Vero Beach is a pristine coastal city located on the Treasure Coast of Florida. While it may sound confusing, Vero Beach itself is not a beach, but there are several beaches in the city. Visitors can have the perfect vacation at Vero Beach. When not lounging on the sandy shores, there are plenty of art galleries, antique stores, fancy restaurants, and specialty shops to peruse through and patron. Outdoorsy types can get their fill of hiking, boating, and fishing, while old souls can unwind on one of the many golf courses. Of course, families with kids need not worry as there are some excellent water parks to keep things interesting for all members of the family.
When To Visit Vero Beach
The best time to visit Vero Beach is in the summer. The summer months last between June and September when the temperature averages at around 80F (23C). The winter months are slightly too cold for a beach vacation, as the temperatures drop down to 50F (11C), especially in the mornings and evenings. Goldilocks visitors who prefer moderate weather might want to visit in May or October -- during the spring and fall -- when it's not too hot and not too cold. Keep in mind that during the summers, it does tend to rain, which can certainly dampen the perfect beach day.
What To Do In Vero Beach
Beaches
There are three main beaches in Vero Beach. The most popular one is South Beach, which attracts most tourists and spring breakers. A more upscale beach near the financial district of Vero Beach is Humiston Park, which is adjacent to Conn Beach. Visitors who prefer privacy and intimacy will have to go out of their way to access one of the several beaches that can only be reached via walkways and hiking trails. These beaches include Riomar Beach, Sea Cove, Sea Grape Trail, Sexton Plaza, and Turtle Trail. At any one of these "hidden" beaches, visitors can enjoy relative peace and quiet. Grab a book, some waterproof speakers, and a picnic basket, and enjoy the sunsets glimmering on the ancient waters of the Gulf Coast.
Resorts
Seeing that Vero Beach is in Florida, there is, of course, a Disney Resort nearby. In the town of Wabasso, just north of Vero Beach, Disney's Vero Beach Resort boasts 14 private golf clubs, top-class amenities, water sports, and wildlife interactions.
- Address: 9250 Island Grove Terrace, Vero Beach, FL 32963, United States
- Price per night: $443 for a Deluxe Studio that sleeps four people
- Amenities: State-of-the-art fitness facilities, personal golf lessons, sea turtle conservation and outings, private beach access
Wildlife and Nature
As the United States' first National Wildlife Refuge, Pelican Island consists of 5,400 acres of protected land and water. The Island shelters 130 different species of birds in addition to manatees and sea turtles. Visitors can embark on boat tours and kayak rides through the surrounding Indian River Lagoon, or step onto the lush island and enjoy the views from the refuge's Centennial Trail.
Another must-see attraction for nature lovers is the McKee Botanical Garden, where the vibrant tropical plants and water lily–filled streams are bound to make your imagination wander. The garden offers a plethora of different classes and special events, and notable exhibits include a dinosaur park, a historic water lily garden, and a mesmerizing stickwork sculpture.
Arts & Culture
With five art galleries, a sculpture garden, and an education wing, the Vero Beach Museum of Art offers visitors an immersive exploration of the humanities, the musical and dramatic arts, and the region's rich culture. Costing just $8 to enter, and offering free admission on the first Saturday of each month, this cultural gem at Vero Beach is an exciting attraction, perfect for children and adults alike.
- Name: Vero Beach Museum of Art
- Admission fee: $8
Situated on the south end of the Sebastian Inlet State Park, the McClarty Treasure Museum offers visitors a unique look at a historic shipwreck that occurred in 1715 off the coast of Vero Beach. Immersive exhibitions detail the story of the eleven Spanish ships that carried unimaginable riches before they were sunk by a devastating hurricane. The museum also offers a scenic observation deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where hundreds of treasure hunters still scour the glistening waters for the Queen's riches.
This Bioluminescent Tour In Florida Will Glow Up Your Vacation
Dining
In addition to its interesting history and exciting adventures, Vero Beach is renowned for its impressive selection of delicious dining opportunities that showcase a wide variety of local and international cuisines.
For a romantic waterfront dining experience, head to Ocean Grill, a high-end seafood restaurant offering a sophisticated environment with a rich history and beachy ambiance.
- Restaurant: Ocean Grill
- Price: $$$
- Point of attraction: Waterfront dining
If you're after a casual bite, you can't go wrong with Taco Dive, a unique Mexican American joint serving up mouth-watering street food dishes, made-to-order salsas, and cold beer.
- Restaurant: Taco Dive
- Price: $
- Point of attraction: Casual beachy dining