Best Places To View A Rocket Launch Cocoa Beach Florida

[@EricLarkin]

I love answering questions about the Cocoa Beach area! Comment below or give me a call/text 321.795.1854!!

[@ronaldcaruso9520]

I watch from Shiloh restaurant the heavy and falcon 9 the other night but can't hear except for reentry sonic booms

[@EricLarkin]

I heard the rumble in South Cocoa Beach but thought the sonic booms were muted/muffled...they didn't make me jump like they normally do

[@chrstfr]

I have a good friend who lives at the end of Buchanan - just south of Jetty Park. We're going to see a Starship AND a Falcon 9 launch next year. We'll see the Falcon 9 from Jetty Park, and the Starship from the tip of South Padre Island.

[@EricLarkin]

I would love to see a Starship launch!!

[@nevtube15]

Great job..Thanks for sharing Eric..be there this Sunday night for Mondays Launch..

[@EricLarkin]

I'm pretty excited for this launch! Make sure to plan/expect traffic while you are in town.... Brevard County will be packed!!

[@onu519]

I’m from England and I’m coming to see space x’s falcon 9 launch in August

[@EricLarkin]

They are fun to watch!! Safe travels 😎😎 Is this your 1st launch?

[@-Muhammad_Ali-]

Which day of August s it going to launch? I am planning the same

[@EricLarkin]

The schedule is always changing. I recommend getting an app or two to track the launches. As of this morning, Aug 28th is the next SpaceX launch from KSC with a few more that do not have specific dates yet. I like Next Spaceflight or Space Launch Now. They both keep me up to date on launches at KSC and throughout the world

[@4toastman788]

Great video! Thanks for the info 🤓

[@EricLarkin]

TY!! I am glad you liked it. Are you planning on seeing an upcoming launch?

[@dariusholley7200]

We are heading to Orlando at the end of July and hope to see the rocket launch on the 30th. Thanks for sharing!

[@EricLarkin]

Safe travels! Get one of the launch apps for your phone to keep up with the launches while you are here. I like Next Spaceflight and Space Flight Now

[@lildashboi]

Currently down in cocoa beach right now, one just took off last night but it happened at night when i was asleep, sadly i didnt see it :(

[@EricLarkin]

That happens! Hopefully you can see a launch either on this trip or the next! Next one is scheduled no earlier than June 17 2021

[@lildashboi]

@@EricLarkin Yeah, im definitely looking forward to that when i visit again.

[@ronaldcaruso9520]

Is there anywhere you can see but also hear the launch

[@EricLarkin]

A lot of places. The closer to KSC the better. I live in South Cocoa Beach and hear most of the launches. It depends on the trajectory, cloud cover, and wind direction

[@ronaldcaruso9520]

@EricLarkin is there any specific areas restaurants or special passes or boat trips to assure sound from liftoff I can buy or reserve -- lol you said you like questions

[@EricLarkin]

You can eat at one of the restaurants at the Port (you would be semi-close) or reserve a spot with a boat tour www.star-fleet.tours/

[@fernandoalvaredo1091]

Thanks 4 the tips, very helpful

[@EricLarkin]

Enjoy the launch 😎😎

[@MarcBowVideo]

We're flying from the UK to see the Artemis launch (hopefully) and your film has helped us lock down our decisions. Thanks

[@EricLarkin]

Safe travels Marc!! Is this the first launch for you?

[@ProSoundBass]

Where are you going to watch it mate? We’re doing the same.

[@marcbow9421]

@@ProSoundBass hiya Jake. Titusville, bridge if possible or shore of river. We have a motel there for two nights a block from water. Expecting need to find a spot in the dark still.

[@EricLarkin]

I will be on the beach😎😎

[@kenpalmer1965]

Nice informing video of the various launch sighting spots! I will be coming out there later his month. A launch is tentatively scheduled on the date of June 25th. I am hoping to be able to see it while I am there! I just don't know which facility it will be launched from offhand; Cape Canaveral or Kennedy Space Center.

[@EricLarkin]

Most are launched from the Cape Canaveral Space Force station side.

[@kenpalmer1965]

@@EricLarkin Well, I will know by the time I arrive later this month. Thanks!

[@EricLarkin]

You're welcome!! Thank you for finding the videos😎😎

[@kenpalmer1965]

@@EricLarkin You're quite welcome!

[@wfieldzz]

I was at the Max Brewer Bridge today for the spqce x dragon crew 2 early morning launch, it was amazing...

[@EricLarkin]

Awesome!! I have yet to watch a launch from there. Did you take any photos? If so, drop a link and I will check them out!

[@EricLarkin]

I watched it from Cocoa Beach just south of the Cocoa Beach Pier. Here are the photos I took instagram.com/p/COAdkavjVI4/?

[@davalleyguy5020]

Do you just walk onto thr bridge? Where do you park,

[@EricLarkin]

@davalleyguy5020 I would find parking on the west side of the bridge (Sand Pointe Park, Veterans Memorial Park, etc) and walk

[@laurenmessick5934]

Thanks for the information , this helps me a lot , I’m coming to. The area for the launch 🚀 on April 22

[@EricLarkin]

Early morning launches are amazing! The soon to be rising sun lights up the rockets contrails for a complete magical experience! Will this be your 1st time seeing a launch?

[@Hacienda5190]

@@EricLarkin I am coming in to watch this launch also on April 22nd. Since this launch is at 6:11am EDT, does the playalinda beach still only open at the regular hours of 6am-close..?

[@EricLarkin]

I don't know but have asked a couple local photographers that have taken photos from there. I do know that Playalinda does have a maximum capacity (parking) and they do fill up for launches during the day & early evening. I will see what I can find out

[@EricLarkin]

I received 2 similar answers like this: Hello Eric, Right now it is unknown whether or not it will be open. They USUALLY are. But it depends on trajectory and weather (winds). The park generally is open at 6 am. However for a 6:11am launch time. I wouldn’t be caught going there for this launch. There will be a line up to get in and you could possibly be watching it from your car anyway. NASA will send out/share a road/park closure report before launch day. Keep an eye out for that. Hope that helps.

[@laurenmessick5934]

@@EricLarkin this going to be my first time see a space launch 🚀 in real life

[@jstrainsstuff2386]

Thank you, this Video was very helpful!

[@EricLarkin]

Are you going to see tonight's SpaceX launch?

[@jstrainsstuff2386]

@@EricLarkin Yes, I did see last night's Spacex launch.

[@EricLarkin]

👍👍 awesome! It was a beauty!!

[@Markmetcalfevideography]

Wow I didn’t ever think of going to watch this. Great and unique video content

[@EricLarkin]

If they reopen the #NASASocial, you should apply to see the backstage tour of KSC. Being that close to a rocket on the pad and being able to walk into the VAB is an unforgettable experience!

[@letraslyrics1380]

Great video👍🏽. I live in Orlando, and I’m planning to go to Cocoa beach tomorrow to see the launch.

[@EricLarkin]

🤞🤞 hoping the weather cooperates 🤞🤞 let me know where you end up seeing the launch 🚀🚀

[@PalmBeachesPaul]

Always wanted to see one from up there.

[@EricLarkin]

5.27.2020 is the next one! The 1st manned launch from KSC since 2011😎 It's going to be packed!

[@parkerrex]

I had a work event up there but we didn't get to see a rocket launch. Great work Eric.

[@EricLarkin]

If your schedule takes you back to the Space Coast, I would certainly look at a launch schedule to see if there is any launches happening. We have had as many as 5 launches in a month, so the odds are good you could see one. Thanks for watching the video👍👍

[@Tranuschka]

Im so excited for the spaceX launch tomorrow. 1/6/2022

[@EricLarkin]

It's on my schedule 😎😎 Looks like January will be a busy month too👍👍

[@Tranuschka]

@@EricLarkin yeah its our first launch. We are staying at cocoa beach. You think its good enough to see smth?

[@EricLarkin]

If the weather is anything like today, you can see it no problem. Anywhere on the beach is great. The further north, the better. Maybe go to Cherie Down Park in Cape Canaveral or even at the Port (late lunch or early dinner at Rusty's)

[@sashoks34]

Hi Eric, thank you for interesting review. You've mentioned the cruise port viewing spot. Can you please share the exact location? I'm planning to see the SpaceX launch on October 5. Can i see the ignition phase of the launch from there?

[@EricLarkin]

They have since closed off that section for access. Somewhere along 528 between the port & Merritt Island is the next best spot (unless you are on a boat)

[@BenYorkeMrHardtail]

love this! subbed!!!!

[@EricLarkin]

😎😎 Thanks Ben! Have you been here for a launch before?

[@fortlauderdalegirl]

Thank you for making this video. We live in Fort Lauderdale and plan to drive up to see Artemis launch at the end of August. I’m so excited to take our son to Kennedy Space Center as well. Thanks again from your neighbors in south FL 😎💜

[@EricLarkin]

I am counting the days till launch😎😎 Exciting times to be here on the Space Coast! Thank you for finding the video & for the kind words!!

[@alejagq7876]

Where’s the best spot to watch a launch from Complex 40? 😭Is Playalinda too far, or would Brewer Bridge offer a better view?

[@EricLarkin]

I have yet to see a launch from either location 🤷‍♂️ it depends on the time of the launch on if Playlinda is open (night launches are tough from Playlinda)

[@Atgul-z6o]

What about power wheel chair access, what would give the best view?

[@DanielRichards644]

I'm headed to Orlando first weekend of June, really hoping a launch ends up scheduled in the middle of the night one of those nights so I can drive over and watch one.

[@EricLarkin]

Night launches are my favorite! If it's a clear night, you can see the rocket from Orlando

[@DanielRichards644]

@@EricLarkin back in 2017 I lived a few counties south of the Path of totality for the Solar Eclipse, I made the hour or so drive north (and the 2+ hour drive home in all the traffic) so that I would see a full totality eclipse, I will happily make the hour drive each way to be able to see it as the engines ignite and lift off the pad and hear the roar if one ends up aligning with that weekend. At the very least we don't have to be in Orlando till like 5 PM on Friday that week so I might try doing the tour at KSC before we head to Orlando.

[@EricLarkin]

The roar of the engine is something else! Somewhere on 528 near Port Canaveral should be a good spot unless you are able to score passes to see it from the NASA causeway

[@maabskater]

Hello Eric, I want to watch a launch that will take place at Launch Complex 39A on July 23. It seems it will be at night. Please could you recommend me a spot and any tip to capture good pictures. Thank you

[@EricLarkin]

Hey Mario, Thanks for finding the video and for the question! I like watching a launch anywhere on the beach. Taking a picture of a night launch will be a long exposure photo and your camera will need to have manual settings. Here set the ISO at 100, the f stop at 16 turn off the autofocus & set it manually. I put the shutter on bulb setting & use a remote to trigger the shutter. I open the shutter when the rocket lights up and leave it open until the rocket is gone. Use as wide an angle lens as you can. I use a 10mm-20mm lens opened to 10mm & crop the photo.

[@RobertCox2017]

The starship super heavy is the biggest rocket in the world

[@EricLarkin]

one day I will see one of them launch....

[@thecardoc8234]

What about the fisherman's jetty at the port? Is it open for a night launch?

[@EricLarkin]

The parks hours are 7-9 (unless you have a campsite ther)

[@annedixon6126]

Can you describe more specifically where the spot is on the north end of the port across from the cruise terminals where people can get dropped off? Thank you!!

[@EricLarkin]

How familiar are you to the area? If you are familiar, this hopefully makes sense. As you are heading North on A1A & it becomes 528, take the 1st exit towards the cruise terminal 6 ( go over the drawbridge) as the road turns & you are heading east, the Banana river is on your left. Along this stretch of road. Keep in mind, you cannot park here. You must be dropped off. This link is to Google maps showing the area: maps.app.goo.gl/Bd1PKoYwinrJorzbA

[@MrCoconutcat]

Thank you I'm subscribing to your channel

[@EricLarkin]

😎😎Thank you for finding the channel & for subscribing! Are you planning on coming to Florida to watch a launch soon?

[@EricLarkin]

I try to see all the launches (I'm a self proclaimed space geek🚀😎👍) Here is a link to my IG account to Sundays SpaceX launch instagram.com/p/CTKJF9yrf7d/?

[@MrCoconutcat]

@@EricLarkin I want to watch Artemis 1

[@EricLarkin]

Me too👍

[@andresayala1995]

I have never been in USA, but there is a KZbin Channel called Cocoa Beach, they upload rocket launches videos. Greetings from Colombia! ;)

[@EricLarkin]

👍👍good to know! Thanks for sharing

[@SpaceFactsWax]

Thanks for sharing. I had the opportunity to witness a rocket launch in 2018. Memorable experience. I posted a pretty fun montage of the trip to my page.

[@EricLarkin]

Thanks for stopping by and watching the video! I have yet to see a launch from VA but I have been to a few #NASASocials😎😎

[@abedj1220]

Thanks Eric for the info. I will be in Florida and working remotely. so I am looking for a place to see the rocket launch on 3/1. I like the idea of Playlinda beach. It looks like they may stop cars from entering the beach at some point but if already at the beach then you are fine. I was thinking about getting out there druing the day and working at the beach that day until the rocket launch. any idea when they may close the roads for a 4pm launch?

[@EricLarkin]

I have yet to see a launch from Playlinda, so I can't say. I know it does fill up early on a launch day

[@tomkutscher942]

I plan to visit Orlando in august with a friend. We are both 18 and are not able to rent a car. The main reason for the trip is to visit Cape Canaveral (Visitor Complex). Our chosen hotels are between the airport and the city center of Orlando so we are able to visit the City center by bike or taxi. But a taxi to cocoa is really expensive? Are there any other possibilitys to go there?

[@EricLarkin]

Hey Tom, thanks for finding the YT video and for the message. Unfortunately, I don't have a good answer for you. I would check with your hotel to see if they offer some kind of shuttle or service to get to Brevard county. I would bet that an uber or taxi would be in the $75+/- range one way. I would also check with KSC to see if they offer some kind of shuttle service and where you needed to get to in order to ride it. I hope this helps & that you have a great time on your trip to Orlando!

[@rhondacreamer8810]

I'm trying to coordinate a rocket launch with a pretty decent view as it may be my first and only launch (complex 40) at 5:12pm, with a kayak sunset tour through tunnels for my daughter. I'm concerned about timing of getting from one place to another. Any advice?

[@EricLarkin]

I have yet to try seeing a launch from my kayak. If I were to try, I would launch from 528 near the Port and paddle north. There's a string of little islands I would aim for. Or I would call a local kayak tour company and see if they offer a tour around a launch & book with them

[@sonixbox5218]

Does playalinda beach close for any launches?

[@EricLarkin]

Sometimes. It depends on the launch, flight path, & time of launch

[@sonixbox5218]

@@EricLarkin thank you, I was looking at the 12th January, was launchpad 39b falcon heavy

[@EricLarkin]

That would be a cool one to see from Playlinda!!

[@sonixbox5218]

@@EricLarkin hoping it stays open!

[@EricLarkin]

The * is of they will allow you to stay in the park after dark (if it launches later than 545pm)

[@raymondzhao9557]

useful!

[@EricLarkin]

Thank you!! There's a launch today too👍👍

[@AncientSecretz]

Is cocoa Florida not beach an ok place to live?

[@EricLarkin]

I lived in Cocoa (mainland) for 4-5 years. Besides Cocoa city limits, you have unincorporated Cocoa that includes Port St John & Canaveral Groves.

[@Patrick_H]

Why did you put this music under your video??? So loud... I just turned it off😒

[@EricLarkin]

Yep, it was a rookie mistake from an earlier video. It's rare I use background music on the videos anymore. Hopefully you found a good spot to see the launch👍

[@RobertCox2017]

This is not my rocket. My rocket is the starship super heavy Brownsville. Tx and the rocket is made by SpaceX. Best spot to watch rocket is south padre island

[@EricLarkin]

I would love to see a Starship launch from south Padre Island!!

[@ashleychamon6446]

Do you think it is necessary to buy a ticket with nasa?

[@EricLarkin]

You can see the launch from a lot of places that do not cost anything. With that said, the couple of times I watched a launch from the Space Center, it was amazing! You are just a couple miles from the launch pad and you hear the rockets engines light up almost instantly. It is loud! If I watch the launch in south Cocoa Beach, it takes 3 to 5 minutes to hear the rocket. Some launches (because of wind) you might not hear anything

[@ashleychamon6446]

@@EricLarkin thanks for the reply! So maybe for my first go to the space center? The launch is also at night this time ( if that changes anything)

[@EricLarkin]

Night launches are my favorite!

[@ashleychamon6446]

@@EricLarkin thanks for the input! I appreciate it!

[@EricLarkin]

@@ashleychamon6446 were you here for the ULA launch Saturday or are you planning on the next crew launch for SpaceX? (Here is a link to the picture & video I had gotten from Saturday morning 😎 instagram.com/reel/CVFqOD-guEv/?

[@nicelady51]

I'll watch a different video about this. One without the annoying background noise.

[@EricLarkin]

@@nicelady51 yeah, this is an older video where I tried having music playing in the background...if you are looking for a place to see a launch, the info is still relevant...

[@EricLarkin]

@@nicelady51 here's the blog that has the same info cocoabeachinsider.com/2020/05/17/best-places-to-view-a-launch/

[@nicelady51]

@@EricLarkin Thanks and my apologies about the complaint. I found out the launch is launchpad 41. I forgot the letters preceding it. Now to find the best spot since it is between 5:24 AM and 6 AM. I saw both times. The space center will not be open at that time.

[@EricLarkin]

😎😎no worries!! I appreciate the feedback and that you found the video. Are you wanting to watch the launch strictly for seeing a launch or to take photos of the launch?