- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Vero Beach
Our city's identity is rooted in its 1919 founding and citrus heritage. Architecturally, it's a charming blend of Old Florida and Mediterranean Revival. A prime example is the historic Driftwood Inn, built by eccentric Waldo Sexton from salvaged treasures.
The Indian River Lagoon, North America's most biodiverse estuary, shapes our landscape. It's ideal for kayaking among manatees and dolphins. A top attraction in Vero Beach is Pelican Island, the nation's first wildlife refuge, for unparalleled bird-watching.
Our cuisine is dominated by fresh Atlantic seafood, often infused with renowned Indian River citrus. A local secret is asking for fresh-caught Pompano, a delicate fish. In season, stone crabs are a must-try. Visiting Vero Beach means sampling these ocean-to-table flavors.
- Vero BeachUnited States
- Vero BeachUnited States
- Vero BeachUnited States
- Vero BeachUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octwarm, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot & busy
- Wintermild, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #LightClothing
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- #SwimWear
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 with beaches & day trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #VeroBeachMuseumOfArt
- #McKeeBotanicalGarden
- #ArchieCarrNationalWildlifeRefuge
- #VeroBeachHistoricDowntown
- #SouthBeachPark
- #PelicanIslandNationalWildlifeRefuge
- Sunset at South Beach
- Kayaking at the Indian River Lagoon
- Fishing at the Vero Beach Pier
- Biking along Ocean Drive
- Dining at a local seafood restaurant
Things to do in Vero Beach
Discover
Start exploring Vero Beach with its natural and cultural gems. Discover lush flora at McKee Botanical Garden, American art at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, and the nation's first wildlife refuge on Pelican Island.
Experience
Go kayaking through mangrove tunnels, catch a professional show at Riverside Theatre, or shop for local produce at the Downtown Vero Beach Farmers' Market. Enjoy seasonal events like the Hibiscus Festival or the annual boat parade.
McKee Botanical Garden
Historic subtropical garden with native plants and ponds.
Vero Beach Museum of Art
The Treasure Coast's leading visual arts institution.
Pelican Island Wildlife Refuge
America's first national wildlife refuge for birding.
South Beach Park
Wide, sandy public beach perfect for sunbathing.
Riverside Theatre
Professional live theater with Broadway-quality shows.
Environmental Learning Center
Nature center with trails, touch tanks, and canoe trips.
McLarty Treasure Museum
Museum detailing the 1715 Spanish Treasure Fleet wreck.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
How to get to Vero Beach: fly into Orlando Melbourne (MLB) or Orlando Intl (MCO). A Vero Beach shuttle bus or car rental is needed for the 45-90 min drive. Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB) serves private jets. There is no direct train to Vero Beach.
Getting Around
A car rental in Vero Beach is best for exploring. Driving in Vero Beach is straightforward. The GoLine bus system offers public transport in Vero Beach on set routes. The beachside area is walkable, and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Local Essentials
When driving in Vero Beach, be aware of drawbridge schedules on A1A to avoid delays. Beachfront parking is free but limited. During sea turtle nesting season (Mar-Oct), oceanfront lights are restricted at night. Carry insect repellent for evenings.
Where to Stay in Vero Beach
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Vero Beach by tasting fresh grouper and tangy Key Lime Pie. The local culture embraces leisurely waterfront dining, where meals are savored against sunset views. It's the perfect way to eat like a local.
Enjoy
Find the best restaurants in Vero Beach at the historic Ocean Grill; reserve ahead. Drink at Waldo's rustic bar for sunset views. Taste classic breakfast at the bustling Lemon Tree cafe, expect weekend queues.
Ocean Grill Restaurant
A landmark institution with dramatic ocean views.
The Tides
Upscale American cuisine with a sophisticated ambiance.
Scampi Grill
A bustling, authentic spot for classic Italian fare.
Riverside Cafe
Casual waterfront dining with live music and boat docks.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Vero Beach cultural activities rooted in its seaside heritage. The annual Christmas Boat Parade lights up the Indian River Lagoon. The Hibiscus Festival, celebrating the city flower, is a must-see local tradition with music and art.
Enjoy
Discover modern things to do in Vero Beach. Enjoy the nationally recognized Under the Oaks Art Festival's juried fine arts show. Find diverse creative outlets, from independent film festivals to outdoor concerts and theatre performances.
Under the Oaks Art Festival
A juried fine art show with over 200 artists each March.
Vero Beach Wine + Film Festival
June event pairing independent films with wine tastings.
Hibiscus Festival
Downtown street festival in April with art, music, & food.
Vero Beach Air Show
A May weekend of aviation excellence and family fun.
Gardenfest!
February horticultural show with plants and garden art.
Vero Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Festively decorated boats parade on the lagoon in December.
Florida Craft Brew & Wingfest
February festival with craft beers, wings, and live music.
A Refreshing Florida Escape
Vero Beach is a refreshing change from other Florida spots. It's clean and not packed with tourists. The whole town has a relaxed, upscale feel without being stuffy. Loved the lack of towering condos everywhere.
Perfectly Peaceful Beaches
The beaches are the main event, and they are beautiful. So much clean, open sand at South Beach. Perfect for long walks and just sitting with a book. It was very peaceful and never felt overcrowded at all.
Lovely Shops and Restaurants
Vero Beach has some wonderful shopping and dining, especially along Ocean Drive. We found so many unique boutiques and little galleries to explore. The restaurants were excellent, with lots of great seafood options. A lovely place to stroll.
More Than Just Beaches
There's more to do here than just sit on the sand. We spent a fantastic afternoon at McKee Botanical Garden. The tropical plants are just incredible. It's a nice, quiet break from the sun and offers a different kind of Florida beauty.
Great Low-Key Family Vacation
A great spot for a family trip that isn't overwhelming. The kids loved Humiston Park with its playground right by the ocean. The water was calm, the beaches were wide, and everything felt safe and accessible. A really solid choice for families.
Simple and Perfect
Such a relaxing week. Days were spent on the uncrowded beaches and evenings were about the food. Tried the fresh grouper at a few places-delicious every time.