Choosing between Clearwater and Cocoa Beach depends on whether you prefer "resort luxury" or "surfer chill." Clearwater Beach, located on the Gulf Coast, is world-famous for its wide, powdery white "sugar" sand and calm, warm, emerald waters, making it the superior choice for families with small children or those seeking a polished resort vibe with high-end dining. It is also the place for legendary sunsets at Pier 60. Cocoa Beach, on the Atlantic side, is the quintessential surf town, home to the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop and the Kennedy Space Center. It offers darker, coarser sand and "big waves" that are perfect for boogie boarding and surfing. Cocoa is generally more affordable and laid-back, while Clearwater feels like a bustling, world-class destination. If you want a day trip from Orlando, Cocoa is a shorter 1-hour drive, whereas Clearwater takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on the notorious I-4 traffic.