Located at the southern tip of Florida, Everglades National Park is a 1.5-million-acre swath of mangroves, marshes, and pine flatwoods. The park is also the largest tropical wilderness in the United States and is home to many exotic and endangered animals such as manatees, American crocodiles, and Florida panthers. Visitors to the national park can enjoy airboat rides, unique hiking trails, or camping out in one of the many local campgrounds.
Biscayne National Park encompasses over 172,000 acres of land and pristine water on the southeastern coast of Florida. The park is known for its crystal blue waters and glittering reefs, and many parts of the park are only accessible via boat. People visit the national park every year to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as world-class fishing and boating. If you're lucky during your visit, you may even get to observe a few dolphins. During your time in the park, you may also want to take a boat out to the small island of Boca Chita, where you can enjoy a pleasant hike and take in the serene setting by the water.
About 70 miles west of Key West you will find the hidden treasure of Dry Tortugas National Park. The park is made up of seven islands and features an amazing 19th-century fortress, a lighthouse, and lots of sea turtles. The park is only accessible via boat or seaplane, and that combined with its remote destination make it one of the more seldom-visited national parks in the country. However, for those willing to make the trip it is certainly an unforgettable experience.
Sebastian Inlet State Park is located about 30 miles south of Cocoa Beach along the Scenic A1A Highway. The park features three miles of white-sand beach, as well as great surfing opportunities and a fishing-friendly jetty. Visitors to the park will also find two museums, a multi-use trail, and interesting wildlife such as manatees and nesting sea turtles. Additionally, there is an on-site campground that features 51 campsites with electricity and water hookups.
Lake Kissimmee State Park is found about 50 miles west and inland of Cocoa Beach and immerses visitors in Florida's rich cowboy heritage. The park features a cow camp living history site as well as 13 miles of trails that were once used by cowboys on horseback. The park also features three lakes in which you'll have the chance to embark on a paddling and fishing voyage. The campground on-site features 60 campsites that can each accommodate RVs up to 55 feet long. Each campsite features electric and water hookups, and there is a convenient dump site nearby as well.
Fifty miles southwest of Cocoa Beach is Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, which features a huge open grassland area and is home to many rare and endangered species. The temperatures in the park are mild compared to much of Florida, and visitors will have great opportunities to observe birds and other interesting wildlife, such as alligators, deer, parakeets, and grasshopper sparrows. The state park campground offers 35 campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 65 feet in length, but they do fill up pretty quickly, and reservations are required.
Of the many amazing landmarks in Florida, several of them are within a reasonable distance of Cocoa Beach. One such destination is the Kennedy Space Center, which is located just north of Cocoa Beach near Cape Canaveral. Here you can learn much more about the history of space exploration and check out many interesting exhibits and educational programs. The site also gives you the chance to see the place where rockets launch with your own eyes.
Orlando is just 50 miles inland of Cocoa Beach, and in Orlando, you will find the world-famous Walt Disney World. Disney World is the largest Disney theme park in the country and technically features four theme parks and two water parks. The park offers hundreds of great rides, games, restaurants, and shops to explore, and if you're traveling in the area with the whole family, it's really a must-stop destination.
As part of Florida's Space Coast, the Cocoa Beach area features plenty of great options for RV parks and campgrounds. Located near Mims, Florida is the Crystal Lake RV Park, which features 65 RV campsites with full hookups for $40 to $45 per night. The RV park also boasts a fenced-in dog park, as well as laundry and bath facilities. Another option is Breezy Palms RV Park in Palm Bay, Florida. This site has full-hookup RV sites available for $35 per night, $175 per week, or $465 per month, and also features a large clubhouse, beach access, and numerous weekly activities. Alternatively, Cypress Campground & RV Park in Winter Haven, Florida, has a grand total of 194 RV sites with water and sewer hookups in addition to electricity. The RV sites are spacious, and the campground features a wide variety of amenities, though would-be campers will need to call or make reservations online for the daily and weekly rates.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Cocoa Beach, FL?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Cocoa Beach, FL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Cocoa Beach, FL?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
