Alan Shepard Park: Rocket Launch Viewing in Cocoa Beach
Alan Shepard Park is a 5-acre oceanfront park in Cocoa Beach named for America’s first astronaut in space, sitting at the east end of the Cocoa Beach Causeway (SR 520). It is one of the Space Coast’s most convenient spots for rocket launch viewing — about 9 to 17 miles south of the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station pads, including Blue Origin’s LC-36, SLC-37, SpaceX’s SLC-40, and ULA’s SLC-41, with wide-open sightlines up the coast as rockets climb over the Atlantic.
With more than 300 parking spaces, restrooms, outdoor showers, and shaded picnic pavilions, it’s built for launch day crowds. Check the rocket launch schedule before you go, and plan to arrive early — the best oceanfront spots fill up fast on major launch days.
Quick Information
- Address: 299 E Cocoa Beach Causeway, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: (321) 868-3252
- Website: City of Cocoa Beach — Alan Shepard Park
- Hours: Daily 7 AM – 6 PM; beachfront launch viewing is open 24 hours
- Amenities: 5-acre oceanfront park, 300+ parking spaces, 10 large picnic pavilions, BBQ grills, playground, restrooms, outdoor showers, lifeguarded beach, ADA-accessible beach paths, shops and restaurants nearby
- Fees: Parking $15 per day or $2.50 per hour (credit cards accepted); no buses, no overnight parking
Why Alan Shepard Park is a Great Rocket Launch Viewing Spot
- Oceanfront location with unobstructed views north toward the Cape Canaveral pads — about 9 miles from Blue Origin’s LC-36, 12 miles from SLC-37, and 14–17 miles from SLC-40, SLC-41, and LC-39A
- Rockets arc up the coastline over the Atlantic, making it great for both daytime and nighttime launches
- More than 300 parking spaces for cars and RVs — rare breathing room on busy launch days
- Restrooms, outdoor showers, and shaded picnic pavilions keep families comfortable through long launch windows
- Named for astronaut Alan Shepard, adding a bit of space history to the visit
- Steps from Cocoa Beach shops, restaurants, and hotels, so it’s easy to pair a launch with a beach day
Helpful Resources
- Rocket Launch Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Rocket Launch Viewing Guide
- Florida Space Tourist Travel Guide
- Ultimate Guide to Viewing Locations
Alan Shepard Park Rocket Launch Viewing FAQs
Can you see rocket launches from Alan Shepard Park?
Yes — the park’s oceanfront position south of the launch pads gives you clear sightlines up the coast toward Cape Canaveral. Launches from SLC-40, SLC-41, SLC-37, and Blue Origin’s LC-36 are all visible over the Atlantic on clear days.
How far is Alan Shepard Park from the launch pads?
About 9 miles from Blue Origin’s LC-36, 12 miles from SLC-37, 14 miles from SpaceX’s SLC-40, and roughly 17 miles from LC-39A at Kennedy Space Center — all to the north, straight up the coastline.
Is parking free at Alan Shepard Park?
No. Parking is $15 per day or $2.50 per hour, with credit cards accepted. The lot has more than 300 spaces for cars and RVs, but buses and overnight parking are not allowed.
Can you see SpaceX launches from Alan Shepard Park?
Yes. SpaceX Falcon 9 launches from SLC-40, about 14 miles north, are a regular sight here — watch for the bright ascent trail arcing up over the ocean. Check the rocket launch schedule for upcoming Falcon 9 flights.
What should I bring for a launch at Alan Shepard Park?
Beach chairs, sunscreen, water, and snacks. Arrive several hours early on big launch days since the 300-space lot fills up, and remember launch times can slip — bring something to pass the time.
Are there restrooms and food at Alan Shepard Park?
The park has public restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic pavilions with grills, and a playground. Restaurants and shops are within easy walking distance along the Cocoa Beach Causeway and A1A.