Who doesn't have fond memories of family road trips to places like Cocoa Beach? Visiting the local attractions (here, the big one happens to be the world-famous Kennedy Space Center), strolling along the pier, burying your little brother in the sand and shopping for tacky souvenirs' nights camped out in a mom-and-pop hotel a block from the beach. It was the American Dream - when it came to vacations, anyway.

But let's face it: For most of us, our Gidget days are over. No more baking on the beach or paddling out to catch the perfect wave over and over again. Sure, the beach is great, but we're left longing for more.

The Cocoa Beach area - cleverly hyped as "The Space Coast" because of its ties to Kennedy Space Center - retains the same classic charm from your younger days, plus some more modern-age draws. These days, you can experience the thrill of space flight by riding an interactive simulator or watching an IMAX® theater film with stellar 3D special effects. You can even have lunch with an astronaut.

But Cocoa Beach offers more than space-age fun and great beaches - this central east Florida town has many other surprises in store. (And maybe some new ideas when it comes time to plan that next family road trip.)

The "World's Most Diverse Estuary," the Indian River Lagoon snakes along The Space Coast, comprised of the Indian and Banana Rivers and Mosquito Lagoon. There's not a beach in sight, but you won't miss it a bit.

The "World's Most Diverse Estuary," the Indian River Lagoon snakes along The Space Coast, comprised of the Indian and Banana Rivers and Mosquito Lagoon. There's not a beach in sight, but you won't miss it a bit.


The best way to explore is by kayak. Between June and October, go at night with Capt. Mike on his Black Night/Cold Light Bioluminescent Night Tour, part of A Day Away Kayak Tours. Not only might you see manatees, dolphins and stingrays within petting distance (if petting were allowed), but microscopic bioluminescent organisms give the entire Lagoon a cool green glow.

If your idea of vacation doesn't involve such active pursuits, join a narrated eco-boat tour with Space Coast Nature Tours. An underwater hydrophone will let you listen in on dolphin conversations. You won't have any idea what they're saying but it's a novelty nonetheless.

More than 700 species of fish inhabit these waters; fish on the fly for snook, sea trout, redfish and tarpon with a member guide of the Indian River Guides Association, a group of fishermen dedicated to protecting the river's resources.


Play
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Special "Meet the Astronauts" programs for kids and a new full-day "Astronaut Training Experience" for older teens and adults. There's also a special program called "Lunch with an Astronaut."

Brevard Zoo: The only zoo in North America with onsite kayaking.

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Gateway to the Great Florida Birding Trail; special ranger-led tours are available.


Eat
Lone Cabbage Fish Camp: Fried gator, cooter, catfish, shrimp, frog legs, chicken and anything else you can batter in a rustic atmosphere. Come by car or boat. (Check river conditions before coming by boat.)

Dixie Crossroads Seafood Restaurant: House specialty is rock shrimp (the poor man's lobster) served fried, steamed or boiled. Extremely popular with locals (which means you may have to wait for a table, but it's worth it).

Downtown Diversions: The small beachside communities of Cocoa Beach, Melbourne and Eau Gallie are home to picturesque downtowns with quaint shops and cafés that make for an easy half-day diversion.


Stay
The Inn at Cocoa Beach: Wake up to the sound of crashing waves at this comfortable, French country-style beachfront hotel. Afternoon wine and cheese social.

Casa Coquina Bed & Breakfast (Titusville): Eclectic inn overlooking the Indian River. British Pub room; library; butterfly garden.