Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier: Rocket Launch Viewing & Dining
The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is a historic 800-foot pier stretching over the Atlantic Ocean at 401 Meade Ave in Cocoa Beach. Standing above the water with nothing but open sky to the north, it is one of the classic Space Coast perches for rocket launch viewing — best for SpaceX Falcon 9 launches from SLC-40, ULA missions from SLC-41, Blue Origin flights from LC-36 about 8 miles up the coast, and LC-16 launches, with LC-39A and LC-39B roughly 15 miles to the north.
Grab a table at a pier restaurant before the window opens — check the rocket launch schedule for times — and compare more viewing locations around Cocoa Beach.
Quick Information
- Address: 401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
- Phone: 321-783-7549
- Website: cocoabeachpier.com
- Hours: Mon–Thu & Sun 11 AM–9 PM; Fri–Sat 11 AM–10 PM (individual venues vary)
- Amenities: 800-foot pier over the Atlantic, multiple restaurants and bars, gift shops, live music, beach rentals, volleyball courts, restrooms
- Fees: No ticket needed to stand on the pier or beach; on-site pier lot is paid parking (~$20–$30 flat rate, ~250 spaces)
Why Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is a Great Rocket Launch Viewing Spot
- 800 feet over the Atlantic means zero obstructions between you and the launch corridor to the north.
- Only about 8 miles south of LC-36 — the closest of the Cocoa Beach spots to Blue Origin’s pad.
- Multiple restaurants and bars with ocean-view patios let you eat and drink while you wait for the window.
- Free to access for launch viewing — just pay for parking and whatever you order.
- Classic Space Coast atmosphere with shops, live music, and beach activities before and after liftoff.
- Great photo spot: pier structure, ocean, and rocket plume in one frame.
Helpful Resources
- Rocket Launch Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Rocket Launch Viewing Guide
- Florida Space Tourist Travel Guide
- Ultimate Guide to Viewing Locations
Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier Rocket Launch Viewing FAQs
Can you watch rocket launches from the Cocoa Beach Pier?
Yes. The Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier stretches 800 feet over the Atlantic, giving you wide-open views north toward the launch pads. Rockets from SLC-40, SLC-41, LC-36, and LC-16 climb right up the coastline in front of you.
How far is the Cocoa Beach Pier from the launch pads?
The pier is about 13 miles south of SLC-40 and SLC-41, about 15 miles south of LC-39A and LC-39B, and only about 8 miles south of LC-36 — close enough to see the rocket clearly and hear the rumble seconds later.
Do you need a ticket to watch a launch from the pier?
No ticket is required to stand on the pier or the beach for launch viewing. Restaurant and bar seating is first-come or by reservation with purchase.
What restaurants are on the Cocoa Beach Pier?
The pier hosts several restaurants and bars, including the Boardwalk Bar, Keith’s Oyster Bar, Pelican’s Bar & Grill, Rikki Tiki Tavern, and Sea Dogs — most with ocean views and patio seating. Tenant lineups can change, so check the pier’s website before you go.
Where do you park for the Cocoa Beach Pier?
The pier’s on-site lot is paid parking (typically around $20–$30 flat rate) with about 250 spaces, and it fills fast on launch days. Street and nearby beach parking are alternatives — arrive early.
What are the pier’s hours?
The pier area is generally open Monday through Thursday and Sunday 11 AM–9 PM, and Friday and Saturday 11 AM–10 PM. Individual restaurants and bars may keep different hours.