The Ultimate Wing Foil Spot Guide to Jetty Park, Cocoa Beach

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  • By Ryan (Rygo) Goloversic
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The Ultimate Wing Foil Spot Guide to Jetty Park, Cocoa Beach

The Ultimate Wing Foil Spot Guide to Jetty Park, Cocoa Beach

 

Jetty Park, located in Cape Canaveral near Cocoa Beach, Florida, is a renowned spot for water sports enthusiasts, especially those passionate about wing foiling. With its expansive beaches, favorable wind conditions, and excellent facilities, Jetty Park is an exceptional spot for both beginners and seasoned wing foilers. 

I first came here back in 2020 for kitesurfing and was pleasantly surprised by how nice this little beach is. The jetty, paired with the flat sandy bottom, makes this one of the most friendly spots along the coast. On a northeast wind, the waves are always smaller here and they tend to be even. As you get further south they stack up and become more irregular. 

Note that you should ride downwind from the jetty here. This is a popular tourist beach and there will be a large wind shadow near the wall. You’ll also have to walk out a good ways depending on the tide to get to deeper water. The smooth hard pact sandy bottom is what makes this beach so easy but you’ll need to walk out to get to a spot where the foil wont bottom out. 

Why Wing Foil at Jetty Park?

Jetty Park boasts a 4.5-acre beach with a 1,200-foot fishing pier, providing ample space for launching and landing your wing foil equipment. The park's location near the jetty helps in moderating wave conditions, making it epic for riders of varying skill levels. Additionally, the presence of amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and picnic areas make this an epic spot for a day trip. I often spend weekends here chasing the wind or just hanging out in the park on windless days.  

Wind and Water Conditions

The optimal wind directions for wing foiling at Jetty Park are from the northeast (NE), east-northeast (ENE), east (E), and east-southeast (ESE). These directions provide side-onshore winds, which are ideal for safe and enjoyable sessions. The jetty plays a crucial role in dispersing wave energy, resulting in more manageable wave conditions, especially during ENE winds. The water depth varies with the tide, offering shallower areas near the shore that are beneficial for beginners practicing their skills.

Warning: Avoid north winds here. This is the gustiest location in all of Cocoa Beach on a north wind. You’ll need a decent amount of east wind for conditions to clean up. When the wind clocks fully east, the shore break here will be more manageable than spots further south like Cherry Down Park Or 16th Street. 

This whole coast has some epic waves so advanced riders might consider heading south closer to satellite beach, where the waves will be stacking up. 

Best Times to Visit

The prime season for wing foiling at Jetty Park spans from October through May, coinciding with the arrival of cold fronts that bring consistent winds. January thought March is particularly reliable, offering steady northeast wind conditions and pleasant enough temperatures. It can get cold in the winter here, so have a wetsuit ready. The spring is popular but the beaches get very crowded for spring break. We recommend escaping the cold from your home spot and visiting a bit earlier to catch the good wind and avoid the crowds. 

Amenities and Facilities

Jetty Park is well-equipped to cater to the needs of wing foilers:

  • Parking: A spacious parking area is available, with a day parking fee of $7.00 for cars. There is a huge overflow lot if you are driving a wing foil van or an RV like me. 
  • Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained facilities are conveniently located near the beach access points. The boardwalk here is scenic and a vibe. 
  • Picnic Areas: Pavilions and picnic tables are available for use, making it easy to relax and refuel between sessions.
  • Camping: For those looking to extend their stay, Jetty Park offers full hook up campsites with varying amenities.

Local Tips

  • Launch Spot: The beach area on the south end of the park far away from the jetty is a popular launch site due to its width. You’ll still get the protective effect of the jetty, which helps in reducing chop and spreading out waves. 
  • Give the fishermen right of way: This is a popular spot for people to fish from the jetty and along the beach. Be respectful and ride a good distance away. The beach here is huge so you can easily walk and find a private area to rig up and ride. 
  • Crowd Management: Weekends and holidays can see an influx of visitors. To avoid crowds, consider planning your sessions during weekdays or early mornings.
  • Wildlife: Keep an eye out for dolphins, especially when cruise ships are entering or leaving the port, as they often accompany the vessels.

Safety Considerations

  • Lifeguard Zones: Be aware of designated lifeguard areas and maintain a safe distance to ensure the safety of swimmers and other beachgoers. We recommend staying to the far south of the lifeguard zone to give swimmers the right of way. 
  • Ship Traffic: Given the proximity to Port Canaveral, be mindful of boat traffic, especially near the jetty and channel areas. Do not ride in the channel. It would be catastrophic for you. 
  • Weather Checks: Always monitor local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly. This is a forgiving beach but the waves can stack up here too. 

Getting There

Jetty Park is located at 400 Jetty Park Road, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. From Cocoa Beach, take A1A North towards Port Canaveral, then follow the signs to Jetty Park. The park is well-signposted and easily accessible, with ample parking available near the beach access points.

Jetty Park in Cocoa Beach offers a premier wing foiling experience with its favorable wind conditions, excellent facilities, and scenic surroundings. Whether you're a local or visiting the Space Coast, this spot is a must-visit for any wing foil enthusiast.

FAQ: Wing Foiling at Jetty Park, Cocoa Beach

Q: Is Jetty Park a good place for wing foiling?

A: Yes! Jetty Park is one of the best wing foiling locations in Cocoa Beach due to its consistent wind, sandy beach launch, and relatively protected waters near the jetty. The wind direction here works well for foilers, especially when coming from the northeast (NE), east-northeast (ENE), and east (E).

Q: What are the best wind conditions for wing foiling at Jetty Park?

A: The best wind directions for wing foiling at Jetty Park are NE, ENE, and E, as these provide a side-onshore wind that makes for a smooth and controlled ride. The wind season is strongest from October through May, with April and May offering some of the most reliable conditions.

Q: Is there a good place to launch a wing foil at Jetty Park?

A: Yes! The best launch area is on the south side of the park, far way from the jetty, where the sand provides a safe and easy spot to set up your wing and board. Avoid launching near the swimming and lifeguard areas, and be mindful of beachgoers during busy times.

Q: What are the water conditions like at Jetty Park for wing foiling?

A: The water here varies based on wind and tides:

  • Moderate chop with steady winds (great for foiling)
  • Small to medium rolling waves near the jetty
  • Relatively smooth inside the jetty on light wind days

Beginners should aim for lighter wind days with smaller waves, while experienced foilers will enjoy the added challenge of bigger conditions.

Q: What amenities does Jetty Park offer for wing foilers?

A: Jetty Park is one of the most well-equipped beaches in the Cocoa Beach area for water sports. Amenities include:

  • On-site parking (daily fees apply)
  • Restrooms & outdoor showers
  • Picnic areas & pavilions
  • A campground for overnight stays

Q: Do I need a permit to wing foil at Jetty Park?

A: No permit is required for wing foiling at Jetty Park. However, foilers should respect designated swimming zones, lifeguard areas, and general beach safety rules.

Q: How do I get to Jetty Park for a wing foiling session?

A: Jetty Park is located at 400 Jetty Park Road, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. It’s easily accessible from Cocoa Beach, Orlando, and surrounding areas via Highway A1A.

Q: Are there any local wing foiling shops near Jetty Park?

A: Yes! Stop by Epic Board Sports for all your wing foil and SUP needs. 

Where else can I wingfoil in Cocoa Beach? 

There are many great locations. If you don’t want to ride the ocean, try some spots on the Banana River. We love Jaques Beach and Kelly Park. Check out our full-wing location guides on these. 

Epic Boardsports Offers a wide selection of wing foiling equipment and expert advice.
Kelly Park East is a wing foiling haven, offering everything from beginner-friendly launch areas
to consistent wind conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the sport, this guide
ensures you’ll have an unforgettable experience. So pack your gear, check the wind, and head to
Kelly Park for your next wing foil adventure!

Written by Ryan "Rygo" Goloversic: 

Rygo is a globally recognized kiteboarder, digital marketing specialist and an advocate for wakestyle kiteboarding. An avid waterman, he's passionate and knowledgeable about all things watersports from wing foil to wake. When he's not writing articles, you can catch him competing on the KPLxGKA world tour or grinding it out in the gym.

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