STAY & PLAY

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Choosing a place to stay from the abundant choices in Indian River County can be tough, in a fun way. Each city has its own unique flavor. If you’re a beach lover, you’ll definitely want to consider Vero Beach, a place with stunning sunrises and swanky local restaurants and boutiques. Maybe you prefer an intimate, walkable riverfront town with easy access to the Indian River Lagoon. Sebastian's sail-worthy river teaming with local fish and a variety of plant and animal life is hard to find anywhere else in the Sunshine State. Or, you might feel cozier in the natural Florida of rural Fellsmere, a place where thousands of undeveloped acres and osprey nests outnumber people. Paddle through a grand forest of bald cypress trees and encounter bass fishermen who understand preservation is key to productive fishing grounds. Indian River County is a distinct destination. It’s dotted with thriving boutiques, hotels and rare, independent family-owned properties. Nationally known chain hotels are also part of the mix. The area offers 30+ overnight accommodations for all budgets and tastes, as well as a variety of independent vacation rentals and Airbnb stays.

GETTING HERE

By Air: Travelers have a variety of options when trekking to Vero Beach. The area is served by some of the largest international airports in the state: Orlando International, Miami International, Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood Airport, while OrlandoMelbourne International Airport is only 35 miles away. Vero Beach Regional Airport also provides travelers direct flights to and from the northeast U.S., allowing travelers to skip the long lines at Florida’s international airports. Elite Airways is now offering direct flights to Vero Beach Regional Airport, where they say "land near the sand." Visit Elite Airways online for up-to-date schedules, fares, and more.

By Car: Floridians who want to discover this unique part of Florida can easily access the area by car. Many of the state’s major thoroughfares (I-95, I-4, I-75, and the Florida Turnpike) make this east coast beach destination a road tripper’s delight. Trips from Jacksonville, Naples, Miami, Orlando, and Ocala are all possible in under four hours. Tallahassee is an exception. The capital city is slightly more than a five-hour drive. Still, easy-peasy!

@elyvigistain

VERO BEACH: More to Explore

Vero Beach is that magical Florida destination, offering 26 miles of sublime coastline with all styles and varieties of beaches. Without a high-rise in sight, this area is refreshing and rare. Posh hotels blend seamlessly with swanky boutiques and local restaurants. Home-grown chefs are inspired by thriving coastal waters. Local art - public sculptures, world-renowned galleries, and a burgeoning street art scene - creates the perfect escape for foodies and art lovers alike. It’s a place where orange groves are heritage, the local community is committed to preservation and sustainability, and visitors are welcomed with open arms. A friendly beach town like no other—at the intersection of glamour and green. Come see why Vero Beach has become a “happy place” for travelers from around the world.

FELLSMERE: A Rural Retreat

While Vero Beach is famous for “sunrises not high-rises,” its sister city, Fellsmere, is a rural utopia celebrated for undeveloped wildlands and thriving natural habitats. Fellsmere is a green-seeker’s paradise. Kayak the lakeside shores of Blue Cypress Lake, a 6,500-acre lake, where osprey nests decorate the trees. Birders will need to have binoculars handy when visiting T. M. Goodwin WMA – Broadmoor Marshes, a 3,840-acre wetlands restoration project. The number of winged species to spot is a bird lover’s dream. Fisherman will want to visit Fellsmere’s bestkept secret, Stick Marsh Farm/13 Reservoir, an iconic bass fisherman’s outpost. Rural Florida is disappearing, yet Fellsmere is a place that allows visitors to step back in time to a time when rural Florida was a tropical, naturelovers paradise.

@groupertoes SEBASTIAN: A Lively Riverfront Town

Scenic Sebastian is a charming riverfront town, sandwiched between beautiful Vero Beach and the rural wonderland of Fellsmere. This walkable riverfront features one of the most coveted areas in Florida, the Indian River Lagoon. The lively riverfront is home to famous festivals, local breweries, and neighborhood restaurants. It’s a place where everyone knows your name. Families can experience a variety of city parks and museums. Plus, Sebastian is home to the historical Pelican Island National Refuge, the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. Thrill seekers will relish Sebastian with skydiving, deep sea fishing, and chance encounters with endangered sea turtles—all part of the adventure. This is no ordinary riverside town. From its riverbanks and wildlife to its warm vibes, this welcoming town is bursting with a wholesome small-town flavor.

@homesweetpolk

@matt_milhoan

VERO BEACH

OCEAN DRIVE

Ocean Drive is “the Drive” in Vero Beach. Anchored by Sexton Plaza, this swanky backdrop is dotted with boutique shops, local eateries, and a variety of hotels lining the north and south ends of the drive.

Costa d’Este Beach Resort

& Spa is a posh, pet-friendly, oceanfront resort and spa noted for celebrity spotting and Instagram influencers who want to be seen. The resort offers a trendy fire pit scene, and the outdoor pool and bar area is a fantastic place to frolic and enjoy craft cocktails and tapas treats. In the heart of “the Drive,” this property is owned by the dynamic music duo of Gloria and Emilio Estefan.

3244 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach

Driftwood Resort, a local’s hangout, is quite the unique place to stay. The entire resort is made from driftwood logs, plus the hotel bar, “Waldo’s” draws a lively crowd, and satisfies travelers who crave seafood.

3150 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach

@ali_barnes

@tdjacks

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites - As Holiday Inn’s go, this is an exceptional property with excellent reviews on their outstanding customer service.

3384 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach.

The Islander Inn, such a charming, Caribbean-themed hotel just a quick jaunt away from the beach. 3101 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach.

The Reef Hotel, a condominium hotel with full kitchens, a putting green, and shuffleboard; this is a cool place for families.

3450 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach. Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel

& Spa, This oceanfront oasis is a haven for the discerning traveler, a superb place to join the local crowd for happening happy hours, pool and beachside cocktails, and cozy firepit nights stargazing. This hotel is also family and Fido-friendly, and a beautiful destination wedding location. 3500 Ocean

Drive, Vero Beach @braindork_

Sea Turtle Inn, this mom and pop, two-story, budget-friendly boutique property is 1.5 blocks from the beach. Expect to be treated like family.

835 Azalea Lane, Vero Beach

SOUTH OCEAN DRIVE

South Ocean Drive is a scenic roadway dotted with quaint neighborhoods and stunning beaches, plus acres of nature to explore. A few places we thought you’d like:

Caribbean Court Hotel is a delightful boutique hotel with an enchanting restaurant, Maison Martinique. This classy restaurant offers American fare with an infusion of Caribbean flavors. For a unique way to spend an evening, check out the dueling piano bar there at Havana Nights. 1601 South Ocean Drive, Vero Beach

Prestige Hotel, a studio-style hotel located directly oceanfront.

1526 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach

Sea Spray Inn, a modern suite hotel with a cool pool and bike rentals. Perfect for couples. 965 E. Causeway Blvd., Vero Beach

South Beach Place, a boutique, 18-suite hotel is ideal for active travelers who want the essentials but prefer the great outdoors.

1705 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach

Sea Horse Beach Cottages provides old-world Florida ambiance, within a short walk to Jaycee Beach. 1312 Ocean Drive, Vero Beach

VERO BEACH A1A

Nestled in the northern section of Vero Beach, on A1A, where life is a bit quieter and the beaches never succumb to overcrowding, this is the place where families vacation, year-after-year.

@therealyourpalal

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort delivers deluxe suites and home-style accommodations. It’s the only Disney beach property in the state of Florida. The oceanfront resort is located at 9250 Island Grove Terrace, minutes from Wabasso Beach and Vero Beach.

DOWNTOWN DISTRICT

The Downtown District is a thriving arts enclave and a five-minute drive from the oceanfront. Fridays are the perfect way to discover the area as local artists open their doors, welcoming guests for Art Walk.

Star Suites by Riverside Theatre is a new boutique property offering 60 one-bedroom suites in cooperation with Riverside Theatre. The property also offers guests a clubhouse, courtyard, pool, and garden terraces. 2550 Flight Safety Drive, Vero Beach

Springhill Suites Located in Vero Beach (Grand Harbor), SpringHill Suites by Marriott Vero Beach offers full amenities and is a wonderful place for families to stay. Also, this hotel is located within minutes of Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital.

5115 Indian River Blvd, Vero Beach.

Hampton Inn & Suites is famous for their complimentary breakfast, and this Hampton Inn has a sundry of positive reviews for its friendly staff. 611 20th Place, Vero Beach

Howard Johnson by Wyndham offers the retro-stylings of the original Ho-Jo’s amenities plus an outdoor pool. 1725 US-1, Vero Beach.

The Jackie Robinson Training Complex (formerly Historic Dodgertown) is open year-round for events, meetings, and retreats, for corporations, non- profits. church and family groups as well as hosting sports teams. 3901 26th St, Vero Beach

1-95 CORRIDOR

Along the I-95 corridor there are a variety of convenient budget hotels that will have you at the beach in less than 15 minutes, in Sebastian in 10 minutes, or Fellsmere in just twenty minutes:

• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Vero Beach • Holiday Inn Express, Vero Beach West • Knights Inn, Vero Beach • Comfort Suites, Vero Beach

SEBASTIAN

Capt Hiram’s Resort is the “MacDaddy of ‘em all” in Sebastian. If you stay, you’ll experience a dynamic riverfront resort offering a tropical beach bar, a variety of restaurants, and endless activities at your fingertips. It’s a place where visitors stay, and locals play.

1580 US 1, Sebastian.

@capthirams

At Capt’n Butchers Grille & Bar, don’t be fooled by the name. This place also provides studio stays and townhomes. 1730 Indian River

Drive, Sebastian

Davis House Inn offers 12 apartment-style rooms, welcomes pets, and generates five-star reviews. 607 Davis Street, Sebastian

Sportsman’s Lodge is a simple riverfront hotel with single rooms and apartments smackdab on the beautiful Indian River. 412 Indian River

Drive, Sebastian

Pelican Island Cottages offers 18 quaint, Florida-inspired cottages, which are affordable and pet friendly. 11330 US 1, Sebastian

Best Western Plus provides budget-style rooms in the heart of Sebastian. 1655 US Highway 1, Sebastian

Book your Staycation

with the Captain

Casual Florida Hotel

86 room boutique hotel each with walkout balconies. Waterfront and poolside rooms available.

As much a place as it is a state of mind, Capt Hirams Resort is the essence of Florida, enhanced with a Bahamian beat.

There are enough outdoor activities and interests for guests of all ages to stay here for days.

Make yourself right at home on the shores of Sebastian’s Indian River and surrender to “island time”. Waterfront Dining

Join us at Blackfins Riverfront Grill overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. Dolphins, nesting birds, and the occasional manatee visit a short distance from our tables.

Marina

Arrive by boat for lunch and dinner or spend the night. Our dockhands are ready to assist. Adventure Center

Rent a kayak, paddleboard, cruise on our eco tour River King, or hire one of our charter boat Captains for a day at sea!

Drop Anchor With Us

Oyster Pointe & Oyster Bay Resort is a three-star hotel with a pool and hot tub surrounded by lush palm trees. Perfect for budget travelers. It’s located directly on the Indian River. 1570 US 1, Sebastian

Pelican’s Landing of Sebastian offers brightly colored cottages surrounded by oak trees, sidled right up on the riverfront. With a launch ramp, BBQ areas, and fishing. This location is ideal for families and male bonding trips. 113300 S. Indian River Drive, Sebastian

Sebastian Inlet State Park offers campers a plethora of activities: fishing, surfing, swimming, stargazing, birding, boating, and diving. Wildlife is everywhere, with a special nod to endangered sea turtles. Make sure you book a nighttime tour to spot nesting sea turtles on their annual trek to the beach and back to the seas. The park is also home to the Sebastian Fishing Museum. 9700 S. Highway AIA,

Melbourne Beach

RV’ING

Pelican Landing Resort is the most gorgeous, waterfront RV park to take in a sunrise or sunset. 11330 South Indian River Drive, Sebastian

Tanglewood Village Vero is a 55+ RV park that backs up to a 300acre nature preserve and is “the” place to spot the elusive Florida panther. 1060 S. US 1, Vero Beach

Vero Beach Kamp is an RV park and campground. It’s family and dogfriendly with 14.5 acres of grassy areas and old-growth oak trees located near Sebastian. 8850 N. US 1, Sebastian

Whispering Palms offers 306 RV hookups and fully furnished two-bedroom RV rentals with everything you can imagine: Wi-Fi, pet-friendly, tennis courts, two heated pools, two tennis courts, putting green, library, pool and poker tables, laundry, and three activity centers. 10305 US Highway 1, Sebastian

ONE OF A KIND RENTALS

You're sure to find beautiful vetted properties through Dale Sorenson and Laurel Homes. Plenty of owner rentals are available, each with unique amenities, through all the "for rent by owner" outlets. Such as Airbnb and Vrbo.

@veteransaerialmedia

FELLSMERE

Journey into the wilds of Florida, where local critters outnumber visitors. Don’t expect posh stays or chain properties. Here, camping is the call of the day.

St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park is a Florida State Park and one not to miss. Vast, open grassy forests, long leaf pine, 60 miles of hiking/mountain biking trails, and more than 20,000 acres to explore. The campsites book out early. 1000 Buffer Preserve Drive, Fellsmere

SPEAKING OF CAMPING

Fellsmere isn’t the only place to enjoy sleeping under the stars, s’mores, and campfires in Indian River County. Below are a few more suggestions for RV parks and area campgrounds:

Camp on one of the area’s Spoil Islands. It’s like being on your own private island, and it’s a fishing paradise. Visit spoilislandproject.org to learn more.

Donald MacDonald Park on the Indian River offers 29 primitive campsites, restrooms, a pavilion, observation boardwalk, fire pits, and concrete picnic tables. 12351 Roseland Road, Sebastian