Lodging recommendations?

Question

We have 4 adults flying into Orlando in March and thinking we will head for the beach - Cocoa Beach (maybe Melbourne?). We would like to visit KSC during the trip. Have never stayed on the east coast before.

We are not fans of high rises, crowds, large hotels, highly developed areas, etc. I know all of Florida is pretty developed, but I love the feel of a small "old Florida" motel or cottages type accomodation. We will need something with 2 bedrooms. If we can get a kitchen/kitchenette even better.

Any suggestions? Any area of the beach better suited for us? We like to be able to walk to a grocery or restaurant or two, but we don't want to be in a 'downtown' atmosphere. I want to feel like we're relaxing at the beach (but not have to get in the car and fight traffic all the time). Thanks

Answer

Cocoa Beach and the surrounding area along Florida's Space Coast can be a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed, “old Florida” vibe rather than high-rise resorts. Since you want 2-bedroom accommodations with possibly a kitchen and prefer smaller properties, there are several options to consider that are quiet, low-rise, and walkable to some amenities without feeling like a busy downtown area.

For your stay, you might want to focus on areas south of the Cocoa Beach Pier or around Melbourne Beach for a quieter, more residential feel. These areas have small motels, cottages, and condos, giving a beachy and relaxed atmosphere while still being within a reasonable drive to Kennedy Space Center (about 20-30 minutes north) and local shops and restaurants.

Cottages & Motels in Cocoa Beach:
- Small beachfront motels or cottage-style rentals along Minutemen Causeway and the surrounding side streets. Many have 2-bedroom units with kitchens or kitchenettes and private balconies or patios.
- Look for independent motels like Beachfront Inn or Cocoa Beach Cottages, which tend to have fewer rooms, a relaxed vibe, and direct beach access.
- Vacation rental platforms often list 2-bedroom units in low-rise buildings that feel private and “local” versus the big high-rise resorts.
Melbourne Beach Options:
- Melbourne Beach is quieter and more residential, with small boutique hotels or private rental homes right on the beach. It’s about a 30-40 minute drive to KSC.
- Many homes here have full kitchens, outdoor decks, and are walking distance to a small number of restaurants, cafes, or convenience stores. This area has a very “old Florida” feel.
Additional Tips:
- Check Airbnb or VRBO listings for “beach cottages” or “bungalows” in Cocoa Beach or Melbourne Beach, filtering for 2 bedrooms and kitchen amenities.
- Consider staying a little south of the main Cocoa Beach area to avoid the busier spots near the Pier, but still within walking distance to a grocery or casual restaurants.
- Most properties in this style are low-rise or stand-alone cottages, so you’ll avoid the crowds and “downtown” atmosphere while still having access to what you need.

In summary, for a small, relaxed, “old Florida” beach experience with walkable access to groceries and a few restaurants, focus on low-rise motels, cottages, or vacation rentals in southern Cocoa Beach or Melbourne Beach. You’ll be close enough to Kennedy Space Center for a day trip but far enough from the busier parts to enjoy a peaceful stay by the ocean.

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