Powerboat racing returned to Brevard County on May 15, 2026, when competitors from across the United States gathered at Cocoa Beach for the Thunder on the Beach event. The race, held on the southern end of the beach near the Brevard County Convention Center, drew spectators and participants alike to watch high-speed boats navigate the Atlantic waters. Organizers confirmed the event attracted over 200 racers, with teams from as far as California and New York competing for top honors.
The day’s action began at 10 a.m. with qualifying rounds, followed by a main event at 2 p.m. that featured head-to-head battles between hydroplanes and monohull boats. Local officials highlighted the event’s return as a boost for tourism and economic activity in the area. Cocoa Beach Mayor Lisa Martin said the race brought an estimated 5,000 visitors to the beach over the weekend, with many staying in nearby hotels and dining at local restaurants.
Racers competed in multiple classes, including the prestigious 350-class hydroplanes, which reached speeds exceeding 80 mph during the final laps. Safety was a priority, with lifeguards and marine police on standby throughout the event. One competitor, 28-year-old Florida native Jake Thompson, said the race was a ‘test of skill and nerve’ but added that the support from the crowd made it worth the effort.
The event, which had been absent from the Space Coast for over a decade, is expected to become an annual tradition. Organizers announced plans to expand the race to include junior divisions and amateur categories in future years. The next Thunder on the Beach event is scheduled for May 14, 2027, with registration now open for teams interested in participating.