Ramp Road Park
A hidden gem in Cocoa Beach offering kayaking, wildlife viewing, and magical bioluminescence. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Ramp Road Park
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem in Cocoa Beach offering kayaking, wildlife viewing, and magical bioluminescence. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
"I can't believe I've been missing out on this place. Easy access, great facilities, and an overall awesome place."
Kayak Rental Availability
Rentals are available at the park, but booking ahead is wise, especially for tours.
Slippery Ramp Alert
Be cautious of marine growth on the boat ramp; it can be slippery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Thousand Islands Kayak Adventure
Banana River
Explore shallow waters and hidden mangroves, spotting diverse wildlife. Perfect for kayakers and paddleboarders.
Bioluminescent Boardwalk
Boardwalk Dock
Witness the magical glow of bioluminescent plankton on dark nights. An accessible and enchanting natural phenomenon.
Family Fun & Recreation
Park grounds
Enjoy playgrounds, picnic shelters, tennis courts, and clean restrooms for a perfect family day out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Kayak & Wildlife Hotspot
Bioluminescence Viewing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak Rental Availability
Rentals are available at the park, but booking ahead is wise, especially for tours.
Slippery Ramp Alert
Be cautious of marine growth on the boat ramp; it can be slippery.
Wildlife Viewing Tips
Look for birds, dolphins, and manatees in the shallow waters and mangroves.
Bioluminescence Timing
Best viewed during new moon phases for maximum darkness.
Visiting!
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak Rental Availability
Rentals are available at the park, but booking ahead is wise, especially for tours.
Slippery Ramp Alert
Be cautious of marine growth on the boat ramp; it can be slippery.
Wildlife Viewing Tips
Look for birds, dolphins, and manatees in the shallow waters and mangroves.
Bioluminescence Timing
Best viewed during new moon phases for maximum darkness.
Navigating Waterways
Waterway 'trails' aren't always marked; use the sun or GPS for guidance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ramp Road Park is a beloved local spot praised for its natural beauty, excellent facilities, and diverse activities like kayaking and wildlife viewing. Visitors appreciate the free access, ample parking, and family-friendly atmosphere, though some note the lack of marked kayak trails. The bioluminescence viewing is a standout magical experience. +2
"What a lovely hidden spot in cocoa beach. We kayaked through the mangroves and the open water. Plenty of parking, and nice boat launch areas and bathrooms. We didn’t see signs in the waterways for a “trail”, but the sun kept us on a good path."
Scott May
"This is a really good place for mostly families. And uh, people just looking to go kayaking. There's lots of areas to explore and nice things to say. It would make a great day out for the family.And you can rent kayaks at the park itself"
Edward Obrien
"Beautiful and well maintained park. Good amount of available parking, covered picnic tables, clean restrooms, playground, walking trails. Great boat and kayak launches, well maintained dock, too."
Stacey McIntosh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ramp Road Park is located in Cocoa Beach, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use GPS or map apps to find the exact location.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at Ramp Road Park, including free parking. It's noted as a significant plus by many visitors, even on busy nights. +1
Absolutely! Ramp Road Park features well-maintained boat launch areas, making it convenient for boaters to access the Banana River.
The park has boat docks and launch areas, suggesting it can accommodate trailers. It's best to check specific dimensions or call ahead if you have a very large vehicle.
Ramp Road Park is situated near the A1A highway, a scenic coastal route in Brevard County, Florida.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ramp Road Park is generally free to enter and use its facilities, including parking, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
While the park itself is generally accessible, the restrooms are locked after hours. It's advisable to check local listings for specific park hours if you plan a late visit.
While you can bring your own kayak or paddleboard, if you plan to rent or join a guided tour, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times or special events.
The boat launch at Ramp Road Park is typically free to use, adding to the park's appeal for boaters and anglers.
Yes, people fish from the dock at Ramp Road Park. It's a public dock, and it's a popular spot for anglers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, fishing, picnicking, playing on the playground, and walking on trails. It's a versatile park for various outdoor pursuits.
Yes, it's considered a great place for families, with a playground, picnic shelters, and safe areas for kayaking and exploring.
Expect to see diverse bird species, dolphins, and potentially manatees in the Banana River and mangrove areas. Kayaking tours often highlight these sightings.
Yes, the park has clean restrooms, though they are locked after hours. +1
The park features walking trails, offering a pleasant way to explore the natural surroundings and enjoy the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
The mangrove areas, the Banana River at sunrise/sunset, and the boardwalk dock (especially at night for bioluminescence) offer stunning photographic opportunities.
The open water views of the Banana River make it an excellent location for capturing beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
Definitely! The park is a haven for birdwatching and spotting marine life like dolphins and manatees, providing ample subjects for wildlife photography.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle for expansive views, and a telephoto for distant wildlife are useful. A tripod can be helpful for low-light photography, especially for bioluminescence.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's always best to check with park management if unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. The park's clean restrooms are a plus for families. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed day of outdoor fun without the crowds of more commercial attractions.
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
While the ramp itself is generally good, be aware of potential marine growth that can make it slippery. The surrounding waters are known for various fish species, making it a worthwhile stop for a day of fishing or a boating excursion.
✨ Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to witness bioluminescence on a new moon night from the boardwalk dock – it's a truly magical experience. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for spotting active wildlife.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventures
For those without their own equipment, kayak and paddleboard rentals are available directly at the park, making it convenient for spontaneous adventures. Guided tours are also a popular option, led by knowledgeable locals who can point out hidden gems and ensure a safe and enriching experience. These tours often focus on wildlife spotting and understanding the local ecosystem.
+1When navigating the waterways, some visitors note that marked 'trails' can be scarce. It's advisable to use the sun's position or a GPS device for orientation. The experience is often described as peaceful and immersive, offering a chance to disconnect and enjoy the serene Florida coastline.
The Magic of Bioluminescence
While night kayaking tours are a popular way to experience bioluminescence up close, simply standing on the dock and observing the glowing water can be equally mesmerizing. The absence of moonlight is crucial for optimal viewing, so checking the lunar calendar is a key tip for anyone hoping to witness this natural phenomenon.
Visitors often describe the bioluminescence as a highlight of their trip, a surreal and unforgettable encounter with nature's wonders. It's a reminder of the hidden beauty that can be found in the marine environment, especially in protected areas like those accessible from Ramp Road Park.
Family-Friendly Facilities and Activities
Beyond the playground and picnic areas, the park's accessibility to the Banana River makes it ideal for family outings involving water activities. Kayaking and paddleboarding in the calmer sections of the river are popular choices for families looking for gentle adventures. The presence of clean restrooms further enhances the convenience for families with young children.
Many reviews highlight the park's overall well-maintained condition and the abundance of parking, which are significant factors for families planning a day trip. It's a place where parents can relax knowing there are facilities and activities to suit everyone's enjoyment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit