Florida East Coast Questions....

With the thermal effect of land heat killing the breezes from the East am considering a trip to the East coast of Florida to ride some waves with decent winds. Was considering Cocoa Beach where I've kited before a few years back. Mapquest shows Cocoa to be 2.5 to 3.0 hours away by car. Was planning to drive over and kite two days with a one night hotel stay. Was wondering from more experienced riders the following:

1. From St. Pete does Cocoa make the most sense for a short kiting trip? Are there other better places within reasonable kiting distance on the East coast?

2. Any suggestions for hotels or places to stay on an East coast kiting trip?

Thanks in advance for your input....

Regards,
Tim