Explore Vero Beach, Florida's hidden coastal gem

Tucked along Florida’s Treasure Coast, about halfway between Palm Beach and Cape Canaveral, Vero Beach has long been called the "gateway to the tropics." The town blends Old Florida charm with an understated coastal elegance, increasingly rare along the Atlantic shoreline.

For Long Islanders, getting there is simple. Nonstop Breeze Airways flights from MacArthur Airport in Ronkonoma delivers travelers in just over two hours — close enough for a long weekend, far enough to feel like a true escape.

The island’s geography defines its rhythm. Atlantic beaches are wide, uncrowded and dotted with nesting sea turtles, while the Indian River Lagoon on the west offers calm waters where dolphins surface, manatees drift and pelicans glide overhead. The area’s rare climate zone allows temperate Carolina plants and Caribbean tropical species to thrive side by side.

What draws visitors isn’t a single attraction but the balance Vero Beach strikes. Boutique hotels and polished dining sit alongside wildlife-rich waterways and neighborhoods shaded by towering live oaks. Mornings can be spent paddling mangrove tunnels, afternoons walking miles of sand and evenings dining at historic waterfront restaurants. In a state known for mega-resorts and theme parks, Vero Beach quietly holds its place as a refined, under-the-radar coastal escape.

Getting there

For Long Islanders, Vero Beach is easier to reach than many Florida destinations.

Breeze Airways operates nonstop flights from Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) to Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB), with flight times averaging about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

The airport itself is part of the charm. Passengers board and deplane via an open-air walkway, and baggage claim sits outside the terminal. Within about 10 minutes, visitors can reach Ocean Drive and the barrier island’s beaches.

Travelers can also fly into Palm Beach International Airport, about 90 minutes south, but Vero’s small regional airport makes it one of the few Florida beach towns where Long Islanders can land and be on the sand shortly after arrival.

Best time to visit

Vero Beach is a year-round destination, but the peak season runs December through April, when temperatures typically hover in the mid-70s to low 80s. Spring and summer bring warmer waters and excellent conditions for paddling and wildlife spotting. Locals often recommend May as the sweet spot: the water is warm, the beaches aren’t crowded and you can enjoy outdoor activities at a relaxed pace.

From May through August, west winds clear the Atlantic enough to reveal the Boiler Wreck, the remains of a 19th century ship just offshore — a favorite spot for kayakers, paddleboarders and snorkelers.

The beaches also serve as critical sea turtle nesting grounds, with the season running roughly March through October, adding a special ecological dimension to any visit.

Getting around

One of Vero Beach’s biggest surprises is how easy it is to explore without a car.

Much of the barrier island’s main village, including Ocean Drive, Central Beach and many restaurants and hotels, is walkable.

Golf carts are another popular way to get around. Guided tours and free ride services from Indian River Tours make it easy to travel between beaches, parks and restaurants.

Short rideshares can reach attractions slightly farther away, such as McKee Botanical Garden, about 15 minutes from the beach.

Where to stay

Driftwood Resort

$-$$, 3150 Ocean Dr., verobeachdriftwood.com, 772-231-0550

For a hotel with historic charm and eclectic character, Driftwood Resort is a must. The sprawling property was designed by Waldo Sexton, an eccentric early developer whose imagination helped shape the town during the early 20th century. 

Built from cypress logs gathered from nearby swamps, workers reportedly built the hotel without formal blueprints, following Sexton’s shouted instructions from the beach. Its "menagerie of monstrosities" — bells, nautical paraphernalia, and Highwaymen art — creates an experience as memorable as the beach itself.

Dine at Waldo's (historicwaldos.com, 772-231-7091) on the waterfront for inventive cocktails and elevated comfort fare.

Local's tip: Call directly for lower rates.

Ocean Breeze Inn

$$, 3384 Ocean Dr., oceanbreezeinns.com, 772-231-2300

This three-story hotel puts guests just steps from Sexton Plaza Beach, where clear water and gentle waves set the scene for sunrises over the Atlantic.

Upper-level ocean-view rooms offer sweeping views of swaying palms and rolling surf, and it’s an easy stroll to many restaurants and shops along Ocean Drive. Its central location makes exploring Vero Beach on foot simple, whether you’re heading to the beach, grabbing breakfast, or setting out for a morning paddle.

Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa

$$$, 3244 Ocean Dr., costadeste.com, 772-562-9919

Blending Mediterranean-inspired architecture with Old Florida charm, Costa d’Este offers oceanfront luxury with direct beach access. Its sophisticated pools, vibrant gardens and upscale dining complement the town’s understated elegance, making it a favorite for families, couples and anyone wanting a polished yet relaxed getaway.

Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa

$$$, 3500 Ocean Dr., verobeachhotelandspa.com, 772-231-5666

A refined coastal escape, the Kimpton Vero Beach brings upscale amenities to the Treasure Coast. With ocean views from many rooms, a full-service spa for both guests and nonguests and curated dining, it’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort and elegance within easy reach of Atlantic beaches and boutique shops.

Best places to eat

Chelsea’s Gourmet

$, 3201 Cardinal Dr., chelseasgourmet.com, 772-234-8300

Start your day with a quick, satisfying coffee and breakfast at Chelsea’s Gourmet. Known for friendly service and fresh, made-to-order options, it’s perfect for grabbing a pastry, smoothie or sandwich before heading out to the beach or a morning paddle.

The Lemon Tree

$$, 3125 Ocean Dr., thelemontreevero.com, 772-231-0858

A cozy, casual spot with a welcoming atmosphere, The Lemon Tree serves up comfort-driven breakfast and brunch favorites. Classic Southern-style Benedicts ($20), lemon blueberry pancakes ($18) and daily-made quiche ($14) are served in a neighborhood favorite that feels like home.

El Sid Taqueria

$$, 3300 Ocean Dr., elsid.com, 772-234-8299

For something more casual, locals head to El Sid Taqueria, a colorful taco stand known for carne asada ($6.50), carnitas ($6.24), chicken ($6.24) and fresh mahi tacos ($7.02).

The must-try drink is a frozen orange slush topped with vanilla soft serve, a citrusy Florida twist that pairs perfectly with warm afternoons near the beach.

Riverside Cafe

$$, 3341 Bridge Plaza Dr., riversidecafe.com, 772-234-5550

Along the Indian River Lagoon, Riverside Cafe blends waterfront dining with live music and a relaxed dockside atmosphere.

The restaurant is a favorite of country singer Jake Owen, a Vero Beach native known to occasionally surprise diners with impromptu performances. View guitars signed by Owens, Florida Georgia Line, Taylor Swift and others throughout the dining room.

The Jake Owen's mahi fish sandwich ($21) remains a local staple, and the soft-shell crab sandwich with pork belly ($20) and middle neck clams ($17) are highlights.

Ocean Grill

$$$,1050 Beachland Blvd., ocean-grill.com, 772-231-5409

Few places capture Vero Beach’s sense of history quite like Ocean Grill, a landmark restaurant perched above the Atlantic.

The building dates to 1941 when it was constructed by Sexton, an eccentric builder and collector whose influence helped shape the town. Inside, the restaurant feels part ship, part museum. Walls of pecky cypress and mahogany, stained glass windows, antique chandeliers and nautical artifacts fill the dining rooms — many collected by Sexton during his travels.

Menu staples date back decades as well, including the beloved blue cheese spread and the classic Coquilles St. Jacques ($52). The bar opens onto sweeping ocean views, offering a perfect place for a Pusser’s Painkiller ($13) while waves crash below.

Local's tip: Reservations can only be made for parties of 5 or more, so arrive by 4 p.m. to put your name down before seating starts at 5 p.m.

The Tides Restaurant

$$$, 3103 Cardinal Dr., tidesofvero.com, 772-234-3966

For fine dining, The Tides combines Southern, Latin, Caribbean and classical French influences with fresh seafood, locally grown and organically raised vegetables and fruits, and quality meats along with an extensive wine list.

Local's tip: Make reservations three to four weeks in advance.

Best things to do

Explore the Boiler Wreck

From May through August, west winds often clear the Atlantic enough to reveal the "Boiler Wreck," the remains of the 19th-century SS Breconshire, resting on a natural reef just 150 yards offshore. An American flag marks the boiler between Memorial Day and Labor Day, turning it into a gathering point for kayakers, paddleboarders, snorkelers and swimmers, especially on July Fourth.

Getting out to the wreck is easy with Paddles By The Sea (3321 Bridge Plaza Dr., paddlesbythesea.com, 772-234-9585), which rents kayaks and paddleboards starting at $30 per hour. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a first-timer, the shallow waters and gentle currents make this a fun and approachable adventure.

McKee Botanical Garden

350 US-1, mckeegarden.org, 772-794-0601

Admission: $25, $15 ages 3-17

Vero Beach’s McKee Botanical Garden is a lush, tropical escape dating back to the 1930s. Originally opened as McKee Jungle Gardens, the attraction was shaped by Sexton, whose love of exotic plants and eclectic architecture still echoes in the garden’s winding paths and whimsical sculptures.

Today, 18 acres of bamboo groves, shaded bridges and water features feel worlds away from the shoreline. Visitors can stroll along the meandering pathways while spotting tropical plants, native wildlife and art installations. It’s a peaceful oasis that blends history, horticulture and a touch of Vero Beach eccentricity.

Paddle the Indian River Lagoon

Stretching along the Western side of the barrier island, the Indian River Lagoon is one of North America’s most biologically diverse estuaries. Calm waters wind past mangrove tunnels and shallow creeks, where wildlife sightings are practically guaranteed.

Paddles By The Sea and Vero Tackle and Watersports, both located in front of Riverside Cafe, offer kayak and paddleboard rentals as well as guided trips. Launching is easy, just a 15-minute walk from Ocean Drive, making it perfect for a morning excursion. Rentals start at $30 per hour.

While paddling, you might spot manatees drifting, dolphins surfacing, stingrays feeding and wading birds diving for fish along the banks. The quiet, sun-dappled waters give visitors a chance to experience Florida’s wildlife up close.

Cruise the island by golf cart

One of the most fun and local ways to explore Vero Beach is from the seat of a golf cart. Indian River Tours (irtoursfl.com, 772-205-4207), run by husband-and-wife team Adam and Brooke Cooney, offers private one-hour tours for up to five guests ($140), giving visitors access to both scenic and historic spots. The signature tour takes you along Ocean Drive, past Riverside Park, the Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary, and Vero’s famous canopy streets, where moss-draped live oaks drape dramatically overhead.

Along the way, you’ll hear local stories, discover hidden gems and get tips on dining, nature and history from guides who genuinely love the town.

Shop local at Ocean Drive boutiques

Ocean Drive is lined with charming boutiques, galleries and specialty shops just steps from the beach. You can find everything from handcrafted jewelry and home decor to Florida-made souvenirs, beachwear, and unique gifts. 

The Steve Diossy Marine Art Gallery (3247 Ocean Dr., stevediossy.com, 772-205-2973) showcases marine artist Steve Diossy's unique colorful, ocean-inspired paintings of coastlines and sea creatures.

Experience arts and culture

Vero Beach isn’t just about sun and sand — it’s also a hub for arts and culture. Riverside Theatre (3250 Riverside Park Dr., riversidetheatre.com, 772-231-6990) stages plays, musicals and outdoor concerts throughout the year, offering a chance to experience local talent in an intimate setting. Just a short walk away, the Vero Beach Museum of Art (3001 Riverside Park Dr., vbmuseum.org, 772-231-0707) showcases rotating exhibitions alongside permanent collections, with works ranging from contemporary pieces to classical European paintings.