8 BEST Places to Watch the Sunrise in Cocoa Beach, FL
Top Oceanfront Spots for Early Risers
There is a unique magic waiting for you when you catch a Cocoa Beach sunrise. As you watch the Atlantic Ocean awaken, painting the sky in fiery oranges and soft purples, you’ll realize the Space Coast offers the spiritual start to the day you’ve been craving.
Whether you’re standing on the historic pier or sinking your toes into the cool morning sand, the transition from dawn to daylight here is an immersive experience. It’s the perfect time to breathe in the salt air and plan your day in this premier vacation destination before the rest of the world wakes up.
These are the top eight spots where you can witness this daily spectacle, ensuring your morning is nothing short of a glowing start to your perfect day in Cocoa Beach.
1. Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier
You can’t miss this one! The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier stretches 800 feet right out into the ocean, so you're literally standing above the waves when the sun pops up. It's like having a front-row seat to nature's best performance.
What makes this spot unbeatable? You get those incredible 360-degree views, and honestly, watching the sun rise straight out of the ocean from up on the pier deck is just breathtaking.
Pro Tip: if you're staying for a few days, Westgate Cocoa Beach Resort is just a short walk from the pier. You can literally roll out of bed, walk to the pier, and catch the sunrise without even getting in your car. Plus, you might even be able to catch the sunrise right from your room!
WHERE: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 783-7549
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2. Lori Wilson Park
This 32-acre park is where you'll want to go when you want a more natural vibe. The elevated boardwalks give you perfect views without all the commercial stuff around you, and there are benches everywhere so you can actually sit comfortably with your coffee.
What you'll love here is how peaceful it feels at this spot. There’s native plants and dunes, creating this beautiful natural frame around the sunrise.
Plus, the early morning wildlife is incredible. You might see dolphins swimming close to shore, herons doing their thing, and pelicans diving for breakfast. There’s free parking, it opens right at sunrise, and you'll rarely find it crowded—it’s a great spot!
WHERE: 1500 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 455-1380
3. Cocoa Beach's Minuteman Causeway
Want something completely different? Head to the Minuteman Causeway (Route 520) where it connects to Merritt Island. This spot is wild because you get the sunrise reflecting off the calm Banana River while also seeing the ocean in the background. It's like a two-for-one sunrise special.
The elevated view from the causeway gives you this incredible panoramic perspective you just can't get at beach level. The river acts like a giant mirror, and if you're into photography, you'll absolutely love this spot.
There's parking all along the causeway, and you can walk around on the fishing piers while you wait. It’s a totally different energy from the beach locations.
WHERE: Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: N/A
4. Shepard Park
Shepard Park is your classic Cocoa Beach sunrise spot. Wide, clean beach with nothing blocking your view—just pure, unobstructed sunrise glory.
The best part? It's got all the facilities you might need—restrooms, showers, picnic areas—so you can make a whole morning of it with your family. There's tons of space to spread out, and the locals are super friendly.
You'll probably see people walking their dogs or doing morning yoga. It's got that welcoming community vibe that makes you feel like you belong.
WHERE: 299 E Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 868-3258
5. Sidney Fischer Park
Sidney Fischer Park is one of those hidden gems that somehow stays less crowded. The boardwalk takes you over these gorgeous protected dunes, and the beach itself is pristine.
Because it's a bit south, the light hits differently here, especially during certain times of year. The colors can be absolutely dramatic. After sunrise, the playground and covered pavilions make it perfect if you've got kids who need to burn off some energy.
WHERE: 2200 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 868-3252
6. Jetty Park and Pier
Jetty Park is unlike anywhere else on this list. You're watching the sunrise with massive cruise ships in the background. It's nature meets industry, and somehow it just works.
The rock jetty creates this cool, rugged aesthetic, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can carefully walk out on the rocks for elevated views. The designated pier and beach areas are just as stunning and way safer.
The real kicker? If you’re lucky, you might catch a rocket launch during sunrise. It's absolutely mind-blowing when it happens.
WHERE: 100 Jetty Park Rd, Port Canaveral, FL 32920 | WHO: (321) 783-7111
7. Cocoa Beach Country Club Beach Access
If crowds aren't your thing, the beach access points near Cocoa Beach Country Club are your answer. Same gorgeous Atlantic views, way fewer people.
You're basically watching sunrise with the locals who do this every morning, which gives you a much more authentic feel of what it's like to actually live here. The beaches tend to be wider in certain seasons too.
Just keep in mind that parking is on residential streets, so you'll want to be respectful and follow the signs. The trade-off for fewer amenities is totally worth it for the peace and quiet.
WHERE: 5000 Tom Warriner Blvd, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 868-3351
8. Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park
Located at the southern end of the city, Robert P. Murkshe Memorial Park provides you with a sophisticated boardwalk and a quieter experience.
If you enjoy surf fishing in Cocoa Beach, you’ll find this is a top choice, as the early morning light often coincides with peak fishing hours.
You can stand on the elevated platform for a stunning perspective of the shoreline as the sun breaks the horizon.
WHERE: 198-100 S 16th St, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931 | WHO: (321) 455-1380
Start Your Day Watching the Sunrise on the Space Coast
Cocoa Beach has so much to offer. Hit up Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, check out the Brevard Zoo, or explore the area’s many nature preserves. And if you've never surfed, this is the place to learn. After all, it’s the “Surfing Capital of the East Coast.”
Whether you hit the iconic pier, find peace at Lori Wilson Park, or try that unique causeway view, you really can't go wrong. Each spot has its own personality, so honestly, if you've got time, try a few different locations during your stay.
Start your day with the sun breaking over the Atlantic, and you'll get why people fall in love with the Space Coast. For more guides to exploring Cocoa Beach, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.
* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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