Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Table of Contents
Stuart and Jensen Beach | Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie | Vero Beach and Sebastian
In contrast to the glitzy, überplanned Gold Coast that includes Greater Palm Beach and Boca Raton, the more bucolic Treasure Coast stretches from south Martin County into St. Lucie and Indian River counties. Along the east are barrier islands all the way to Sebastian and beyond, starting with Jupiter Island, then Hutchinson Island, and finally Orchid Island—and reefs, too. Those reefs are responsible for the region’s nickname: they’ve caused ships carrying riches dating back as far as 1715 to fall asunder and cast their treasures ashore. The Intracoastal Waterway here is called the Indian River starting at the St. Lucie Inlet in Stuart and morphs into a broad tidal lagoon with tiny uninhabited islands and wildlife galore. Inland, there’s cattle ranching and tracts of pine and palmetto scrub, along with sugar and citrus production.
Despite a growing number of malls and beachfront condominiums, much of the Treasure Coast remains untouched, something not lost on ecotourists, game fishers, and people who want a break from the oversaturated digital age. Consequently, there are fewer lodging options in this region of Florida, but if 30 minutes in the car sounds like a breeze, culture vultures can live in the lap of luxury in Vero Beach and detour south to Fort Pierce’s galleries and botanical gardens. Likewise, families will revel in every amenity imaginable at the Hutchinson Island Marriott and be able to swing northwest to hit up the Mets spring-training stadium in Port St. Lucie or down to Jupiter for the Cardinals and the Marlins.
Florida’s Sea Turtles: The Nesting Season
From May to October, turtles nest all along the Florida coast. Female loggerhead, Kemp’s ridley, and other species living in the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico swim as much as 2,000 miles to the Florida shore. By night they drag their 100- to 400-pound bodies onto the beach to the dune line. Then each digs a hole with her flippers, drops in 100 or so eggs, covers them up, and returns to sea.
The babies hatch about 60 days later. Once they burst out of the sand, the hatchlings must get to sea rapidly or risk becoming dehydrated from the sun or being caught by crabs, birds, or other predators.
Instinctively, baby turtles head toward bright light, probably because for millions of years starlight or moonlight reflected on the waves was the brightest light around, serving to guide hatchlings to water. Many coastal towns enforce light restrictions during nesting months. Florida homeowners are asked to dim their lights on behalf of baby sea turtles.
At night, volunteers walk the beaches, searching for signs of turtle nests. Upon finding telltale scratches in the sand, they cordon off the sites, so beachgoers will leave the spots undisturbed. (It is illegal to disturb turtle nests.) Volunteers also keep watch over nests when babies are about to hatch, and assist disoriented hatchlings.
Several local organizations offer nightly turtle walks during nesting season. Most are in June and July, starting around 8 pm and sometimes lasting until midnight. Expect a $10 to $15 fee. Call in advance to confirm times and to reserve a spot—places usually take reservations as early as April. If you’re in southern Palm Beach County, contact Boca Raton’s Gumbo Limbo Nature Center (561/338–1473 | www.gumbolimbo.org). The John D. MacArthur Beach State Park (561/624–6952 | www.macarthurbeach.org) is convenient for Palm Beach–area visitors at the northern end of Singer Island. Hobe Sound Nature Center (772/546–2067 | www.hobesoundnaturecenter.com) is farther up. Treasure Coasters in or near Vero Beach can go to Sebastian Inlet State Park (321/984–4852 | www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet).
Stuart and Jensen Beach
10 miles north of Hobe Sound.
The compact town of Stuart lies on a peninsula that juts out into the St. Lucie River off the Indian River and has a remarkable amount of shoreline for its size. It scores huge points for its charming historic district and is the self-described “Sailfish Capital of the World.” On the southern end, you’ll find Port Salerno and its waterfront area, the Manatee Pocket, which are a skip away from the St. Lucie Inlet.
Immediately north of Stuart is down-to-earth Jensen Beach. Both Stuart and Jensen Beach straddle the Indian River and occupy Hutchinson Island, the barrier island that continues into the town of Fort Pierce. Between late April and August, hundreds, even thousands, of turtles come here to nest along the Atlantic beaches. Residents have taken pains to curb the runaway development that has created commercial crowding to the north and south, although some high-rises have popped up along the shore.
Getting Here and Around
To get to Stuart and Jensen Beach from Jupiter and Hobe Sound, drive north on Federal Highway (U.S. 1). Route A1A crosses through downtown Stuart and is the sole main road throughout Hutchinson Island. Route 707 runs parallel on the mainland directly across the tidal lagoon.
Essentials
Visitor Information
Martin County Convention & Visitors Bureau. | 772/288–5451, 877/585–0085 | www.discovermartin.com.
Exploring
Strict architectural and zoning standards guide civic-renewal projects in the heart of Stuart. Antiques stores, restaurants, and more than 50 specialty shops are rooted within the two-block area of Flagler Avenue and Osceola Street north of where A1A cuts across the peninsula (visit www.stuartmainstreet.org for more information). A self-guided walking-tour pamphlet is available at assorted locations to clue you in on this once-small fishing village’s early days.
Court House Cultural Center.
Stuart’s old courthouse, an historic building, has become the home of the Arts Council, a local nonprofit arts organization, and plays host to several fine-art exhibits in its two galleries during the year, most of which feature Florida artists. | 80 E. Ocean Blvd. | 772/287–6676 | www.martinarts.org | Free | Tues.–Fri. 10–4, Sat. 11–2.
Elliott Museum.
Opened in March 2013, the museum’s glittering, green-certified 48,000-square-foot facility is double its previous size and houses a permanent collection along with traveling exhibits pertaining to art, history, and technology. The original museum was founded in 1961 in honor of Sterling Elliott, an inventor of an early automated-addressing machine, the egg crate, and a four-wheel bicycle, and it celebrates history, art, and technology, much of it viewed through the lens of the automobile’s effect on American society. There’s an impressive array of antique cars, plus paintings, historic artifacts, and nostalgic goods like vintage baseball cards and toys. | 825 N.E. Ocean Blvd. | Jensen Beach | 772/225–1961 | www.elliottmuseumfl.org | $14 | Mon.–Sun. 10–5.
FAMILY | Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center.
This hydroland is the place to go for an interactive marine experience and live the center’s mission “to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida’s coastal ecosystems through education and research.” Petting and feeding stingrays can be done at various times; in the morning, a sea turtle program introduces you to three full-time residents. Make sure to catch the “feeding frenzy” when keepers toss food into the 750,000-gallon lagoon tank and sharks, tarpon, and snook swarm the surface. Join a 1-mile guided walk through the coastal hardwood hammock and mangrove swamp habitats, or explore the trails on your own—you may see a dolphin or manatee swim by. | 890 N.E. Ocean Blvd. | 772/225–0505 | www.floridaocean.org | $12 | Mon.–Sat. 10–5, Sun. noon–4. Nature trails close at 4.
Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge Museum.
Built in 1875 on Hutchinson Island, this is the only remaining example of ten such structures that were erected by the U.S. Life-Saving Service (a predecessor of the Coast Guard) to aid stranded sailors. The displays here include antique lifesaving equipment, maps, artifacts from nearby wrecks, and boatbuilding tools. The museum is affiliated with the nearby Elliott Museum; package tickets are available. | 301 S.E. MacArthur Blvd. | Jensen Beach | 772/225–1875 | www.houseofrefugefl.org | $8 | Mon.–Sat. 10–4, Sun. 1–4.
Stuart Heritage Museum.
What started off in 1901 as the tin-roofed George W. Parks General Merchandise Store and in 1946 became Stuart’s feed and garden store (the name is still emblazoned on the pine facade) is now the Stuart Heritage Museum, an interesting trip down nostalgia lane with Americana artifacts and goods detailing the town’s history, just steps from city hall. | 161 S.W. Flagler Ave. | 772/220–4600 | www.stuartheritagemuseum.com | Free | Daily 10–3.
Beaches
FAMILY | Bathtub Reef Beach.
Rough tides are often the norm in this stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, but a charming enclave at the southern end of Hutchinson Island—after the Marriott’s beach and right by the Indian River Plantation luxury development—provides a perfect escape for families with young children and anyone who likes to snorkel. The waters are shallow and usually calm, and youngsters can walk up to the reef and see a dazzling assortment of fish. The parking lot is small, so get there early. Erosion is a problem, and sometimes lifeguards can’t pull their hefty chairs out, leaving the beach unguarded (but it shouldn’t deter you, because the sea isn’t rough). Amenities: toilets; parking (free); lifeguards. Best for: swimming; snorkeling. | 1585 S.E. MacArthur Blvd. | Daily 24 hrs.
FAMILY | Stuart Beach.
When the waves robustly roll in, the surfers are rolling in, too. Beginning surfers are especially keen on Stuart Beach because of its ever-vigilant lifeguards, and pros to the sport like the challenges that the choppy waters here bring. But the beach is equally popular with surf fishers. Families enjoy the snack bar known for its chicken fingers, the basketball courts, the large canopy-covered playground, and the three walkways interspersed throughout the area for easy ocean access. Amenities: lifeguards; food and drink; parking (free); showers; toilets. Best for: surfing; swimming. | 889 N.E. Ocean Blvd. | Daily 24 hrs.
Where to Eat
Conchy Joe’s.
$$$ | SEAFOOD | Like a hermit crab sliding into a new shell, Conchy Joe’s moved up from West Palm Beach in 1983 to its current home, a 1920s rustic stilt house on the Indian River. It’s full of antique fish mounts, gator hides, and snakeskins and is a popular tourist spot—but the waterfront location, casual vibe, and delicious seafood lures locals, too. Grouper marsala (the house specialty), coconut shrimp, and fried Bahamian cracked conch are menu fixtures. Don’t miss the conch chowder here. Live reggae gets people out of their shells Thursday through Sunday. | Average main: $27 | 3945 N.E. Indian River Dr. | Jensen Beach | 772/334–1130 | www.conchyjoes.com.
Courtine’s.
$$$ | FRENCH | A husband-and-wife team oversees this quiet and hospitable restaurant under the Roosevelt Bridge. French and American influences are clear in the Swiss chef’s dishes, from rack of lamb with Dijon mustard to grilled filet mignon stuffed with Roquefort and fresh spinach. The formal dining room has subtle, elegant touches, such as votive candlelight and white tablecloths. A more casual menu is available at the bar. | Average main: $25 | 514 N. Dixie Hwy. | 772/692–3662 | www.courtines.com | Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch.
District Table and Bar.
$$ | SOUTHERN | Farm-fresh foods with a Southern accent are served up at this chef-owned restaurant with a theater kitchen, where comfort foods are taken to new levels. (Slow Foods, a group that celebrates local foods and artisans, has given the restaurant a “Snail of Approval.”) The vibe is both hipster and rustic melded into an open (and often noisy) space; the chefs provide entertainment, and the bar is lively. On an ever-changing menu (check the website for current list), find house-made condiments and jams served with crab hushpuppies, sweet tea fried chicken, or a Key West hogfish. Look for unusual meat dishes as well: a U.S. Prime teres major is a seldom-seen shoulder cut served here with asparagus, warm potato salad, and garlic butter—creative fare in a convivial setting. If listed, don’t miss the Grand Marnier soufflé for dessert. | Average main: $23 | 900 S.E. Indian St. | 772/324–8357 | www.districttableandbar.com | Closed Mon.
11 Maple Street.
$$$$ | ECLECTIC | This cozy spot is as good as it gets on the Treasure Coast. Soft music and a friendly staff set the mood in the antiques-filled dining room of this old house, which holds only 21 tables. An extensive list of small plates can be ordered as starters or mains and include tasty treats like black-rice and calamari fritters with Thai sauce and Wagyu hanger steak with onion rings and salsa verde. Many of the vegetables are grown by the chef. The limited but superb selection of entrées include wood-grilled elk with roasted faro and Wagyu ribeye with port wine. All desserts are made from scratch and are also seductive, including white-chocolate custard with blackberry sauce. | Average main: $42 | 3224 N.E. Maple Ave. | Jensen Beach | 772/334–7714 | www.elevenmaple.com | Reservations essential | Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch.
Ian’s Tropical Grill.
$$ | SEAFOOD | Tucked inside a small plaza, the restaurant has a small, cozy dining room and covered alfresco patio. Start with cocktails—the mixologist here wins critics’ approval. The chef finds ways to rescue food that might otherwise be discarded. An appetizer of fish ribs (the remains of a fish carcass) roasted with spices and served with a dipping sauce is one example, and a good ice-breaker with a group. Scallops and yellowfin tuna dishes are most popular, but Florida-inspired fare like mango-shrimp ceviche and cobia crudo, as well as a good conch salad with citrus offer visitors a taste of the tropics. The menu changes often, depending on what’s fresh in the markets and from local farms, which are named. | Average main: $25 | 2875 S.E. Ocean Blvd. | 772/334–4563 | www.ianstropicalgrille.com | Closed Sun.
Where to Stay
FAMILY | Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina.
$ | RESORT | With a 77-slip marina, a full water sports program, a golf course, two pools, tons of tennis courts, and children’s activities, this self-contained resort is excellent for families, most of whom prefer to stay in the tower directly on the ocean. However, the main building on the Intracoastal Waterway (or Indian River, as it is called here) has a lovely, spacious pool courtyard and shuttle transport to the beach. The rooms were all renovated in 2011, and they have fixtures like granite vanities, plush bedding, and soothing beach-accented decor. Wet bars are in all guest rooms, and the rooms in the beachside Sandpiper building have kitchenettes. The staff here is genuinely friendly and interested in making you feel at home—so much so that they’ll organize children’s activities even if yours are the only kids on the property. At the resort’s golf-centric Ocean Club, you’ll find 18 holes, a warm-up aqua range, and a putting green for members and hotel guests only. The only thing this hotel doesn’t have is a wide range of eating options (there are outdoor cafés at each pool, and there’s just one indoor sit-down restaurant), but it gives you more of an excuse to try the great local cuisine. Pros: attentive, warm staff; rooms are comfortable and casually chic; all rooms have balconies. Cons: only one sit-down indoor restaurant; common areas are a bit dated; no spa; daily resort fee. | Rooms from: $150 | 555 N.E. Ocean Blvd., Hutchinson Island | 772/225–3700, 800/775–5936 | www.marriott.com/pbiir | 204 rooms, 70 suites | No meals.
Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina.
$ | RESORT | This cozy enclave on the banks of the Manatee Pocket with ocean access at the southern end of Stuart is the perfect place to set forth on a day at sea or wind down after one—it’s relaxing and casual, and has amenities like a swimming pool courtyard, restaurant, and fitness center. The tropically furnished rooms are large and have balconies from which to enjoy the delightful waterfront views. The few suites include microwaves and refrigerators. There’s a restaurant and tiki bar by the water. Pros: spacious tropical-themed rooms; great for boaters, with a 50-slip full-service, deepwater marina; each room has a balcony overlooking the water; free Wi-Fi and parking. Cons: lounge gets noisy at night; decor and furnishings are pretty but not luxurious; pool is on the small side. | Rooms from: $165 | 4307 S.E. Bayview St., Port Salerno | 772/287–2500 | www.piratescoveresort.com | 50 rooms | No meals.
Performing Arts
Lyric Theatre.
On the National Register of Historic Places, this 1925 movie house has been revived for live performances ranging from Lily Tomlin’s one-woman show to orchestra performances to jazz concerts. With 500 seats, the theater feels intimate. | 59 S.W. Flagler Ave. | 772/286–7827 | www.lyrictheatre.com.
Shopping
More than 60 restaurants and shops with antiques, art, and fashion draw visitors downtown along Osceola Street.
B&A Flea Market.
A short drive from downtown and operating for more than two decades, the oldest and largest flea market on the Treasure Coast has a street-bazaar feel, with shoppers happily scouting the 500 vendors for the practical and unusual. A produce market carries local tropical fruits and vegetables. | 2885 S.E. U.S. 1 | 772/288–4915 | www.bafleamarket.com | Free | Weekends 8–3.
Sports and the Outdoors
Boat Tours
Island Princess Cruises.
Cruise the Indian River and St. Lucie River as well as Jupiter Sound aboard the Island Princess, an 82-footer that docks at the Sailfish Marina in Stuart. In season, there are nature cruises and “locks” cruises, going through the St. Lucie River locks. Have lunch or during their Jupiter Island cruise, embarking Tuesdays and weekends year-round. The schedule, which changes often, is posted on the company’s website. All ages are welcome, and advance reservations are required. | Sailfish Marina, 3585 S.E. St. Lucie Blvd. | 772/225–2100 | www.islandprincesscruises.com.
Fishing
Sailfish Marina of Stuart.
Nab a deep-sea charter here to land a sailfish, a popular sport fish that is prolific off the St. Lucie Inlet. This is the closest public marina to the St. Lucie Inlet. Recently expanded, it is home to Island Princess Cruises, which takes visitors to Vero Beach or Jupiter via the Intracoastal Waterway. | 3565 S.E. St. Lucie Blvd. | 772/283–1122 | www.sailfishmarinastuart.com.
Golf
Ocean Club at Hutchinson Island Marriott.
Membership or a hotel stay is required to play on the 18 holes of the Ocean Club at Hutchinson Island Marriott. The Charles Ankdrom–designed executive course opened in 1978 and is ranked one of the top executive courses in the U.S. by Golf Digest. In 2014, a redesign of the greens complex included new greenside bunkers and new putting surfaces. Along with a range and putting green, it has a warm-up aqua range. Carts are required. | Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina, 555 N.E. Ocean Blvd. | 772/225–6819 | www.marriott.com | 18 holes for $66; 9 holes for $47, includes cart. | 18 holes, 4048 yards, par 61.
Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie
11 miles north of Jensen Beach.
About an hour north of Palm Beach, Fort Pierce has a distinctive rural feel—but it has a surprising number of worthwhile attractions for a town of its size, including those easily seen while following Route 707 on the mainland (A1A on Hutchinson Island). A big draw is an inlet that offers fabulous fishing and excellent surfing. Nearby Port St. Lucie is largely landlocked southwest of Fort Pierce and is almost equidistant from there and Jensen Beach. It’s not a big tourist area except for two sports facilities near I–95: the St. Lucie Mets’ training grounds, Tradition Field, and the PGA Village. If you want a hotel directly on the sand or crave more than simple, motel-like accommodations, stay elsewhere and drive up for the day.
Getting Here and Around
You can reach Fort Pierce from Jensen Beach by driving 11 miles north on Federal Highway (U.S. 1), Route 707, or Route A1A. To get to Port St. Lucie, continue north on U.S. 1 and take Prima Vista Boulevard west. From Fort Pierce, Route 709 goes diagonally southwest to Port St. Lucie, and I–95 is another choice.
Essentials
Visitor Information
St. Lucie County Tourist Development Council. | 2300 Virginia Ave. | 800/344–8443 | www.visitstluciefla.com.
Exploring
A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery.
Works by one of Florida’s foremost landscape artists, Albert Ernest Backus (1906–90), are on display at this museum. It also mounts changing exhibits and offers exceptional buys on paintings, pottery, and jewelry by local artists. | 500 N. Indian River Dr. | 772/465–0630 | www.backusgallery.com | $2 | Oct.–June, Wed.–Sat. 10–4, Sun. noon–4; summer hrs by appointment.
Heathcote Botanical Gardens.
Stroll through this 3½-acre green space, which includes a palm walk, a Japanese garden, and a collection of 100 bonsai trees. There is also a gift shop with whimsical and botanical knickknacks. Guided tours are available by appointment for an extra fee. | 210 Savannah Rd. | 772/464–0323 | www.heathcotebotanicalgardens.org | $6 | Nov.–Apr., Tues.–Sat. 9–5, Sun. 1–5; May–Oct., Tues.–Sat. 9–5.
National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum.
Commemorating the more than 3,000 troops who trained on these shores during World War II when this elite military unit got its start, there are weapons, vehicles, and equipment on view. Exhibits honor all frogmen and underwater demolition teams and depict their history. The museum houses the lifeboat from which SEALs saved the Maersk Alabama captain from Somali pirates in 2009. Kids get a thrill out of the helicopters and aircraft on the grounds. | 3300 N. Rte. A1A | 772/595–5845 | www.navysealmuseum.com | $8 | Tues.–Sat. 10–4, Sun. noon–4.
FAMILY | Savannas Recreation Area.
Once a reservoir, the 550 acres have been returned to their natural wetlands state. Today the wilderness area has campgrounds, interpretive trails, and a boat ramp, and the recreation area is open year-round. Canoe and kayak rentals are available Thursday through Monday. A dog park (open daily) is also on-site. Amenities include showers, toilets, and free Wi-Fi for campers. | 1400 E. Midway Rd. | 772/464–7855 | www.stlucieco.gov/parks/savannas.htm | Free | Daily 6:30–6:30.
FAMILY | Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit.
Housed in the St. Lucie County Aquarium and run by the Smithsonian Institute, whose research facility next door is where scientists study local ecosystems (once-monthly tours are organized), this facility has a 3,000-gallon coral-reef tank, originally located in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. The parklike setting, where children love to play, makes it an ideal picnic destination. Admission is free on the first Tuesday of every month. | 420 Seaway Dr. | 772/462–3474 | www.sms.si.edu/smee | $4 | Tues.–Sat. 10–4, Sun. noon–4. Jan.–Mar., also Mon. 10–4.
St. Lucie County Regional History Center.
Highlights here include a Seminole dugout canoe, pictures from the Hill Photographic Collection, and a life-size recreation of the P.P. Cobb General Store. A room is also devoted to the U.S. Navy Amphibious Training Base of World War II, which was done on St. Lucie’s beaches. A guided tour of the 1908 Register-Gardner House with furnishings typical of the period is included in the price of admission. | 414 Seaway Dr. | 772/462–1795 | www.stlucieco.gov/history | $4 | Wed.–Sat. 10–4, Sun. 1–4.
Beaches
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park.
Across the inlet at the northern side of Hutchinson Island, a fishing oasis lures beachgoers who can’t wait to reel in snook, flounder, and bluefish, among others. The park is also known as a prime wave-riding locale, thanks to a reef that lies just outside the jetty. Summer is the busiest season by a long shot, but don’t be fooled: it’s a laid-back place to sun and surf. There are covered picnic tables but no concessions; however, from where anglers perch, a bunch of casual restaurants can be spotted on the other side of the inlet that are a quick drive away. Note that the area of Jack Island Preserve has been closed indefinitely. Amenities: toilets; showers; parking (fee); lifeguards (summer only). Best for: surfing; walking; solitude. | 905 Shorewinds Dr. | 772/468–3985 | www.floridastateparks.org/fortpierceinlet | Vehicle $6, bicyclists and pedestrians $2 | Daily 8–sunset.
Where to Stay
Dockside Inn.
$ | HOTEL | This hotel is the best of the lodgings lining the scenic Fort Pierce Inlet on Seaway Drive (and that’s not saying much); it’s a practical base for fishing enthusiasts with nice touches like two pools and a waterfront restaurant. Spacious, simply furnished units on two floors have kitchens or wet bars, and the staff puts fruit and pastries in the rooms each morning. Some rooms have a waterfront porch or balcony. A small cluster of apartments is across the street, away from the water and very quiet. Overnight boat docking is available for an additional $30 per night, and there’s a sports outfitter at the marina with boat charters. Pros: good value; overnight boat docking available; reasonable rates at marina; parking included. Cons: basic decor; some steps to climb; grounds are nothing too fancy but have great views. | Rooms from: $139 | 1160 Seaway Dr. | 772/468–3555, 800/286–1745 | www.docksideinn.com | 36 rooms | No meals.
Sports and the Outdoors
Baseball
Tradition Field.
Out west by I–95, this Port St. Lucie baseball stadium, formerly known as Digital Domain Park as well as Thomas J. White Stadium, is where the New York Mets train; it’s also the home of the St. Lucie Mets minor league team. | 525 N.W. Peacock Blvd. | Port St. Lucie | 772/871–2115 | www.stluciemets.com.
Golf
PGA Village.
Owned and operated by the PGA of America, the national association of teaching pros, PGA Village is the winter home to many Northern instructors, along with permanent staff. The facility is a little off the beaten path and the clubhouse is basic, but serious golfers will appreciate the three championship courses by Pete Dye and Tom Fazio and the chance to sharpen their skills at the 35-acre PGA Center for Golf Learning and Performance, which has nine practice bunkers mimicking sands and slopes from around the globe. Between the Fazio-designed Wanamaker Course, the Ryder Course, and the Dye-designed Dye Course, there are 54 holes of championship golf at PGA Village. Also affiliated is the nearby St. Lucie Trail Golf Club. Beginners can start out on the lesser known (and easier) 6-hole PGA Short Course. Holes are 35 to 60 yards each, and course play is free. | 1916 Perfect Dr. | Port St. Lucie | 772/467–1300, 800/800–4653 | www.pgavillage.com | Wanamaker Course: 18 holes for $129; Ryder Course: 18 holes for $59; Dye Course: 18 holes for $44. St. Lucie Trail Golf Club: 18 holes for $49 | Wanamaker Course: 18 holes, 7123 yards, par 72; Ryder Course: 18 holes, 7037 yards, par 72; Dye Course: 18 holes, 7279 yards, par 72; St. Lucie Golf Club Trail Course: 18 holes, 6901 yards, par 72.
Scuba Diving
The region’s premier dive site is actually on the National Register of Historic Places. The Urca de Lima was part of the storied treasure fleet bound for Spain that was destroyed by a hurricane in 1715. It’s now part of an underwater archaeological preserve about 200 yards from shore, just north of the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum and under 10 to 15 feet of water. The remains contain a flat-bottom, round-bellied ship and cannons that can be visited on an organized dive trip.
Dive Odyssea.
This full-service dive shop offers kayak rentals, tank rentals, and scuba lessons. The shop can arrange a scuba charter in Jupiter or Palm Beach (two-tank dive trips typically start at $65), but Dive Odyssea no longer offers dive trips of its own. | Fort Pierce Inlet, 621 N. 2nd St. | 772/460–1771 | www.diveodyssea.com.
Vero Beach and Sebastian
12 miles north of Fort Pierce.
Tranquil and picturesque, these Indian River County towns have a strong commitment to the environment and culture, particularly to the upscale yet low-key Vero Beach, which is home to eclectic galleries and even trendy restaurants. Sebastian, a coastal fishing village that feels as remote as possible between Jacksonville and Miami Beach, has plenty of outdoor activities—including those at the Sebastian Inlet State Park, one of Florida’s biggest and best recreation areas (and a paradise for surfers). It’s actually within the boundaries of the federal government’s massive protected Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses several smaller parks within its boundaries. Downtown Vero is centered on the historic district on 14th Avenue, but much of the fun takes place across the Indian River (aka the Intracoastal Waterway) around Orchid Island’s beaches.
Getting Here and Around
To get here, you have two basic options: Route A1A along the coast (not to be confused with Ocean Drive, an offshoot on Orchid Island), or either U.S. 1 or Route 605 (also called Old Dixie Highway) on the mainland. As you approach Vero on the latter, you pass through an ungussied-up landscape of small farms and residential areas. On the beach route, part of the drive bisects an unusually undeveloped section of the Florida coast. If flying in, consider Orlando International Airport, which is larger and a smidge closer than Palm Beach International Airport.
Essentials
Visitor Information
Indian River County Chamber of Commerce. | 1216 21st St. | 772/567–3491 | www.indianriverchamber.com.
Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce. | 700 Main St. | Sebastian | 772/589–5969 | www.sebastianchamber.com.
Exploring
Environmental Learning Center.
Off of Wabasso Beach Road, the 64 acres here are almost completely surrounded by water. In addition to a 600-foot boardwalk through the mangrove shoreline and a 1-mile canoe trail, there are aquariums filled with Indian River creatures. Boat and kayak trips to see the historic Pelican Island rookery are on offer along with guided nature walks and touch tank encounters. Call or check the center’s website for times. | 255 Live Oak Dr. | 772/589–5050 | www.discoverelc.org | $5 | Tues.–Fri. 10–4, Sat. 9–noon (until 4 in winter), Sun. 1–4.
Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum.
You’ll learn that more grapefruit is shipped from the Indian River area than anywhere else in the world at this museum in downtown Vero Beach. The memorabilia harks back to when families washed and wrapped the luscious fruit to sell at roadside stands, and cattle hauled citrus-filled crates with distinctive Indian River labels to the rail station. | 2140 14th Ave. | 772/770–2263 | www.veroheritage.org | Free (donations appreciated) | Sept.–May, Tues.–Fri. 10–4; June–Aug., Tues.–Fri. 10–3.
Fodor’s Choice | McKee Botanical Garden.
On the National Register of Historic Places, the 18-acre plot is a tropical jungle garden—one of the most lush and serene around. This is the place to see spectacular water lilies, and the property’s original 1932 Hall of Giants, a rustic wooden structure that has stained-glass and bronze bells, contains the world’s largest single-plank mahogany table at 35 feet long. There’s a Seminole bamboo pavilion, a gift shop, and café (open for lunch Tuesday through Saturday—and Sunday in season), which serves especially tasty snacks and sandwiches. | 350 U.S. 1 | 772/794–0601 | www.mckeegarden.org | $12 | Tues.–Sat. 10–5, Sun. noon–5.
McLarty Treasure Museum.
On a National Historic Landmark site on the southern boundary of Sebastian Inlet State Park, this museum underscores the credo: “Wherever gold glitters or silver beckons, man will move mountains.” On display are coins, weapons, and tools salvaged from the fleet of Spanish treasure ships that sank here in the 1715 storm, leaving some 1,500 survivors struggling to shore between Sebastian and Fort Pierce. The museum sits on the site of the survivors’ camp. The museum’s last video showing of “The Queen’s Jewels and the 1715 Fleet” begins at 3:15. | Sebastian Inlet State Park, 13180 Rte. A1A | Sebastian | 772/589–2147 | www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet/activities.cfm | $2 | Daily 10–4.
Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum.
You’ll really come upon hidden loot when you enter this place operated by the family of late treasure hunter Mel Fisher. See some of what he recovered in 1985 from the Spanish Atocha that sank in 1622 and dumped 100,000 gold coins, Colombian emeralds, and 1,000 silver bars into Florida’s high seas—and what his team still salvages each year off the Treasure Coast. The museum certainly piques one’s curiosity about what is still buried, and the website is all about the quest for more booty. | 1322 U.S. 1 | Sebastian | 772/589–9875 | www.melfisher.com | $6.50 | Mon.–Sat. 10–5, Sun. noon–5 | Closed Sept.
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Founded in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt as the country’s first national wildlife refuge, the park encompasses the historic Pelican Island rookery itself—a small island in the Indian River Lagoon and important nesting place for 16 species of birds such as endangered wood storks and, of course, brown pelicans—and the land surrounding it overlooking Sebastian. The rookery is a closed wilderness area, so there’s no roaming alongside animal kingdom friends; however, there is an 18-foot observation tower across from it with direct views and more than 6 miles of nature trails in the refuge. Another way to explore is via guided kayak tours from the Florida Outdoor Center. Make sure to bring a camera—it’s a photographer’s dream. | Rte. A1A, 1 mile north of Treasure Shores Park | Take A1A and turn on Historic Jungle Trail | 772/581–5557 | www.fws.gov/pelicanisland | Free | Daily 7:30–sunset.
Vero Beach Museum of Art.
The museum’s five galleries and two sculpture gardens make it the largest arts facility on the Treasure Coast. It houses varying regional, state and national art exhibits, plus it hosts a full schedule of films, lectures, workshops, and classes. | 3001 Riverside Park Dr. | 772/231–0707 | www.verobeachmuseum.org | $10 | Labor Day–Memorial Day, Mon.–Sat. 10–4:30, Sun. 1–4:30; Memorial Day–Labor Day, Tues.–Sat. 10–4:30, Sun. 1–4:30.
Beaches
Most of the hotels in the Vero Beach area are clustered around South Beach Park or line Ocean Drive around Beachland Boulevard just north of Humiston Park. Both parks have lifeguards daily. South Beach, at the end of East Causeway Boulevard, is one of the widest, quietest shores on the island, and has plenty of hammock shade before the dunes to picnic in, plus volleyball nets on the beach. Humiston Park is smack-dab in the main commercial zone with restaurants galore, including the lauded Citrus Grillhouse at its southern tip.
Humiston Park.
Just south of the Driftwood Resort on Ocean Drive sits Humiston Park, one of the best beaches in town. Parking is free and plentiful, as there’s a large lot on Easter Lily Lane and there are spots all over the surrounding business district. The shore is somewhat narrow and there isn’t much shade, but the vibrant scene and other amenities make it a great choice for people who crave lots of activity. With lifeguards on call daily, there’s a children’s playground, plus several hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance. Amenities: lifeguards; food and drink; toilets; showers. Best for: swimming; partiers; sunsets; walking. | 3000 Ocean Dr., at Easter Lily La. | 772/231–5790.
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Sebastian Inlet State Park.
The 1000-acre park, which spans from the tip of Orchid Island across the passage to the barrier island just north, is one of the Florida park system’s biggest draws, especially because of the inlet’s highly productive fishing waters. Views from either side of the tall bridge are spectacular, and a unique hallmark is that the gates never close. Two jetties are usually packed with fishers and spectators alike. The park has two entrances, the entrance in Vero Beach and the main entrance in Melbourne (9700 Rte. A1A). Within its grounds, you’ll discover a wonderful two-story restaurant that overlooks the ocean, a fish and surfing shop (by the way, this place has some of the best waves in the state, but there are also calmer zones for relaxing swims), two museums, guided sea turtle walks in season, 51 campsites with water and electricity, and a marina with powerboat, kayak, and canoe rentals. Amenities: food and drink; parking (fee); showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: surfing; sunrise; sunset; walking. | 14251 N. Rte. A1A | 321/984–4852 | www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet | $8 vehicles with up to 8 people, $4 single drivers, $2 bicyclists and pedestrians | Daily 24 hrs (gates never close).
FAMILY | Treasure Shores Beach Park.
Beautiful sand dunes and verdant grounds await at this quiet turf immediately north of the last swath of development before the drive to Sebastian Inlet. It’s a perfect place to commune with nature, or it’s a good spot if you want to feel like you own the beach, as sometimes there’s no one except you. Children will delight in the pirate-ship-themed playground on-site, and there are plenty of picnic tables (but no grills) plus lots of shade throughout the landscaped section beside the beach. Amenities: parking (free); toilets; showers. Best for: solitude; swimming. | 11300 N. Rte. A1A | 772/581–4997.
FAMILY | Wabasso Beach Park.
A favorite for local surfboarding teens and the families at the nearby Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, the park is nestled in a residential area at the end of Wabasso Road, about 8 miles up from the action on Ocean Drive and 8 miles below the Sebastian Inlet. Aside from regular amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, and a dedicated parking lot (which really is the “park” here—there’s not much green space—and it’s quite small, so arrive early), the Disney crowd walks there for its lifeguards (the strip directly in front of the hotel is unguarded) and the local crowd appreciates its conveniences, like a pizzeria and a store that sells sundries, snacks, and beach supplies. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking (free); toilets; showers. Best for: swimming; surfing. | 1820 Wabasso Rd. | Daily 7–sunset.
Where to Eat
Capt Hiram’s Riverfront Restaurant.
$$ | SEAFOOD | This beachy riverside outpost on the tidal lagoon across from the Sebastian Inlet is easygoing and fun. Snag a table in the sand or on a wooden deck overlooking the water, and munch on conch fritters, “dirty” oysters (with caviar), and “triple trouble” tacos, or dig into a hearty grilled jumbo shrimp dinner or broiled warm water lobster tail. Bands jam on the outdoor stage at the SandBar Friday and Saturday nights; Sunday afternoons are reserved for reggae (several of Bob Marley’s sons have made appearances). | Average main: $16 | Capt Hiram’s Resort, 1606 N. Indian River Dr. | Sebastian | 772/589–4345 | www.hirams.com | Reservations not accepted.
Fodor’s Choice | Citrus Grillhouse.
$$$ | MODERN AMERICAN | There are rooms with a view, and then there’s this view: uninterrupted sea from a wraparound veranda at the southern end of Humiston Park. Even better, the food here is a straightforward, delicious celebration of fresh and fabulous. One such dish—the fire-roasted baby squid with grilled lemon, garlic, toasted crouton—is an exercise in restraint that you can’t help but gobble up. Speaking of gobble-gobble, the herb-roasted breast of turkey sandwich with arugula, tomato, red onion, and red-wine vinaigrette on a toasted sesame roll is the idyllic light lunch on the beach. Sunset lovers (and bargain hunters) rejoice over the three-course prix-fixe menu Monday through Thursday from 5 to 6 pm. | Average main: $24 | Humiston Park, 1050 Easter Lily La. | 772/234–4114 | www.citrusgrillhouse.com | No lunch Sun.
FAMILY | The Lemon Tree.
$$ | DINER | If Italy had old school luncheonettes, this is what they’d look like: a storefront of yellow walls, dark-green booths, white linoleum tables, and cascading sconces of faux ivy leaves and hand-painted Tuscan serving pieces for artwork. It’s self-described by the husband-wife owners (who are always at the front) as an “upscale diner,” and locals swear by it for breakfast (served all day) and lunch. Expect a short wait any day in season at peak hours. There’s always a treat on the house, like a glass of sorbet to finish lunch; and don’t miss the shrimp scampi—the sauce is so good, you’ll want to dip every bit of the fresh focaccia in it. | Average main: $20 | 3125 Ocean Dr. | www.lemontreevero.com | No lunch or dinner Sun. No dinner June–Sept.
Ocean Grill.
$$$ | SEAFOOD | Opened in 1941, this family-owned Old Florida-style restaurant combines its ocean view with Tiffany-style lamps, wrought-iron chandeliers, and paintings of pirates. Count on at least three kinds of seafood any day on the menu, along with steaks, pork chops, soups, and salads. The house drink is “Pusser’s Painkiller”—a curious blend first mixed by British sailors in the Virgin Islands and rationed in a tin cup. It commemorates the 1894 wreck of the Breconshire, which occurred offshore and from which 34 British sailors escaped. | Average main: $28 | 1050 Beachland Blvd. | 772/231–5409 | www.ocean-grill.com | Closed 2 wks around Labor Day. No lunch Sun.
Fodor’s Choice | The Tides.
$$$ | ECLECTIC | A charming cottage restaurant west of Ocean Drive prepares some of the best food around—not just in Vero Beach, but all of South Florida. The chefs, classically trained, give a nod to international fare with disparate dishes such as tuna tataki, Asian-inspired carpaccio with satay, penne quattro formaggi, and classic lobster bisque. The setting is effortlessly elegant and service top-notch. An appetizer’s two jumbo crab cakes have scarcely anything but sweet, fresh flesh; a Southern-inspired corn-and-pepper sauce naps them. Floridian fish are a focus, testament to the chef’s commitment to local sourcing. Adventurous eaters may want to book the Chef’s Table, where the chef’s choice menu is paired with wines from an impressive list. | Average main: $27 | 3103 Cardinal Dr. | 772/234–3966 | www.tidesofvero.com | Reservations essential | No lunch.
Where to Stay
Aquarius Oceanfront Motel.
$ | HOTEL | Right on the shore beneath the beautiful South Beach Park, this small, unpretentious resort (read: coin laundry) with a relaxing seaside outdoor lounge area has loyal guests who book a year in advance for rooms that are simple but have conveniences like full kitchens. Ask for Rooms 125 and 126, which have balconies overlooking the beach; most others face the parking lot. A few good restaurants are within walking distance, and it’s a short drive to the plethora along Ocean Drive. The area by the beach is quite lovely with a small pool, two shuffleboards, tiki huts for shade, and plenty of beach chairs. Pros: on a quiet, wide stretch of sand; tiki huts and loads of chairs by beach and pool; free Wi-Fi. Cons: steps to climb; tight parking lot; dated decor and fixtures; no restaurant. | Rooms from: $119 | 1526 Ocean Dr. | 772/231–5218, 877/767–1526 | www.aquariusverobeach.com | 28 rooms | No meals.
Capt Hiram’s Resort.
$ | HOTEL | Popular with boaters, this Key West–style inn on Sebastian’s Riverfront has a lobby embellished with a classic surfboard collection and renovated (but still no-frills) guest rooms, all of which have private balconies (and most, oak furnishings). Suites include refrigerators and wet bars. A heated pool has a tropical sundeck, shaded by tables with umbrellas. Bands jam on the outdoor stage at the hotel’s main bar, SandBar, on Friday and Saturday nights; Sunday afternoons are reserved for reggae (several of Bob Marley’s sons have made appearances). A friendly staff greets and serves you. Guests get a free hour of kayak, paddleboard, or bike use. Pros: great location for fishing; good price; plenty of amenities; pet friendly. Cons: eastern rooms can be noisy; simple decor. | Rooms from: $125 | 1580 U.S. 1 | Sebastian | 772/388–8588 | www.hirams.com | 67 rooms | No meals.
Fodor’s Choice | Costa d’Este Beach Resort.
$$ | RESORT | This stylish, contemporary boutique hotel in the heart of Vero’s bustling Ocean Drive area has a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the ocean and a distinctly Miami Beach vibe—just like its famous owners, singer Gloria Estefan and producer Emilio Estefan, who bought the property in 2004. The architecture features geometrical designs, apparent as you arrive at the impressive porte-cochere entrance. Bold graphic prints decorate the common areas along with pieces of unique seagrass furniture woven in punchy, modern shapes. Rooms are sleek and filled with custom-made furnishings, teak paneling, and porthole windows. You get the feeling of being in a modern yacht with broad ocean views. Staff are friendly and accommodating. The Wave, the resort’s restaurant, has become a favorite of locals, who come for the fresh seasonal menu and a DJ who spins on weekend nights. Pros: all rooms have balconies or secluded patios; huge Italian marble showers; complimentary signature mojitos on arrival. Cons: spa is on small side; rooms have only blackout shades; daily resort fee. | Rooms from: $239 | 3244 Ocean Dr. | 772/562–9919 | www.costadeste.com | 94 rooms | No meals.
FAMILY | Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.
$$$ | RESORT | This oceanfront, family-oriented retreat tucked away in a residential stretch of Orchid Island has a retro Old Florida design and not too much Mickey Mouse, which is a welcome surprise for adults. It’s part of Disney’s time-share program but also rents available rooms just like any other hotel. The artfully conceived four-story main building, separate villas, and six beach cottages are reminiscent of 19th-century Florida, and you will find hidden treasurers related to sea turtles and Florida’s rich history. All rooms come equipped with wet bars, mini-refrigerators, toasters, and microwaves; upgraded rooms offer full kitchens and laundry facilities. Although there are not too many dining options in the immediate area, the resort has some great eateries of its own: Shutters serves American food and has character breakfasts on Saturday morning, and Sonya’s has wood-fired steaks and creative seafood. The highest rates here are in the summer, so spring, fall, and winter (except for two weeks in March) are perfect times to find deals, and it’s an easy drive to Disney World in Orlando (just about 90 minutes). Pros: a great pool with waterslide and kiddie splash pool; campfire circle; several dining options on property. Cons: far from shopping and dining options; minimal Disney-themed decor. | Rooms from: $365 | 9250 Island Grove Terr. | 772/234–2000, 407/939–7540 | www.disneybeachresorts.com/vero-beach-resort/ | 181 rooms | No meals.
FAMILY | The Driftwood Resort.
$ | RESORT | On the National Register of Historic Places, the two original buildings of this 1935 inn were built entirely from ocean-washed timbers with no blueprints; over time more buildings were added, and all are now decorated with such artifacts as ship’s bells, Spanish tiles, and a cannon from a 16th-century Spanish galleon, and plenty of wrought iron, which create a quirky, utterly charming landscape. The resort operates as both a time-share and a regular hotel (the website is just for informational purposes, so you must call to book rooms), and the complex has nine buildings on the beach with both modern and historic rooms and two swimming pools. It attracts guests from around the world, who sit in wooden rockers facing the beach, and extended-length stays are available. Waldo’s restaurant and bar are on property, with several other choices across the street as well. Live music on weekends draws crowds to the pool. Pros: central location and right on the beach; free Wi-Fi; laundry facilities; weekly treasure hunt is a blast. Cons: older property; rooms can be musty; no-frills furnishings. | Rooms from: $150 | 3150 Ocean Dr. | 772/231–0550 | www.verobeachdriftwood.com | 100 rooms | No meals.
Sea Spray Inn.
$ | HOTEL | Built in the 1950s, this charming little motel-type lodge is conveniently located one block from South Beach on a quiet stretch of the causeway that goes to the mainland. A renovation amped up the Old Florida feel with pretty pastel paint, vintage artwork, and white wicker furniture in 2010. The plumbing and fixtures are mostly of the earlier era, and bathrooms are small, but you quickly look past them because all of the studios and one-bedrooms are spacious and have their own full kitchens, and the nightly price is just right. In addition to being steps away from one of the widest and most beautiful beaches in the area, the hotel has a heated pool and a rooftop tiki sundeck, and is a 2-mile bike ride from the Ocean Drive business district. Pros: extended stays available; complimentary bicycles plus beach chairs and umbrellas for guest use; free Wi-Fi; laundry facilities. Cons: no restaurant; building showing signs of age; small pool. | Rooms from: $149 | 965 E. Causeway Blvd. | 772/231–5210 | www.seasprayinnverobeach.com | 17 rooms | No meals.
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Vero Beach Hotel & Spa.
$$ | RESORT | With a sophisticated, relaxed British West Indies feel, this luxurious five-story beachfront hotel at the north end of Ocean Drive is an inviting getaway and, arguably, the best on the Treasure Coast. All rooms are tastefully decorated and have an upscale island look with dark-wood accents; many have patios opening onto the pool or balconies with ocean views. Spacious one- and two-bedroom suites have sitting areas and sleeper sofas and dining rooms with wet bars. The fantastic Cobalt restaurant has stunning views of the water and a sleek setting; Heaton’s Reef is a more casual bar and grill with outdoor seating. Like other Kimpton hotels, this one is pet friendly, so much so that there are treats in the lobby and you can request plush beds for your furry friends. The hotel also boasts a top-notch full-service medi-spa and salon with a devoted local following. Pros: beautiful pool; complimentary daily wine hour with hors d’oeuvres. Cons: separate charge for valet parking; some rooms overlook parking lot. | Rooms from: $279 | 3500 Ocean Dr. | 772/231–5666 | www.verobeachhotelandspa.com | 102 rooms | No meals.
Performing Arts
FAMILY | Riverside Children’s Theatre.
A series of professional touring and local productions are staged throughout the year at the Riverside’s Agnes Wahlstrom Youth Playhouse and Anne Morton Theatre. | 3280 Riverside Park Dr. | 772/234–8052 | www.riversidetheatre.com.
Riverside Theatre.
From October to May, this renowned center hosts Broadway-style productions at the 692-seat Stark Stage, and smaller, challenging works at the 250-seat Waxlax Stage. The 2015–16 season includes A Chorus Line, Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike, Sister Act, and Freud’s Last Session. | 3250 Riverside Park Dr. | 772/231–6990 box office | www.riversidetheatre.com.
Shopping
The place to go when in Vero Beach is Ocean Drive. Crossing over to Orchid Island from the mainland, the Merrill P. Barber Bridge turns into Beachland Boulevard; its intersection with Ocean Drive is the heart of a commercial zone with a lively mix of upscale clothing stores, specialty shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Just under 3 miles north of that roughly eight-block stretch on A1A is a charming outdoor plaza, the Village Shops. It’s a delight to stroll between the brightly painted cottages that have more unique, high-end offerings.
Back on the mainland, take 21st Street westward and you’ll come across a small, modern shopping plaza with some independent shops and national chains. Keep going west on 21st Street, and then park around 14th Avenue to explore a collection of art galleries and eateries in the historic downtown.
Shopping Centers and Malls
Vero Beach Outlets.
Need some retail therapy? Just west of I–95 off Route 60 is a discount shopping destination with 50 high-end brand-name stores, including Ann Taylor, Calvin Klein, Christopher & Banks, Dooney & Bourke, Polo Ralph Lauren, Restoration Hardware, White House/Black Market, and Jones New York. | 1824 94th Dr. | On Rte. 60, West of I–95 at Exit 147 | 772/770–6097 | www.verobeachoutlets.com.
Recommended Stores
A Pampered Life.
This boutique, spa, and salon combo sells robes that are so fun and flirty, they can double as dresses. The boutique walls share space with indulgent bath and facial products. Before or after shopping, check out the onsite spa, which specializes in deluxe facial treatments and make-up services for special events. A new salon features hair styling and nail care. | 3117 Ocean Dr. | 772/231–8864 | www.apamperedlife.net.
Maison Beach.
Formerly called Christine, the owner changed the name of this cute shop and moved to Pelican Plaza. It still is the place to find gorgeous hostess and dining entertainment gifts like Mariposa napkin holders, Julia Knight bowls, and Michael Aram picture frames, along with trendy Mudpie household ware. | Pelican Plaza, 4895 Hwy. A1A | 772/492–0383 | www.christineshop.com.
Sassy Boutique.
One of the chicest spots in town sells bright, punchy, and pretty women’s designer fashions such as Calypso St. Barth, Kate Spade New York, Kenneth Jay Lane, Stacia, and Nanette Lepore. | 3375 Ocean Dr. | 772/234–3998 | www.sassyboutique.com.
Shells & Things.
Stop here for lovely handcrafted goods inspired by the sea, many by local artisans. Choose from jewelry, candles, gifts for kids, home decor items, and artwork. | 3119 Ocean Dr. | 772/234–4790 | www.shellsandthings.com.
Sports and the Outdoors
Boating and Fishing
Most of the region’s fishing outfitters are based at the Capt. Hiram’s Resort marina in Sebastian, though fly-fishing is popular here in the river, and there are a few guides available.
Big Easy Fishing Charters.
For more than 40 years, Big Easy has offered Sebastian off-shore fishing, including guided backwater and deep-sea excursions. The boat is a 37-foot custom sport fisherman, originally built for the U.S. Navy, and is captained by Terry Wildey. Charters cost $650 for five hours, $750 for seven hours, and $859 for nine hours; the boat holds up to six people. | Capt Hiram’s Resort, 1606 N. Indian River Dr. | Sebastian | 772/538–1072 | www.bigeasyfishingcharter.com.
Incentive Fishing Charters.
Join Captain Bruce Alcock for expert-led bottom-fishing and ocean trolling on a 33-foot sportfishing boat. Rates are $650 for a half-day and $850 for a full day; the boat will accommodate up to six anglers. | Capt Hiram’s Resort, 1606 N. Indian River Dr. | Sebastian | 321/676–1948 | www.incentivecharters.com.
Sebastian Watercraft Rentals.
Based at Capt Hiram’s Resort, this rental company has a fleet that ranges from 16-passenger pontoons and 18-foot sport boats to Waverunners. The company also organizes fishing charters on the Indian River and rents fishing gear. | Capt Hiram’s Resort, 1606 N. Indian River Dr. | Sebastian | 772/589–5560 | www.floridawatercraftrentals.com.
Skipper Sportfishing Charters.
Based at the marina at Capt. Hiram’s Resort, Captain Eric Olsen offers full- and half-day ocean and river fishing trips aboard a 23-foot Mako for one to three anglers at $500 and $300, respectively. | Capt. Hiram’s Resort, 1606 N. Indian River Dr. | Sebastian | 772/589–8505 | www.skipperfish.com.
Golf
Sandridge Golf Club.
The Sandridge Golf Club features two public 18-hole courses designed by Ron Garl: the Dunes course, with six holes located on a sand ridge; and the Lakes course, named for—you guessed it—the ubiquitous lakes around the course. The Dunes course, opened in 1987, follows a history-steeped pathway once used during mining operations. The Lakes course, opened in 1992, is renowned for the very challenging, par-4 14th hole with an island green. There’s a pro shop on site offering lessons and clinics. Florida and Indian River County residents can get membership cards to book tee times eight days out—and get discounts for play. | 5300 73rd St. | 772/770–5000 | www.sandridgegc.com | $53.50 for 18 holes | Dunes course: 18 holes, 6817 yards, par 72; Lakes course: 18 holes, 6181 yards, par 72.
Guided Tours
Florida Outdoor Center.
Guided tours explore the area’s natural wonders like the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge and begin at only $45 per adult. Tours include the Adventure Walk, a Bird Biking Safari, or Wildlife Watching Paddling Excursion. The company is mobile, launching from numerous sites, and, therefore, flexible. A van is available for pick-up at hotels, and they accommodate trekkers ages two and older. | 772/202–0220 | www.floridaoutdoorcenter.com.