Thunder on Cocoa Beach is scheduled for May 16-19 2024, have you planned out your Space Coast weekend yet?
About Thunder on Cocoa Beach
Thunder on Cocoa Beach is returning to the Space Coast for the 14th year! This Super Boat Grand Prix is one of the most exciting races in Central Florida. You’ll have the opportunity to see the best and fastest boat and jet ski racing teams in the world descend on Cocoa Beach for 4 days of races, meet & greets, concerts, and parties in our favorite beach town. The best part it’s all FREE for the general public! You’re not going to want to miss this long weekend of family fun in the sun.
All the fun of Thunder on Cocoa Beach is free for the general public, however, if you’re wanting a VIP experience with reserved parking, catered refreshments, shade, and seating, head to the Thunder on Cocoa Beach Website to get your tickets today.
Schedule of Events
![Family at the Cocoa Beach](https://dev-visit-space-coast.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/MAC_0264_0-82e.jpg)
Photo courtesy Thunder on Cocoa Beach
Thunder on Cocoa Beach is one of the most highly anticipated events on the Space Coast. Here’s what you can expect for the weekend!
EVENT SCHEDULE COMING SOON!
Note: Event schedule is subject to change. Download the Thunder on Cocoa Beach App for schedule updates, course information, a live stream, and so much more.
App for Android
App for iPhone
Learn about Surfing History at the Florida Surf Museum
Located in Ron Jon’s Surf Shop, the Florida Surf Museum is free to the public. Here you’ll learn all about why Cocoa Beach is the Surfing Capital of the East Coast, about some of our famous local surfers, and get to see some pretty sweet surfboards and memorabilia from the past. It’s a great hidden gem to check out while you’re shopping for souvenirs in one of the most iconic surf shops in the world.
You’ve Been to the Sea, Now Head to the Stars
Drive time from Cocoa Beach – 35 min
Everything is possible on the Space Coast. When we race, we ask why not launch too! Stop by the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to take your love of speed to the stratosphere and beyond as you learn about the Space Program’s past, present and future. Bus tours to the Apollo/Saturn V have resumed and Planet Play is open to the public! If you visited the Complex in 2020, this is the perfect time to cash in on your free return ticket!
Jet Ski Rentals in Cocoa Beach
If you have the need for speed after watching the Jet Skis and Super Boats tear through the surf, you can have a little of your own motorized fun on the Indian River Lagoon. Jet Ski Rental operators have tons of models to choose from as well as guided or unguided tours. Reserve your jet ski at one of these awesome local companies today!
Pro tip* Wear polarized sunglasses so you can spot manatees! And always abide by waterway rules and etiquette. If you need a refresher on our rules and regulations, your rental operator will be able to help you out!
Relax on the Beach
When in Cocoa Beach, do as the locals do! Exploring Cocoa Beach is fun even if there aren’t speedboats running at full throttle in the surf. From the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier to the Beaches of Patrick Air Force base and beyond, there’s a beach for every personality. Find yours here! Are you instead looking for shore-side seclusion after the races? Check out our favorite uncrowded beaches. Forget something? Head over to Ron Jon Surf Shop, Cocoa Beach Surf Company, and Beachwave Beachware for all your beach-day needs and rentals!
Don’t Forget to Eat
Breakfast in Cocoa Beach
![Shrimp and Grits by 4th Street Fillin Station](https://dev-visit-space-coast.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/4thstreetfillinstation-Instagram-2709-ig-17896914283836159-small-b64.jpg)
Shrimp and Grits from @4thstreetfillinstation
Filling your belly before the race is of the utmost importance. If you’re staying in Cocoa Beach there are tons of breakfast options that will impress your senses and set the pace for your day!
- Juice ‘N Java
- Sunrise Diner
- 4th Street Fillin Station
- Tiny Turtle
- Southern Charm Cafe
- Cafe Surfinista
Lunch and Dinner in Cocoa Beach
![Crab Boil at Q's Crackin' Crab](https://dev-visit-space-coast.pantheonsite.io/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/weloveqs-Instagram-2709-ig-17859485366356841-small-9d9.jpg)
Q’s Juicy Bowl at Q’s Crackin’ Crab
Cocoa Beach is one of the best foodie destinations on the Space Coast. Check out this Cocoa Beach Dining blog to find the perfect restaurant to fit your post-Thunder-on-Cocoa-Beach mood!
Thunder on Cocoa Beach is going to be one of the best weekends of the year. Because it’s in Cocoa Beach, your fun doesn’t have to stop after the boats have returned to their slips and trailers. If you need help creating the perfect itinerary, message us on Facebook! There’s too much fun to be had on the Space Coast to be wondering what to do next!