can expect warm temperatures year-round, but it's still worth checking the forecast to ensure you're prepared for any unexpected weather changes.
Dining and Activities
Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral offer a variety of dining and activities to suit all tastes and interests.
You can enjoy fresh seafood at The Fishlips Waterfront Bar and Grill, located on the beach in Cocoa Beach, where you can also take a romantic sunset dinner cruise.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is a must-visit attraction in the area, with over 60 interactive exhibits and a chance to meet an astronaut.
Discovering
Discovering Port Canaveral is a must, especially for those who love maritime experiences. It's just a 15-minute drive from Cocoa Beach, making it an easy day trip.
You can explore the bustling cruise port and see massive cruise ships up close. This is a great way to get a glimpse into the thriving cruise industry.
Waterfront dining is a treat in Port Canaveral, where you can watch fishing boats come in with their daily catch. You can even try your hand at fishing from the pier.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can start your day with a cruise from Port Canaveral. This is a great way to experience the area's natural beauty.
For more details about Port Canaveral's attractions and activities, check out the official Port Canaveral website.
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Dining Recommendation
If you're looking for a dining experience that's a cut above the rest, head to Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill in Port Canaveral.
Their seafood platters are infused with local spices and seasonal ingredients, making for a truly unique taste experience.
The vibrant atmosphere of Fishlips contrasts nicely with Cocoa Beach's more relaxed dining scene, making it a great spot to grab a bite and take in the views.
You can enjoy picturesque views of the harbor while savoring your meal, adding to the overall ambiance of the place.
Hotels and Resorts
The Radisson Resort at the Port is a great value place to stay while cruising out of Port Canaveral, with a wide selection of colorful, well-designed and well-equipped rooms.
Located at the heart of Cape Canaveral, this hotel offers fast access to the nearby Kennedy Space Center and the beautiful Cocoa Beach. Guests can bask in the outdoor pool, kick back at the pool-side Tiki bar or take a trip to the nearby Mexican restaurant for a spicy meal.
Parking at the hotel is $12.95 a day, and guests going on a cruise may leave their vehicle at the property at a cost of $12.95 a day, which includes the shuttle to the port for up to 4 people. The cruise shuttle is approx. $6.00* a person.
The Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites is the closest to the adjacent port, making it the best choice if you want easy access to that area and all of its attractions. A shuttle service is provided to Port Canaveral cruise terminals for a fee of approx. $10 one way.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral-Cocoa Beach offers a range of cosily traditional suites and rooms, featuring comfortable attractive furnishings that lend a genuine touch of homeliness. The shuttle rate at this hotel is around $10*, each direction.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Canaveral, FL is a destination that taps into the modern feel of Cape Canaveral and its adjacent areas. This hotel is ideally located close to the port, about one mile distance which is a short 5-minute drive.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach is a lush building that stands beckoning over the coastal surroundings. The cruise terminals are located around 1.5 to 3 miles from the hotel, depending on the ship you are sailing on.
Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port, Fl is a good value hotel with easy access to all of the coastal attractions and cruise terminal. The hotel provides transportation (operated by a 3rd party company) to and from Port Canaveral for $10 per person each way ($20 round trip).
The Days Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach Port Canaveral is set within easy walking distance of the beachfront and Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, 8 minutes from the terminals and close to many restaurants. Shuttle transportation is provided at reasonable rates (around $10.00* per person).
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral is a comparatively old-fashioned aesthetic, and will suit any visitor who wants to feel as though they have slipped back in time to the bygone era of the 1950s. The shuttle that goes to the cruise pier for a fee ($12.00* per person).
Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral is a beachside hotel, ideally located a few yards from a walkway to the beach, and convenient to shopping and local restaurants. The hotel utilizes a third party shuttle service to bring guests to Port Canaveral.
The Four Points by Sheraton hotel is truly unmissable — its bold, heavily-stylised exterior is unique landmark of Cocoa Beach. Some of the public interior areas, such as the bar and aquarium, continue this loud and colourful theme.
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Parking and Transportation
Parking and transportation options are a crucial part of planning your trip to Port Canaveral.
You can park at the port itself, or opt for a park and cruise package where you stay at a hotel and leave your car there while on your cruise. Rates for parking start around $6.00 per night.
If you prefer to have a hotel shuttle to take you to the port, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral-Cocoa Beach hotel offers a shuttle for $6 per person, each direction.
Driving Directions
If you're planning a trip to Cocoa Beach, you'll want to know the driving directions from Port Canaveral, which is just a 7-mile drive away. The trip begins in Port Canaveral, Florida, and ends in Cocoa Beach, Florida.
To get to Cocoa Beach, take State Road 528, a well-maintained road that offers a smooth and scenic route. This road is the main route between the two destinations, making it easy to explore both locations.
The driving distance from Port Canaveral to Cocoa Beach is 7 miles or 11 kilometers, so you can quickly get to your destination. You can also use Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and accurate directions.
The drive typically takes around 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for those looking to visit both destinations. This short distance makes it easy to maximize your time and experience the best of both Cocoa Beach and Port Canaveral.
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As for Parking
If you're planning to park at Port Canaveral, you can do so after making a reservation at your hotel of choice. Parking rates begin around $6.00 per night for leaving your car while on cruise.
You can also opt for park and cruise, which involves staying for the night and leaving your car at the hotel while on cruise. This can be a convenient option if you're traveling with family or a pet.
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The parking fee at Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral-Cocoa Beach hotel, for example, is $6.00 per night. This hotel is also one of the closest to Port Canaveral cruise port.
Here are some parking options to consider:
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral-Cocoa Beach hotel: $6.00 per night
- Other hotels near the port: rates vary, but often around $6.00 per night
Keep in mind that hotels near the port tend to cost a bit more, but you might end up saving money if you don't mind staying further inland and paying for the shuttle to the port.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a taxi from Port Canaveral to Cocoa Beach?
A taxi from Port Canaveral to Cocoa Beach costs between $29-$35.
How far is Cocoa Beach from Cruise Port?
Cocoa Beach is 10 miles from the Cruise Port, a short 18-minute drive. Perfect for pre- or post-cruise relaxation and exploration!
Does Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront have a shuttle to Port Canaveral?
Yes, Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront offers a shuttle to Port Canaveral for $9 per person each way. You can sign up for the shuttle during check-in.
Sources
- https://www.travelmath.com/drive-distance/from/Port+Canaveral/to/Cocoa+Beach,+FL
- https://1map.com/routes/us-fl-cocoa-beach-3507_to_us-fl-port-canaveral-53501
- https://www.savvy-navvy.com/routes/cocoa-beach-to-port-canaveral
- https://florida-beaches-info.com/how-far-is-cocoa-beach-from-port-canaveral/
- https://allcruisehotels.com/blog/port-canaveral-hotels-cruise-shuttle/
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