Tables Beach

Finding tranquility on the Atlantic coast will inevitably lead you to Tables Beach—a cozy and relatively secluded spot in the southern part of Cocoa Beach. This destination in the USA is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and lack of tourist crowds, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The beach gets its name from the convenient covered picnic tables that allow you to relax comfortably in the shade even on the sunniest days. Here, crystal-clear water meets a wide stretch of soft sand, creating the picturesque scenery characteristic of Florida's famous Space Coast. The beach is located near the Patrick Space Force Base, which adds a unique character to the location.

Beyond its natural beauty, Tables Beach has all the necessary infrastructure for a comfortable stay: there are showers, restrooms, and a small snack kiosk. This spot is popular not only among those seeking quiet relaxation but also with local surfers, who appreciate the waves and the lack of noise.

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The main draw for visitors to Tables Beach is the excellent surfing conditions. Thanks to the sandbar formations, rhythmic and fun waves are created here, attracting both experienced pros and beginners. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, the clear water is perfect for swimming and classic beach lounging under the Florida sun.

Nature lovers can enjoy some birdwatching: majestic herons, ibises, and the rare roseate spoonbill are often spotted in the area. A picnic under the canopy is another must-do activity, as it’s the perfect place for an al fresco lunch while enjoying ocean views and the salty breeze.

A unique feature of this location is the opportunity to witness NASA rocket launches. Its proximity to space launch pads turns an ordinary beach day into a spectacular sight as powerful rockets soar into the sky right before your eyes. During the summer months, keep an eye out for evening tours on the nearby rivers, where you can witness the rare phenomenon of plankton bioluminescence.

The easiest way to reach this picturesque stretch of coast is by car. Tables Beach is located along State Road A1A (S Atlantic Ave), directly across from Patrick Space Force Base. If you are coming from the center of town, head south—the drive takes very little time, and the ocean will be on your left.

For those arriving from major transportation hubs like Melbourne (MLB) or Orlando (MCO) airports, it is most convenient to take I-95 and then head toward the coast to A1A. Please note that parking at the beach is limited and fills up very quickly during peak hours, so it's worth planning an early morning arrival.

If you prefer public transportation, Brevard County Transit operates buses along Highway A1A. Stops are located within walking distance of the beach entrance. You can also reach Tables Beach from central areas by taxi or by taking a bike ride to enjoy the sea breeze.

The history of these lands began after the Civil War, when a family of former slaves settled here; however, their settlement was destroyed by a powerful hurricane in the late 19th century. The modern appearance of the area began to take shape only in the 1920s, and the official founding date of the city is considered to be June 5, 1925, when it was given the melodic name Oceanus.

During World War II, the quiet coastal waters witnessed dramatic events: German submarines were active just offshore, and local residents actively participated in rescue operations. Later, in the 1950s and 60s, the region earned the nickname "Missiletown USA" due to its proximity to the NASA space center and the rapid development of rocket technology.

The surf culture that defines the atmosphere of Tables Beach today began to flourish in the 1960s. The beach itself has been called many things over the years—from Picnic Tables (due to the tables installed there) to Pine Trees in the 1970s. Today, this spot remains a living monument to the "golden era" of American surfing and space exploration.

For a full experience at Tables Beach, 2 to 4 hours is usually sufficient. This is enough time to enjoy a swim, do some sunbathing, and have a small picnic under the shaded canopies. If you plan to surf or are waiting for the perfect moment to watch a rocket launch, your visit may stretch to half a day.

We recommend allowing extra time to find a parking spot, as the beach's popularity with locals makes parking scarce on weekends. If your goal is just a short walk along the water's edge, an hour will be plenty to soak in the serenity of the place.

Tables Beach is open to visitors daily, allowing you to plan your visit for any day of the week. The hours of operation are from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

This schedule is perfect for those who want to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean, as well as for those who prefer to end the day enjoying the cool evening breeze. There are no seasonal restrictions on visiting, though access to the beach may be limited in the event of extreme weather conditions.

A visit to the coast can easily be combined with exploring local dining spots and iconic landmarks that reveal the spirit of Florida's Atlantic coast. A short drive along the ocean will allow you to see both cozy restaurants and monuments to sports legends.