Why you should visit Vero Beach

Last updated on June 3rd, 2024 at 03:25 pm

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Vero Beach, sometimes referred to as the Hamptons of South Florida, is a quaint coastal community located along Florida’s Atlantic Coast. It is part of a 65-mile stretch known as the Treasure Coast. The 1715 Spanish shipwreck happened just off the coast of Vero Beach. Eleven of the twelve ships in the fleet sunk during a hurricane leaving behind a treasure trove of gold, silver and jewels. Vero Beach is a treasure, but for reasons other than lost bounty. Here is why you should visit Vero Beach,

Let’s dive in to see what this beautiful coast has to offer.

Beaches

Florida is known for beaches and Vero Beach is no different. It is a main reason why you should visit Vero Beach. Grab your towel and sunscreen and find out which stretch of sand is your perfect escape.

Humiston Park Beach

Located in the downtown area of Vero Beach, this beach is perfectly situated for spending some time in the water and then strolling the shops on Ocean Drive. Need to cool off? You are in luck! There are several places to get your favorite ice cream or gelato. Countryside Citrus and Vero Caffe are an easy walk to get a cone or cup.

The beach offers lifeguard service from 9:20-4:40. Humiston Beach provides restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas with barbeque grills and a children’s playground that looks like a pirate ship. The 450′ beach boardwalk is the perfect opportunity to stroll along the beach, watch the waves and listen to the seagulls.

South Beach

Located 1 mile south of downtown, South Beach is a beautiful stretch of beach with sparkling blue water. South Beach provides a guarded beach with paved parking. restrooms, showers and picnic pavilions. It is not in walking distance of restaurants or grocery stores, so pack you picnic baskets and spend the day.

Outdoor Activities

Vero Beach offers a wide range of outdoor activities, some of which are unique to this area of Florida. Whether it’s biking, fishing, boating, kayaking or birdwatching, Vero has the perfect spot for you to unleash some energy while in a beautiful setting.

Sebastian Inlet State Park

While located 6 miles north of Vero Beach, this park is worth the short jaunt and a great way to spend your day. Let’s take a look at some of the activities you can choose.

Bicycling

There is a 40-mile path that has beach access points. Parts of the path run parallel to A-1A and some run parallel to the Indian River Lagoon.

Birdwatching

Vero Beach is a very biodiverse area and this is an excellent place to view some of the many bird species who call this area home. Bring your binoculars and bird watching guide.

Boating

Sebastian Inlet provides access to the Indian River Lagoon and to the Atlantic Ocean. Boat rentals are available at

Fishing

One of the most popular activities at the Inlet. Anglers can fish for a variety of species. There are 2 long boardwalks people can fish from.

Surfing

Surfers come from all around the area to catch a wave at the Sebastian Inlet. This is the best in the area for consistent surf breaks.

Turtle Walks

During June and July, you can register to join a turtle walk with a park ranger. This stretch of coast is one of the few areas that sea turtles come to nest. Loggerhead turtles are the most common, but Leatherback and Green turtles also nest on these beaches. Reserve your spot for an opportunity to witness one of these beautiful creatures laying her eggs. This popular activity is another reason why people visit Vero Beach.

Round Island State Park

Looking for manatees? This may be the place for you! Round Island is a quiet 82.8 acre park where manatees live. There is a 400′ boardwalk that makes the perfect opportunity for looking for this magnificent sea life. Once you have seen some manatees, you can take the footbridge over to an island with an observation tower and fishing pier. This a great place to see dolphins and shore birds. If you want a little more activity, there are 2 boat launches and a canoe/kayak launch. Make sure to bring mosquito repellent in the summer if you plan to go across to the island.

Pelican Island

This is a jewel of Vero Beach. Established in 1903 by Teddy Roosevelt as the nation’s first federally designated wildlife refuge. It was created to protect the brown pelican and now is home to 30 different bird species. It is the most biologically diverse estuary in the US. There are seven miles of hiking trails, perfect for birdwatching. Fishing is permitted in the open water areas. Bank and wade fishing is allowed in designated areas. November through March the popular wildlife tours operate. Take a tram through the refuge trails and gain some insight into the wildlife refuge from one of the park volunteers.

McKee Botanical Garden

Mckee Botanical Garden is on the National Register of Historic Places. Step inside this 18 acre botanical garden that was brought back to life in 2001. Once dormant land, McKee now offers meandering paths with over 10,000 native and tropical plants. It also is home to one of Florida’s largest water lily collections. Children can explore and run off some energy in the children’s garden. a space that encourages kids to use their imagination, it is fun for adults and kids. Make sure to see if there are any special exhibits to view while you are there. There are temporary exhibits like the water lily celebration and the Festival of Lights in December. Mckee is open Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-5:00 and Sunday Noon-5:00.

Dining and Shopping

Vero Beach has distinct areas for dining and shopping. Each area has its own unique vibe, but they all offer local restaurants, shops and galleries. During your visit to Vero Beach, make sure to try out some of the local businesses.

Ocean Drive

The heart of the island is Ocean Drive. Lined with adorable boutiques, art galleries and local eateries, it’s a prime location to wander. There are plenty of options for shopping-clothing, jewelry, home decor, take your pick. Pineapples, Shop Market Vero and Belle Cose all have upscale offerings. Getting hungry? You can choose from casual to fine dining, burgers to fresh seafood. Casey’s is a great lunch or dinner option if you are craving the perfect burger with outdoor seating. If fine dining is more what you are looking for, Cobalt and The Wave both offer a varied menu and have excellent cocktail menus. Lemon Tree is a great option for breakfast or brunch. Just look for the bright yellow awning.

Saturday mornings bring the local farmers market to Humiston Park in the heart of Ocean Drive. you can find locally grown produce, fresh meat and seafood, cheeses and fresh baked pastries. Go early for the best selection.

Historic Downtown

The arts and entertainment district is located on 14th Avenue and surrounding area. Full of antique stores, boutiques and dining options, it is worth the drive over the bridge. Downtown Friday Night is held the last Friday of the month and features live entertainment, food trucks and local vendors. There are annual events like the Hibiscus Festival and Burgers and Brews. The downtown restaurants offer a different vibe. From chic to industrial to southern, there is something for everyone. Post and Vine has a hip vibe with a varied menu and excellent bar. American Icon Brewery is located in an old diesel power plant. It has a wide range of craft beer and an upscale pub menu. This is one of Chris’s favorite brewpubs.

Bonus

Citrus Groves

Indian River County is the citrus capital of the world. It’s a unique aspect of this region. I suggest visiting one of the family run citrus groves in the area.

Countryside Citrus– A 3rd generation family farm that grows oranges, grapefruit, tangelos and tangerines. The farm store has in season vegetables, jams & jellies, local honey, salsas and spreads, but the best reason to visit is for the ice cream. Visit them at their farm store or their beachside location on Ocean Drive.

Peterson Groves– A family run farm since 1913. They produce some of the best citrus in the area. Their historic packing house features gourmet dressings, produce, local honey, dips and spreads. Stop by to get a glimpse of what a family run operation looks like. The farm stand is open Monday-Saturday 8:00-5:00 and Sunday 10:00-3:00.

Conclusion

There are many things to do in Vero Beach. Now it’s time for you to plan your trip to Vero and see what your favorite is.

Looking for a daytrip from Vero Beach, check out Kennedy Space Center

Have you been to Vero Beach? If so, let us know what you enjoyed doing by leaving a comment.

Why You Should Visit Vero Beach (and one unexpected reason)