Look Around the Space Coast-Part 10

For Part 10 this week, we will explore the history of one of the most famous FL beaches-COCOA BEACH-the home of Jeanie & Majors Nelson and Healey!

This sun-soaked paradise has been enchanting visitors for decades with its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. So what makes this place so special? Cocoa Beach is located just a stone's throw away from the famous Kennedy Space Center. The area was originally inhabited by the Ais people, a Native American tribe. Their presence in the area dates back to the 16th century, long before any European explorers arrived. Fast forward to the 1800s, and the first European settlers began to establish themselves in the area.

Cocoa Beach was initially known as "Oceanus" before being renamed "Cocoa" in 1884. The name change was inspired by the thriving cocoa plantations that were springing up along the Indian River. The early 1900s saw the birth of modern Cocoa Beach, thanks to the vision of a man named Gus Edwards. This ambitious entrepreneur saw the potential for a bustling tourist destination and began developing the area with hotels, restaurants, and other amenities. In 1925, the completion of the Merritt Island Causeway made it easier for people to access the beach, and the town's popularity skyrocketed (no pun intended-or was it?) 

But what really put Cocoa Beach on the map was the Space Race. With the establishment of the Kennedy Space Center in the 1960s, the town became known as "Florida's Space Coast." Astronauts like Alan Shepard and John Glenn made the area their home, and the excitement of the space program drew even more tourists to Cocoa Beach. The town's fame continued to grow with the arrival of the surfing craze in the 1960s. Cocoa Beach became a haven for surfers, thanks to its consistent waves and warm weather. The sport's popularity was further cemented with the release of the movie "Gidget," which featured Cocoa Beach as a prime surfing destination.

Alright, let's talk about how Cocoa Beach became the setting for the classic TV show "I Dream of Jeannie." This iconic series, which aired from 1965 to 1970, starred the captivating Barbara Eden as a magical genie and Larry Hagman as her astronaut-turned-master, Major Nelson. Now, you might be wondering why on earth a TV show about a magical genie would be set in a Florida beach town. Well, the answer is pretty simple: the creators of the show wanted to tie in the excitement of the Space Race with a fun, beachy setting. And what better place to do that than in the heart of Florida's Space Coast? The creators of "I Dream of Jeannie" were able to use the town's charming atmosphere and picturesque beaches as the backdrop for the series, giving the show a unique and memorable vibe. In addition to the show's setting, Cocoa Beach also played a role in the series' plot. Major Nelson, the astronaut character played by Larry Hagman, was stationed at the fictional "Cocoa Beach Naval Air Station." This allowed the show to incorporate elements of the space program and military life into the storyline, adding an extra layer of intrigue for viewers. The connection between "I Dream of Jeannie" and Cocoa Beach went beyond the screen, too. The show's popularity helped put the town on the map and attract even more tourists to the area. In fact, to this day, you can visit the "I Dream of Jeannie Lane" street sign in Cocoa Beach, a tribute to the show's lasting impact on the community.

Today, Cocoa Beach is a thriving tourist destination with a rich history. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, world-class surfing, and the excitement of the space program. The town's unique blend of history and modern attractions make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to soak up the Florida sunshine. So, whether you're a history buff, a beach bum, or a space enthusiast, Cocoa Beach has something for everyone. It's a wonderful place to call home!