8 Best Things to Do in Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach, Fla., is a charming coastal city known for its pristine beaches, artistic community, and abundant wildlife. When you visit Vero Beach, FL, you will discover a wide array of activities to suit every interest, whether you are seeking relaxation on the sand, an encounter with nature, or a cultural immersion. From exploring lush gardens to discovering historical treasures and enjoying lively performances, there are many things to do in Vero Beach.

This guide explores some of the best activities and places that make Vero Beach a memorable destination.

One of the primary draws for anyone in Vero Beach, FL, is its stunning and often uncrowded beaches. Unlike some more bustling Florida coastal towns, Vero Beach maintains a serene atmosphere along its stretches of sand. You can find your perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, or simply enjoying the gentle sound of the waves.

Popular public beach parks include South Beach Park, known for its vast sandy expanse and opportunities for water sports like paddleboarding or boogie boarding. Humiston Beach Park, located closer to the heart of Ocean Drive, offers lifeguards, restrooms, and convenient access to nearby shops and eateries. Jaycee Park is another excellent choice, providing spacious beachfront and amenities for a comfortable day by the sea. These beaches are a central part of the outdoor things to do in Vero Beach, FL.

A visit to McKee Botanical Garden is an absolute must. This 18-acre subtropical oasis is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and showcases a stunning collection of tropical plants, winding paths, and serene water features. Originally part of a larger "Jungle Gardens" attraction opened in 1932, the garden retains a magical, almost labyrinthine quality.

You can wander through exotic bamboo groves, admire one of Florida's most extensive collections of water lilies, and discover historic structures like the Hall of Giants. The garden is designed to immerse you in nature, offering a peaceful retreat and a beautiful example of horticultural preservation.

The Vero Beach Museum of Art is the largest cultural arts facility on Florida's Treasure Coast and provides a sophisticated experience for art enthusiasts. The museum features a diverse permanent collection spanning American art, contemporary works, photography, and sculpture. It also hosts a dynamic schedule of rotating exhibitions, bringing national and international art to the local community.

Beyond its impressive galleries, the museum offers a variety of art classes, workshops, and lectures for all ages, fostering creativity and appreciation for the arts. Its two outdoor sculpture parks provide a beautiful setting for enjoying art amidst Florida's natural beauty.

Riverside Theatre is Florida's largest professional performing arts theater, making it a significant cultural anchor in Vero Beach. This acclaimed venue produces its own high-quality plays, musicals, and comedy shows, drawing talent from across the country. Attending a show here is a fantastic way to experience top-tier live entertainment without traveling to a major city.

You can check their schedule for upcoming Broadway-caliber productions or smaller, intimate studio performances. They also host a popular outdoor concert series, "Live in the Loop," which brings live music and a lively atmosphere to the theater campus. Riverside Theatre contributes significantly to the vibrant things to do in Vero Beach, FL, providing memorable entertainment for all.

The McLarty Treasure Museum offers a fascinating dive into Florida's rich maritime history, specifically focusing on the ill-fated 1715 Spanish Plate Fleet. A hurricane decimated this treasure-laden fleet off the coast of Florida, scattering gold, silver, and jewels along what became known as the "Treasure Coast." The museum is on a historic salvage camp site from this event.

You can explore exhibits displaying authentic recovered artifacts, including coins, pottery shards, and weaponry, and learn about the daring salvage operations through informative displays and a video presentation. An observation deck provides views of the actual shipwreck site, allowing you to connect directly with this dramatic moment in history.

The Indian River Lagoon, which separates mainland Vero Beach from its barrier island, is one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America and offers exceptional opportunities for water-based recreation. Renting a kayak or paddleboard allows you to explore its serene waters, wind through mangrove tunnels, and spot abundant wildlife.

You might encounter manatees gracefully gliding through the water, playful dolphins, and a wide array of bird species, including herons, egrets, and ospreys. Several local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours, making it easy to access this unique ecosystem. Paddling on the lagoon provides a peaceful and immersive way to experience Vero Beach's natural beauty.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, located just north of Vero Beach, is the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. Established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, it was created to protect the vital nesting grounds of brown pelicans and other colonial wading birds.

While direct access to the island is restricted to protect the wildlife, you can still experience the refuge from the mainland. Observation platforms and boardwalks provide excellent vantage points for birdwatching, and you can often spot manatees and dolphins in the surrounding waters of the Indian River Lagoon. This refuge symbolizes a pivotal moment in American conservation history and remains a critical habitat.

Ocean Drive, running along the barrier island, is the vibrant heart of Vero Beach's beachfront social scene. Here, you will find an enticing collection of boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes, offering outdoor dining with views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is perfect for a stroll, people-watching, or enjoying a meal.

Just across the bridge on the mainland, Royal Palm Pointe offers another charming waterfront area. This beautifully designed district features a mix of shops, professional offices, and restaurants, all set along the picturesque Indian River Lagoon. You can enjoy a meal with a water view, browse the unique shops, or relax in the park spaces. Both areas provide lively atmospheres for shopping, dining, and enjoying the relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance of Vero Beach.

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Ready to make your move in Vero Beach? Work with Kristin Dobson and experience the difference of concierge-level real estate service backed by the region’s #1 luxury team.