How to Go Fishing With Kids Just 1 Hour From Disney

So many families add a day trip to Cocoa Beach to their Disney itinerary, and for good reason. 🫨 It’s just an hour’s drive from Orlando! Cocoa Beach is the closest beach to Disney World and the perfect place to unwind, cool off, and be a part of the great surf surf and beach culture.

Why Cocoa Beach Is a Must-Visit for Disney Vacationers

Let’s be real… Disney is magical, yes. But it’s also hot, crowded, and… um, just a little too much sometimes.

Long lines, tired feet, and people standing way too close to you in line for a $8 churro. Cocoa Beach is like that deep, refreshing exhale after a few days in the parks. Driving over the causeway bridges that bring you into Port Canaveral is the first sign of paradise. You’ll see cruise ships, jet skis, maybe even dolphins if you look close enough (yes—you can see them driving over the bridges here!) as well as many people fishing in the river.

The old beach/surfer/coastal vibe is the reason why so many Disney families are sneaking away to Cocoa Beach for the day (and loving it).

But here are the 3 main reasons why I think Cocoa Beach is so popular.

🌊 1. Closest Beach to Disney

Cocoa Beach is the closest beach to Disney in terms of drive time. Hop in the car, turn on some tunes, and you’ll hit the coast in about an hour.

Pro tip: Grab breakfast to-go before hitting I-4 and 528 so you can set up your beach chairs before noon. Going from Orlando to Cocoa Beach feels like you’re on a totally different vacation.

👣 2. Chill Vibes & Wide-Open Spaces

After a few days of tightly packed parades and dining reservations, Cocoa Beach is a breath of fresh (salty) air. A good way to describe our beach is spacious, casual, and family-friendly.

Let the kids run wild, dig holes (but cover them back up for baby sea turtles), chase waves. No Genie+ or Lightning Lane needed.

Pro tip: The beach can be very stimulating for children of all ages. They will have HOURS of fun simply running into the waves and playing with the surf. There is so much wildlife, that I do not recommend bringing many beach toys. Encourage your child to look at the birds, the fish, and all of the activity happening around them. I’ve had children see rocket launches, submarines, parasailers, biplanes, and even F22s while on the beach!

🎣 3. It’s Actually Really Easy to Fish with Kids in Cocoa Beach

Hauling so many things with you on vacation is *not* the relaxing time you signed up for. And let's be honest, finding and fishing rods, tackle boxes, and a cooler into a rental car doesn’t sound like a fun itinerary, plus having to worry about a sandy mess in a car that isn’t yours.

When your child wants to go fishing in Florida, the absolute easiest and most guaranteed-to-be-fun way is to call a local kids fishing charter.

🏖️ All fishing gear is provided: I bring all the rods, bait, and gear we need so you don't have to haul or buy a thing.

🏖️ You are now entering a stress-free zone: No boats, seasickness, or a long day out on the water. Pick from 1 or 2 hours of fishing, then be free to go have lunch and explore the rest of Cocoa Beach.

✅ Easy for the whole family: I meet you right on the sand with a beach cart, so the family can hang out on a beach chair or blanket. Win-win!

📍 How to Get to Cocoa Beach from Disney

Cocoa Beach is just about an hour's drive from Orlando, depending on traffic. It’s a straight shot east on State Road 528 (a.k.a. the Beachline Expressway), making it a super easy day trip during your Disney vacation.

Bring sunscreen, swimsuits, snacks, and comfortable clothes. Your Disney vacation just got a whole lot cooler (literally).

Whether you’re escaping the heat, looking to slow down, or just want your kids to try something new, Cocoa Beach and Cocoa Beach Kids Fishing are the perfect combo. It’s fun, affordable, and gives your family a chance to make new memories outside the parks.

☀️ Beach Day = Sanity Saver

If you’re planning a Disney vacation, do yourself a favor and pencil in a beach day. Cocoa Beach delivers the sun, sand, and fun.

Trust me… once you feel that ocean breeze, you’ll wonder why you didn’t plan two days here.

📅 Ready to book your child’s fishing trip in Cocoa Beach?

Give me a direct call at 321-210-9968 and leave a message to book your child’s beach fishing trip!

Let's make some waves and get your kids hooked on fishing.