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Cocoa is situated on the western shore of the Indian River Lagoon, a vital estuary. It's known for its scenic waterfront views and as a gateway to both the Atlantic Ocean and the Kennedy Space Center. While the city is a single entity, it's often thought of in terms of its distinct areas, each with its own character.
Cocoa Village is a historic, city's revitalized historic downtown known for its unique shops, restaurants, art galleries, and waterfront park. The city is also home to several parks and recreational areas along the river, providing residents and visitors with opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors.
Primarily a residential area, Port Saint John is known for its quiet, suburban feel and its proximity to the Indian River Lagoon and the space launch facilities. It does not have its own municipal government but is governed as a part of unincorporated Brevard County. Its location makes it a popular place for employees of the space industry to live, offering a relatively short commute to the Cape.
Inland Cocoa, the area around State Road 520 and 528, is best described as a major transportation and commercial corridor that serves as a gateway to and from the coast. The State Road 520 (King St) bridge connects the mainland to Merritt Island and the beaches, making Cocoa a central hub for those traveling between different parts of the Space Coast. It's a mix of local businesses, gas stations, fast food restaurants, and retail plazas, serving the needs of both residents and tourists heading to the beaches.
Canaveral Groves, while a Cocoa address, is an unincorporated community in Brevard County. It is primarily known for its spacious, rural-like residential lots, which are a stark contrast to the denser, more suburban developments found in other parts of the county. It is a residential community that appeals to people who want a more private, spread-out living environment without being too far from the amenities and employment opportunities of the Space Coast.
Cocoa connects Orlando and the Orlando International Airport to the Space Coast a point of interchange, including a future station for the Brightline highspeed train that travels from Miami to Orlando.