A fire heavily damaged The Tiny Turtle restaurant on Minutemen Causeway in Cocoa Beach on Friday afternoon, but no injuries were reported, according to local officials. The blaze broke out around 4:30 p.m. and drew multiple fire and police units to the scene. Thick black smoke rose above downtown Cocoa Beach as crews worked to contain the flames. The restaurant, a local staple between South Orlando and South Brevard avenues, sustained significant roof damage. The owner, who lives onsite, said she was shaken by the incident but escaped safely along with another tenant.
Firefighters battled active flames for hours, with bystanders gathering outside the building as crews worked. Video from the scene showed the restaurant’s exterior covered in soot. The fire department is investigating the cause, though officials said they are in the early stages of determining what sparked the blaze. Florida Power & Light crews were also on site to address low-hanging power lines near the building.
The structure’s concrete foundation appears intact, but the roof bore the brunt of the fire. The owner confirmed that all occupants, including herself and the other tenant, evacuated without injury. She did not specify whether the restaurant will remain open, though community members have since shared messages of support online.
Cocoa Beach Fire Chief John Smith said the investigation is ongoing and that no accelerants have been found. The restaurant, which has been a local gathering spot for years, is now closed pending further assessments. A GoFundMe page started by a neighbor has raised over $10,000 to help with repairs, with donations continuing to pour in.