Vero Beach South

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Vero Beach South's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the charming Historic Downtown Vero Beach, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Stroll along the tree-lined streets and admire the unique architecture of the buildings, some dating back to the early 1900s. Don’t miss the opportunity to stop by the Vero Beach Museum of Art, which opens at 10 AM, and explore its diverse collection.

afternoon
:

After exploring the museum, grab lunch at one of the nearby restaurants that offer fresh seafood and local cuisine. Spend your afternoon visiting the Indian River County Historical Society, where you can learn about the area's rich heritage. Finish off the afternoon with a relaxing walk in Riverside Park, enjoying the scenic views along the Indian River Lagoon.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a waterfront restaurant for dinner, where you can savor delicious dishes while watching the sunset over the water. After dinner, consider taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Cap off your night with a visit to the local ice cream shop for a sweet treat.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a beachside café, followed by a stroll along Vero Beach's pristine shoreline. Once the sun is up and the weather is warm, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. If you're feeling adventurous, try out jet skiing or parasailing for an exhilarating experience.

afternoon
:

After an exciting morning, enjoy a packed lunch on the beach, soaking in the sun and the sounds of the waves. In the afternoon, take part in a guided snorkeling tour to experience the underwater beauty of the area, spotting colorful fish and marine life. Alternatively, relax on the beach with a good book or take a dip in the refreshing ocean.

evening
:

As the day winds down, freshen up and head to a beachside bar for happy hour, enjoying cocktails and tapas with your toes in the sand. Afterward, make your way to a local seafood restaurant for a dinner featuring the catch of the day. Wind down your night with a leisurely walk along the beach, taking in the starry sky.

day 3
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local diner famous for its pancakes and hearty fare, fueling up for a day of adventure. Head to the nearby Sebastian Inlet State Park, where you can explore the stunning coastal habitats. Spend the morning hiking along the nature trails, keeping an eye out for native wildlife like dolphins and manatees.

afternoon
:

After a morning immersed in nature, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's scenic spots, surrounded by lush greenery. Spend your afternoon fishing or simply relaxing by the water's edge, taking in the beauty of the inlet. If you’re up for more exploration, consider renting a bicycle to ride along the park’s trails.

evening
:

Return to Vero Beach and indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. After your meal, visit a local art gallery to appreciate the works of community artists and perhaps find a unique souvenir. As the evening draws to a close, grab a drink at a cozy bar and reflect on your day amidst the natural beauty.

day 4
Cultural Immersion at Local Markets
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Vero Beach Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning, where you can sample local produce and baked goods. Enjoy breakfast from one of the food vendors and soak in the vibrant atmosphere filled with live music. Don’t forget to pick up some fresh fruits or handmade crafts as souvenirs.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, take a short drive to the nearby McKee Botanical Garden, where you can wander through lush landscapes and admire the diverse plant species. Spend your afternoon relaxing in the serene environment, perhaps enjoying a light lunch at the garden café. Capture beautiful photos of the tropical scenery and unique water features.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to Vero Beach and dine at a restaurant that showcases local flavors and influences. After dinner, check out any live music events happening in the area, as Vero Beach often hosts local bands and musicians. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

day 5
Golfing and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to one of Vero Beach's beautiful golf courses for a morning tee time. Enjoy the lush greens and stunning views while playing a round of golf in the warm Florida sunshine. If you're new to the game, consider taking a golf lesson to improve your skills.

afternoon
:

After a successful round of golf, have lunch at the clubhouse, where you can recount your best shots over a delicious meal. Spend the afternoon unwinding at a local spa, indulging in a rejuvenating massage or facial treatment. Take some time to relax by the pool or enjoy the spa’s amenities to fully recharge.

evening
:

In the evening, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of Vero Beach's upscale restaurants known for their exquisite cuisine. After dinner, stroll through the area to admire the beautiful architecture and landscape, perhaps stopping at a local boutique for a little shopping. End your night with a glass of wine or cocktail at a cozy lounge, reflecting on a day of leisure.

day 6
Family Fun at the Beach
morning
:

Start your family adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to the beach for a day of sun and surf. Set up your sun umbrellas and beach towels, and let the kids build sandcastles while you relax. Engage in some family games, like beach volleyball or frisbee, to kick off the fun.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach, taking breaks to splash in the waves or hunt for seashells along the shoreline. Consider renting a beach cabana for some shade and comfort as you spend the afternoon swimming and playing. For more excitement, look into renting a banana boat or taking a family-friendly boat tour.

evening
:

After a fun-filled day, head to a beachfront restaurant for a casual dinner, where the kids can enjoy a variety of kid-friendly options. As the evening sets in, take a short walk along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors. Finish the night with a visit to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat to end your family day.

day 7
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café known for its artistic decor and creative menu. After breakfast, head to the Vero Beach Museum of Art to explore its impressive collection of American art and contemporary works. Join a guided tour if available to gain deeper insight into the exhibits.

afternoon
:

After immersing yourself in art, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro before heading to the historic Riverside Theatre. Spend your afternoon attending a matinee performance or taking a backstage tour to learn about the theatre's history and upcoming shows. If you're interested, check out any workshops or classes offered for a hands-on experience.

evening
:

As evening approaches, dine at a restaurant that features locally sourced ingredients, enhancing your culinary experience. After dinner, enjoy an evening of live music or theater, immersing yourself further in the local arts scene. Cap off your night with a relaxing drink at a nearby lounge or bar, discussing your favorite moments of the day.

day 8
Adventure in the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before heading out to the nearby Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. Spend your morning hiking the trails and observing the diverse bird species that inhabit the area, bringing your binoculars for a closer look. The peaceful surroundings and natural beauty will invigorate you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, taking time to appreciate the tranquility of the refuge. After lunch, consider renting a bike to explore the scenic paths or join a guided eco-tour to learn more about the local ecosystem. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a guided canoe trip through the mangroves to see wildlife up close.

evening
:

Return to Vero Beach for a well-deserved dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its local seafood and southern cuisine. After dinner, take a sunset cruise along the Indian River Lagoon, where you can see dolphins playing in the water. End your day with a night walk along the beach, feeling the cool sand beneath your feet.

day 9
Shopping and Culinary Discoveries
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a charming café before heading to the boutique shops and galleries in the Historic Downtown area. Spend your morning browsing through unique shops that offer everything from handmade jewelry to local art. Don’t forget to stop by the local bookstore for a good read to take home as a memento.

afternoon
:

After shopping, enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery that focuses on fresh, local ingredients. Spend the afternoon taking a culinary class at a local cooking school, where you can learn to prepare traditional Florida dishes. This hands-on experience will enhance your appreciation for the region's cuisine.

evening
:

As evening falls, dine at a restaurant that offers a tasting menu, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes crafted from local ingredients. After dinner, explore any food festivals or events happening in the area, celebrating the local culinary scene. Cap off your night with a dessert at a local bakery or café, treating yourself to a delicious ending to your culinary adventure.

Discover Vero Beach South

Read more in our Vero Beach South 2025 Travel Guide.

Vero Beach South Travel Guide