Lori Wilson Park

Lori Wilson Park is a magnificent coastal sanctuary spanning over 32 acres in the heart of Cocoa Beach, located in the USA. This destination is rightfully considered one of the region's premier beach parks, offering a perfect blend of modern infrastructure and the untouched nature of the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the park's unique features is its maritime hammock—a dense coastal forest with specially laid walking trails. This allows guests to explore a rare Florida ecosystem without leaving the city limits. The park is named after the prominent senator Lori Wilson, whose career was closely tied to civil rights advocacy and nature conservation.

As a popular spot for family vacations, the park attracts tourists with its wide sandy beaches, cleanliness, and tranquil atmosphere. It is the ideal point for those wanting to see the "real" Florida, escape the hustle and bustle, and enjoy the ocean breeze surrounded by picturesque landscapes.

To plan your visit to this coastal retreat, it is a good idea to check the official information in advance. Below are the current contact details for the facility's administration.

A wealth of leisure activities awaits visitors in this scenic coastal corner. Nature lovers should definitely walk the boardwalk, which is nearly a kilometer long. The path winds through a shady maritime hammock, where you can observe local birds and enjoy the cool shade of exotic trees.

For those who prefer a classic beach holiday, the park offers direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can not only sunbathe but also go surfing or shore fishing. During the summer season, lifeguards are on duty, making swimming safe for families with children.

The park's infrastructure is well-designed for long stays: it features three large pavilions and numerous picnic tables with grills for barbecues. Children can enjoy a modern playground, and pet owners will appreciate the fenced dog park, divided into sections based on the size of the pet. The availability of showers and clean restrooms makes a visit here as comfortable as possible.

The attraction is located at 1500 North Atlantic Avenue, in the eastern part of the city. The most convenient way to reach the park is by personal or rental car. Spacious free parking areas are available for guests on the north and south sides of the property.

If you are coming from central Cocoa Beach, your route will take you along the main coastal highway, State Road A1A (North Atlantic Avenue). A taxi ride from the city center will take no more than 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic.

For tourists using public transport, local bus routes from the Space Coast Area Transit system are available. Stops are within walking distance of the park entrance, making it easily accessible for all categories of travelers.

The history of this public space is truly inspiring. Until the mid-1970s, the area was neglected and served as an unofficial city dump. The transformation of this wasteland into a flourishing park was made possible by the initiative of Lori Wilson, who lived in the city at the time and was actively involved in community service.

Senator Wilson organized a large-scale coastal cleanup project, securing state and county funding. Even local youth clubs took an active part in the landscaping efforts. The result exceeded all expectations, and as a sign of gratitude, the community voted unanimously to name the park after her. Lori Wilson went down in history as an outstanding stateswoman, becoming one of the first women to serve in the Florida Senate.

Beyond politics, she was a passionate environmentalist, specifically advocating for manatee conservation. Interestingly, she is credited with fighting for basic social amenities in the state, such as abolishing pay toilets for women. Today, the park serves not only as a place for recreation but also as a monument to her determination and love for her home region.

To fully enjoy everything the park has to offer, a typical visitor is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time for a leisurely stroll along the nature trails, some time on the beach, and exploring the local flora.

If your plans include a family lunch in one of the barbecue areas or if you intend to spend the day surfing, you can comfortably spend half a day at the park. The facility's infrastructure is perfectly suited for long, quality outdoor recreation.

The park can be visited at any convenient time throughout the week. According to the official schedule, the site is open daily during the following hours:

• Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Please keep in mind that operating hours may be slightly adjusted by the park administration depending on the season or special weather conditions.

Exploring the surroundings of Lori Wilson Park will allow you to immerse yourself deeper into the "Space Coast" atmosphere and enjoy Florida culture. Many iconic spots are located near the park, from monuments to surfing legends to popular dining destinations.

Below are the nearest points of interest that you can visit before or after your walk in the park: