Thunder on Cocoa Beach MAY 17-21, 2023
- May 18, 2023
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- By Story/Photos By SurfGuru
The coastal town of Cocoa Beach, located on the east coast of Florida, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and exciting events. One such event that attracts adrenaline junkies and motorsport enthusiasts from around the world is "Thunder on Cocoa Beach." This annual extravaganza combines the beauty of the ocean with the thunderous roar of high-performance powerboats racing along the shoreline. Let's delve into the heart-pounding world of Thunder on Cocoa Beach and discover why it has become a must-attend event for both locals and visitors.
Thunder on Cocoa Beach revolves around powerboat racing, where sleek, high-speed vessels race across the waves, leaving spectators in awe of their sheer power and agility. The event attracts monstrous offshore racing boats. These boats, often capable of reaching mind-boggling speeds of over 150 mph, are a marvel of engineering and design, built to withstand the demanding conditions of open-water racing.
The adrenaline-fueled races take place just off the coast of Cocoa Beach, providing beach going spectators with a front-row seat to the action. With the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, the powerboats zip through the water, leaving behind a trail of spray and an unmistakable thunderous sound. The races are held over a designated course, where skilled pilots navigate tight turns, maneuver around buoys, and accelerate to exhilarating speeds, thrilling the crowds that line the beach.
Thunder on Cocoa Beach is not just for motorsport enthusiasts but also for families, beachgoers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable experience. The event offers a carnival-like atmosphere with a VIP kickoff party, JJ Turk / Golf n Gator Invitational, vendors, live music, beach games, and interactive displays. Spectators can wander along the shoreline, exploring the event's various offerings while waiting for the next race. Children can engage in face painting, sandcastle building contests, and other family-friendly activities, ensuring a day of excitement for visitors of all ages.
Thursday the 18
th kicks off the event with the High Octane Kick-Off Party Rusty’s and Fishlips at the Port. There are several events on Friday and Saturday including a block party in Downtown Cocoa Beach. The Super Boats can be seen up close on display at the Racers Village on Flounder Dr in Port Canaveral starting on Saturday the 20th. The VIP area is located at Lori Wilson Park on Sunday promises to be an excellent location to watch the races which starts at 10 am on Sunday. Other great spots to watch include the Cocoa Beach Pier where the races start and the Downtown Cocoa Beach access at the Beach Shack Bar. Both locations offer beach chair and umbrella rentals. For a list of the full event schedule see below or go to
www.thunderoncocoabeach.com.
As Thunder on Cocoa Beach continues to grow in popularity, the organizers are constantly striving to enhance the event experience. With each passing year, spectators can expect new additions and improvements, including more thrilling races, enhanced entertainment options, and increased participation from international powerboat teams. The event's success is not only a testament to the organizers' dedication but also to the unwavering support from the local community and the visitors who come to witness this exhilarating spectacle.
Thunder on Cocoa Beach is more than just a powerboat race. It's an adrenaline-fueled celebration of speed, power, and community. The event captivates attendees with the sheer spectacle of high-performance powerboats slicing through the ocean waves, creating an exhilarating atmosphere that is hard to replicate. Whether you're a motorsport enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, Thunder on Cocoa Beach promises an unforgettable day of excitement and entertainment. So mark your calendars, and get ready to be swept away by the thunderous roar of Thunder on Cocoa Beach!
TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
- MAY 18 2023 (THURSDAY)
- 6pm – 10pm - High Octane Kick-Off Party Rusty’s and Fishlips at the Port
- 6pm – 10pm - Vip Party Fishlips at the Port
- 10pm-close - Thunder on Cocoa Beach After Party brought to you by Xinsurance at JT's Social Bar (inside the Cocoa Beach La Quinta Inn)
- MAY 19 2023 (FRIDAY)
- 9am-5pm - Registration & Inspection: Race Village- Racer Village Flounder Dr
- 12:30pm - JJ Turk / Golf n Gator Invitational - Watch the racers compete against each other in go-carts before they compete in the water!
Location: Golf n Gator - 6355 N. Atlantic Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL
- 5pm – 10pm Thunder on Cocoa Beach Block Party – Downtown Cocoa Beach- Meet the racers
- 6pm-10pm Coconuts on the Beach VIP PARTY under the tent on the beach *while supplies last
- 110pm-close - Thunder on Cocoa Beach After Party brought to you by Xinsurance at JT's Social Bar (inside the Cocoa Beach La Quinta Inn)
- MAY 20 2023 (SATURDAY)
- 10am - 4pm VIP Chalet Lori Wilson Only
- 10am-5pm Power Boats in Dry Pits: Race Village Flounder Dr.
- 10pm-close - Thunder on Cocoa Beach After Party brought to you by Xinsurance at JT's Social Bar (inside the Cocoa Beach La Quinta Inn)
- MAY 21 2023 (SUNDAY)
- 9am-4pm - Launching @ Scorpion Marine
- 9am-4pm - Power Boats in Dry Pits: Race Village Flounder Dr.
- 10am – 4pm
- VIP Hospitality Tent @ Lori Wilson Park (Beach Side)
- VIP Hospitality Tent @ Coconuts on the Beach
- VIP Hospitality Tent @ Alan Shepard Park sponsored by Sandbar/FishvCamp
- 10am - Start of 1st Race
- 6pm - Awards Presentation- TBA