Cocoa Beach, FL Winter Getaway

Duration: 14 Days | Meals Included: 13 Breakfasts, 1 Dinner

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Kennedy Space Center - Optional Transportation

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is where NASA made history and where it's still being made today. This is where humankind first left Earth to explore the heavens. This is where the future of space exploration launches, and where you can experience the wonders of space like nowhere else in the universe. Only here can you touch a moon rock, walk under the largest rocket ever flown, meet an actual astronaut, and glimpse the future of space exploration. With four restaurants and three snack stands, an out-of-this-world dining experience is easy to find at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Experience "The World's Largest Space Shop" and other shopping locations for stellar souvenirs and the latest in NASA gear. Admission is not included.

 

Dolphin Tour Boat Cruise

Enjoy a memorable trip through Cocoa Beach's Thousand Islands, where you'll cruise among natural mangroves that are home to some of Florida's most fascinating wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, manatees, pelicans, and other native creatures as you navigate the tranquil waters of the Banana River. Guided by experienced USCG Master Captains and knowledgeable Naturalist-First Mates, you'll gain insight into the area's rich history, intricate waterways, and the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem. The fully-covered, spacious pontoon boats ensure a comfortable and stable ride throughout your adventure.

 

St. Augustine Boat Cruise

Step aboard the Scenic Cruise of St. Augustine for a delightful 75-minute narrated journey through the timeless beauty of America’s oldest city. This relaxing boat cruise offers an unforgettable perspective of St. Augustine’s most iconic landmarks from the water. Glide across the sparkling waters of Matanzas Bay aboard the comfortable Victory III while expert narration brings centuries of history to life. Take in stunning views of the mighty Castillo de San Marcos, the elegant Bridge of Lions, and the charming historic skyline, all framed by coastal scenery and refreshing sea breezes. Keep an eye out for dolphins and native shorebirds as you cruise past Anastasia Island and along the picturesque waterfront. With open-air and enclosed seating, onboard amenities, and engaging live commentary, this scenic cruise is the perfect introduction to St. Augustine—combining history, relaxation, and breathtaking views into one memorable experience.

 

Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach, FL

Explore the enchanting Flagler Avenue, a true seaside beach street adorned with charming boutiques, art galleries, surf shops, and delectable eateries. Stroll along the five blocks spanning from the river to the ocean and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this historic street, exuding the laid-back ambiance of old Florida.

 

Blue Spring State Park

Experience one of Florida’s most remarkable natural sanctuaries at Blue Spring State Park, home to a crystal clear, first magnitude spring that flows more than 100 million gallons of water daily into the St. Johns River. In the cooler months, hundreds of gentle Florida manatees gather in the warm 72 degree spring waters, offering an unforgettable opportunity to observe these iconic marine mammals from scenic boardwalk overlooks. Stroll along the shaded boardwalk beside the spring run, explore the historic Thursby House, and enjoy the park’s tranquil natural beauty, where wildlife and lush landscapes showcase the very best of “Old Florida.”

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day two is included at Cocoa Beach Fish Camp Grill. Choices are:

Menu TBA

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• Guests are welcome to bring their own beach chair and umbrella if they would like. Beach chairs and umbrellas are also available locally for purchase or rental at the hotel.

• Within walking distance is the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, stretching 800 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and home to restaurants, bars, gift shops and live musical entertainment. The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier offers beach rentals, beach volleyball courts, lifeguards year-round and access to some of the absolute best surfing on the East Coast!

• Cocoa Beach Trolley Service runs Monday - Saturday from 6:00am to 11:00pm and on Sunday from 7:45am to 5:40pm. Trolly runs from Port Canaveral to 13th Street in Cocoa Beach. A ride on the trolley costs $1.50 with a special rate of 75¢ for seniors, veterans, disabled and students. Please have the exact fare ready when riding a bus/trolley. Drivers are not equipped to make change. Schedule and fares subject to change.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• Please note that ADA-accessible rooms with a walk-in shower are located across the street in the motel building, not in the main hotel where our group will be staying. The rooms are not suites and do not offer a kitcheonette. Guests staying in these rooms would need to walk across the street each morning to join the group for breakfast in the main hotel. Because of this added inconvenience and style of room, we generally do not recommend this option.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Days 1 and 13: Hampton Inn Florence (Florence, SC)

The hotel has an indoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Days 2-12: Best Western Cocoa Beach-Port Canaveral (Cocoa Beach, FL)

Experience the perfect beachfront retreat at Best Western Cocoa Beach, nestled along 250 feet of pristine sandy shorelines and just steps away from iconic Cocoa Beach pier. The hotel features two heated swimming pools, a fitness room, BBQ grills, and fire pits. Relax in a spacious suite with a separate bedroom, living room with queen-size pull-out sofa, kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave, and private balcony overlooking a large pool. Enjoy easy access to nearby dining options. Publix Supermarket is located across the street. Beach chairs and beach umbrellas are available to rent, and the lobby features 24/7 coffee and popcorn available nightly.

 

Kennedy Space Center (Optional Tickets)