Your Ultimate Guide to Vero Beach: Discover the Best Places to Stay, Eat, and Explore
Nestled along Florida’s stunning Atlantic Coast, Vero Beach beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and abundant outdoor adventures. If you’re looking to visit Florida without the crazy tourists and overwhelming people at beaches then this is a great place to visit . Still an incredible place to stay without the crowds of Miami, Tampa, Clearwater or Daytona Beach.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, this charming coastal gem offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll unveil the top attractions, activities, dining hotspots, accommodation options, and insider tips to make your trip to Vero Beach unforgettable!
Best Places to Stay
- The Driftwood Resort: Experience old Florida charm at this historic oceanfront resort, offering cozy cottages and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa: Indulge in luxury at this boutique hotel owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan, featuring elegant accommodations and a rejuvenating spa.
- South Beach Place: This is the place that I stayed at when I visited Vero beach. It’s old style retro rooms make it such a unique and fun place to visit! The rooms feel like small apartments as there is a living area, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. You step outside to a large pool and gathering area with a grill, games and tables. It is also a very short walk to the beach
- Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa: Treat yourself to a beachfront oasis with stylish rooms, oceanfront dining, and access to a private beach club. If you’re looking for luxury, then this is a very nice place to stay right along the beach.
Best Things To Do
- Hit the Beaches: Of course the top things to do when you visit Florida. Hit the beaches. Spend leisurely days basking in the sun on the soft sands of South Beach or exploring the natural beauty of Round Island Beach Park, where you can stroll along secluded shores and spot native wildlife such as sea turtles, manatees, dolphins and stingrays. Walk along the beaches at night to try to spot some of the sea turtles climbing up on the beach to lay their eggs, a really beautiful thing to witness and the kids will love it as well.
- Watersports Adventure: Dive into exhilarating watersports activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, and jet skiing along Vero Beach’s pristine coastline.We opted for an hour of a jet ski rental with Salty Water Sports. It was a very simple process. they gave us a quick run down and out we went cruising through the open waters. The salty sea air blowing in your face really gives you a crazy adrenaline rush and makes you feel so alive! Highly recommend jet skiing or doing some sort of water sport out on the water. It’s a really freeing and incredible experience
- Golfing Paradise: Tee off at world-class golf courses nestled amid lush landscapes and picturesque surroundings. Vero Beach boasts several championship golf courses, including the Indian River Club and Sandridge Golf Club, offering challenging fairways and stunning views. If you’re not a huge beach person, take your clubs or rent some and head over to the course while the rest of the family is out laying on the beach!
- McKee Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at McKee Botanical Garden, where winding pathways lead you through lush tropical landscapes, colorful blooms, and serene water features. Don’t miss the Garden Café for a refreshing break amid the beauty.
- Historic Downtown Exploration: Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Vero Beach, where charming streets are lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Discover local treasures, dine at superb restaurants, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Rent out a bike or just take a walk. There is always a place to see or visit in downtown Vero Beach.
- NightLife: For some nightlife action check out “The Kilted Mermaid” where they have live music almost every night and 25 local beers on tap. A fun place to hang out after a long day out in the sun. “Sol Mar Cocktail Lounge” located just across the beach offers a large variety of unique cocktails. Has outdoor seating, is open late and has a terrific atmosphere if you’re looking for something a little more lively and fun. A more mature setting. “The Boiler” is another fun option right along the beach with an elegant atmosphere, exotic drinks and a classy indoor setting.
Places to Eat
- Ocean Grill: This historic restaurant offers stunning ocean views and serves up delicious seafood dishes. A fancier restaurant where you can expect to pay a good price, however the elegant dining experience and food make it worth it for at least one night in Vero Beach. We ate here and it’s a very popular spot, but the service is terrific and the food was unbelievable. From fresh fish to succulent crab cakes, Ocean Grill is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- The lemon Tree: A very popular spot in Vero Beach for breakfast located on the boardwalk just across the street from the beach. A quaint little spot that’s perfect for starting your day with a pastry and coffee. The café has a cozy and inviting ambiance, with indoor seating surrounded by colorful artwork and vintage decor. There’s also a charming outdoor patio where you can enjoy your meal while soaking up the sunshine.
- Casey’s Place: Casey’s Place is a beloved local eatery known for its casual atmosphere and delicious comfort food. It’s a laid-back spot where you can enjoy a tasty meal with friends and family. Pull up here in your bathing suit if you want. Grab a fish sandwich and a spot outside and you’re good to go. The atmosphere at Casey’s is relaxed and inviting, with indoor and outdoor seating options. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day at the beach or to grab a quick bite on your lunch break.
- Mulligan’s Beach House: Mulligan’s Beach House offers a beachside dining experience with stunning ocean views and a laid-back vibe. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and diverse menu. A very casual spot where you can grab a fish fry or a juicy burger as well as some of their delectable mixed alcoholic drinks. If you come for lunch they have happy hour where you can get some great deals on some delicious drinks. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a meal with friends and family if you’re looking for something casual and not as expensive.
- Citrus Grillhouse: Known for its innovative farm-to-table cuisine, Citrus Grillhouse showcases the vibrant flavors of locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy dishes like citrus-glazed salmon and grilled Florida shrimp in a cozy yet upscale atmosphere. Another great place to enjoy a family dinner where it’s not insanely fancy and pricey and also not super casual where you can pull up in a bathing suit. Get a taste of Florida with some locally caught fish.
Final Tips For Vero Beach
- Pack Sun Protection: Vero Beach enjoys plenty of sunshine, so be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. One of my favorite purchases was a long sleeve boating shirt. You can grab one from any gift shop or clothing store. Super light and sweat resistant. keeps you cool while also protecting you from the sun
- Stay Hydrated: Florida’s warm climate means it’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Check for Seasonal Events: Vero Beach hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, so check the local events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. From art shows to food festivals to live music performances, there’s always something fun to attend.
- Be Mindful of Wildlife: Vero Beach is home to diverse wildlife, including birds, turtles, and dolphins. When exploring nature preserves or enjoying water activities, be respectful of wildlife habitats and observe animals from a safe distance to avoid disturbing them.
- Plan for Outdoor Adventures: Take advantage of Vero Beach’s natural beauty by planning outdoor adventures such as kayaking, paddle-boarding, boating, and jet skiing. As mentioned above I highly recommend renting out a jet ski and giving it a spin. A super fun activity to do that everyone will love. There are also several boat tours you can plan as well, Hop on trip advisor or Expedia and see what Vero Beach has to offer! Pack appropriate gear and clothing for your chosen activities and be prepared to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and beaches
Conclusion
In conclusion, exploring Vero Beach is an enriching experience that offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a relaxing getaway by the sea. From the pristine beaches and lush nature preserves to the vibrant culinary scene and welcoming community, Vero Beach is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds of some of the more popular and over-crowded beach destinations in Florida.
Vero Beach is only about an hour and a half drive from downtown Orlando, so you can absolutely hit up either Disney World or Universal Studios and and do Vero Beach all in one trip
Whether you’re strolling along the shoreline at sunrise, jet skiing in the Atlantic, watching sea turtles lay their eggs, savoring fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, or trying a unique cocktail from one of the many bars on the beach, every moment spent in Vero Beach is filled with possibility and discovery.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable journey to Vero Beach, where the sun shines bright, the ocean beckons, and the memories you create will last a lifetime.