A Lot To Love
Ifell in love with Vero Beach the first time I walked along a wooden boardwalk surrounded by plants with giant leaves, trailing vines, and foliage so dense you couldn’t see the ground. At the end of the path, the plants disappeared and all I could see was sand, sky and sparkling ocean.
“I could live here,” I remember telling my husband at that moment, and less than a year later, I did. Fresh from the high desert climate of New Mexico, I couldn’t get enough of my new home’s natural beauty. If you want to walk uncrowded beaches, take a boat out onto the lagoon, golf year-round or birdwatch in a nature preserve, you have come to the right place.
The longer I’ve lived here, the more I’ve found to love. The cultural scene in Vero Beach enjoys generous local support and is unparalleled for a town our size. Riverside Theatre, the Vero Beach Museum of Art and McKee Botanical Garden are just a few of the places I’ve already grown attached to. Still on my bucket list to experience are performances by Ballet Vero Beach and the Vero Beach Opera. Monthly art crawls, a Saturday morning farmers market, live music outdoors, holiday parades and thriving local restaurants and shops all contribute to making this a delightful place to call home.
In addition to all of that, my vantage point here at Vero Beach Magazine affords me a great view of what may be the best thing about this town. People here, across all income levels and backgrounds, care deeply about this community. Every day I hear another story about people banding together to stare down a problem and accomplish something wonderful.
Whether you are planning to stay for a few weeks, a few months, or the rest of your life, our handbook is your invitation to explore this special place I’m proud to call home.
Heather O'Shea, Editor in ChiefVero Beach 101
See it like a native.
For first time readers of the Vero Beach Handbook, welcome! Inside this issue you will find dozens of activities, events and hidden gems that make Vero Beach a unique and wonderful destination. For returning readers who look forward to receiving the Handbook each year, thank you! Your input, guidance and recommendations have provided the team at Vero Beach Magazine unparalleled support in creating this annual resource.
In addition to profiling the wide range of activities in Vero Beach, the Handbook also provides detailed guidance for new residents as well as those enjoying a seasonal visit. In need of a fishing license? We have that information. Opera tickets for four? We can point you in the right direction.
Whether you are new to Vero Beach or return year after year, you are sure to learn something new and wonderful about our beautiful seaside town.
Enjoy! We are happy that you are here.
Teri Amey-Arnold, PublisherAbout Vero Beach Magazine
Vero Beach Magazine is the first magazine in history to be dedicated exclusively to Vero Beach and remains the only local magazine with verified circulation. A minimum of 10,000 magazines are distributed monthly, to at least 30,000 readers in almost every state, including Alaska and Hawaii.
Vero Beach Magazine’s staff is committed to using print media to make Indian River County a better place for all residents, mindful of environmental and historic preservation, while underscoring the best aspects of life in this charming oceanfront community.
Winner of numerous awards since its inception, starting with the Florida Magazine Association’s Best New Magazine Award in 1998, Vero Beach Magazine has made its greatest impact by providing meaningful information to readers about the needs of local nonprofit organizations, which no other local media outlet had done, inspiring philanthropy that now exceeds $400 million a year in Indian River County and prompting nonprofit coverage by many other media companies.
In November Vero Beach Magazine was acquired by Palm Beach Media Group, publisher of internationally renowned Florida Design as well as six monthly flagship titles, including Palm Beach Illustrated and Naples Illustrated. A proven leader in publishing excellence, PBMG looks forward to building on the magazine’s successful history.
Vero Beach Magazine’s main office is a historic 1914 building at 956 20th Street, on the corner of 10th Avenue and State Road 60 eastbound, in downtown Vero Beach. Visitors are welcome by appointment from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, for subscription, article and advertising questions.
INDIAN RIVER HOME CARE
Turning the Tide in Health Care on the Treasure Coast
TAKE COMFORT IN OUR CARE
Indian River Home Care is renowned as the only home health company in the county awarded the highest possible rating from Medicare for three consecutive years. In every aspect of the extensive survey, Indian River Home Care was the leader in timely initiation of care, decreased hospitalizations and improved ambulation. By mastering these measures, our clients are empowered to elevate their health and champion their well-being.
THE HEART OF THE MATTER
By tailoring customized treatment plans for each patient, our multidisciplinary caregiver teams — which are made up of personal nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists and nursing assistants — manage all aspects of our clients’ care. This includes providing patient education, along with highly specialized skills, such as IV therapy, advanced wound care and telemonitoring with disease management.
CARE CONNECT: HI-TECH & HI-TOUCH
Our Care Connect virtual wellness program engages patients to prioritize their health with customized educational videos and telemonitoring equipment. The data collected from these devices is uploaded to a tablet and continuously reviewed by the patient’s private nurse. Our patients are also asked daily survey questions, which can be added to a health report and sent to the patient’s physician upon request.
ELIZABETH MOULTON Founder
TERI AMEY-ARNOLD Publisher
HEATHER O'SHEA
Editor in Chief
TERESA LEE RUSHWORTH
Senior Editor
KELLY ROGERS
Visuals & Community Engagement Editor
MEGAN HYDE
Client Marketing Specialist
HEATHER BOTTO
Creative Director
JANINE FISHER
Senior Graphic Designer
Contributing Photographers
Annalise Anderson, Molly Bartels, Jared Blais, Karl Enghofer, Patrick Merrell, Kelly Rogers, Martina Tannery, Sam Wolfe
CATHY HART
Executive Office Manager & Subscription Manager
SUSAN LORENZ
Newsstand Distribution
Group Publisher Terry Duffy
Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt
Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos
HOUR MEDIA, LLC
CEO Stefan Wanczyk
President John Balardo
PUBLISHERS OF:
Welcome
Welcome to Vero Beach! Maybe you have come here for the water, or the golfing, or because your parents or grandparents wintered here several decades ago. Maybe you are up from Miami visiting friends for a long weekend. Maybe you just need a break from 20-degree (or minus-20-degree!) weather and snow or are in search of the perfect retirement community. Whatever prompted you to come, we're glad you're here!
Located in Indian River County, Vero Beach is nestled along Florida's Atlantic coast, about 140 miles north of Miami. Big-city ambience is close enough to visit, but far enough away to preserve our slower-paced small-town charm. Residents here enjoy Florida's year-round balmy weather, reasonable cost of living, and absence of state income tax. Full-time residents can also take advantage of the homestead exemption, a permanent reduction in property tax.
The barrier island boasts 22 miles of spacious, uncrowded beaches accessible via three bridges and graced with parking that is both ample and free. Scores of boutiques, galleries and local restaurants parallel the coast on Ocean Drive, within easy walking distance of beaches and parks. On the mainland, you'll find a thriving design district and historic downtown area filled with art galleries, antique shops, restaurants and cafes.
It's easy to live the outdoor life in Vero Beach, both on and off the water. Golfers will find beautiful courses and opportunities to play year-round. Boaters, anglers, sailors and paddlers enjoy the Indian River Lagoon and the coastal waters of the Atlantic, while
surfers, snorkelers, scuba divers and sunbathers enjoy our ocean playground. For land lovers, nature preserves and hiking trails offer additional escapes from the indoors. McKee Botanical Garden offers 18 acres of lush jungle pathways and a children's garden guaranteed to delight youngsters and the young at heart.
Lovers of the arts will find much to enjoy here as well. The Vero Beach Museum of Art holds a rich permanent collection and regularly hosts prominent international exhibitions. Riverside Theatre presents a full season of professional productions each year, and Ballet Vero Beach and
the Vero Beach Opera add to the roster of cultural gems. Choral societies, symphonies and thriving community theater and gallery scenes offer additional opportunities to enjoy the arts. Live music, street festivals, holiday parades and art crawls are a regular part of life here.
If you are looking to put down roots, you'll find that Vero Beach has residential options to suit every taste. You can find oceanfront homes, riverfront houses with deep-water docks, and wide-open spaces to the west of town where you can spread out. Wherever you go, you will find welcoming neighbors and plenty of
opportunities to get involved.
Finally, some of the things you won't find in Vero Beach might surprise you. Careful planning has kept our beaches largely free of high-rise development. Growth is managed thoughtfully by city and county planners to maintain the best qualities of small-town life. And the county's three bridges connecting the island and mainland mean you'll never waste a moment of a sunny day sitting in traffic.
Vero Beach, if you ask us, is unlike all those other beach towns. If you join the ranks of people who fall in love and never want to leave, well, don't say we didn't warn you!
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau; Florida Legislature Office of Economic and Demographic Research; Florida Demographics by Cubit; city-data.com; point2homes.com
Indian River County
Weather Report
Out of This World
Space exploration brings out the sense of wonder in all of us. Here in Vero Beach, we're lucky to be able to view rocket launches from NASA's Kennedy Space Center just by going outside and looking up. To get the latest information on upcoming scheduled launches, visit kennedyspacecenter.com, nasa.gov or spacex.com.
Night Lights
With our clear skies and uncluttered skyline, Vero Beach is the perfect place to stargaze. Spread your blanket, get comfortable, and lift your eyes to the heavens. Nightlife takes on a whole new meaning when you start to notice the wonders of the universe around us.
Astronomical Events in 2022
Jan. 3 Peak of Quadrantid Meteor Shower
March 20 Vernal Equinox
April 22 Peak of Lyrid Meteor Shower
April 30.......................... Partial Solar Eclipse 4:41 p.m.
May 6 .............. Peak of Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower
May 15 ........................... Total Lunar Eclipse 10:28 p.m.
June 21 ..................................................... Summer Solstice
Aug. 13 ......................Peak of Perseid Meteor Shower
Sept. 22 Autumnal Equinox
Oct. 8 Peak of Draconid Meteor Shower
Nov. 17 Peak of Leonid Meteor Shower
Nov. 8 Total Lunar Eclipse 4:10 a.m.
Dec. 21 Winter Solstice
Sun Safety
We don’t just live in the Sunshine State; we live in a part of the Sunshine State that is so scenic and engaging that it’s only natural for us to be outdoors enjoying the sea and sand, pathways and palms. But along with our splendid lifestyle comes an elevated level of ultraviolet radiation, so it’s very important for us to know how to protect our skin.
Skin cancer, the most common type of cancer, can range from a minor nuisance requiring a simple procedure at the dermatologist’s office to a lifethreatening condition. Melanoma, though less common than basal and squamous cell skin cancers and highly curable when caught early, can spread and kill if not treated in time. The good news is that skin cancer prevention is largely within our control.
Sun protection is not just a medical necessity; it’s a cosmetic one as well. UV rays take a toll on our skin, causing spots, wrinkles and premature aging — things most of us want to keep to a minimum!
Sun safety begins before we leave the house. Nowadays, checking the UV index is as easy as looking at our phones. It is usually given as part of weather reports and forecasts. The highest UV levels occur between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s a good idea to avoid these peak hours when planning beach excursions and other outdoor activities. The UV index chart
gives us an idea of how much protection is needed at each level. In our area, it is wise to assume that if it’s daytime, some sun protection is going to be necessary. When we think of sun protection, we often think first of sunscreen, but it really begins with clothing. Long sleeves, pants and hats go a long way toward shielding your skin. Many lines of outdoor apparel even carry a UPF, or ultraviolet protection factor. A UPF of 30, for example, means that a garment will block out all but 1/30 (about 3%) of the UV rays that strike it. Now for the sunscreen. There are two types: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens contain ingredients such as oxybenzone and octisalate that filter out UV rays. Research is ongoing as to the degree to which these chemicals are absorbed into the skin and the effects
that may arise from long-term use. Mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, which form a physical barrier to the sun’s rays.
The effectiveness of sunscreen is scored in terms of its SPF or sun protection factor. An SPF of at least 15 is a must. Apply it generously 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply about every two hours, especially if swimming or perspiring.
Do your homework and consult your dermatologist in order to make the best sunscreen decisions for your needs. And be sure to keep a close eye on all moles and spots, and make regular visits to the dermatologist a part of your routine. After all, your skin is the largest organ of your body, and if you take good care of it, it will take good care of you!
Fun Facts
POET LAURA (RIDING) JACKSON moved to Wabasso, Florida, in 1943, with her husband, Schuyler Jackson. They made some improvements to a 1910 frame “cracker-style” house, where the poet lived, without electricity, until 1989. She died in 1991, and the historic house now sits on the grounds of Indian River State College’s Mueller Campus in Vero Beach.
HANDBOOK
INDIAN RIVER … PINEAPPLES? Yes, that’s right! Even though “Indian River” is virtually synonymous with citrus, our area has the potential to be a pineapple paradise. When Herman Zeuch founded Indian River Farms in the early 20th century and Northern farmers flocked here for the three growing seasons, many of them grew pineapples. They are a common yard fruit here to this day, and Mark Dellerman runs a thriving pineapple farm just north of Vero Beach.
Since the end of the Space Shuttle program in 2011, NASA has relied on private companies to transport cargo and crews to the International Space Station. One of those companies, Elon Musk’s SpaceX, even holds a 20-year lease as the exclusive user of Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39A. Thus, Vero Beach residents continue to enjoy excellent views of KENNEDY SPACE CENTER LAUNCHES.
Fun Facts
The “OLD LIBRARY” BUILDING on 20th Place, now the home of Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy, was built in the early 1960s in the likeness of books on a shelf.
In the 1950s and early ‘60s, Vero Beach had its own synchronized swimming team, the DOLPHINETTES, who performed locally and around the country and even appeared in the Esther Williams film “Easy to Love.”
It SNOWED in Vero Beach on Jan. 19, 1977.
A Sampling of Annual Events
JANUARY
Vero Beach Museum of Art Gala
Youth Guidance King of the Hill Tennis Tournament
Camp Haven Diamonds in the Rough Gala
FEBRUARY
Gardenfest!
McKee Botanical Garden Motorcar Exhibit
VBMA Fashion Meets Art
Childcare Resources Starfest
Mental Health Association MHA Rocks!
MARCH
Under the Oaks Arts & Crafts Show
VBMA Art in Bloom
Boys & Girls Clubs Angels Dinner
Vero Beach Opera Rising Stars Vocal Competition
Riverside Theatre Premiere Benefit Gala
McKee Garden & Antique Show
APRIL
Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation Pro Circuit Tournament
Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation Poetry BBQ
Saint Edward’s Pirate Ball
The Arc Starlight & Sneakers
MAY
Cleveland Clinic Indian River Foundation May Pops
IRSC Foundation Golf Tournament
Healthy Start Coalition Dancing with Vero’s Stars
JUNE
McKee Botanical Garden Waterlily Celebration
United Against Poverty Burgers & Brews
JULY
City of Vero Beach Fourth of July Celebration
City of Sebastian Fourth of July Celebration
Vero Beach Lifeguard Association Race to the Wreck
AUGUST
Keep Indian River Beautiful Paddle Dash
SEPTEMBER
Keep Indian River Beautiful Coastal Cleanup
OCTOBER
Military Moms Prayer Group Holidays for Heroes Drive
United Way Day of Caring
Treasure Coast Food Bank Pack the House
Treasure Coast Community Health Duck Derby
NOVEMBER
Indian River Land Trust Benefit
Riverside Theatre Festival of Trees
The Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign
National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum Muster
Alzheimer & Parkinson Association Walk to Remember
Care Net Pregnancy Center Banquet
Samaritan Center Soup Bowl
DECEMBER
McKee Botanical Garden Festival of Lights
H.A.L.O. Love at First Bite
Women’s Refuge Christmas Banquet
Ballet Vero Beach Nutcracker on the Indian River
Names Seen Around Town
Roads, bridges, parks and other landmarks often bear the names of prominent local residents who have helped shape our area’s history. Keep an eye out for the following names as you travel around Indian River County.
The MERRILL P. BARBER BRIDGE is named for a local businessman who served as the eighth mayor of Vero Beach and went on to serve two terms in Tallahassee as a state senator. His two daughters were the first to wield shovels at the 1993 groundbreaking for the current Barber Bridge.
While the name of VERO BEACH is believed to have been derived from the Latin word for “truth,” its neighboring towns are both named after people: SEBASTIAN after third-century Christian martyr ST. SEBASTIAN and FELLSMERE after the town’s founder, EDWARD NELSON FELL. The community of GIFFORD is named for early Vero Beach settlers HENRY and SARAH GIFFORD and their family.
Vero Beach’s other bridge, known for over 30 years as the 17TH STREET BRIDGE, was renamed the ALMA LEE LOY BRIDGE in 2011, in honor of the businesswoman and Indian River County commissioner who was instrumental in bringing it into existence. A Vero Beach native and tireless public servant, Loy died in April 2020 at the age of 90.
SEXTON PLAZA and its adjacent beach bear the name of pioneer Vero Beach resident WALDO E. SEXTON — entrepreneur, rancher and antique collector extraordinaire.
Nestled in a residential area on the western side of the Indian River Lagoon is A.W. YOUNG PARK, which is named after the first mayor of Vero Beach, ANTHONY W. YOUNG.
If you look closely, you may come across a reference to STATE ROAD 60 as OSCEOLA BOULEVARD. Vero Beach is also home to Osceola Magnet School, and our neighboring county to the west is Osceola County. Born BILLY POWELL in Alabama in 1804, Osceola became a prominent Seminole leader in Florida.
Speaking of State Road 60, you may have noticed a sign indicating that the 5-mile segment between 43rd Avenue and Interstate 95 is called “ THE RICHARD RACZKOWSKI MEMORIAL HIGHWAY.” This designation was made in 2009 in memory of the only member of the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office ever to have been killed in the line of duty. The 29-year-old deputy was shot by a suspect in 1986.
Another small residential park is found in the MCANSH PARK neighborhood. The circular TROY MOODY PARK is named in honor of 1943 Vero Beach High School graduate TROY MOODY, who joined the U.S. Army and perished in the Korean War at the age of 25. Bonus: The neighborhood itself bears the name of its developer, ANDREW MCANSH
MACWILLIAM PARK, located near the eastern end of the Barber Bridge, has a familiar Vero Beach name that goes back to ALEXANDER MACWILLIAM SR. — World War I veteran, three-time mayor of Vero Beach, and member of the Florida House of Representatives.
The “JOHN” of JOHN’S ISLAND is believed to be JOHN LAROCHE, the Merritt Island citrus grower who, along with his brothers, first purchased land on the island in the late 19th century.
MCKEE BOTANICAL GARDEN was founded as McKee Jungle Gardens by Cleveland industrialist and plant lover ARTHUR MCKEE, in partnership with WALDO SEXTON, in 1932.
Fine Dining
Citron Bistro 772-231-6556 6260 Hwy. A1A, Village Shops citronvero.com ● ●
Citrus 7 72-234-4114 1050 Easter Lily Lane citrusgrillhouse.com ● ●
Cobalt 772-469-1060
Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa 3500 Ocean Drive cobaltrestaurant.com ● ●
Di Mare Vero Beach ................. 772-234-2809 1517 Ocean Drive dimareverobeach.com ● ●
Fire and Wine ............. 772-794-7587 2950 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) fireandwineverobeach.com ●
Joey & Kimmy’s Seafood Market & Restaurant 772-918-8855 1800 U.S. Hwy. 1 joeyandkimmys.com ●
Maison Martinique 772-231-7299 1603 Ocean Drive thecaribbeancourt.com ● ●
Ocean Grill 772-231-5409 1050 Beachland Blvd. ocean-grill.com
Outdoor Seating To-Go Menu Fine Dining 33 Casual 33 Asian 38 International 38 Irish ............................................................. 38 Italian 38 Mediterranean 40 Mexican 40 Coffee/Dessert 42 Tea ............................................................. 42 Live Music 42 Breweries 44 Distilleries 44
Polo Grill 7 72-231-4090 2855 Ocean Drive pgvero.com ● ●
Savor 772-205-2435 901 21st St. savorvero.com ●
The Tides ..................... 772-234-3966 3103 Cardinal Drive tidesofvero.com ● ●
Vero Prime ................... 772-226-7870 2023 14th Ave. veroprime.com ●
The Wave 772-410-0100 3244 Ocean Drive costadeste.com ● ●
Casual Dining
Barefoot
Bum Bagel Cafe................... 772-492-6773 2263 14th Ave.
●
Bobby’s Restaurant & Lounge ......................
Casey’s Place............. 772-231-4790 917 Azalea Lane caseysplace.net ● ●
Chelsea’s .................... 772-234-8300 3201 Cardinal Drive chelseasgourmet.com ● ●
Chill & Grill ................... 772-562-5477 7401 U.S. Hwy. 1 chillandgrillverobeach.wordpress. com ● ●
Chive 772-999-5452 390 21st St. chiveverobeach.com ● ●
C.J. Cannon’s 772-567-7727 at Vero Beach Regional Airport 3414 Cherokee Drive cjcannonsrestaurant.com ● ●
The Crab Stop ............. 7 72-257-5221 89 Royal Palm Pointe crabstoptc.com ● ●
The Crab Stop ............. 772-571-6767 1550 Indian River Drive, Sebastian crabstoptc.com ● ●
Dagwood’s Deli & Sub Shop 772-778-1900 835 17th St. dagwoodsvb.com ●
Earl’s Hideaway 772-589-5700 1405 Indian River Drive, Sebastian earlshideaway.com ● ●
Edgewood Eatery 772-217-3156 1327 21st St. edgewoodeatery.com ●
Fishack .......................... 772-770-0977 1931 Old Dixie Hwy. fishackverobeach.com ● ●
Green Marlin.............. 772-999-5248 1475 U.S. Hwy. 1 thegreenmarlin.com ● ●
Heaton’s Vero Beach 772-469-4444 3500 Ocean Drive heatonsverobeach.com ●
Kilted Mermaid 772-569-5533 1937 Old Dixie Hwy. kiltedmermaid.com ● ●
Kountry Kitchen 772-567-6733 1749 Old Dixie Hwy. ●
La Tabla 772-205-2772 29 Royal Palm Pointe latablavero.com ●
Lemon Tree 772-231-0858 3125 Ocean Drive lemontreevero.com ●
Marsh Landing 772-571-8622 44 N. Broadway St., Fellsmere marshlandingrestaurant.com ● ●
Michael’s on 7th 772-213-8554 2217 7th Ave. michaelson7th.com ● ●
Mr. Manatee’s ............. 7 72-569-9151 30 Royal Palm Pointe mrmanatees.com ● ●
Mrs. Mac’s Fillin’ Station ............. 772-564-8400 951 Old Dixie Hwy. mrsmacs.com ●
Mulligan’s ................... 7 72-492-6744 1025 Beachland Blvd. mulligansbeachhouse.com ● ●
Mulligan’s 7 72-918-4844 806 Indian River Drive, Sebastian mulligansbeachhouse.com ● ●
Post & Vine 772-907-5159 1919 14th Ave. postandvinevb.com ● ●
The Red Onion Eatery............................. 772-492-8881 3001 Ocean Drive redonioneatery.com ● ●
Riverside Cafe .......... 772-234-5550 3341 Bridge Plaza Drive riversidecafe.com ● ●
Ryder’s..........................772-500-3663 3106 Cardinal Drive rydersgourmetmarket.com ● ●
Sandbar.......................772-388-8588 at Capt. Hiram’s Resort 1580 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian ● ● hirams.com/riverfront-restaurant
Sealantro British Cafe & Market 772-492-3614 2060 6th Ave. sealantro.com ● ●
Seaside Grill 772-231-1911 at Jaycee Park 4200 Ocean Drive ● ●
Sebastian Saltwater Marina Restaurant .................. 772-918-4229 1732 Indian River Drive, Sebastian captnbutcher.com ●
Ski’s Hideaway ............ 772-567-2311 1453 20th St. skishideaway.com
Southern Social ........ 772-205-2212 1932 14th Ave. eatsouthernsocial.com ●
Waldo’s ........................... 772-231-7091 Driftwood Resort 3150 Ocean Drive historicwaldos.com ● ●
Wilke’s 14 Bones Barbecue 772-770-5646 1500 U.S. Hwy. 1 14bones.com ● ●
Wood ‘n Spoon 772-217-3132 2015 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) and 97 Royal Palm Pointe woodnspoon.biz ● ●
Asian
Kata 772-564-8883
1306 20th St. katamenu.com ● ●
Mama Hue 772-999-3967 692 21st St. ●
The Noodle House 772-257-5256 4166 Atlantic Blvd. thenoodlehouseandsushi.com ●
Oniku Hibachi 7 72-617-8088 4125 9th St. SW, 101A (Oslo Road) onikuhibachifl.com ●
Sake 772-978-9798 42 Royal Palm Pointe sakemenus.com ● ●
Shandong Noodle House ............................. 772-257-6775 2089 Indian River Blvd. shandongnoodlehouse.com ●
Siam Orchid ............... 772-999-5279 762 21st St. ●
Sumo House .............. 772-770-0835 713 17th St. sumohousevb.com ●
International
Inti 772-257-6652 2199 7th Ave. intivero.net ●
Irish
Kelley’s Irish Pub ...... 7 72-567-3838 484 21st St. ●
Sean Ryan Pub ............ 772-217-2183 2019 14th Ave. seanryanspubvero.com ● ●
Italian
Baci Trattoria ............. 772-794-4747 1918 14th Ave. bacivero.com ● ●
Cap’s Pizza ...................772-770-2277 725 27th Ave. SW capspizzmenu.com
Francesca’s Italian Kitchen .......... 772-257-5540 3001 Ocean Drive francescasverobeach.com ●
Garage Wood-Fired Pizza & Provisions 772-907-5032 2217B 7th Ave. garagepizzavero.com
Italian Grill 772-567-6640 2180 58th Ave. italiangrill.com ● ●
Italian Kitchen 772-569-0060 2121 14th Ave. italiankitcheninc.com ● ●
Johnny D’s Market & Bistro ........................... 772-234-4181 1409 Hwy. A1A johnnydsvero.com ●
Nino’s Cafe .................... 772-231-9311 1006 Easter Lily Lane ninosrestaurants.com ● ●
Nino’s Corner .............772-562-0276 4236 20th St. ninosrestaurants.com ● ●
Pizza Mia ....................... 772-492-6151 1115 21st St. pizzamiavb.com ● ●
Pizzoodles ................... 772-567-4160 56 Royal Palm Pointe pizzoodles.com ● ●
Pomodoro Grill & Pizza 772-234-1123 3055 Cardinal Drive ● ● pomodorogrillverobeach.com
Scampi Grill 772-563-9766 815 20th St. scampigrill.com ● ●
South Beach Pizzeria ............................. 772-231-1110 1621 Ocean Drive
Cafe
Station 49 Pizza ........ 7 72-492-8342 1802 Old Dixie Hwy. station49pizza.com
Trattoria Dario ............. 772-231-1818 1555 Ocean Drive trattoriadario.com ● ●
Vic’s Pizza Italian Restaurant 772-589-8989 1140 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian vicspizzafl.com ●
Vincent’s Ristorante ................... 772-569-4333 510 21st St. vincentsvero.com ●
Mediterranean
Sammy’s Mediterranean Cafe ................................. 772-217-3897 1130 20th Place ● ●
Spiro’s Taverna .......... 772-217-3074 1555 U.S. Hwy. 1 spirostaverna.com ● ●
Mexican Ay! Jalisco 772-778-8489 1902 U.S. Hwy. 1 ● ●
Ay! Jalisco 772-978-0661 1909 20th St. ●
Ay! Jalisco................... 772-388-2368 1814 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian ● ●
Blue Agave ................. 772-999-3484 1979 14th Ave. blueagaveverobeach.com ● ● El Sid Taqueria .......... 772-234-8299 3300 Ocean Drive elsid.com ● ● El Tapatio Mexican Grill 772-213-8249 4165 9th St. SW, #107 (Oslo Road) ●
Taco Dive 772-999-3607 1901 14th Ave. tacodive.com ● ●
Taco Mobil 772-581-8775 825 Sebastian Blvd. ● ●
Tea
Tea and Chi ................ 7 72-563-0620 2044 14th Ave. teaandchi.com ●
Bubble House............ 772-783-6960 768 21st St. ●
Live Music
Backbeat Music Parlor 772-226-7287 3005 Aviation Blvd. backbeatmusicparlor.com
Grind + Grape 772-231-5536 925 Bougainvillea Lane grindandgrape.com
The Grove .................... 772-492-8565 2115 14th Ave.
Havana Nights Piano Bar ...................... 772-234-9041 1605 Ocean Drive thecaribbeancourt.com
Coffee/Dessert
Abbott’s Frozen Custard 772-567-7338 4140 20th St. abbottscustard.com ● ●
Coffeehouse 1420 772-925-1572 2001 14th Ave. coffeehouse1420.com ● ●
Countryside Citrus............................. 7 72-234-8299 3300 Ocean Drive countrysidecitrus.com ● ●
Cravings ....................... 772-231-0208 3149 Ocean Drive cravingsbymail.com ●
Frosting ......................... 772-234-2915 2915 Cardinal Drive eatfrostingcupcakes.com ●
Grind + Grape 7 72-231-5536 925 Bougainvillea Lane grindandgrape.com ● ●
Palato Cafe 772-643-4975 915 17th St., Suite 101 palatocafevero.com ●
Rio Coco Cafe ........... 772-492-6794 1412 21st St. riococobeans.com ● ●
Rio Coco Cafe ............772-226-5760 3300 43rd Ave. riococobeans.com ● ●
Tasty-O Donuts ........ 772-567-5505 1700 14th Ave. ● ●
Vero Caffe 772-538-9500 3225 Cardinal Drive ● ●
Heaton’s Vero Beach ................ 772-469-4444 3500 Ocean Drive heatonsverobeach.com ●
Kilted Mermaid ........ 772-569-5533 1937 Old Dixie Hwy. kiltedmermaid.com ●
Marsh Landing .......... 772-571-8622 44 N. Broadway St., Fellsmere marshlandingrestaurant.com
Post & Vine 772-907-5159 1919 14th Ave. postandvinevb.com ●
Riverside Cafe 772-234-5550 3341 Bridge Plaza Drive riversidecafe.com ●
Sean Ryan Pub 772-217-2183 2019 14th Ave. seanryanspubvero.com
Sunset Saturday Night ............................... 772-410-8376 3000 Ocean Drive (Humiston Park) verobeachoba.com ●
Tiki Bar & Grill ............ 772-388-1080 1130 Indian River Drive, Sebastian sebastiantiki.com ●
Shopping
Vero Beach is a shopper's paradise! Whether you're looking for apparel, decor, or specialty food items, you'll find an abundance of inviting shops all around town. In addition to one-ofa-kind items, you'll encounter a warm welcome and friendly service wherever you go.
Popular Spots
Safe Shopping
Local business owners did a great job finding safe and creative ways to serve customers during the most uncertain months of the pandemic. Many quickly enhanced their websites, offered curbside pickup, and even began delivering. Please show your thanks for their hard work by complying with any ongoing store policies as you shop.
Countryside Citrus Beachside & El Sid Taqueria 3300 Ocean Drive
J.M. Stringer Gallery of Fine Art 3465 Ocean Drive
Leigh Jewelers 3401 Ocean Drive
Loggia 2900 Ocean Drive
Lyra Home 3355 Ocean Drive
M. Maison 3403 Ocean Drive
Maison Beach 23 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite 1A
Market 3301 Ocean Drive
Meghan Candler Gallery 6160 Hwy. A1A
Oodles of Wallpaper 6230 Hwy. A1A
Rock City Gardens 6120 Hwy. A1A
Main location 9080 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian
Sassy Boutique 3365 Ocean Drive
Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive
Vero Marine Center 12 Royal Palm Pointe
Village Beach Market 4905 Hwy. A1A
White Orchid Spa 3500 Ocean
Shopping Districts
Oceanside Business District
You'll find clothing shops, jewelry stores, salons, galleries and boutiques filled with exceptional merchandise along and around Ocean Drive. Midshopping refreshment is available at cafes, restaurants, bars and breweries. On Saturday mornings, the Oceanside Farmers Market offers fresh local produce and artisanal goods.
Pelican Plaza on Highway A1A
Clothing and gift boutiques as well as a florist, salon, restaurants and more can be found in this plaza, adjacent to Village Beach Market, a local gourmet grocery store.
The Village Shops
Located on Highway A1A, this charming enclave set amidst moss-draped oak trees is a great place to browse apparel and gift boutiques, as well as an art gallery, stationery store, garden shop, gourmet market and more.
Royal Palm Pointe
Found just south of the Barber Bridge on the mainland, Royal Palm Pointe is home to waterfront shopping, dining, boating and medical services. The treelined boulevard ends in a public park overlooking the Indian River Lagoon, with docks and interactive fountains for children.
Miracle Mile
Anchored by Publix and The Fresh Market grocery stores, this shopping center includes restaurants, clothing and consignment shops, a jeweler, an independent bookstore and more. It's located on both sides of 21st Street.
14th Avenue
Art galleries and design studios join cafes and other casual dining establishments in downtown Vero Beach. Historic buildings house a tea shop and a vintage furniture store. Residents and visitors alike flock to the area for a gallery stroll on the first Friday evening of each month.
Design District
Located along U.S. 1, the design district has become a destination for those shopping for flooring, lighting, cabinetry and other home-design essentials.
Indian River Mall
While the pandemic has taken a toll on this shopping center located on State Road 60, this indoor mall contains two department stores, a movie theater, and a number of other shops.
Vero Beach Outlets
Found on State Road 60 near I-95, the outlets include a wide selection of stores offering clothing, household items and more.
Specialty Foods
Baked Goods & Chocolates
Cravings .......................... 772-231-0208 3149 Ocean Drive cravingsbymail.com
Frosting ............................ 772-234-2915 2915 Cardinal Drive eatfrostingcupcakes.com
How Sweet It Is Chocolate Factory ............................ 7 72-562-5996 1595 Old Dixie Hwy. howsweetitischocolate.com
Slice of Paris .................. 772-999-0166 879 17th St.
Sweet Creations ......... 772-584-7206 953 Old Dixie Hwy. sweetcreationsvero.wixsite.com
Meat & Seafood
A Butcher Shoppe & a Bit More ................... 772-794-0040 709 17th St.
Indian River Seafood Market 7 72-589-8585 633 Old Dixie Hwy., Sebastian indianriverseafoodmarket.com
Joey & Kimmy’s Seafood Market & Restaurant 772-918-8855 1800 U.S. Hwy. 1 joeyandkimmys.com
Rhonda’s Seafood ..... 772-473-6388 29 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite 4 rhondasseafood.com
Coco' s Consigmment
ON 7TH
AVENUE
Gourmet Markets
Alimentari ...................... 772-999-5483 6220 Hwy. A1A Village Shops alimentarigm.com
Chelsea’s Gourmet ...772-234-8300 3201 Cardinal Drive chelseasgourmet.com
LADIES FINE FASHION
ON MIRACLE MILE 2308 7th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960 772-770-6030 • Klasicik@gmail.com
Gloria Pariseau, Owner/Manager
Countryside Family Farms 772-581-0999 6325 81st St. countrysidefamilyfarms.com
Johnny D’s Market & Bistro .............................. 772-234-4181 1409 Hwy. A1A johnnydsvero.com
Rhonda's Seafood .... 7 72-473-6388 29 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite 4 rhondasseafood.com
Ryder’s.............................772-500-3663 3106 Cardinal Drive rydersgourmetmarket.com
Sealantro British Cafe & Market ............... 772-492-3614 2060 6th Ave. sealantro.com
Village Beach Market 7 72-231-2338 4905 Hwy. A1A villagebeachmarket.com
Seasonal Bounty
Nothing beats the delicious taste of eating local! Here are the times when you will find your favorites at their freshest. A few local farms will even let you pick your own.
Citrus
Ruby Red Grapefruit November–May
White Grapefruit November–May
Clementines November–December
Hamlin Oranges October–December
Honeybell Oranges January–February
Mandarin Oranges .................... December–January
Navel Oranges .............................. November–January
Temple Oranges ................................... January–March
Valencia Oranges........................................ March–June
Tangelos November–January
Tangerines November–March
Produce Stands
Birdie Hogan Farm ...... 772-205-1321 1800 66th Ave. birdiehogan.com
Countryside Citrus Farm & Retail Store ....772-581-0999 6325 81st St. countrysidecitrus.com
Ecotone Farm 772-713-9276 13945 89th St., Fellsmere ecotonefarm.net
Nature Farms ...............772-538-6066 9150 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian
Osceola Organic Farm ...................................772-834-1103 6980 33rd St. osceolaorganicfarm.com
Peterson Groves ......... 772-562-6900 3375 66th Ave. petersongroves.com.
Blueberries April–May
Mangoes May–September
Pineapples June–August
Strawberries December–April
Watermelon............................................................ April–July
Farmers Market Oceanside 772-410-8376 2901 Ocean Drive verobeachoba.com farmersmarketdropoff.com
Farm Girls Produce Stand................................. 772-538-1573 farmgirlsproduce.com
Five Acre Farm .............. 772-360-8812 1030 90th Ave. fiveacrefarmvb.com
Hale Groves ................. 800-562-4502 halegroves.com
Kroegel Homestead Produce ........................... 772-925-2768
11200 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian kroegelproduce.us
Poinsettia Groves ..... 800-327-8624 poinsettiagroves.com
Schacht Groves .......... 772-562-5858 6100 12th St. schachtgroves.com
Treasure Coast Harvest ............................. 772-231-1066 6174 Hwy. A1A Village Shops tcharvest.com
Young’s Market 772-569-4811 4233 20th St.
Zesty Fox Farm 7 72-473-1341 zestyfoxfarm.com
Thank You for Shopping Local
Shopping is special in Vero Beach. Our rich collection of local shops, restaurants and boutiques survived the challenges of the past year by doubling down and doing even more of what they have always done — building relationships, stocking unique, high-quality products, and finding creative ways to ensure you will always be able to find exactly what you need. They know Vero Beach: They can tell you what events are happening this month, how people are dressing, and what colors are trending in coastal home decor. These local business owners are ready to welcome you to the community.
Here are some other good reasons to start finding your favorite local businesses today:
Local business owners provide good jobs for residents. Almost three out of every four new jobs in Florida are created by businesses with fewer than 50 employees.
Small businesses value customer relationships. Your favorite shops will be greeting you by name in no time.
Local businesses keep Vero Beach feeling fresh and original; they create that hometown vibe we love.
Local business owners know exactly what is happening in Vero Beach right now and can adapt their inventories.
Thriving local businesses are committed to their neighbors and support local nonprofit organizations.
Shopping locally keeps your money circulating in Vero Beach, where you can see every day how it benefits the community.
Bodies of Water
Indian River County boasts 22 miles of beautiful, uncrowded beaches, accessible by 13 public access points offering a range of amenities, including free and ample parking. If calmer waters are more your speed, the Indian River Lagoon offers additional opportunities for sailing, boating and observing birds and wildlife. The Sebastian Inlet to the north of Vero Beach connects the lagoon to the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular location for fishing, surfing and more. For even more variety, visitors and locals alike enjoy exploring the St. Sebastian River and Blue Cypress Lake.
Seagrape Trail Beach Access 8302 N. Highway A1A
Turtle Trail Beach Access 8102 N. Highway A1A
Beachfront Parks
Beach
Boat Launch
Camping
Dogs Allowed
Fishing
Lifeguard
Parking
Playground
Picnic Tables
Rentable Space
Restrooms
Walking Trails
Tracking Station Park 800 46th Place, N. Highway A1A
Jaycee Park Ocean Drive at Conn Way
Sexton Plaza Beach Sexton Plaza at the east end of Beachland Blvd
Humiston Park Ocean Drive at Easter Lily Lane
South Beach Park Ocean Drive at 17th Street
Round Island Oceanside Park 2200 S. Highway A1A
Beaches
Indian River County beaches from north to south:
Sebastian Inlet State Park
9700 Hwy. A1A
Located about 7 miles north of County Road
510 (Wabasso Bridge), Sebastian Inlet State Park offers surfing, fishing, boating, walking trails, a restaurant, picnic pavilions, camping, restrooms and showers, a bait shop, and beach wheelchairs. Like other state and national parks, the inlet charges an entrance fee, but we're confident you'll find the experience well worth the cost.
Ambersand Beach
12566 Hwy. A1A
This beach, located about 6 miles north of County Road 510, is unguarded and has no amenities — no man-made ones, that is. Ambersand is a quiet spot located within the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, a 248-acre property designed to protect habitat in this important sea turtle nesting area.
Treasure Shores
11300 Hwy. A1A
This unguarded beach nearly 3 miles north of County Road 510 is known for its sand dunes and wide-open beach vistas. Amenities include a pirate ship-themed playground, restrooms, showers and walking trails.
Golden Sands
10350 Hwy. A1A
This guarded beach, part of the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge, includes a playground, restroom facilities, showers and picnic pavilions.
Wabasso Beach Park
1820 County Road 510
Located at the east end of the Wabasso Bridge, this guarded beach park offers picnic pavilions, restroom facilities, showers, a boardwalk and other amenities.
Beach Safety
Seagrape Trail Beach
8302 Hwy. A1A
Found a half-mile south of County Road 510, this unguarded beach is pristine and secluded. It has been the site of many coin discoveries related to the 1715 Treasure Fleet.
Turtle Trail Beach
8102 Hwy. A1A
This unguarded beach is peaceful and quiet — a great place to plant your chair and umbrella and dive into your latest beach read.
One of the first things you will see at a guarded beach is the flag flying at the lifeguard station. These color-coded flags provide a wealth of information, even before your toes touch the sand.
GREEN
The coveted green flag indicates calm conditions and low hazard. A certain degree of caution is always called for, but if the green flag is flying, you’re probably in for lots of fun in smooth seas.
YELLOW
The commonly seen yellow flag signifies medium hazard due to moderate surf and/or currents. Entering the water is permitted, but extra caution is advised.
RED
If you see the red flag, you’ll be wise to stay out of the water due to high hazard risk brought on by strong surf and/or rip currents. Don’t take chances; there will be plenty of other times to enjoy the ocean.
DOUBLE RED
If the lifeguard is flying two red flags, one atop the other, he or she has closed the water to the public due to extremely hazardous conditions unsuitable for even the strongest swimmers, such as extremely rough surf, rip currents or even a shark sighting.
PURPLE
A purple flag indicates the presence of dangerous marine life. Jellyfish are a common culprit.
In addition to the flag(s), you will find a sign near the lifeguard station with a chalkboard on which the lifeguard has written up-to-date information such as water temperature and any special conditions. Always consult the lifeguards with your questions, as they are there to keep everyone informed and safe.
South Beach
Tracking Station Beach
800 46th Place
Just off Hwy. A1A near the CVS pharmacy, Tracking Station is a guarded beach that is popular among local sunbathers and surfers alike.
Jaycee Park
4200 Ocean Drive
Located just two miles north of the Merrill Barber Bridge, this is the northernmost beach within the city limits of Vero Beach. In addition to a guarded beach, the spacious grounds include a boardwalk, playground, picnic pavilions, sand volleyball courts, showers and restrooms, making it a favorite locale for family outings.
Sexton Plaza
Easternmost end of Beachland Boulevard
This unguarded beach, adjacent to the legendary Ocean Grill restaurant, is located in the heart of the oceanside shopping district. It is just a hop, skip and jump from fantastic beachside shops and eateries. It's a popular place for ocean gazing and sunrise spotting.
Humiston Park
3000 Ocean Drive
Humiston Park, a short distance south of Sexton Plaza, is conveniently located amidst shopping and restaurants. A guarded beach, large playground, picnic pavilions, restrooms and showers make this a favorite among residents. It is also the site of the popular Farmers Market Oceanside every Saturday morning.
Round Island
South Beach Park
1702 Ocean Drive
A straight drive east from the Alma Lee Loy (17th Street) Bridge brings you to the southernmost beach within the Vero Beach city limits. It features wide, guarded beaches, restrooms, showers, sand volleyball courts and covered pavilions.
Round Island Park
2200 Hwy. A1A
This county park, located about 7 miles south of the Alma Lee Loy (17th Street) Bridge, is divided in two by Highway A1A. Oceanside you'll find a guarded beach, playground, picnic pavilions and restrooms. The lagoon side includes boat and kayak launches, a playground and picnic pavilion, walking trails and a three-story observation tower. It's the best place around for spotting manatees and the occasional dolphin.
Sea Turtles
Loggerhead turtles, the most numerous visitors to our shores, may be 3 feet long and weigh as much as 250 pounds. Watching one of these magnificent creatures emerge from the sea to nest on the beach can be a magical experience. Several local organizations lead turtle walks — guided evening beach tours — that offer participants an opportunity to observe a turtle coming ashore to lay her eggs. Reservations are required and spots fill quickly, so don't wait too long!
Juvenile green turtle
Turtle Walks
Friends of Sebastian Inlet State Park at the Sebastian Fishing Museum
14257 Hwy. A1A
772-589-2147
fsispturtlewalk.org
Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge
8385 Hwy. A1A
Melbourne Beach
321-723-3556
fws.gov/refuge/archie_carr
Turtle-Friendly Tips
Each year from May through October, five different species of sea turtles — loggerhead, green, leatherback, hawksbill and Kemp’s ridley — lay their eggs on our shores. In 2021, just before the season ended, volunteers had recorded more than 5,600 loggerhead nests and over 1,500 green turtle nests on the shores of Indian River County. Each species of these incredible reptiles is classified as either endangered or threatened. You can help us welcome these annual visitors by taking the rules below to heart. It may seem like a lot of “don’ts,” but definitely "do" participate in ranger-led nighttime turtle walks, which allow you to witness the nesting process up close!
Other Resources:
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
1-888-404-3922
Coastal Connections
coastal-connections.org
GO LIGHT ON ILLUMINATION
If you own or are staying in a beachfront property, you have a special responsibility. Since sea turtles rely on moonlight, it’s important to prevent competing light sources from confusing them. Close your drapes and look into “turtle-friendly” lighting options.
LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS
The trek from the water to the dunes can be a hard one for these gigantic creatures. You can make their journey easier by clearing the way. After a day of fun at the beach, bring all chairs, umbrellas and toys home with you. Don’t leave behind any plastic, which turtles could accidentally ingest. And, as hard as it may be to see your architectural masterpieces destroyed, you should also flatten sand-castles and fill in any holes you’ve dug.
DO NOT DISTURB
During nesting season, many nest locations are marked with orange flagging tape. Be careful not to disturb these sites. Also, should you come across a sea turtle, be aware that is against the law to interfere.
Beachcombing
The part of the beach where the waves meet the sand, where beach walkers stroll with their toes in the water, is called the swash. There's nothing like splashing through it as you gaze out to sea, ponder life's big questions, or just add a little water resistance to your daily walk.
But beyond the swash, between it and the dune line, is where you'll find the wrack, the strip of seaweed, stranded coconuts and other ocean debris washed onto shore. Of course, one person's debris is another's treasure. The wrack is where you'll find sea beans, also known as drift seeds, that have traveled from exotic locales to our shores. They drop from tropical trees, shrubs and vines and are carried by the waves. Some, like many Vero Beach visitors, will even put down roots. They have fun names, too: nickernut, sea heart, sea purse, and the aptly named hamburger bean, which looks exactly like a hamburger nestled between the two halves of a bun.
Area Rugs & S t air Runners
Seashells and corals also offer an endless variety of shapes and patterns and are fun to observe and collect. Sea glass, which may have any number of origins, is also a sought-after beach find. Smoothed by sand and water, sometimes for decades, it turns up on the beach as colorful pieces of glass that may be collected or used in art, decor or jewelry.
On July 31, 1715, a fleet of Spanish ships sailing from Havana loaded with gold, silver, emeralds and other precious jewels encountered a fierce hurricane. Only one ship survived, and precious cargo was strewn from Jupiter to Sebastian.
Dedicated beachcombers, often armed with metal detectors, continue to search for bits of treasure. They find items such as Spanish coins, musket balls and the occasional centuries-old shoe buckle. The jewel you discover may trace its origins to a swashbuckling sailor or a hapless vacationer.
Local experts are notoriously secretive about their favorite treasure-hunting spots, but they are willing to share a few tips. For example, the best times to hunt include during a full moon and after a storm, due to the robust action of the tides. Specific contours of the beach, such as “bowls” (indentations in the sand) and “cuts” (small cliffs formed by the erosion of a section of sand) are always worth checking out, as shifting sands may have revealed new treasures.
Of course, even the experts find plenty of bottle caps along the way. Many of our beaches are stocked with blue baskets to make it easy to carry out and dispose of any less desirable “treasures” you may find.
To see relics from the wrecks and learn more about the 1715 Fleet, visit the McLarty Treasure Museum on the site of the original survivors’ and salvors’ camp at 13180 Hwy. A1A, south of Sebastian Inlet State Park.
Indian River Lagoon
The Indian River Lagoon National Estuary runs 181 miles along Florida's east coast, from the Halifax River in Volusia County to Sewall's Point in Martin County. Fed by five ocean inlets and five freshwater rivers, the brackish waters of the lagoon comprise one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the United States.
For the early settlers of our area, the lagoon was the main thoroughfare for travel and commerce. It was also important for both commercial and private fishing. Today, the lagoon serves as a playground for anglers, boaters, sailors and paddlers of all sorts. Wildlife enthusiasts enjoy spotting dolphins and manatees.
The lagoon, which also serves as a nursery for both fresh and saltwater fish, boasts
370 species of birds, and 2,100 species of plants. Its average depth is just 4 feet, though a 10-foot-deep channel was dredged in the 1950s for the Intracoastal Waterway. The soil resulting from this process was used to create the many spoil islands that dot the lagoon.
Visitors and residents play a vital role in maintaining the health of the lagoon. The choices we make, from landscaping to litter, make a difference. We hope you'll join us in becoming good friends to our beloved lagoon.
Sebastian Inlet
Boaters, anglers, surfers, paddlers, picnickers and wildlife enthusiasts have made the Sebastian Inlet one of Indian River County's top destinations for outdoor fun. The inlet was cut nearly a century ago to provide a passageway for boats between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean; it also facilitates water exchange between the two. Dolphins and manatees cross back and forth freely, and neither visitors nor local residents ever tire of watching them.
Sebastian Inlet is one of just five navigable inlets along the Indian River Lagoon — two natural and three man-made. Sebastian Inlet State Park, established in 1971, is one of the most popular state parks in Florida. It protects 755 acres around the inlet from development and ensures public access to this true gem of the Treasure Coast.
St. Sebastian River
The St. Sebastian River is a 16-mile-long tributary of the Indian River Lagoon, running west and north of the town of Sebastian. St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, formerly known as the Buffer Preserve, offers 60 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Opportunities for birders and wildlife enthusiasts also abound.
While there is no boat launch in the park, boaters and paddlers can launch from boat ramps nearby at Dale Wimbrow and Donald MacDonald parks.
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
1000 Buffer Preserve Drive, Fellsmere
Open daily 8 a.m.–sunset, no entry fee 321-953-5005
floridastateparks.org
Dale Wimbrow Park
11805 Roseland Road, Sebastian
Open daily 7:30 a.m.–sunset, no entry fee 772-226-1875
Donald MacDonald Park and Campground
12315 Roseland Road, Sebastian
Open daily 7 a.m.–sunset, no entry fee 772-226-1035
Blue Cypress Lake
Florida has thousands of lakes. For most people, the first one that comes to mind is the visiblefrom-space Lake Okeechobee, which dwarfs all others in the state by an order of magnitude. Indian River County’s own Blue Cypress Lake, at 6,600 acres, doesn’t even break the top 10 in size.
Beauty, however, is a different story.
Surrounded by graceful cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, Blue Cypress Lake is a major nesting site for ospreys. Their piercing calls punctuate the peaceful silence. Cypress trees emerge from the shallow water, and their knees protrude around them. The lake’s sole entry point is at Middleton’s Fish Camp on the lake’s western side, where boats and kayaks can launch. Airboat rides, pontoon tours, and fishing tours are also popular ways to enjoy the Blue Cypress experience.
Accessing one of the most beautiful lakes in our state requires a five-mile drive down a rustic road, where it's customary to wave at anyone you see.
Middleton’s Fish Camp
7400 Blue Cypress Road
772-473-1885
middletonsfishcamp.com
5070 Hwy A1A | Vero Beach, FL | 772.234.3700
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Indian River County is rich in riverfront parks. These are great places to enjoy the outdoors, share a picnic lunch or launch your kayak, paddleboard or boat. They also offer ideal spots for fishing as well as bird and wildlife watching.
45th Street Dock
Gifford Dock Road
Fishing pier
A.W. Young Park
2 Park Ave., in Vero Isles, also known as “The Fingers”
Small public park with an excellent view of the lagoon, including both bridges; picnic pavilions and restrooms
Dale Wimbrow Park
11805 Roseland Road, Sebastian Playground, picnic pavilions, event pavilion, barbecue grills, restrooms, boat launch, fitness trail and fishing access
Donald MacDonald Park
12315 Roseland Road, Sebastian Observation boardwalk, fire pits, concrete picnic tables, boat launch and restrooms with showers
Joe Earman Island Park
Accessible only by boat, approximately 1.5 miles north of the Merrill Barber Bridge Covered pavilion and grill
MacWilliam Park
3341 Bridge Plaza Drive, at the northeast end of the Barber Bridge Sheltered picnic areas, restrooms and boat ramps
Riverside Park 3280 Riverside Park Drive, adjacent to Riverside Theatre and Vero Beach Museum of Art Picnic pavilions, playground, tennis courts, fitness trail, restrooms and boat ramps
Riverview Park U.S. Hwy. 1 and CR 512, Sebastian Sand volleyball courts, picnic pavilions, fishing piers, splashpad, and restrooms
Round Island Riverside Park 2200 Hwy. A1A
Picnic pavilion, walking trails, restrooms and boat ramps
Royal Palm Pointe Park
2 Royal Palm Pointe
Decorated with beautiful mosaics, this park is known for its interactive fountains, fishing pier and excellent lagoon views. Picnic tables and restrooms are also on site.
Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary
100 Dahlia Lane, accessed via Riverside Park
A beautiful memorial to Indian River County men and women who paid the ultimate price in serving our country, Memorial Island includes a number of monuments and benches for quiet contemplation overlooking the Indian River Lagoon.
Wabasso Causeway Park
1820 Wabasso Beach Road
Boat launch, picnic pavilions and restrooms
Round Island Riverside Park 2200 S. Highway A1A
Boating & Water Sports
In Vero Beach, it's easy to leave the land behind. Seasoned boaters and sailors will find plenty of marinas, boat ramps and places to rent everything they need. Kayaks and paddleboards are also easy to come by and can be launched from local parks and beaches. You can take a Jet Ski out on the river or even try a water bike.
If you would rather get into the water, you've come to the right place. You'll find plenty of opportunities here to snorkel, scuba dive, surf, and even kiteboard.
Finally, if you want to get out on the water but want someone else to do the driving, all sorts of guided tours are available. We've compiled all the information you need to get started on your next aquatic adventure!
Marinas & Gear
Sebastian Inlet Marina
8685 U.S. Hwy. 1, Micco 772-664-8500
sebastianinletmarina.com
Vero Beach Municipal Marina 3611 Rio Vista Blvd. 772-978-4960 covb.org
Vero Beach Rowing 310 Acacia Road 772-261-0747
verobeachrowing.org
Vero Beach Yacht Club 3601 Rio Vista Blvd. 772-231-2211
verobeachyachtclub.com
Vero Marine Center 12 Royal Palm Pointe 772-562-7922 veromarine.com
Vero Tackle & Watersports 3321 Bridge Plaza Drive 772-234-9585
verowatersports.com
Youth Sailing Foundation 17 17th St. 772-492-3243
ysfirc.org
Boats & Jet Skis
Florida Boat Rentals 3321 Bridge Plaza Drive (behind Riverside Cafe) 772-713-7132
flboatrentals.com
Just in Time 1730 Indian River Drive, Sebastian 772-300-4101
justintimewatercraftrentals.com
Landlubber Boat Rentals 732-861-4175
landlubber-boat-rentals.business. site
Leisure Time Boating Club 3321 Bridge Plaza Drive 772-539-0051
leisuretimeboatclub.com
Propel Watersports and Boat Rental 3611 Rio Vista Blvd. 772-643-0245
propelwsbr.com
Sail Moonraker 3611 Rio Vista Blvd. 772-696-2941
40-foot luxury catamaran available for charter
Sebastian Watercraft Rentals 1606 Indian River Drive, Sebastian (at Capt. Hiram’s) 772-589-5560
sebastianwatercraftrentals.com
Vero Beach Rental Boats 3611 Rio Vista Blvd. 772-453-3516
verobeachrentalboats.com
Canoes, Kayaks & More
Adventure Kayaking Tours 772-567-0522
adventurekayakingtours.com
Environmental Learning Center 255 Live Oak Drive 772-589-5050
discoverelc.org
Orchid Island Bikes & Kayaks 1175 Commerce Ave. 772-299-1286
orchidislandbikesandkayaks.com
Paddles by the Sea 3321 Bridge Plaza Drive 772-444-7871
paddlesbythesea.com
Sea Sup Go Paddle & Surf Company 40 Royal Palm Pointe 772-217-8708
seasupgo.com
Shark Bait Beach Gear Rentals 561-248-5695
sharkbaitgearrentals.com
Scuba Classes & Gear
Deep 6 Dive and Watersports 416 21st St. 772-562-2883
deepsixintl.com
Treasure Coast Dive Center 8466 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-571-5987
tcdivecenter.com
Snorkeling
Paddles by the Sea
Snorkel Tours
3321 Bridge Plaza Drive 772-444-7871
paddlesbythesea.com
Shark Bait Beach Gear Rentals
Snorkeling gear, rentals and guided tours 561-248-5695
sharkbaitgearrentals.com
Surfing Lessons & Gear
Endless Windz 3615 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-217-KITE (5483) endlesswindz.com
Epic Sessions
Skimboard, surf and paddleboard lessons and tours 772-360-7166
EZride Surf School
Professional surf lessons and ocean education 905 Shorewinds Drive 954-803-5169
ezridesurfschool.com
Deep 6 Dive and Watersports (gear only) 416 21st St. 772-562-2883
deepsixintl.com
Sebastian Inlet Surf & Sport 8898 S. Hwy. A1A, Melbourne Beach 321-574-0600
sebastianinletsurfshop.com
Wabasso Beach Shop 4880 87th St., Sebastian 772-388-4077
wabassobeachshop.com
Guided Tours
Adventure Kayaking Tours 772-567-0522
adventurekayakingtours.com
Airboat Wilderness Rides Blue Cypress Conservation Area County Road 512 772-589-3278
airboatwildernessrides.com
Capt. Bob’s Airboat Adventures of Vero Beach
Blue Cypress Conservation Area County Road 512 772-633-7849
airboatadventuretours.com
Environmental Learning Center 255 Live Oak Drive 772-589-5050
discoverelc.org
Florida Cracker Airboat Rides and Guide Service Blue Cypress Conservation Area County Road 512 772-563-0001
floridacrackerairboatride.com
Gator Bait Airboat Adventures Blue Cypress Conservation Area County Road 512 772-766-2629
gatorbaitairboatadventures.com
Marsh Beast Airboat Tours Blue Cypress Conservation Area County Road 512 772-584-0089
marshbeastairboattours.com
Middleton's Fish Camp 7400 Blue Cypress Road 772-473-1885
middletonsfishcamp.com
River Explorer Boat Tours 3321 Bridge Plaza Drive 772-713-7132
riverexplorerboattours.com
River King at Capt. Hiram’s 45-foot Sightseer pontoon boat 1606 Indian River Drive, Sebastian 772-589-4345
hirams.com
Treasure Coast Cruises at MacWilliam Park 3469 Indian River Drive 772-321-5955
tccruise.com
Tropical Kayak Tours 772-778-3044
tropicalkayaktours.com
Fishing
If putting a line in the water is your idea of a perfect day, you've come to the right place. You can take a boat out on the water, surf fish from the beach, or find a nice shady spot along the lagoon. Local fishing charters are ready to take you to all the best spots. If you'd rather explore on your own, the information below can help you get started.
Getting Started
Fishing Licenses
Anyone over the age of 16 must possess a valid fishing license to fish in Florida. Fresh and saltwater licenses are readily available online and at local shops. Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-486-8356 or myfwc.com for up-to-date information on fees and requirements.
Fishing Gear
King Pompano Bait and Tackle Shop 1901 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-234-9300
king-pompano-bait-and-tackleshop.business.site
Reel ‘Em In Bait & Tackle 821 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian 772-581-1027
reeleminbaitandtackle.com
Professional Outfitters 1204 S. U.S. Hwy. 1 772-569-3666
pro-out.com
Vero Tackle & Watersports 3321 Bridge Plaza Drive 772-234-9585
verowatersports.com
Wabasso Bait & Tackle Shack 8456 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-571-5144
wabassobaittackleshack.com
Fishing Guides
A Guide Fishing Service
772-559-1422
aguidefishingservice.com
Big Easy Fishing Charter 772-538-1072
bigeasyfishingcharter.com
Captain T. Fred’s Charters 772-473-2156
tfredcharters.com
Down Sea Charters 772-532-9347
downseacharters.com
East Coast Fishing Charters 321-266-1160
ecfishingcharters.com
Filet Show Fishing 321-693-4918
filetshow.com
Fish Vero Beach Charters
772-633-4274
fishverobeach.com
Incentive Fishing Charters
321-676-1948
incentivecharters.com
Just Bumminit Guide Service 772-562-5978
justbumminit.com
Local Waters 321-266-2575
fishlocalwaters.com
O’Fishly Hooked Charters 772-633-8240 ofishlyhooked.com
On Island Time Charters 772-473-0694 onislandtimecharters.com
Renegade Charters 863-840-1422 floridarenegade.com
Roy Bass, Middleton’s Fish Camp 772-473-1885
roybass.com
Seek & Destroy Charters 772-559-5224
verobeachcharterfishing.com
Skipper Sportfishing Charters 772-473-4525
skipperfish.com
Vero Backcountry Fishing 772-532-6174
verobackcountryfishing.com
Vero Tackle & Watersports 772-675-0172
verowatersports.com
Vero Tight Line Charters 772-584-1500
verotightlinecharters.com
Sebastian Fishing Museum
Located on the south (Indian River County) side of Sebastian Inlet State Park, the Sebastian Fishing Museum celebrates the important role the fishing industry has played in Sebastian's history. A homemade fishing boat, replicas of an original fish house and dock, nets and other gear used by early settlers, and photographs of commercial fishermen at work on the Indian River Lagoon are all on exhibit. Access to the museum is free with admission to the park.
Sebastian Inlet State Park
14251 Hwy. A1A
772-589-9659
floridastateparks.org
What’s Biting?
Sports
Whether you have a racquet in your hand, running shoes on your feet, a parachute strapped to your back, or a rolled-up yoga mat under your arm, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stay active in Vero Beach and the surrounding area. The following pages will help you stay in shape, hone your skills, and learn some new ones — all while making new friends along the way.
Golf
Private Courses
Bent Pine Golf Club
6001 Clubhouse Drive
772-567-6838
bentpinegolf.com
This course, designed by Joe Lee, is located on 220 acres of lush hammock land where Florida pines and scenic lakes are plentiful.
Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club
4985 Club Terrace
772-778-9000
grandharbor.com
Grand Harbor boasts two courses: the challenging Joe Lee-designed River Course and the Pete Dye-designed Harbor Course, which is typical of the classic Scottish links style.
Hawk’s Nest
6005 Old Dixie Hwy.
772-569-9400
themooringsclub.com
This Moorings Yacht & Country Club course was designed by course architect Jim Fazio to suit the tall pine and oak trees abundant on the property. It is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf.
Indian River Club
800 Carolina Circle SW
772-569-5066
indianriverclub.com
Laid out on gently rolling terrain, this course was designed by Ron Garl, noted for his attention to the environment. In 1995, Indian River Club became one of the first courses in the world to receive the coveted status of Audubon Signature Sanctuary.
South
Vero Beach Tennis & Fitness Club
Indian River Club
John’s Island Club
North & South Courses
3 John’s Island Drive
772-231-1700
johnsislandclub.org
John’s Island Club has two 18-hole championship courses on the island. The North Course, designed by Pete Dye, is laid out around old Florida oaks with beautiful views that lead to the Indian River Lagoon. Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye designed the challenging South Course, which underwent impressive enhancements in 2019.
John’s Island Club
West Course
772-231-1700
johnsislandclub.org
The 300-acre West Course is located on the mainland, 6 miles from John’s Island Club. It was designed by Tom Fazio and built on a natural sand ridge that affords dramatic elevation changes. Ranked among the most challenging courses in the country, it is secluded and rich in wildlife and natural beauty.
The Moorings Yacht & Country Club
100 Harbour Drive
772-231-1004
themooringsclub.com
This Pete Dye-designed course is one of only a handful in the world with the entire front nine surrounded by water, complete with 40 species of birds. Majestic oaks dot the back nine. The course is certified by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf.
Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club
1 Beachside Drive
772-388-2350
orchidislandfl.com
Designed by Arnold Palmer, Orchid Island’s course is laid out against a backdrop of old Florida oaks, grasses and tropical landscaping. It is a certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program course that hosts a variety of wildlife and tests players of all skill levels.
Pointe West Country Club
7500 14th Lane
772-264-4998
pwccvb.com
Pointe West’s course was created in 1999 by golf course architect John Sanford, who saw to it that players of all levels would face a variety of challenges while progressing from tee to tee.
Quail Valley Golf Club
6545 Pinnacle Drive
772-299-0093
quailvalleygolfclub.com
Quail Valley’s 280-acre course was designed by Tom Fazio II and Nick Price. It features impressive elevations and generous waterways to challenge enthusiasts and hobbyists alike.
RedStick Golf Club
8350 58th Ave.
772-388-3873
redstickgolfclub.com
The par-72 RedStick course was designed by Rees Jones. It is a walking course that measures 7,192 yards in total.
Riomar Country Club
2106 Club Drive
772-231-6426
riomarcountryclub.com
Built in 1919, Riomar Country Club is the oldest golf course in Vero Beach. It has seven holes that run along the ocean, more than any other course in Florida. Despite an extensive renovation by Tom Fazio II and Nick Price in 2015, it remains an “Old Florida” style course.
Vero Beach Country Club
800 30th St.
772-567-3320
vbcountryclub.com
Designed in the 1920s, this course has been enhanced since the 1990s to increase shot variety. Players face challenges involving wind, doglegs, strategically placed bunkers, oak and palm trees, lakes and perimeter canals.
Windsor
3125 Windsor Blvd. 772-388-5050
windsorflorida.com
The 18-hole, links-style Windsor golf course was laid out by Robert Trent Jones Jr. in a traditional design. The greens are situated against a rolling panorama of Florida native trees that border the softly rolling fairways.
Public Courses
American Golf Club
100 Woodland Drive
772-569-5554
This Arthur Hills course was built in 1976. It includes 27 holes, driving range, pro shop, golf instruction, and full restaurant and bar.
Sandridge Golf Club
5300 73rd St.
772-770-5000
sandridgegc.com
Sandridge Golf Club, owned and operated by Indian River County, includes two 18-hole championship layouts designed by Ron Garl. The Dunes Course, which opened in 1987, winds around an old ridge that runs up the east coast of Florida. The Lakes Course, which opened in 1992, features one of the toughest holes around, the par-4 14th. Players visit from around the world to take a shot at its challenging island green.
Sebastian Municipal Golf Course
100 Brush Foot Drive, Sebastian 772-589-6801
cityofsebastian.org
The 18-hole Sebastian course features 6,717 yards of golf for a par of 72. Designed by Charles Ankrom, it opened in 1981. A surprising feature of the course appears on the back nine, where golfers will sometimes have an audience of skydivers from Skydive Sebastian floating down with their colorful parachutes.
Vista Plantation Golf Club
48 Plantation Drive
772-569-2223
myvistagolf.com
Vista Plantation Golf Club is an 18-hole, semiprivate, par-62 course. Designed by Arthur Hills, the PGA- and USGA-affiliated course is challenging for every level of golfer from the most avid to the beginner. Seventeen of the 18 holes touch water on this course, which also features exceptionally fast greens.
Golf Training & Entertainment
BigShots Golf
3456 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-979-GOLF (4653)
verobigshots.com
This 10-acre, state-of-the-art golf recreation and entertainment facility has BigShots gaming software powered by radar ball-tracking technology. The two-story venue includes a restaurant, sports bar, private event space, and 30 climate-controlled tee boxes.
Tennis & Pickleball
Private Courts
Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club 4985 Club Terrace 772-778-9000
grandharbor.com
Indian Trails Tennis Club 125 Chiefs Trail 772-234-9981
John’s Island Club
3 John’s Island Drive 772-231-1700
johnsislandclub.org
The Moorings Yacht & Country Club 100 Harbour Drive 772-231-1004
themooringsclub.com
Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club 1 Beachside Drive 772-388-2350
orchidislandfl.com
Quail Valley River Club 2345 Hwy. A1A 772-492-2020
quailvalleygolfclub.com
Sea Oaks Beach & Tennis Club 8850 Sea Oaks Way 772-231-2667
seaoaksbeachandtennis.com
Windsor 3125 Windsor Blvd. 772-388-8400
windsorflorida.com
Public Courts
Boulevard Tennis Club 1620 Boulevard Village Lane 772-778-4200 boulevardtennis.com
14 lighted Har-Tru courts
Pickleball University pickleu.com
Pocahontas Park 2199 14th Ave. 772-567-2144
covb.org
12 pickleball courts
Riverside Racquet Tennis Complex 350 Dahlia Lane (within Riverside Park) 772-231-4787
covb.org
10 lighted hard-surface tennis courts and pro shop; adult and children’s programs; courts are available for free play when pro shop is closed
Schumann Drive Park 1096 Schumann Drive 772-228-7054
cityofsebastian.org/facilities
Six lighted tennis courts, two with pickleball lines
Twin Oaks Tennis Club 1295 6th Ave. 772-770-1149
twinoakstennisclub.com
Seven lighted Har-Tru tennis courts
Vero Beach Tennis & Fitness Club 702 Timber Ridge Trail SW 772-569-7700
verobeachtennis.net
14 Har-Tru tennis courts, pickleball court
Vero Fitness 1060 6th Ave. 772-567-1400
verofitness.fit
Six indoor lighted pickleball courts and two lighted tennis courts
Equestrian
Angel’s Appy Acres
4885 58th Ave.
772-519-0065
angelsappyacres.com
Riding, instruction and boarding
BG Equestrian
7700 8th St.
561-859-2605
bgequestrianverobeach.com
Riding, instruction, boarding and special events venue
Carefree Ranch
7290 53rd St.
772-564-9222
carefreeranch.org
Boarding, leasing and programs for “at-risk” children
Copper Light Farm 6900 45th St.
650-248-8227
copperlightfarm.com
Boarding, grooming, training and supplements
High Hopes Eventing Farm
7230 49th St.
772-538-3772
highhopeseventing.com
Riding lessons and events
Indian River Riding Club
6250 37th St.
indianriverridingclub.com
Wide range of activities at all levels
Shady Oaks Ranch
6555 Atlantic Blvd.
772-633-2716
Boarding, lessons, clinics and on-site horse leasing
Special Equestrians of the Treasure Coast
7065 37th St. 772-562-7603
specialequestrianstreasurecoast. org
Equine-assisted activities to improve the lives of people with mental, physical and emotional disabilities
Tall Pines Equestrian
6150 37th St.
772-559-3744
tallpinesequestrian.com
Training, boarding and showing
Vero Beach Equestrian Club
7355 69th St. 772-226-0376
verobeachequestrianclub.com
Boarding and training
Whispering Pines Equestrian
10370 105th St., Fellsmere
772-925-6064
wpef.weebly.com
Western instruction for children and adults
Additional Sports
Archery
Indian River Archers 6000 77th St. 772-413-8892 indianriverarchersclub.com
Bowling
Vero Bowl 929 14th Lane 772-299-PINS (7467) verobowl.com
Strike Zone 730 S. Fleming St., Sebastian 772-770-2710 strikezonesebastian.com
Boxing
Gus Curren's House of Champions 4378 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-713-1157 gchouseofchampions.com
Sweet Science 1137 21st St. 772-501-2744 sweetsciencevb.com
Cycling
Bike Walk Indian River County bikewalkirc.org
Vero Cycling verocyclingclub.org
Disc Golf
Kiwanis Hobart Park 5350 77th St. 772-226-1875
ircgov.com
Treasure Coast Disc Golf Club treasurecoastdiscg.wixsite.com
Martial Arts
Bamboo Dojo 2111 14th Ave. 772-770-2491
thebamboodojo.com
The Cloudwalker Place Qigong classes at Charles Park, South Beach Park, and the Intergenerational Center 772-453-6449
thecloudwalker.com
RT Martial Arts 6200 20th St., Suite 880 754-214-2351
rtmartialartsvb.com
Florida Karate Academy
1140 19th St. 772-563-9333
floridakarateacademy.com
Vero Beach Karate Association 2015 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) 772-567-9899
vbka.com
Running
Runners’ Depot 436 21st St. 772-569-7364
runnersdepotvb.com
Sunrunners sunrunnersofverobeach.com
Shooting
Indian River County Public Shooting Range
10455 102nd Terrace, Sebastian 772-226-3096
ircgov.com/parksandrecreation/ shootingrange
Indian River Sportsman
4185 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-778-4844
indianriversportsmans.com
Vero Beach Clay Shooting Sports
5925 82nd Ave. 772-978-0935
verobeachclayshooting.com
Shuffleboard
Vero Beach Shuffleboard Club
Pocahontas Park Shuffleboard
Courts
2199 14th Ave. (facing 21st Street) 772-567-8729
Skydiving
Skydive Sebastian
400 Airport Drive W., Sebastian 772-388-5672
skydiveseb.com
Volleyball
Vero Beach Volleyball 1060 6th Ave. 843-267-3378
beachvolleyballfl.com
Vero Elite Volleyball Academy 1060 6th Ave. 772-567-6711
veroelitevolleyballacademy.com
Yoga & Pilates
Bending Light Yoga 1960 44th Ave., Suite B bendinglightyoga.com
Indian River Bikram Yoga
676 U.S. Hwy. 1, Suite 4 772-925-9697
indianriverbikram.com
Level Yoga
29 Royal Palm Pointe, Suite 2 and 3055 Cardinal Drive 772-696-1160
levelyogastudio.com
S.T.A.R. Pilates 690 21st St. 772-205-7969
starpilatesstudio.com
The Great Outdoors
Our area abounds with natural beauty that beckons us to get outside and enjoy it. We’ve compiled a list of places to hike, birdwatch and just plain enjoy yourself outdoors. That’s followed by fun facts and information about some of the critters, large and small, that share this land we call home.
Hiking Trails
Blue Cypress Conservation Area State Road 60 and County Road 512 sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/blue-cypress
This 60,000-acre conservation area near Blue Cypress Lake is under the aegis of the St. Johns River Water Management District. It includes miles of levees that provide vantage points for viewing the open water, marshlands, cypress trees and native wildlife, including many species of birds.
Captain Forster Hammock Preserve
8610 Jungle Trail, south of CR 510 ircgov.com
This 110-acre preserve contains a short trail that offers a quick wilderness getaway in which you’re never very far from civilization. Birders are especially fond of this preserve during spring and fall songbird migrations.
Properties Conserved by the Indian River Land Trust
Priority Conservation Areas
Other Conservation Areas
First established in 1990 to save McKee Botanical Garden, the Indian River Land Trust (IRLT) protects the land that protects the Indian River Lagoon.
IRLT offers free conservation tours and miles of hiking trails throughout Indian River County.
For more information, visit www.irlt.org.
Fort Drum Marsh
Wildlife Conservation Area
About 20 miles west of Vero Beach, 10 miles east of Yeehaw Junction; access south side of State Road 60 sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/fort-drum-marsh
This 20,000-acre property located at the southwestern corner of Indian River County offers some 5 miles of trails, including a boardwalk that traverses a hardwood swamp. This biologically diverse area also includes prairie and marshland as well as pine flatwoods.
Jungle Trail traillink.com /trail/historic-jungle-trail/ This 7.8-mile 1920s hard-packed sand road, now on the National Register of Historic Places, stretches from Old Winter Beach Road north to the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Lagoon Greenway
Accessed at the intersection of Indian River Boulevard and 8th Street Indian River Land Trust 772-794-0701
irlt.org
This property comprises 187 acres, including 3 miles of trails for hiking, jogging or bicycling through oak hammocks, over wetlands and around a mangrove forest along the edge of the lagoon.
Jungle Trail
Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area
150 9th St. SE (Oslo Road)
As soon as you enter this 298-acre wilderness, you forget you are less than a mile from a shopping center. Trails and boardwalks take you through mature coastal hammock, scrubby flatwoods and wetlands that are home to such native plants as wildflowers, wild coffee, myrsine, marlberry, firebrush, saw palmetto, cabbage palms and a wide variety of other species. The South Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area is located just across Oslo Road.
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
The entrance can be accessed off Highway A1A, 3.7 miles north of Wabasso Beach Road (CR 510) or from the south via Jungle Trail. Established in 1903 by an executive order of President Theodore Roosevelt, Pelican Island was the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. Visitors enjoy peaceful hiking trails, plentiful wildlife and an extraordinary view of the Pelican Island rookery in the Indian River Lagoon.
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park
1000 Buffer Preserve Drive, Fellsmere
321-953-5005
floridastateparks.org
With 22,000 acres of wilderness and 60 miles of trails, this state park is a local treasure. Habitats include long-leaf pine forests, grassland prairies, scrub cypress domes and swamps.
Look for the rare Florida scrub jay and keep an eye out for bald eagles, gopher tortoises and a host of other native species. Even the elusive bobcat is known to make the preserve its home.
Accessed at U.S. Highway 1 and 79th Street
Indian River Land Trust
772-794-0701
irlt.org
A 1-mile trail encompasses open canopy scrub habitat, oak forest and an impoundment loop with a boardwalk through mangroves.
Staying Up On Our Lizards
On any given day in Vero Beach, we spot dozens of lizards darting to and fro. Traditionally, most of those lizards would have been anoles. In recent years, several nonnative lizard species have been on the rise in our area. Below are our most common lizards.
Brown Anole
In our area, the brown, or Cuban, anole is the most common lizard at this time, having gradually made its way north after being introduced to the U.S. a century ago. Like its green relative, the brown anole is about 7 inches long. The male of both species possesses a bright reddish-orange dewlap, or throat flap, that it puffs out to attract a mate or discourage territorial competition.
Northern CurlyTailed Lizard
This native of the Bahamas is relatively new to our area, and its range is spreading. With a length of 9 inches and a curled tail, these newcomers can be a bit more intimidating than the innocuous-looking anoles, but they are in fact harmless and are even popular as pets. Nevertheless, they are considered an invasive species because they are out-competing our anoles. The curly-tailed lizard will eat virtually anything, including human food and even smaller species of lizards.
Mediterranean House Gecko
While anoles are seen on all sorts of surfaces, from trees to sidewalks, Mediterranean geckos dwell almost exclusively on walls. And, unlike anoles, these lizards are nocturnal. Having arrived in the U.S. most likely as stowaways on cargo ships, they have also been introduced via the pet trade. Their appearance can vary from a translucent grayish hue to shades of brown with spots, depending on their surroundings.
Green Anole
Of the approximately 400 species of anoles, ranging from the Southeastern United States down to Paraguay, only one is native to the U.S.: the green anole. Due to its ability to change color from bright green to shades of brown, depending upon its mood, it is sometimes erroneously called a chameleon; but anoles are actually more closely related to iguanas. Green anoles, which grow to a length of about 7 inches, were plentiful in the Vero Beach area just a few decades ago, before they declined due to competition from the encroaching brown anoles. From a second-floor window, you may occasionally see green anoles in the treetops. They remain plentiful in other parts of Florida and other Southern states.
Feathered Friends
Coastal Florida is a paradise for bird enthusiasts both serious and casual. Large wading birds frequent our yards all year round, and colorful songbirds visit us in winter. The following are a few of our favorite winged residents.
Snowy Egret
Slightly larger than the cattle egret, the snowy egret is characterized by bright yellow feet and a black bill. This bird was once hunted extensively for its beautiful long, white breeding plumage, but populations have rebounded significantly.
Bald Eagle
When it comes to bald eagle populations, Florida takes a back seat only to Alaska. It is not at all uncommon to spot a bald eagle soaring over Indian River County. Though at first glance it is possible to mistake an osprey for a bald eagle, just keep a sharp eye out for the eagle’s pure-white head and hooked yellow bill.
Little Blue Heron
This methodical wading predator is larger than a cattle egret but much smaller than a great blue heron. Its feathers include slate blue, maroon and purplish hues.
White Ibis
The ubiquitous white ibis is seen in and near shallow water, often in yards, and usually in groups. Its long, curved, reddish-orange bill and similarly colored legs make it unmistakable. Its feathers are all white except for black wingtips that are visible only when the bird is in flight. Juveniles have patchy brown feathers, which serve as camouflage until the bird matures.
Great Egret
There’s no mistaking the tall, graceful egret — a type of heron — with its long, slender neck, perfectly white feathers, black legs and straight yellow bill. The great egret exceeds 3 feet in height and possesses a wingspan of more than 4 feet. It is often spotted in or near shallow water, stalking fish slowly and intently. It also eats frogs and other small critters.
Cattle Egret
Though smaller than the great egret, the cattle egret is likewise all white, except for some buff-colored plumage during breeding season. Just under 2 feet in height, the cattle egret is seen in open fields and yards. Its name derives from its practice of hanging out around (or even on) grazing cattle, eating the insects they stir up.
Great Blue Heron
Even taller than the great egret, and possessing a 6-foot wingspan, the great blue heron is an attention getter. But if you’re trying to photograph one, be sure to have a zoom lens, because if you get too close, this bird will fly off with an irritated squawk. Its hunting behavior is similar to that of its relative the great egret.
Osprey
This raptor, seen frequently in our area, feeds almost exclusively on fish, which it snatches from the water after a 30to 100-foot dive and then carries off in its talons. Osprey nests are large and often built atop poles and dead trees, making them easy to spot.
Pelican
While brown pelicans can be spotted fishing or perching on docks at any time of year, the larger white pelican, whose wingspan can exceed 9 feet, is literally a snowbird, residing here in the winter. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge offers a bird’s-eye view of the Pelican Island rookery in the Indian River Lagoon.
Cormorant and Anhinga
These are the birds often seen with their wings outstretched, seemingly in an act of flamboyant sunbathing. In fact, these water birds possess less preen oil than other birds, so they frequently have occasion to dry their wings. Due to this shared behavior, it is easy to get these two birds mixed up. Perhaps the most noticeable distinguishing feature is that the cormorant’s bill is curved at the end, while the anhinga’s is straight.
Sandhill Crane
There’s nothing like a sandhill crane. For one thing, it is 4 feet tall, with a wingspan exceeding 6 feet. Then there’s its red forehead and its tendency to stroll terrifyingly close to hightraffic areas and cross streets on foot, a perplexing habit for a bird. Finally, the sandhill crane’s rattling trumpet-like call is difficult to describe, but once heard, it is not soon forgotten.
Roseate Spoonbill
Without a doubt, this bright pink bird is a favorite of many residents and visitors alike. Its vibrant color comes from the crustaceans that make up most of its diet. The bill, with its wide, flat tip, almost calls to mind that of a platypus. Larger than a white ibis, the spoonbill can be seen foraging in shallow waters.
Pileated Woodpecker
With its impressive size, brilliant red crest and boisterous vocalizations, the pileated woodpecker is not easily overlooked. At 16 to 19 inches long, it is the largest woodpecker in North America and one of the largest in the world. While two similar but larger North American species are believed extinct, the pileated woodpecker is adaptable and enjoys a wide range. In the Southeastern United States, pileated woodpeckers are common year-round.
The Great Florida Birding Trail
The Great Florida Birding & Wildlife Trail is not actually a contiguous trail; rather, it is a network of 510 prime birding and wildlife viewing locations totaling some 2,000 miles. It is a project of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and the sites are marked with brown signs bearing the GFBWT’s swallowtailed kite logo. There are a dozen such sites in Indian River County.
Wood Stork
The wood stork is larger than the great egret but slightly smaller than the great blue heron. Easily identifiable with its bald head and white feathers, it is an impressive bird, especially in flight. The only stork native to North America, the wood stork is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.
Wildlife
Every region has its particular brand of wildlife. In Alaska you’ll want to steer clear of grizzly bears, in Maine you could run into a moose, and in New Mexico you might see a roadrunner run across the road. While engaging in outdoor activities here in Vero Beach, you’re likely to encounter plenty of wildlife — some wilder than others. We wouldn’t like to see anyone miss out on enjoying the outdoors due to misconceptions about Florida’s wildlife. So enjoy the information below, always maintain a healthy respect for all wildlife, and remember that most wild animals don’t want to interact with us any more than we want to tangle with them.
Bobcats
About twice the size of domestic cats, bobcats pose little threat to humans. They are plentiful but reclusive, spotted occasionally in wooded areas and even backyards. They hunt rabbits, rodents and other small animals, usually at dawn, dusk and nighttime. As with all wildlife, observe and admire the bobcat, but keep your distance, and it will most likely blend back into the wild.
Alligators
Alligators are plentiful in the Sunshine State, but living side-by-side with these scaly neighbors is not nearly as terrifying as you may think. Unprovoked gator attacks on humans are exceedingly rare. Nevertheless, alligators need to be taken seriously. As with most wildlife, if you leave them alone, they will generally leave you alone. Use good gator sense: Don’t swim in lakes or other inland bodies of water. Don’t let small children or pets wander at the edges of lakes or waterways, especially during the hours from dusk to dawn.
While alligators prefer fresh water, it is also possible to see them in the brackish waters of the Indian River Lagoon. Their bodies are not good at eliminating salt, but they are capable of spending several hours in salt water. If you want to observe alligators in their natural habitat, Blue Cypress Lake is a good place to do so. If you are canoeing or kayaking and see the trademark triangle of an alligator’s eyes and snout peeking above the waterline, watch carefully and you will probably see it duck under and resurface farther away from you. If you are walking near a lake and encounter a gator sunning itself at the water’s edge, keep your distance, and it will most likely slip into the water, where it feels most at home. And this probably goes without saying: It is illegal to feed or interfere with alligators in any way.
Snakes
While Florida is home to some 46 species of native snakes, only six are venomous, and of those only four live in the southern part of the state. Snakes are a valuable part of our ecosystem, so if you see one in your yard, it is more likely a friend than a foe. Snakes will usually flee if not cornered. Most of us are more than happy to accord all snakes, venomous or not, a wide berth. But it can’t hurt to at least be aware of the venomous ones potentially found in our area:
The Eastern coral snake, though potentially dangerous, is actually shy and rarely seen. But a couple of non-venomous species mimic its red, black and yellow bands, though in different patterns. Several variations of a rhyming mnemonic help make the distinction: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow; red touches black, venom lack.”
The cottonmouth, or water moccasin, is a thick-bodied snake that measures 30–48 inches. Eight non-venomous water snakes resemble this venomous species.
Two types of rattlesnakes are native to our area, though not frequently seen: The heavy-bodied Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which measures 33–72 inches, can shake its tail to create a buzzing sound. The dusky pygmy rattlesnake is likewise thickbodied but much shorter at just 12–24 inches.
However, the snakes you are most likely to encounter are quite harmless. Most will bite only if they feel threatened, but otherwise are not aggressive.
The corn snake, also called the red rat snake, measures 30–48 inches and is colored in shades of red, orange and brown.
The North American racer, commonly called the black racer, is very common in our area. Its length is approximately 20–56 inches.
The common garter snake sports a blotched pattern with three yellowish stripes. It is usually less than 2 feet long but can grow larger.
Feral Pigs/Wild Hogs/Wild Boars
Known by several names, feral pigs are not native but have been in Florida for centuries. They are ubiquitous throughout the state and considered invasive due to the property damage they are capable of causing by their rooting and eating habits. Like most other animals, feral pigs prefer to avoid danger, but they can behave aggressively and can carry diseases, so keep your distance, especially if you see a sow with her adorable piglets.
Invasive Species
We can all help preserve our beautiful natural environment by reporting invasive plant and animal species when we observe them. Not all nonnative species are considered invasive, but when they compete with native flora and fauna, cause or have the potential to cause harm to humans or a negative environmental or economic impact, it’s time to step in and attempt to mitigate the damage.
IveGot1 is a smartphone app for reporting invasive species in Florida. It is available for both iPhone and Android and allows the user to submit a photograph of the creature in question. Its associated website, eddmaps. org, and hotline, 888-483-4681 (888-IVE-GOT1), can be used for the same purpose.
Invasive Animals & Plants
Burmese python
cane toad
Cuban tree frog
green iguana
feral hog
lionfish
muscovy duck
rhesus macaque
vervet monkey
air potato
Australian malaleuca
Brazilian pepper
cogon grass
hydrilla
Japanese climbing fern
kudzu
Wildlife Resources
Whether you feel threatened by an animal or you come across an animal that appears orphaned or injured, the following resources will be helpful. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, baby animals are rarely actually orphaned, so it is best to leave them alone, even if they appear unattended. Animal parents may be out gathering food or observing their young outside your field of vision. FWC advises, “Do not pick up baby animals or remove them from their natural environment.”
If you encounter injured or orphaned wildlife, seek advice from the experts.
Indian River County Animal Control 772-226-4799
Vero Beach Police Department Animal Control Officer 772-978-4600
Florida Wildlife Hospital & Sanctuary 321-254-8843
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Wildlife Alert Hotline
To report injured manatees, dolphins, sea turtles; wild animals that pose a threat to human health or safety; or wildlife law violations 888-404-3922
From a cell phone: *FWC or #FWC (depending on the service provider)
Nuisance alligator 866-392-4286
Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Agriculture and Marine Unit Loose livestock 772-569-6700
Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County
Found domestic or feral animals, such as dogs, cats and horses; or to report animal neglect or abuse
772-388-3331
cruelty@hsvb.org
The Arts
The arts have been part of the lifeblood of Vero Beach for many decades. We have welcomed world-class musicians, opera singers, ballet dancers and authors while consistently fostering local artists and performers of all kinds right here at home. Indian River County enjoys a vibrant community of artists who continually open our eyes to the world both around us and inside us.
Visual Arts
Vero Beach Museum of Art
3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707
vbmuseum.org
VBMA is the largest accredited art facility on Florida’s Treasure Coast, presenting changing international exhibitions from lenders and its permanent collection of more than 950 objects of American and international art. It features sculpture parks, five galleries, docent tours, art classes, public programs from lectures to film studies, jazz concerts, an annual children’s art festival, Museum Stories and Studios, Museum Babies, an interactive children’s Art Zone, and a museum store. Admission fees apply. Admission is free on the last Saturday of each month. Museum Extras, a more recent addition, offers an array of curated online content with something for everyone in the community.
Vero Beach Museum Art School
3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707 ext. 116
vbmuseum.org
The art school at the museum offers a wide selection of studio arts and humanities classes as well as weekend workshops for all skill levels.
Vero Beach Art Club
3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0303
Art Club Annex & Gallery
1903 14th Ave. 772-217-3345
verobeachartclub.org
The Art Club is an independent, nonprofit organization serving 450 members and the art community through education, exhibitions, social events, and monthly meetings with special programs and guest artists. In addition to its presence at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, the Art Club holds activities at its annex, which also houses the Jeanette Beach Gallery, named in honor of the club’s founder.
Art at the Emerson
The Emerson Center
1590 27th Ave.
772-778-5880
artattheemerson.com
The Emerson Center’s art gallery features the work of local artists in six themed two-month exhibitions per year.
Artists Guild Gallery
1974 14th Ave.
772-299-1234
artistsguildgalleryofverobeach.com
Celebrating 30-plus years of sharing art with Vero Beach, this cooperative fine art gallery features the work of artist-owners Sue Dinenno, Barbara Glover, Chuck Haaland, Sherry
Haaland, Judy Mercer, Dawn Mill, Patricia Padoll, Judy Rixom, Fran San Miguel and Rita Ziegler. In addition to paintings in various media, the gallery’s 12 rooms present works of sculpture, pottery, jewelry, ceramics and glass. Art classes, commissioned works and private showings are also offered.
Art in Public Places
772-770-4857
cultural-council.org
The Cultural Council of Indian River County and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture present “Art in Public Places” exhibits at the Indian River County Courthouse, IRC Administration Complex, Intergenerational Recreation Center and Vero Beach Regional Airport.
Art Works
2036 14th Ave., Suite 106 Theatre Plaza
772-907-5128
artworksofvero.com
Founded out of the passion for art of two educators, Art Works is both a fine art gallery and art school. Betsy Nelson and Mary Partow are veterans of the public school system who want to bring their experience teaching art to the broader Vero Beach community. The gallery features works by artists from various parts of the United States, particularly the East Coast, representing a range of styles. Nelson and Partow offer art classes for students of all ages and skill levels, as well as art parties, team-building events and children’s art clubs and camps.
Barbara Krupp Fine Art Studio/Gallery
4315 U.S. Hwy. 1 440-574-4662
barbarakrupp.com
The gallery and studio presents the work of international artist Barbara Krupp, whose several collections feature abstract paintings in acrylic. Visitors are welcome by appointment.
Environmental Learning Center
255 Live Oak Drive 772-589-5050
discoverelc.org
The ELC’s Lagoon Room and Tidal Room are dedicated spaces for the exhibition of nature-related art in the form of paintings, photography, sculpture and more.
Findlay Galleries
165 Worth Ave.
Palm Beach
561-655-2090
findlaygalleries.com
Worth the drive from Vero Beach, Findlay Galleries is world-renowned for its distinguished stable of abstract and representational contemporary artists. The gallery also specializes in impressionism, European modernism, l’Ecole de Rouen, l’Ecole de Paris, and 20th-century American art. Visit its collection of 10 elegant galleries on two spacious floors encompassing three centuries of art in the heart of Palm Beach.
The Galleries at First Pres
First Presbyterian Church
520 Royal Palm Blvd.
772-464-6712
firstpresvero.org
The campus of First Presbyterian Church is home to the Galleries at First Pres, a venue displaying the work of local artists in various media. Installments are rotated on a quarterly basis, with three artists featured each season. Indian River County artists are invited to apply to be a part of the venue’s ever-changing lineup.
Gallery 14 1911 14th Ave. 772-562-5525
gallery14verobeach.com
The gallery features a diverse array of works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media, collage, sculpture, ceramic, jewelry, pastel and photography by Gallery 14 owner-artists Edgardo Abello, Lila Blakeslee, Barbara du Pont, Mary Ann Hall, Barbara Landry, George Pillorgé, Deborah Morrell Polackwich and Dorothy Napp Schindel. Other artists include Walford Campbell, Joan Earnhart, Terry Green, Viola Pace Knudsen, Mia Lindberg, Francis Mesaros, Michael Robinson, Carol Staub and sales associate-artist Jo Zaza along with monthly rotation exhibits by guests.
The Gallery at Windsor
3125 Windsor Blvd. 772-388-4071
windsorflorida.com/art
Founded in 2002, The Gallery at Windsor is an independent art space at the heart of the Windsor community. The gallery annually invites curators to respond to the space with museum-quality shows of contemporary art. The gallery has exhibited works by many leading contemporary artists.
J.M. Stringer Gallery of Fine Art
3465 Ocean Drive
772-231-3900
jmstringergallery.com
The gallery offers worldwide collections of original paintings, objets d’art, sculptures and select antique furnishings.
The Laughing Dog Gallery
2910 Cardinal Drive
772-234-6711
thelaughingdoggallery.com
The gallery features a sophisticated collection from more than 350 contemporary American craftsmen. The Treasure Coast’s largest collection of art glass, along with ceramics, sculpture, furniture and an extensive collection of fine art jewelry is represented in its friendly, 4,000-square-foot showroom. The collection is also viewable on the gallery's website.
Main Street Vero Beach Art Studios and Gallery
2036 14th Ave.
772-643-6782
mainstreetverobeach.org
The studios and gallery showcase the custom jewelry of Clair Brunetti; the Haitian oil drum art of Bernadette Flanagan; and the handmade
beach-related works of Carmen Correa, including poured artwork, paintings, soaps and ornaments.
Meghan Candler Gallery
6160 Hwy. A1A
Village Shops
772-234-8811
meghancandlergallery.com
The gallery has a beautifully curated collection of paintings by select local, national and international artists and represents more than 40 contemporary emerging and established artists working in abstract, impressionist and realistic styles. The gallery presents an uplifting, friendly and sophisticated environment that currently features new paintings from the studios of its New York, California, Atlanta and Cape Cod artists. Works are also viewable on the website.
Ocean Drive Gallery
3349 Ocean Drive, Suite 8
Second floor, elevator located in alcove behind Lyra Home
772-579-7667
eliseartist.com
This studio and gallery features contemporary abstracts by Elise Geary, acrylic animal paintings by Andrea Lazar and acrylic seascapes by Gail Fayerweather.
Palm House Studio and Gallery
3227 Ocean Drive, 2nd floor
772-231-6816
palmhousegallery.com
The studio and gallery features original artwork by award-winning artists Wendy Douglas, Dede Gilbert, Rick Kelly, Kathy Kemp, Madeline Long, Suzy Mellott, Lee Moore, Jack Staley, Emily Tremml and Janet Kipp Tribus. Their work includes landscapes, marine scenes, contemporary realism, portraiture, narrative
imagery and original jewelry designs by Faith & Family. Commissions are welcomed. See the gallery’s website, Facebook and Twitter to view current available artwork, works in progress, teaching videos, and biographies of the artists. Open by chance or appointment.
Raw Space
1795 Old Dixie Hwy.
305-213-9411
artconceptalternative.org
A vibrant, innovative and alternative cultural venue located in the heart of downtown Vero Beach, Raw Space provides a platform that promotes a spectrum of artistic disciplines and events with a distinct focus on community engagement. Its program includes exhibits from local and international artists, workshops, lectures, black box theater, film screenings, music, dance and anything that promotes "out of the box" ideas.
Under The Oaks
Vero Beach is home to one of the most highly regarded art shows in the country — Vero Beach Art Club’s three-day Under the Oaks Fine Arts & Crafts Show. Each year, tens of thousands of visitors flock to Riverside Park to meet more than 200 artists who have come from far and wide to exhibit a breathtaking array of works in this juried event. The 71st Under the Oaks is scheduled for March 11–13, 2022. You won’t want to miss this quintessential Vero Beach event!
Under the Oaks
Riverside Park
3001 Riverside Park Drive March 11–13; Friday and Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. 772-231-0303
verobeachartclub.org
The Rowe Gallery 46 Royal Palm Pointe
302-521-4175
therowegallery.com
The Rowe Gallery features the work of artist Lori Rowe; it also serves as her studio. Rowe is a self-taught artist who experiments with various methods of applying paint to canvas, such as brushwork, palette knife and finger painting. Using bold strokes and vivid colors, she explores many facets of the human experience.
Sebastian River Art Club
1245 Main St., Sebastian 772-571-6632
sebastianriverartclub.com
The club offers art, photography and web design classes; demonstrations; workshops; and art shows inside the clubhouse and at Riverview Park. The club’s exhibit space features works in an array of media: pottery, sculpture, woodworking, mixed media, photography, jewelry and glass.
The Viner Series for the Visual Arts at Community Church of Vero Beach
1901 23rd St. 772-469-2320
ccovb.org
The Viner Series was established in 2020 to showcase the work of area artists, with a new artist featured every three months in the sanctuary narthex. The series is named for Teryl Townsend Viner, who served Community Church as a deacon and as a member of the church’s board of music and fine arts.
Theater
Riverside Theatre
3250 Riverside Park Drive
772-231-6990
riversidetheatre.com
Florida’s largest professional theater is proud to call Vero Beach home. This cultural treasure provides a full season of theater productions, a vibrant children’s theater, live music and comedy, and an annual lecture series. “Carousel,” “A Comedy of Tenors,” “On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan,” “Billy Elliot: The Musical,” and “Almost Heaven: John Denver’s America” will all be staged in 2022.
Vero Beach Theatre Guild
2020 San Juan Ave.
772-562-8300
verobeachtheatreguild.com
The Vero Beach Theatre Guild has been bringing the house lights up on local talent since 1958, producing dramas, comedies, musicals and musical revues. Want to do more than watch? Actors, singers and dancers may audition for future shows, and volunteers of all sorts are always welcome. Shows in 2022 will include “Calendar Girls,” “I Do! I Do!,” “See How They Run” and “Native Gardens.” Extensive renovations have been completed to facilitate physical distancing for the safety of guests.
National Theatre of London
The Majestic 11 movie theater
940 14th Lane
772-770-0773
cwtheaters.com
The Majestic 11 periodically brings live-filmed performances from the National Theatre of London to Vero Beach audiences.
Dance
Ballet Vero Beach
at VBHS Performing Arts Center
1707 16th St.
772-905-2651
balletverobeach.org
The only professional ballet company in the Treasure Coast region, Ballet Vero Beach seeks to promote the art of dance as a universal language in our community and beyond. In addition to its Main Stage Series, which is scheduled to present three performances from January to April 2022, Ballet Vero Beach also offers the Accessible/Family Friendly Series, in which modifications are made to accommodate the needs of children and audience members with differing abilities.
Bolshoi Ballet
at The Majestic 11 movie theater
940 14th Lane
772-770-0773
cwtheaters.com
The Majestic 11 partners with Russia’s Bolshoi Ballet to give local dance aficionados opportunities to view live performances by the renowned company transmitted to the big screen. Three such productions are scheduled for 2022.
Opera
Vero Beach Opera at VBHS Performing Arts Center
1707 16th St.
772-569-6993
verobeachopera.org
Established as the Vero Beach Opera Guild in 1988, Vero Beach Opera has become a preeminent cultural presence in our community. VBO presents fully staged operas, professional performances by worldclass opera stars, and international vocal competitions. The 2022 season will include Puccini’s “La Boheme”; “La Bella Italia,” a concert remembering Italian American tenor Sergio Franchi; and the annual Rising Stars Opera Festival. VBO also offers master classes, awards scholarships to local students, and hosts parlor concerts in members’ homes.
The Met: Live in HD at The Majestic 11 movie theater
940 14th Lane
772-770-0773
cwtheaters.com
In conjunction with The Majestic 11, Vero Beach Opera brings the Met to town with broadcasts that allow opera lovers to enjoy live Metropolitan Opera performances in the comfort of the movie theater. Seven such shows are scheduled for 2022, including “Cinderella,” “Rigoletto,” “Turandot” and “Hamlet.”
Music
Choirs
Paradise Master Chorale at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church
7550 26th St. 772-584-9744
Paradise Master Chorale made its debut in 2021 under the direction of Ryan Kasten. It specializes in large choral works to be performed with chamber orchestra, brass ensemble, organ and/or piano. Gabriel Fauré’s “Requiem,” accompanied by chamber ensemble and organ, is planned for spring 2022.
Treasure Coast Chorale at First Baptist Church
2206 16th Ave. 772-231-3498
treasurecoastchorale.org
Celebrating its 20th season, Treasure Coast Chorale seeks to offer people who love to sing and people who love to listen a chance to experience programs that combine voices, instruments and the visual arts. Director Michael Carter and the TCC are planning two concerts for 2022: in March, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” a collection of inspiring songs for troubling times, and in May, a salute to America in honor of Memorial Day.
Vero Beach Choral Society
at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach
520 Royal Palm Blvd.
verobeachchoralsociety.org
The Vero Beach Choral Society is an auditioned, community-based, intergenerational ensemble that has been making beautiful music since 1984. Jacob Craig of First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach serves as artistic music director.
Classical Music
Atlantic Classical Orchestra at Community Church of Vero Beach 1901 23rd St. 772-460-0851
atlanticclassicalorchestra.com
The ACO has been gracing our community with beautiful music for over 30 years. In 2022, David Amado will direct the orchestra in four Masterworks performances to be held at Community Church of Vero Beach.
Chamber Music Series
Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707, ext. 116 or 139 vbmuseum.org
The Atlantic Classical Orchestra partners with Vero Beach Museum of Art to present the annual Chamber Music Series. Musicians from the ACO are scheduled to perform three concerts at the museum in early 2022.
Indian River Symphonic Association at Community Church of Vero Beach 1901 23rd St. 772-778-1070
irsymphonic.org
The Indian River Symphonic Association brings the finest orchestras from around the world to perform seven concerts each season. January through April 2022 will be full of beautiful symphonic music, exciting soloists and dynamic performances.
Space Coast Symphony Orchestra 855-252-7276
spacecoastsymphony.org
The Space Coast Symphony Orchestra is passionate about making professional classical music affordable and widely accessible to all members of the community in Indian River County as well as Brevard County. SCSO has year-round programming that
Space Coast Symphony Orchestra
includes classical music, pops, film scores, jazz and more. The orchestra has nine Vero Beach concerts scheduled for winter and spring 2022.
at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St.
at The Emerson Center 1590 27th Ave.
at Waxlax Center for the Performing Arts
1895 Saint Edward’s Drive
at Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive
Vero Beach Chamber Orchestra at VBHS Performing Arts Center 1707 16th St. 772-562-6125
verobeachchamberorchestra.org
Active in Vero Beach since 2007, the Vero Beach Chamber Orchestra consists of professional and semi-professional adult and student musicians from Indian River County and neighboring communities. The ensemble presents two free concerts annually, both in the spring.
Other Live Music
Downtown Friday Downtown Vero Beach along 14th Avenue
772-643-6782
mainstreetverobeach.org
On the last Friday of each month, enjoy a free, family-friendly street party with live music and a variety of vendors, including food trucks.
Live in the Loop
Riverside Theatre
3250 Riverside Park Drive
772-231-6990
riversidetheatre.com
Nearly every Friday and Saturday evening, Riverside Theatre presents an outdoor grill and music bar featuring local bands.
MusicWorks at The Emerson Center
1590 27th Ave.
772-777-9321
musicworksconcerts.com
Enjoy classic rock and folk music of the 1960s and ’70s. More than a dozen Vero Beach shows are scheduled for 2022.
Night Sounds
Sebastian Inlet State Park
14251 Hwy. A1A
772-589-2147
friendsofsebastianinletstatepark.org
Monthly concerts, featuring just about every genre imaginable, take place at the park’s Coconut Point Pavilions.
Sunset Saturday Night at Humiston Beach Park
3000 Ocean Drive
772-410-VERO (8376)
verobeachoba.com
Periodic free outdoor Saturday evening festivals include food and music by local bands.
Lectures
Distinguished Lecture Series on Current Issues
Indian River State College Foundation at McAlpin Fine Arts Center
IRSC Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce
772-462-7880
irscfoundation.org
This series presents experts and educators addressing current events in the areas of foreign policy, environmental issues, education, health, justice, the economy and more. Both in-person and live simulcast subscriptions are available.
Distinguished Lecturer Series
Riverside Theatre
3250 Riverside Park Drive
772-231-6990
riversidetheatre.com
The Distinguished Lecturer Series is the longest continuously running lecture series in Vero Beach. In 2022, Riverside Theatre will welcome Theresa May, Peter Diamandis, Robert Spalding and Rana Foroohar.
International Lecture Series
Vero Beach Museum of Art
3001 Riverside Park Drive
772-231-0707
vbmuseum.org
The ILS is celebrating 40 years of presenting arts and humanities scholars with lectures tying in with VBMA’s major exhibitions. These events may be attended live in the museum’s Holmes Great Hall or viewed via simulcast in its Leonhardt Auditorium. This season’s topics will include the origins of the British royal collections, the life and collections of Peggy Guggenheim, the work of artist Fred Wilson, and the 1911 theft of the “Mona Lisa.”
Vero Beach Book Center
392 21st St.
772-569-2050
verobeachbookcenter.com
For more than 40 years, this independent bookstore has been bringing renowned authors to Vero Beach to discuss their work. Audiences have enjoyed talks by a wide range of presenters: bestselling fiction authors such as Nicholas Sparks, James Patterson and countless others; astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Scott Kelly; former presidents Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush; entertainers Andy Williams and Henry Winkler.
The Back Story
As we go about our everyday lives in Vero Beach and the surrounding area, we encounter many remnants of the history that paved the way for the community we know and love today.
Archaeological evidence has indicated that humans may have first arrived here in the Pleistocene Epoch, about 12,000 years ago.
The Ais people are the earliest inhabitants of our area about whom anything substantial is known; they
were hunter-gatherers who partook predominantly of the abundant seafood available to them.
Though virtually synonymous with Florida, the Seminoles came much later, in the mid-18th century. They emerged from the southerly migration of groups from several tribes, most notably the Creeks. By that time, the Spanish had been in Florida for centuries, though they remained considerably north of our location. Their most renowned contact with the
Treasure Coast was the incident that gave it the name Treasure Coast: the destruction of 11 ships — all but one of what would become known as the “Spanish Treasure Fleet” — off our coast by a hurricane in 1715.
The Arrival of Settlers
The latter part of the 19th century saw the first settlers of European descent make their way to Vero Beach. A small permanent settlement already existed just to the south near Fort Pierce, an
army fort built in 1838 during the Second Seminole War and named for Lt. Col. B.K. Pierce, brother of President Franklin Pierce.
The roots of modern-day Vero Beach can be traced to the 1888 arrival of Henry T. and Sarah Gifford, with their family and one hired man, from Vermont. The dramatic relocation was brought about by a doctor’s recommendation of a warmer climate, but one must assume that medical necessity was accompanied by a robust sense of adventure.
About a year after the Giffords settled here, the Ayers family arrived, and gradually, out of the dense palmetto thickets, began to emerge a town. A major step occurred in 1891 when Gifford petitioned the U.S. postmaster general for a post office in the fledgling community. It is believed that, in response to the need for a four-letter designation, Sarah Gifford drew on the Latin word for “truth” in selecting the name “Vero.”
office, and mail was delivered via rowboat once a week.
The pioneer men hacked out the roadway that would become U.S. Highway 1, but in the early days, the river was the real highway. Vero was part of Brevard County then,
and “floating stores” made regular round trips from Titusville and Cocoa down to Fort Pierce, trading at settlements as they went.
As the turn of the century approached, the railroad made its way southward,
reaching our area and then the considerably more developed town of West Palm Beach in 1894. The increasing ease of travel throughout the country set the stage for Vero to begin its own growth spurt.
The Rise of Agriculture
The next phase of Vero’s growth was centered on agriculture. An Iowan named Herman Zeuch (rhymes with
“sigh”) spearheaded a major agricultural campaign in our area. Recognizing that the climate here allows for three growing seasons, Zeuch purchased 55,000 acres in 1912 and established the Indian River Farms Company. Heavy advertising up North inspired many adventurous men and women to come down and seek their fortunes as farmers.
The Indian River Farms Company undertook an enormous drainage project to transform the swampy terrain into arable land. It was during the dredging of the main canal (near the current County Administration Complex) that artifacts of archaeological significance were discovered, leading to the fascinating saga of Vero Man and the Old Vero
Age
Site excavations.
As the second decade of the 20th century came to a close, a huge variety of crops were growing, and so was the town of Vero, which was incorporated in 1919. In 1925, when Indian River County was formed, its county seat was established in Vero, which would henceforth be known as Vero Beach.
The Triumph of Citrus
Because Vero Beach lies at the very heart of the Indian River Citrus District, a long,
narrow strip of land that possesses optimal geological and meteorological conditions for the cultivation of delicious citrus fruits, the town’s destiny became clear. Many Indian River County farmers and businessmen zeroed in on citrus as the path to success, and groves blanketed our landscape as far as the eye could see.
Citrus crops, particularly grapefruit, became a mainstay of our economy and the name “Indian River” became renowned for superior citrus.
This status continued for decades.
Alas, citrus tree diseases, hurricanes and, perhaps most of all, development, have taken their toll on the local citrus industry. Nevertheless, some dedicated growers refuse to turn their backs on this integral part of our heritage and, with ever-expanding technology and modern agricultural advances, are carrying on the Indian River citrus legacy.
The Role of the Airport
Even the briefest history of Vero Beach would be incomplete without a mention of Bud Holman. It was through his efforts that Vero Beach obtained its airport in the 1920s, and it was the presence of that airport that drew the attention of the U.S. Navy to our area early in World War II. Naval Air Station Vero Beach was established at the airport and served as a training facility for the rest of the war.
Holman also played a key role after the war, when ownership of the airport reverted to the municipality
and the question of what to do with the now-unused barracks arose. Seeing baseball in Vero Beach’s future, the inventive Holman proposed converting the empty fields into baseball diamonds and the barracks into housing for players and staff. The idea was presented to Brooklyn Dodgers manager Branch Rickey, and the Dodgers came to Vero Beach, where they would conduct their spring training for more than 50 years.
Beachside Boom
Only gradually did the barrier island become the affluent haven it is today. In 1919, three Cleveland physicians discovered Vero Beach as a potential site to build winter vacation homes for their families. They found some like-minded snowbirds, and Riomar Country Club was born. A golf course and clubhouse were built immediately, and Riomar became a destination for prosperous professionals.
It would be decades, though, before the “Beach”
in “Vero Beach” was developed beyond Riomar. The town of Indian River Shores was established in 1953, and former Chicago stockbroker Fred R. Tuerk purchased a large amount of land. But before any plans came to fruition, he died in 1967. Enter developer E. Llwyd Ecclestone, who became the father of John’s Island. Jorge Gonzalez was instrumental in founding The Moorings a few years later, and Vero’s
beachside boom was well on its way.
A Century and Beyond
In 2019, Vero Beach held months of centennial festivities. Another milestone will take place in 2025, when Indian River County will turn 100 years old. Natives and newcomers alike enjoy every opportunity to celebrate life in our beautiful seaside community.
Museums & More
Gifford Historical Museum and Cultural Center
2880 45th St. 772-985-7573
giffordhistoricalmuseumand culturalcenter.org
Housed in the historic Old Macedonia Church, the museum preserves and celebrates the rich history of Gifford.
Hallstrom House 1723 Old Dixie Hwy. SW 772-778-3435
irchistorical.org
This historic home was built in 1909 by Axel Hallstrom, a Swedish horticulturist who emigrated to the United States in 1898, relocating to Vero Beach after initially settling in Minnesota.
Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum
2140 14th Ave. 772-770-2263
veroheritage.org
Itself a landmark, the 1935 Heritage Center houses a museum that explores the history of Indian River County’s far-reaching citrus industry.
Indian River County Historical Society
2336 14th Ave.
772-778-3435
irchistorical.org
Housed in the restored 1903 Vero Beach train station, the IRCHS headquarters contains historical exhibits.
Laura (Riding) Jackson
Historic Home
6155 College Lane
772-569-6718
lauraridingjackson.org
The turn-of-the-century cracker house of the poet Laura (Riding) Jackson has been preserved and is situated on the Mueller Campus of Indian River State College.
McKee Botanical Garden
350 U.S. Hwy. 1
772-794-0601
mckeegarden.org
Established in 1932, the garden is an 18-acre subtropical jungle hammock filled with rich landscapes and historic architectural treasures.
McLarty Treasure Museum
13180 Hwy. A1A
Southern boundary of Sebastian
Inlet State Park
772-589-2147
floridastateparks.org/
sebastian-inlet
This state-operated museum lies on the site of the camp established by the survivors of the 1715 shipwreck of Spanish treasure galleons while they awaited rescue.
Mel Fisher Treasure Museum
1322 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian 772-589-9875
melfisher.com/sebastian
The museum is home to the legacy of America’s famous marine treasure hunter Mel Fisher.
National Navy UDT–SEAL Museum
3300 N. Hwy. A1A, Fort Pierce 772-595-5845
navysealmuseum.org
The birthplace of the Navy Frogman program is the site of the only museum devoted solely to documenting and honoring the history of the U.S. Navy SEALs.
Sebastian Area Historical Museum
1235 Main St., Sebastian 772-581-1380
The museum, located in the 1927 historic Sebastian Grammar and Junior High School, has exhibits related to Indigenous inhabitants, pioneer life and more.
Sebastian Inlet Fishing Museum
14251 Hwy. A1A
South side of Sebastian Inlet 772-589-9659
floridastateparks.org/ sebastian-inlet
The museum, within Sebastian Inlet State Park, tells the story of the culturally significant local fishing industry.
U.S. Navy Armed Guard and Merchant Marines Museum
32 N. Broadway, Fellsmere 772-321-5493
The museum honors World War II veterans who served in the U.S. Navy Armed Guard and Merchant Marines.
Welcome Home
We know — you weren't expecting to fall in love and stay. That's just what happens here. We've gathered some information to help when you decide you'd like to put down roots. Welcome to the neighborhood!
Neighborhoods
Vero Beach has a wide variety of residential neighborhoods, each with its own distinct amenities and feel. We've compiled a short list of some of the highlights to help you get started. Our local real estate agents would be delighted to help you find the home of your dreams.
Country Club Communities
Grand Harbor
Located on the western banks of the Indian River Lagoon, Grand Harbor is Vero Beach’s only mainland community that offers a full-amenity “grand lifestyle” package. Activities abound, including two championship golf courses, tennis center, marina, and both beach and golf clubs.
John’s Island
John’s Island is Vero Beach’s most established luxury community, offering three championship golf courses, a tennis club, an oceanfront clubhouse, and fine dining. Pickleball and squash courts are among the additional amenities. Noted developer E. Llwyd Ecclestone had a vision, and real estate broker Alex MacWilliam Jr. helped make it happen in 1969 when he brokered the land sale. Today, Georgian architecture still graces this elegant community.
The Moorings
The Moorings has over 7.5 miles of bulkheaded riverfront living, as well as oceanfront estate homes and condominiums. This is truly Vero Beach’s boaters’ paradise, and it is located just 6 miles from ocean access via Fort Pierce Inlet.
Two golf courses, tennis facilities, pickleball, a riverfront fitness center, health spa, private beach and expansive golf clubhouse round out the amenities.
Oak Harbor
Oak Harbor is one of Vero Beach’s premier senior living communities, offering a variety of senior services in a stress-free, country club environment with Bermuda-style architecture.
The community offers on-site assisted living facilities, a 42,000-square-foot clubhouse with wellness programs, dining options, transportation services, property maintenance and housekeeping services.
Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club
Orchid Island Golf & Beach Club is a 600-acre community styled with tropical Caribbean elegance.
Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon just south of Windsor, this club features a championship 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, with an exclusive golf clubhouse, a charming tennis center, Town Square Shops, and an elegant beach club featuring a terrace bar and lounge, dining room and oceanside pool.
Sea Oaks
Sea Oaks is a master-planned community of approximately 125 shaded acres, encompassing 2,400 feet of Atlantic beach and 1,500 feet of riverfront on the Indian River Lagoon.
Sea Oaks boasts two major recreational centers: the outstanding Tennis Club complex and the private Beach Club on the ocean. Amenities include the oceanfront beach clubhouse, tennis clubhouse, 16 fast-dry clay tennis courts, a 48-slip marina, seven swimming pools and a health club.
Windsor Windsor is a magnificent 416-acre private sporting and social club situated along a stretch of north Vero Beach. Among the numerous amenities are a polo field, equestrian center with trails, 18-hole championship golf course, tennis center and croquet lawn. A trap and skeet shooting facility is nearby.
In the heart of Windsor is the Village Center, with a post office, general store, business center and support offices. Windsor’s beach clubhouse has a swimming pool, library and cabanas.
The elegant modern golf clubhouse also maintains a world-class art gallery with shows running throughout the winter season.
In-Town Neighborhoods
Central Beach
If a relaxed, bike-to-it-all lifestyle is desired, Central Beach is the place to be. This barrier island neighborhood is close to Ocean Drive and Cardinal Drive restaurants, boutiques, hotels and businesses. Riverside Park is also in this neighborhood, with its tennis courts, fitness trail and boat ramp, as well as Memorial Island, Vero Beach Museum of Art and Riverside Theatre.
When golf enthusiast Winchester Finch discovered this barrier island location in 1919, he invited his Cleveland cohorts and coined the name Riomar (“river to sea”). Since then, many homes have been added and changed, but the charming cottage-style architecture and oak-lined streets remain.
South Beach
South of the Alma Lee Loy Bridge on the barrier island, a long expanse of sandy beach borders properties all the way to Round Island Park at the county line. On the river side, the Indian River Lagoon offers boating access and water views. In between, a series of gated residential communities offers a variety of lifestyles, from formal to relaxed.
Vero Beach Country Club, McAnsh Park & Royal Park
Located on the mainland, these adjoining neighborhoods offer some of the most historic homes in the county,
some dating from the 1920s and earlier. They are also conveniently located to churches, the public library, county administration building, courthouse and, best of all, a revitalized downtown arts and business district.
Country Living
Estates, Farms and Ranches to the West
If it’s wide-open spaces you’re looking for, Vero Beach has that, too. Just west of the city, several neighborhoods offer 5-acre zoning, and even larger tracts are also available.
Public Schools
Elementary Schools
Beachland Elementary
772-564-3300
Citrus Elementary
772-978-8350
Dodgertown Elementary
772-564-4100
Fellsmere Elementary
772-564-5970
Glendale Elementary
772-978-8050
Indian River Academy
772-564-3390
Liberty Magnet School
772-564-5300
Education
Indian River County families are fortunate to have a variety of excellent educational options. Our area is also home to several private, charter, religious and specialty schools. At the college level, Indian River State College offers more than 100 programs leading to bachelor’s and associate degrees as well as technical certificates and applied technology diplomas. In addition to the Massey (main) Campus in Fort Pierce, IRSC has several satellites, including the Mueller Campus in Vero Beach. Several other institutions of higher learning lie somewhat farther afield but still within commuting distance for Indian River County residents.
Osceola Magnet School
772-564-5821
Pelican Island Elementary
772-564-6500
Rosewood Magnet School
772-564-3840
Sebastian Elementary
772-978-8200
Treasure Coast Elementary
772-978-8500
Vero Beach Elementary
772-564-4550
Middle Schools
Gifford Middle School
772-564-3550
Oslo Middle School
772-564-3920
Sebastian River Middle School
772-564-5111
Storm Grove Middle School
772-564-6400
High Schools
Sebastian River High School
772-564-4170
Vero Beach High School
772-564-5600
VBHS Freshman Learning Center
772-564-5800
Specialty Public Schools
Alternative Center for Education (grades 6–12)
772-564-6240
Indian River Virtual School
772-564-3124
SDIRC Early Learning Programs
772-564-4169
SDIRC Homeschool
772-564-3124
Wabasso School (special education, ages 5–22)
772-978-8000
Charter Schools
Imagine Schools South Vero (K–8)
772-567-2728
Indian River Charter High School (grades 9–12)
772-567-6600
North County Charter Elementary School (K–5)
772-794-1941
Sebastian Charter Junior High School (grades 6–8)
772-388-8838
St. Peter’s Preparatory Academy (K–6)
772-562-1963
Private Schools
Glendale Christian School (K–8)
772-569-1095
Master’s Academy (K–12)
772-794-4655
Saint Edward’s School (K–12) 772-231-4136
St. Helen Catholic School (K–8) 772-567-5457
Suncoast School (K–8)
772-778-0892
Willow School (K–8) 772-770-0758
Colleges
Aviator College of Aeronautical Science & Technology
772-466-4822
Indian River State College
772-462-4772
Treasure Coast Technical College
772-564-4970
Family Fun W
hether you’re a parent raising your children here or a grandparent who has retired here and is planning a family visit, you’ll find plenty of fun activities to keep everyone entertained — rain or shine, young or young at heart.
Andretti Thrill Park
3960 S. Babcock St., Melbourne 321-956-6706
andrettithrillpark.com
Arcade, batting cages, racetracks and laser tag
Good for older kids
Art Zone at Vero Beach Museum of Art
3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707
vbmuseum.org
Lots of hands-on activities to engage the little ones with art
BigShots Golf
3456 U.S. Hwy. 1
772-979-GOLF (4653)
verobigshots.com
Golf recreation and entertainment facility
Brevard Zoo
8225 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne 321-254-9453
brevardzoo.org
Children’s Garden at McKee Botanical Garden
350 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-794-0601
mckeechildrensgarden.org
Enchanted outdoor space includes pirate ship, monkey bridge, splash garden and more
Countryside Family Farms 6325 81st St. 772-581-0999
countrysidefamilyfarms.com
Flower patch, strawberry patch and various seasonal and annual special events
Defy Trampoline Park 440 NW Peacock Blvd., Port St. Lucie 772-236-0970
defy.com/locations/ defy-port-saint-lucie
Extreme air sport park, birthday party packages available Good for older kids
Disney’s Vero Beach Resort
9250 Island Grove Terrace 772-234-2000
verobeach.disney.go.com
Miniature golf, swimming, and dining with Disney characters
Environmental Learning Center 255 Live Oak Drive 772-589-5050
discoverelc.org
Discovery Station, touch tank, trails, water sports, pontoon rides, guided kayak tours and more
Escape Room Vero Beach 836 S. U.S. Hwy. 1 772-626-0217
escaperoomverobeach.com Solve riddles and puzzles to "escape" from themed rooms
Fellsmere Skate Park 222 S. Myrtle St., Fellsmere Includes several ramps and rails
Gifford Aquatic Center 4895 43rd Ave. 772-226-1175
ircgov.com/parksandrecreation/ gac
Zero-depth entry pool, swimming lanes and two enclosed slides
Hallstrom Planetarium
Indian River State College
Massey Campus
3209 Virginia Ave., Fort Pierce
772-462-4750
irsc.edu/community/planetarium
Lectures and live multimedia presentations on the planets, constellations and stars
Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Visitors Center
5600 N. U.S. Hwy. 1, Fort Pierce
772-242-2293
fau.edu/hboi
Marine research and wildlife exhibits
Indian River County Intergenerational Recreation Center
1590 9th St. SW (Oslo Road)
772-226-1780
ircgov.com/parksandrecreation/ig
Indoor recreational center and event venue
Indian River Hauntings
772-633-3955
indianriverhauntings.com
Historical ghost tours
Kennedy Space Center
Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island
855-433-4210
kennedyspacecenter.com
Visitor complex with many exhibits telling the story of space exploration; tours; immersive educational experiences; launch viewing
LaPorte Farms
7700 129th St., Sebastian 772-633-0813
laportefarms.com
5 acres with petting farm, pony rides and various scheduled events
North County Aquatic Center
9450 County Road 512, Sebastian
772-226-1752
ircgov.com/parksandrecreation/ ncac
Extensive water play area, 24-lane competition pool and diving well
Painted Frog
1906 14th Ave. 772-999-3763
paintedfrogvb.com
Paint your own pottery
Royal Palm Pointe Park
2 Royal Palm Pointe 772-567-2144
covb.org/facilities
Splash fountains, fishing dock, lagoon views, picnic tables and restrooms
Safari Golf & Games
455 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) 772-562-6492
safariminigolfandgames.com
36 holes of safari-themed miniature golf, arcade room, batting cages and ice cream
St. Lucie County Aquarium
420 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce 772-462-FISH (3474)
stlucieco.gov
Educational displays highlighting Florida’s marine ecosystems; includes Smithsonian exhibition
Sebastian Skate Park
1121 Barber St., Sebastian 772-228-7054
cityofsebastian.org/facilities
3 concrete ramps, jersey barrier, boxes and skating floor for skateboards and in-line skates Good for older kids
Skate Factory
485 27th Ave. SW
772-794-3373
skatefactory.us
Skating, classes, video arcade and team sports including speed skating and roller hockey; available for private party rental
Smithsonian Marine Station 701 Seaway Drive, Fort Pierce 772-462-6220
naturalhistory.si.edu/research/ smithsonian-marine-station
Scientists share knowledge and answer questions about the ocean and Indian River Lagoon.
Strike Zone
730 S. Fleming St., Sebastian 772-770-2710
strikezonesebastian.com
Bowling, laser tag, arcade and birthday parties
Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures at the Brevard Zoo
8225 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne 321-254-9453, ext. 253 treetoptrek.com
Obstacle course, 14 ziplines, view zoo animals from above
Vero Beach Book Center 392 21st St. 772-569-2050
verobeachbookcenter.com
Independent bookstore, large toy selection and children’s story hours
Vero Bowl 929 14th Lane 772-299-PINS (7467)
verobowl.com
30+ glow-in-the-dark bowling lanes; billiards; party zone for children, teens and adults
Pocahontas Park
Parks & Playgrounds
Charles Park Playground 2405 15th St. 772-567-2144
Humiston Beach Park 3000 Ocean Drive 772-567-2144
Jaycee Beach Park 4200 Ocean Drive 772-567-2144
Piece of Pie Park 3701 Atlantic Blvd. 772-567-2144
Pocahontas Park 2199 14th Ave. 772-567-2144
Riverside Park 3200 Riverside Park Drive 772-567-2144
Troy Moody Park 2300 Victory Blvd. 772-567-2144
Victor Hart Sr. Community Enhancement Complex 4715 43rd Ave. 772-226-1780
OCEANFRONT PARKS
Ambersands Beach Access 12566 N. Highway A1A
Wabasso Beach Park 1820 County Road 510
Roseland Community Park 12925 83rd Ave.
Charles Park 2405 15th St.
Golden Sands Park 10350 N. Highway A1A
RIVERFRONT PARKS
45th Street Dock Gifford Dock Road
Round Island Riverside Park 2200 S. Highway A1A
Indian River County Fairgrounds Ag. Building 7955 58th Ave.
Humiston Park
Ocean Drive at Easter Lily Lane
A.W. Young Park East end of 21st St.
Royal Palm Pointe Park 2 Royal Palm Pointe
Victor Hart Sr. Community Enhancement Complex 4715 43rd Ave.
Jaycee Park Ocean Drive at Conn Way
Bethel Creek House 4405 N. Highway A1A
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park 1000 Buffer Preserve Drive
Hobart Ball Fields 5790 77th St. (Playing fields only)
Round Island Oceanside Park 2200 S. Highway A1A
Dale Wimbrow Park 11805 Roseland Road
Sebastian Canoe Launch County Road 512
Hosie Schumann Park 1760 37th St.
Seagrape Trail Beach Access 8302 N. Highway A1A
Donald MacDonald Park 12315 Roseland Road
Sebastian Riverview Park U.S. Highway 1 and Indian River Dr
Jacoby Park 1915 25th Ave.
Sebastian Inlet State Park 9700 N. Highway A1A
Joe Earman Island Park Accessible by boat only, 1 mile north of the Barber Bridge
Wabasso Causeway Park 1820 Wabasso Beach Road
Kiwanis Hobart Park 58th Ave. and 77 St.
South Beach Park Ocean Drive at 17th Street
Live Oak Road Park South side of Wabasso Causeway
INLAND PARKS
16th Street Sports Complex 16th St. and 20th Ave.
Leisure Square 3705 16th St.
Tracking Station Park 800 46th Place, N. Highway A1A
MacWilliam Park Southeast end of Barber Bridge
County Road512 Boat Launch North of State Road 60
North County Regional Park 9450 CR 512
Treasure Shores Park 11300 N. Highway A1A
Oslo Road Boat Ramp Eastern end of Oslo Road
Blue Cypress Park 7400 Blue Cypress Lake Road
Piece of Pie Park 37th Ave. at Atlantic Blvd.
Turtle Trail Beach Access 8102 N. Highway A1A
Riverside Park Riverside Drive
C-54 Boat Launch CR 507 and Fellsmere Grade Road
Pocahontas Park 21st St. at 14th Ave.
A Dog’s Best Friend
Our furry four-legged friends agree that life is good in Vero Beach, especially in parks that allow them to romp off-leash. When you join a private park, a modest annual fee ensures that the dogs your pet encounters are current on all vaccinations, have been spayed or neutered, and have a suitable disposition for playing with other dogs. The county also offers two public dog parks, which do not provide prescreening.
Private Parks
Humane Society Vero Beach & Indian River County Dog Park 6230 77th St. 772-571-6413
hsvb.org
Dogs For Life Off-Leash Dog Park 1230 15th Ave. 772-567-8969
dogsforlifevb.org
Public Parks
Vero Beach Dog Park 3449 Indian River Drive E. verobeachdogpark.org
Sebastian Bark Park 245 Keen Terrace, Sebastian
Clubs and Classes
Indian River County is full of opportunities to keep learning and meeting people who share your interests. We've compiled an eclectic sampling of clubs and organizations that might offer just what you are looking for. Whether you pick up the phone or stop in, you can count on finding friendly people ready to welcome you and answer all your questions.
Art
Art Works 2036 14th Ave., Suite 106 772-559-5230
artworksofvero.com
Gallery and art school offers classes for all ages and skill levels.
Indian River Clay
1239 16th St. 772-202-8598
indianriverclay.org
Indian River Clay offers courses in wheel throwing, hand building and other skills.
Vero Beach Art Club
Vero Beach Art Club Annex 1903 14th Ave. 772-217-3345
verobeachartclub.org
The Art Club offers hands-on art classes at its annex in downtown Vero Beach. Each course lasts several weeks and covers a particular art form or technique.
Vero Beach Museum of Art 3001 Riverside Park Drive 772-231-0707
vbmuseum.org
The museum offers studio classes in drawing, painting, photography, ceramics and sculpture, as well as guest artist workshops, online art talks, a film studies program and more.
Aviation
Treasure Coast FAASTeam
Richard Funcheon
772-713-1526
This group of aviation professionals and other individuals committed to promoting aviation safety offers courses, seminars and hangar talks.
Treasure Coast Pilot Club 772-567-1134 tcpc.info
Bridge
Vero Beach Bridge Center 1520 14th Ave. 772-562-3008 bridgewebs.com/ verobeachcenter
The Vero Beach Bridge Center is at the heart of our competitive bridge community and hosts a web page filled with links to help you learn the game.
Vero Beach Community Center Bridge Club
2266 14th Ave. 772-589-3741 bridgewebs.com/ verobeachcommunitycenter
The Bridge Club at the Community Center welcomes players of all levels.
Car Clubs
Antique Automobile Club of America 1350 26th St. indianriveraaca.org
Indian River Corvette Club 1570 56th Square W. 772-770-2839 ircorvettes.com
Space Coast Region Porsche Club of America spc.pca.org
Dance
Indian River Ballroom 845 16th Place 772-794-9040
Private and group lessons in many styles available.
Swingsation 14th Avenue
Dance Studio
2109 14th Ave. 772-766-0578
djanddanceproductions.com
Learn to dance salsa, swing, Latin and ballroom, and dance at a variety of locations around town.
Gardening/ Landscaping
Garden Club of Indian River County 2526 17th Ave. 772-567-4602
gardenclubofirc.org
The Garden Club’s mission is to educate its members and the public and to beautify our county. The club was founded in 1928 and is still going strong.
McKee Botanical Garden
350 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-794-0601
mckeegarden.org
The garden hosts frequent workshops and classes and welcomes volunteers.
UF/IFAS Extension IRC
1800 27th St. 772-226-4330
sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/indian-river
The Extension Service, a branch of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, is a treasure trove of resources on all things agricultural and horticultural. Contact the extension office for information on the Florida Master Gardener Program, Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program, Gardening Solutions Program and much more.
Genealogy
Indian River Genealogical Society
2336 14th Ave. 772-444-7470
irgs.org
Literary Groups
American Association of University Women
aauwverobeach.org
Membership is open to duespaying graduates holding an associate degree or higher. Members may participate in a variety of interest groups, including international relations, creative writing, a variety of reading groups and more.
Indian River County Library IRC Main Library 1600 21st St. 772-770-5060
Brackett Library
6155 College Lane 772-226-3080
irsc.libguides.com/ brackettbookclub
North IRC Library
1001 Sebastian Blvd., Sebastian 772-589-1355
All three branches of the library offer a variety of classes.
Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation
1914 14th Ave. 772-569-6718
lauraridingjackson.org
The foundation's activities include writing workshops and groups, poetry festivals, and more.
Vero Beach Book Center 392 21st St. 772-569-2050
verobeachbookcenter.com
Vero Beach's independent bookstore hosts frequent talks and book signings.
Model Sailboats
Indian River Model Sailing Club 4700 77th St. irmsc.org
Photography
Indian River Photo Club indianriverphotoclub.org
Public Awareness
Citizen’s Academy
Indian River County Sheriff’s Office Community Affairs Unit 4055 41st Ave. 772-978-6296
ircsheriff.org
The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office offers an 11-week close-up overview of the criminal justice system.
Rowing
Vero Beach Rowing
310 Acacia Road 772-261-0747
verobeachrowing.org
Table Tennis
Vero Beach Table Tennis Club
Vero Beach Outlets 1708 94th Drive, Suite G100 772-226-5905
vbttc.com
• Serving Indian River and surrounding counties since 1974
• 24 hours a day / 7 days per week
• Private duty home health care agency / qualified caregivers
• We don’t use independent contractors
• Our rates are among the most reasonable in our area
• Our mission is to provide an excellent level of independent living for each patient in his or her own home
• As the saying goes, “There’s no place like home.”
Green Thumbs Up
With the central role of agriculture in Indian River County’s history and the contributions of botanical beauty to our surroundings, it’s only natural that landscaping and gardening would be high on the list of our residents’ interests. Whether you are new to gardening or just new to gardening in Florida’s climate, you’ll find an abundance of resources to guide you in creating a beautiful yard or garden while protecting our precious waterways.
Resources
Garden Club of Indian River County
2526 17th Ave.
772-567-4602 gardenclubofirc.org
UF/IFAS Extension IRC 1800 27th St. 772-226-4330
sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/indian-river
Gardenfest!
The Garden Club of Indian River County’s annual Gardenfest! is a beloved tradition. The two-day event draws more than 85 vendors of plants, flowers, trees, pottery, and garden furniture and decor. A variety of food trucks participate, admission is free, and there’s even a raffle!
Gardenfest!
at Riverside Park 3250 Riverside Park Drive February 5–6; Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 772-567-4602 gardenclubofirc.org
Gardening Seasons
The University of Florida/IFAS Extension produces a Florida Gardening Calendar that provides a monthly guide to walk you through an entire year of gardening. You can find the calendar at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a few ideas below.
Winter Gardening Season
Plant in late August through September
Nurseries
BB’s Tumbleweeds Garden Center
119 11th Place SW 772-778-2618
Beech Annuals Nurseries
1300 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) 772-567-2033
Busy Bee Lawn & Garden Center
7445 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-562-1166 busybeegardencenter.com
C.W. Willis Family Farms 3700 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) 772-770-5970 cwwillisfamilyfarms.com
Digg Gardens 7430 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-360-2131 digggardens.com
Penjing Bonsai Garden 1650 U.S. Hwy. 1, Malabar 321-725-2855
penjingbonsaigarden.com
Rock City Gardens 9080 U.S. Hwy. 1, Sebastian 772-589-5835 rockcitygardens.com
Beefsteak tomato
Broccoli
Cabbage
Carrots
Kale
Peas
Radishes
Spinach
Summer Gardening Season
Plant in March
Beans
Cantaloupe
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Lettuce
Okra
Peppers
Summer squash
Sweet potatoes
Watermelons
Zucchini
Cleveland Clinic
Indian River Hospital
Pointe West Urgent Care 1960 Pointe West Drive 772-226-4250 ccirh.org
Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital Primary Care South 4165 9th St. SW (Oslo Road) 772-569-7706 ccirh.org
East Side Urgent Care 927 37th St. 772-770-6225 eastsideurgentcareverobeach. com
Florida Department of Health, Indian River County County Administration Building 1900 27th St. 772-794-7400 indianriver.floridahealth.gov
Indian River Walk-In & Family Medicine
1880 37th St., Suite4 772-778-1400 locations.steward.org
Lawnwood Vero Beach Emergency Room
660 S. U.S. Hwy. 1 772-563-5500 lawnwoodmed.com
MD Now Urgent Care
640 21st St. Miracle Mile Plaza 772-299-1092 mymdnow.com
MedExpress Urgent Care 1150 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-978-5679 medexpress.com
Treasure Coast Community Health, central Vero Beach location 1553 U.S. Hwy. 1 772-257-8224 tcchinc.com
Vero Beach Urgent Family Care
2651 20th St. 772-217-6012
verourgentcare.com
Cancer Treatment
Resources
Scully-Welsh Cancer Center Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital 3555 10th Court 772-563-4673
scullywelshcancercenter.com
Major Medical Centers
Mayo Clinic
4500 San Pablo Road S., Jacksonville 904-953-2000 mayoclinic.org/ patient-visitor-guide/florida
Moffitt Cancer Center 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa 813-745-8111 moffitt.org
University of Florida Shands Hospital
1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville 352-265-0111 ufhealth.org/ uf-health-shands-hospital
University of Miami Health System
1400 NW 12th Ave., Miami 305-325-5511 umiamihealth.org
Resources for Veterans
Vero Beach VA Clinic 372 17th St. 772-299-4623 va.gov/directory
Resources for Seniors
Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County
2300 5th Ave., Suite 150 772-563-0505 alzpark.org
Senior Resource Association 694 14th St. 772-569-0760
seniorresourceassociation.org
VNA (Visiting Nurse Association) 1110 35th Lane 772-567-5551
vnatc.com
Additional Resources
AA Indian River Central Office 1600 26th St., Suite 6 772-562-1114
indianriveraa.org
American Red Cross 2506 17th Ave. 772-562-2549 redcross.org/local/florida/ south-florida
Indian River Blood Bank 1300 36th St. 772-567-4266 oneblood.org
Mental Health Association in Indian River County Walk-In & Counseling Center 820 37th Place 772-569-9788 mhairc.org
Nonprofit Organizations
Vero Beach is home to many caring individuals who work to make our county a better place to live for all residents. If you are looking for a way to get involved and make a difference, these local organizations would love to hear from you.
Animal Welfare
Community Health Coalition 706-621-9943
knockoutrabies.org
Equine Welfare Network Inc. 772-559-4094
equinewelfarenetwork.org
Florida Rescue Ranch 772-766-9854
floridarescueranch.org
For the Love of Paws Senior Pet Sanctuary 772-539-2417
pawspetsanctuary.org
Friends of the Carr Refuge 321-872-8856
carrrefuge.org
H.A.L.O. (Helping Animals Live and Overcome) 772-589-7297 halorescuefl.org
Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County 772-388-3331 hsvb.org
Indian River Animal Advocates 772-567-8468
indianriveranimaladvocates.com
Indian River Community Cats 772-913-3333
indianrivercommunitycats.org
Pigs & Pals Farm Rescue 772-633-3512
pigsandpals.org
Arts & Culture
Atlantic Classical Orchestra
772-460-0850 atlanticclassicalorchestra.com
Ballet Vero Beach
772-905-2651 balletverobeach.org
Ballet Vero Parents & Friends
772-360-8577 veroclassicalballet.org
Cultural Council of Indian River County
772-770-4857 cultural-council.org
Downtown Vero Beach Mural Project
772-501-4363 veromuralproject.org
Gifford Youth Orchestra
772-778-5118 gyotigers.org
Laura (Riding) Jackson Foundation
772-569-6718 lauraridingjackson.org
Riverside Theatre
772-231-6990 riversidetheatre.com
Treasure Coast Chorale
772-231-3498 treasurecoastchorale.org
Vero Beach Art Club
772-231-0303 verobeachartclub.org
Vero Beach Choral Society verobeachchoralsociety.org
Vero Beach Museum of Art
772-231-0707 vbmuseum.org
Vero Beach Opera
772-569-6993, Box Office: 772-564-5537 verobeachopera.org
Vero Beach Theatre Guild 772-562-8300 verobeachtheatreguild.com
Children & Youth
Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Lucie, Indian River & Okeechobee Counties
772-466-8535 bbbsbigs.org
Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County
772-299-7449 bgcirc.org
Childcare Resources of Indian River
772-567-3202 childcareresourcesir.org
Crossover Mission 772-257-5400 crossovermission.com
Dasie Bridgewater Hope Center 772-589-3535 dasiehope.org
Feed the Lambs Enrichment Program
772-501-2617
feedthelambsep.com
Foundations for Leadership
772-202-0550 fflmun.org
Gifford Youth Achievement Center 772-794-1005 gyac.net
Girls on the Run of the Treasure Coast 772-202-3776 girlsontheruntc.org
Guardians for New Futures 772-807-3868 gfnf4kids.org
Hibiscus Children's Center 772-299-6011 hibiscuschildrenscenter.org
Homeless Children's Foundation 772-532-1139 hcfirc.com
Indian River Youth for Christ 772-226-0489
yfcirc.com
Kindergarten Readiness Collaborative 772-617-4350 krcirc.org
Little Birthday Angels 772-925-9352 littlebirthdayangels.org
Mardy Fish Children's Foundation 866-633-4070 mffkids.org
Music Angels Education Fund 484-885-7492 musicangelsusa.org
Place of Hope
561-775-7195 placeofhope.com
Victory Kids 772-559-8255 victory-kids.org
Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy 772-492-3933
youthguidanceprogram.org
Youth Sailing Foundation of Indian River County 772-492-3243 ysfirc.org
Community Service
211 Helpline of the Palm Beaches & Treasure Coast 561-383-1112
211treasurecoast.org
American Association of University Women, Vero Beach 772-257-5275
verobeach-fl.aauw.net
Center for Spiritual Care 772-567-1233
centerforspiritualcare.org
Executive Roundtable of Indian River County 772-321-7468
execroundtableirc.org
Grand Harbor Community Outreach Program ghcop.org
Head, Heart and Hands of Indian River Club 772-770-0757
indianriverclub.com
Impact 100 of Indian River County 772-207-1001 impact100ir.com
Indian River Community Foundation 772-492-1407
ircommunityfoundation.org
Indian River County 4-H Foundation sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/indian-river/ irc-4-h/irc-4-h-foundation/
John's Island Foundation
772-234-0992 johnsislandfoundation.org
Junior League of Indian River 772-226-0799 jlir.org
Military Moms Prayer Group 772-473-0288 militarymomsprayergroup.com
The Moorings Habitat Partnership 617-803-0576
Quail Valley Charities 772-492-2069 quailvalleygolfclub.com
United Way of Indian River County 772-567-8900 unitedwayirc.org
Vero Beach Christian Business Association vbcba.org
Vero Beach Lifeguard Association
908-797-8725 vbla.org
Windsor Charitable Foundation
772-388-8377
Education
Early Learning Coalition of Indian River, Martin & Okeechobee Counties 772-567-7480 elcirmo.org
The Education Foundation of Indian River County 772-564-0034 edfoundationirc.org
Haiti Partners 772-539-8521 haitipartners.org
Indian River State College Foundation 772-462-4786; 866-792-4772, ext. 4786 irscfoundation.org
The Learning Alliance 877-548-7323 thelearningalliance.org
Master's Academy of Vero Beach 772-794-4655 mastersvb.org
Miss B's Learning Bees 772-713-4130 missbslearningbees.org
Redlands Christian Migrant Association/RCMA 239-658-3560 rcma.org
Saint Edward's School 772-231-4136 steds.org
Scholarship Foundation of Indian River County 772-569-9869 sfindianriver.org
Sebastian Charter Junior High 772-388-8838 scjh.org
St. Helen Catholic School 772-567-5457 sthelenschoolvero.org
Treasure Coast Food Bank
Environment & Conservation
Coastal Connections
214-676-0011
coastal-connections.org
Environmental Learning Center
772-589-5050
dicoverelc.org
Friends of St. Sebastian River
772-202-0501
fssr.org
Garden Club of Indian River County
772-567-4602
gardenclubofirc.org
Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute Foundation
772-466-9876
hboifoundation.org
Indian River Land Trust
772-794-0701
irlt.org
Keep Indian River Beautiful 772-226-7738
keepindianriverbeautiful.org
McKee Botanical Garden 772-794-0601 mckeegarden.org
Ocean Research & Conservation Association
772-467-1600 teamorca.org
Pelican Island Audubon Society
772-567-3520
pelicanislandaudubon.org
Food & Nutrition
The Food Pantry of Indian River County
772-770-2068 foodpantryirc.org
Our Father's Table Soup Kitchen
772-562-6268
Shining Light Garden Foundation
772-532-8777
shininglightgarden.com
Treasure Coast Food Bank
772-489-3034
stophunger.org
Health & Wellness
Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County
772-563-0505
alzpark.org
American Cancer Society
800-227-2345
cancer.org
American Gold Star Mothers of Indian River County 570-885-2811 ircgoldstarmoms.org
Care Net Pregnancy Center of Indian River County 772-569-7939 carenetchampions.org
A Caring Center for Women 772-257-5390 wesavebabies.org
Cleveland Clinic Indian River Foundation 772-226-4960 clevelandclinicirfoundation.org
Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services of the Treasure Coast 772-334-2233 dhhstc.org
Dogs for Life 772-567-8969 dogsforlifevb.org
Friends After Diagnosis 772-770-9700 friendsafterdiagnosis.com
Indian River County Volunteer Ambulance Squad 772-231-1230 volunteerambulancesquad.org
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Palm BeachTreasure Coast 954-805-5125 lls.org
March of Dimes Foundation 772-410-5460 marchofdimes.org
We are an obstetrics and gynecology office offering a full range of ob/gyn services including:
• Well woman exams
• Adolescent gynecology
• Obstetrical care
• Nexplanon
• Menopause treatment
• Gynecologic surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• In office ablation for heavy bleeding
• IUD
After 30 years of taking care of patients in Vero Beach, Dr. Presley will be retiring as of 4/29/22. The rest of the team at Florida Woman Care will still be available to serve you!
Rosana Salama Bello, M.D., Shannon Brown, MSN, FNP-BC, James J. Presley, M.D. and Holly Jensen, APRN
PATIENTS ARE SEEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY MOST INSURANCES ARE ACCEPTED
Mental Health Association in Indian River County
772-569-9788 mhairc.org
Mental Health Collaborative of Indian River County
772-217-3663 mhcollaborative.org
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
407-478-8882 nationalmssociety.org/flc
Special Equestrians of the Treasure Coast
772-562-7603 specialequestrianstreasurecoast. org
Substance Awareness Center of Indian River County
772-770-4811 sacirc.org
Sunshine Physical Therapy Clinic
772-562-6877 sunshineptc.org
Treasure Coast Community Health
772-571-1986 tcchinc.org
Tykes & Teens/Healthy Families
Indian River County
772-778-1323 tykesandteens.org/healthyfamilies-indian-river-county/
VNA & Hospice Foundation
772-567-5551 vnatc.com
Whole Family Health Center
772-257-5785 wholefamilyhealthcenter.org
Women's Refuge of Vero Beach
772-770-4424
womensrefugevb.org
History
Indian River County Historical Society
772-778-3435 irchistorical.org
National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum
772-595-5845 navysealmuseum.org
Old Vero Ice Age Sites Committee
772-538-5585 oviasc.org
Vero Heritage (Heritage Center and Indian River Citrus Museum)
772-770-2263
veroheritage.org
Home & Family
The Arc of Indian River County
772-562-6854 arcir.org
The Buggy Bunch
772-226-0066
thebuggybunch.com
Children's Home Society of Florida
772-342-5091
chsfl.org
Economic Opportunities Council of Indian River County
772-562-4177 eocofirc.net
The Hope for Families Center
772-567-5537 hopeforfamiliescenter.org
Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition
772-563-9118
irchealthystartcoalition.org
Indian River Habitat for Humanity
772-562-9860
irchabitat.org
Safespace 772-223-2399
safespacefl.org
Samaritan Center (Catholic Charities) 772-770-3039 ccdpb.org
The Source 772-564-0202 iamthesource.org
Human Services
American Red Cross 561-307-2929
Camp Haven 772-999-3625 camphaven.net
Career Source Research Coast
866-482-4473 careersourcerc.com
Kristina Conn Foundation 772-202-2107 mykcf.org
Lifebuilders of the Treasure Coast 772-337-5691 lifebuilderstc.com
Literacy Services of Indian River County
772-778-2223 literacyservicesirc.org
The River Fund 772 589-5076 riverfund.org
The Salvation Army
772-978-0265 salvationarmyverobeach.org
United Against Poverty of Indian River County
772-564-9365 upirc.org
Veterans Council of Indian River County 772-410-5820 veteranscouncilirc.club
Senior Services
Senior Resource Association 772-569-0760 seniorresourceassociation.org
St. Francis Manor of Vero Beach 772-562-8575 stfrancismanor.org
Sports & Recreation
Aeronautrixx 831-776-9811
Bike Walk Indian River County 772-299-6565 bikewalkirc.org
Float Hope of Indian River County
914-954-1882 floathopenow.org
Indian River Golf Foundation 772-713-9593 irgf.org
Indian River Soccer Association 772-696-0807 irsoccer.com
Risk Takers for Christ 772-539-1826
risktakersforchrist.org
Special Olympics Florida –Indian River County 772-475-3588
specialolympicsflorida.org/ indian-river
Vero Beach Rowing 772-261-0747
verobeachrowing.org
Government Basics
Structure
Indian River County is part of the 19th Judicial District of Florida. It has a five-member board of commissioners and five elected constitutional officers: tax collector, supervisor of elections, property appraiser, sheriff and clerk of the circuit court. You can find additional information on the county website at ircgov.com.
The city of Vero Beach is the county
seat and operates under a councilmanager form of government. The five members elected to the city council appoint the city manager, city attorney and city clerk. The city website at covb. org provides additional information.
Florida has no state income, inheritance or gift taxes. A statewide sales tax of 6% and an Indian River County sales tax of 1% apply to most purchased products, excluding
medications, medical services and most groceries. Property taxes are assessed ad valorem — based on the value of the property — and non-ad valorem by the county, city, school districts and special districts. Be sure to take advantage of the homestead exemption if you live here year-round. Currently up to $50,000, the exemption is available to permanent resident homeowners living on the property as of Jan. 1 of the tax year. Exemptions are also available for disabled veterans, widows and widowers, and people on disability. The state website at myflorida.com provides a wealth of information on all staterelated matters.
Emergency Services & Law Enforcement
The Indian River County Emergency Services Department provides emergency services including fire, rescue and animal control. Vero Beach, Sebastian and Fellsmere all have police departments that serve areas within their respective city limits, while the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office serves the entire county, especially the areas outside individual city jurisdictions. The town of Indian River Shores is served by the Indian River Shores Public Safety Department, all of whose officers
are triple-certified as police officers, firefighters and paramedics. Don’t worry about keeping this information straight — in an emergency, dial 911 and your call will be routed to the appropriate place.
Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration
New residents must obtain a Florida driver’s license within 30 days of moving to the state. Bring original documents that validate your identity, Social Security number and residential address. Vehicles are required to be registered within 10 days of establishing residency. Proof of identity and proof of insurance are required for vehicle registration, along with an application for certificate of title. Several standard license plates are available, plus a wide variety of specialty plates supporting good causes in Indian River County and throughout the state. If you are coming here from a big city and have always dreaded renewing your license, relax! You’ll find the process here to be efficient and county workers happy to welcome you to the area.
Indian River County Tax Collector County Administration Complex, Building B 1800 27th St. 772-226-1338 ircgov.com
Other Licenses
Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Hunting and fishing licenses are required in the state of Florida. A variety of plans are available to suit your situation. Licenses may be acquired from the Indian River County Tax Collector or by contacting the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-486-8356. Licenses are also available online at gooutdoorsflorida.com.
Pet Licenses
Dogs and cats are required to have a current rabies vaccination and an annual county license. Licenses are available at the Animal Control Division office
Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Indian River County Animal Control Division 4305 43rd Ave., Suite 102B 772-226-4799 irgov.com
Who’s Who
Local companies know what's best for Vero Beach’s climate and lifestyle
Interior Design
Performance Arts &
Christine Barry 781-910-5602
Stuart Tilt 203-517-8556
Fredi Ash 772-217-0887
Sotheby’s
Real Estate
Christine R. McLaughlin at Shamrock Real
Gena Grove 772-633-0106
Andrew Harper 772-633-6336 at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Florida Realty harpergrovere.com 123
Heather Delamarter at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Florida Realty 772-321-3056 bhhsfloridarealty.com .................... 141
Cindy O’Dare 772-713-5899
Richard Boga 772-559-4800 at Premier Estate Properties
Dan Downey 772-713-6314
Anne Wallace 772-532-3226 at Berkshire Hathaway
Jane Schwiering 772-473-6048
Lucy Hendricks
772-559-8812 at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Florida Realty veroluxuryproperties.com ............. 31
Jill Arsenault at One Sotheby’s International Realty 772-233-0660
jillarsenault.one sothebysrealty.com 83
Debbie Bell at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices/Florida Realty 772-473-7255 verobeachislandrealestate.com .............................................................................59
Dustin Haynes at Coldwell Banker Paradise 772-205-1931
verobeachproperty.com 3
Frances Bonsignore Smyrk at One Sotheby’s International Realty 772-532-7278
fransmyrk.one sothebysrealty.com 75
John’s Island Real Estate Company 772-231-0900
johnsislandrealestate.com inside front cover, 1
Karen Smith at One Sotheby’s International Realty
772-559-1295
realestateofvero.com