Cocoa Beach, Florida. Don't mess with the alligators or sea turtles. Both are federal crimes. If the lifeguard blows his/her whistle and starts freaking the hell out, GTFO of the ocean. Not every beach has crystal clear water, which means shit is lurking that you can't see and something WILL brush your foot. At this point it is already too late and your life will flash before your eyes. You will be laughed at while you flail and cry. Don't take surfing lessons at Ron Jon's or Cocoa Beach Surf Company. Rent a board and ask a local who is on a board to help you out. It's not Dogtown and its free. Yes you can sneak alcohol onto the cruise ships in shampoo bottles. Don't do that. Get on Google Maps and find the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. It's not necassarily cheap, but it's never packed, and only 15mins out of the way. Things to do there include Astronaut Hall of Fame and dipping dots. DO NOT DRIVE TO THE ACTUAL SPACE CENTER. There are men armed with assault rifles and will not be happy about anything you have to say. The Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge is on the way to the KSC and only like $5. Go at sunrise. Bring bug spray, water and a camera. Ron Jon's and the Cocoa Beach Surf Company are right next to each other and both are tourist traps....very expensive. Head south on A1A and you'll find very small surf shops Quiet Flight and Bilt. While not as large, they are run by locals, much more affordable and not nearly as packed. Simply Delicious Bakery is down by them as well and has the greatest stuffed french toast known to mankind. Find a Publix and get a sub from their deli with boars head meat and cheese. You'll only be 30-45mins from Orlando and its attractions. If you want some night life thats close, really your only option is Port Canaveral. Milikens Reef, Fishlips, and Grills are the best bars IMO. Cocoa Village is a really nice place and only about 20mins away. It's expensive though. It will rain and it's hot. Lastly, please, for the love of all things Holy, DO NOT climb on the statue of Kelly Slater. We love him. Leave him be.