Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites

Located on North Atlantic Avenue next to strip malls, banks, and additional hotels, the Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites doesn’t really stand apart from the crowd. Its small lobby is nicely decorated with a small seating area and a few communal computers, but its beige walls and chain-like furniture are hardly memorable. A popcorn maker in the corner of the room is a pleasant perk, as are other freebies such as breakfast and Wi-Fi. Grounds are neatly maintained and rooms feature largely up-to-date decor, though some age is apparent. Guests should note, however, that the Best Western’s property is somewhat disjointed; rooms are housed in several different buildings across the street from the main lobby. Only one of the hotel’s buildings is truly beachfront and offers unobstructed ocean views. 

The majority of Best Western guests are pre- and post-cruise passengers. Many travelers stay for a night or two before heading off to Cape Canaveral for their sailings. Others return to the property after their cruise for an extended vacation. Most travelers do not come to Cocoa Beach with the intention of solely vacationing in the area. Since cruises attract all kinds of travelers, the clientele at the Best Western runs the gamut, from families with kids, to young couples, to retirees. 

The Best Western Cocoa Beach is housed in several buildings that span a block-long radius from North Atlantic Avenue to Ocean Beach Boulevard. The property feels a bit disjointed, but staff members provide helpful maps that display all of the hotel’s features. Cocoa Beach is a low-key beach town best known for its proximity to Cape Canaveral, one of Florida’s busiest cruise terminals. The Best Western is a seven-minute drive from the port, which makes it a popular pick for cruisers. There isn’t much to see or do in Cocoa Beach, and the area’s nearest major attractions include the Kennedy Space Center (a 30-minute drive) and Orlando (a 50-minute drive).

There are a variety of room types at the Best Western, including typical studio-style rooms and larger suites with kitchenettes and separate living spaces. All are done in a bland, though mostly contemporary style consisting of dark-wood furniture, wave-like patterned carpet in dark blue and green hues, and blue bed runners. fairly modern. Beds are comfortable, desks have ergonomic chairs, and framed pictures of sailboats add some color and character. Studios feature one king, two queen, or two double beds and are equipped with amenities like flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Larger suites have separate living and sleeping areas, and kitchenettes with granite counters, tall barstools, full-size refrigerators, microwaves, and coffeemakers. However, the kitchenettes do not have ovens or stovetops. 

Across the board, bathrooms are bland, with generic features like shower/tub combos and wall-mounted hairdryers. Some rooms have large outdoor balconies, but others do not. Only rooms in the oceanfront building offer unobstructed views of the beach. Many of the hotel’s rooms are housed in motel-style buildings with open-air hallways that lack privacy.  

The Best Western offers excellent freebies, notably breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi. Buffet-style breakfasts are served each morning in the hotel’s suites building. The spread typically includes hot items like eggs, bacon, and sausage, along with make-your-own waffle and pancake stations. There are also a selection of hot and cold cereals, and several coffee and juice machines. It’s not the best free breakfast we’ve ever come across, but it’s sufficient. For lunch and dinner, there’s a steak and seafood restaurant on-site, but it's not affiliated with the Best Western. Guests who bring a car can park for free in one of the hotel’s several lots, but must first register their vehicle with the front desk. The free Wi-Fi is fast, easy to connect to, and works well across the property. 

There are two outdoor pools at the Best Western. Both are similar in shape and size, and are surrounded by several lounge chairs and dining tables. One has a seasonal bar that serves cocktails and beer in an open-air setting. Direct access to Cocoa Beach is a big plus, with its miles-long stretch of gold sand, and calm, clear water that’s great for swimming and surfing. Guests can rent beach chairs and umbrellas from several city-operated stalls along the shore. 

A small fitness center has just a few cardio machines. Pets are allowed for a fee.