Sebastian Travel Guide: Beaches, Food & Best Things to Do

Laid back Indian River charm meets pristine coastal beauty.

Sebastian sits beside the Indian River Lagoon and a winding coastal river. Here, fishing boats share calm water with dolphins, manatees, and pelicans. Riverfront parks provide a close view of daily life on the water. Across the lagoon, Atlantic beaches and a nearby inlet offer swimming, surfing, fishing, and tales of lost treasure.

Start with a kayak trip through the mangroves or cast a line from shore. Then, see coins, jewelry, and other finds from Spanish shipwrecks at a local museum. Afterward, stop for fresh seafood beside the river or drive north to wild beaches and bird filled parks. Because the pace is slow, you can enjoy each stop without rushing.

Looking for more sunshine? Explore our Florida Atlantic Beach Guide to discover even more beautiful coastal gems. You can also follow us on Pinterest for more beach travel ideas.

In this guide: Map • When To Visit • Why Visit • The Beaches • Scenic Spots & Hidden Gems • Tours • Best Day Trips • Where to Stay • Outdoor Adventures & Parks • Local Food & Restaurants • Parking Tips • Essential Tips • FAQs

Canal-lined residential marina with wooden docks, boats, and mangroves, pastel houses, and a bright pink flowering shrub.

Sebastian Weather & Best Time to Visit

The coast stays warm for most of the year, but each season feels different. Spring brings the best mix of sunshine, lower humidity, and comfortable temperatures. Summer is hotter and wetter, while winter brings mild days and occasional cool fronts.

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Time: March through May
Spring offers warm days, less rain, and lower humidity than summer. Afternoon highs rise from the upper 70s into the mid-80s. By late spring, the ocean and lagoon are warm enough for swimming, paddling, and boat trips.

Best for Mild Weather: December through April
Winter and early spring are ideal for fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor dining. However, passing cold fronts can bring cool mornings and breezy days.

Best for Warm Water: May through October
The Atlantic stays warm during summer and early fall. These months work well for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and boating. Still, heat, humidity, and afternoon storms are common.

Best for Fewer Crowds: October and November
By late fall, the heat begins to ease while the ocean remains warm. Rates may also be lower than during winter and spring. However, tropical weather is still possible.

Seasonal Weather Guide

Winter: December through February
Daytime highs usually reach the low to mid-70s. At night, temperatures may fall into the 50s. Most days are sunny and dry, although cold fronts can bring wind and cooler weather. The ocean may feel chilly for long swims. Even so, this is a good season for fishing, kayaking, nature walks, and waterfront dining.

Spring: March through May
Temperatures rise from the upper 70s into the mid-80s. Rain remains limited, and the heavy summer humidity has not yet arrived. As the water warms, beach days and boat trips become more comfortable. This is the easiest season for combining outdoor activities with sightseeing.

Summer: June through August
Afternoon highs often reach the upper 80s or low 90s. Humidity can make the air feel much hotter. The ocean is warm, but daily showers and thunderstorms become more common. Plan beach visits, fishing trips, and hikes for the morning. Then, leave room in your schedule for a storm later in the day. Move indoors as soon as you hear thunder.

Fall: September through November
September remains hot, humid, and wet. Conditions begin to improve during October. By November, cooler air and lower humidity make outdoor activities more pleasant. The ocean often stays warm well into fall. However, check the forecast before traveling because tropical systems can affect the coast.

Hurricane Season
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30. Most activity occurs between mid-August and mid-October, with the historical peak near September 10. Consider travel insurance and choose flexible bookings during this period.

Aerial view of Sebastian Inlet between the Indian River Lagoon and Atlantic Ocean

Why Visit Sebastian

This riverfront town offers a quieter side of Florida’s Treasure Coast. Fishing boats, mangrove islands, waterfront parks, and nearby Atlantic beaches shape the experience. In addition, shipwreck history and abundant wildlife provide more to explore beyond the shore.

Old Florida Waterfront

The working waterfront still feels tied to fishing and boating rather than large resorts. Riverview Park provides open views of the Indian River Lagoon, while nearby docks hold fishing boats and small tour vessels. Afterward, you can follow the riverfront to a casual seafood restaurant or stay for live music beside the water.

Fishing and Boating

The lagoon, coastal river, and nearby inlet create several types of fishing within a small area. Anglers may catch snook, redfish, tarpon, and spotted seatrout inshore. Offshore charters search deeper water for mahi-mahi, sailfish, kingfish, and other ocean species. You can also rent a kayak, launch a boat, or join a guided lagoon cruise. Because the waterways remain fairly sheltered, paddling is often calm enough for beginners.

Wildlife and Wild Places

Mangroves, seagrass beds, and quiet coves support dolphins, manatees, pelicans, herons, and many other coastal animals. Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge protects one of the most important bird habitats in the region. In fact, it became the country’s first national wildlife refuge in 1903. Nature trails, observation areas, and kayak routes offer several ways to explore. However, sightings change with the weather, tide, and season.

Inlet Beaches and Surfing

Across the lagoon, the inlet state park brings together surfing, swimming, fishing, and coastal scenery. Its north-side break is well known among Florida surfers. Long jetties provide fishing access and open views of the Atlantic. On the south side, a sheltered cove offers calmer water when conditions allow. Still, currents near the inlet can be powerful. Always follow the warning signs and swim only in marked areas.

Spanish Treasure History

The Treasure Coast earned its name from the Spanish fleet wrecked offshore during a hurricane in 1715. Coins, jewelry, weapons, and other objects have since been recovered from nearby waters and beaches. The Mel Fisher Treasure Museum displays many of these finds and explains how divers searched the wreck sites. After storms, beachcombers still scan the sand with metal detectors in hopes of finding a small piece of history.

A Relaxed Local Scene

Days here do not need a packed schedule. You can begin with breakfast near the river, spend the afternoon fishing or kayaking, and finish with seafood and music by the water. With few high-rise buildings and less traffic than many Florida beach towns, the area keeps its laid-back coastal character.

Surfers entering Atlantic waves from a sandy beach near Sebastian, Florida

Sebastian Area Beaches

The town sits beside the Indian River Lagoon rather than the Atlantic Ocean. To reach the beach, cross the lagoon and follow A1A along the barrier island. Most of the closest beaches are within a 20- to 30-minute drive. You can choose a guarded family beach, a famous surf break, or an undeveloped shore inside a wildlife refuge.

Sebastian Inlet State Park

This large coastal park offers more than three miles of Atlantic shoreline. Surfers gather near the north jetty, where one of Florida’s most reliable breaks forms beside the inlet. The jetties are also popular for fishing and provide wide views of the ocean.

For calmer water, head to the protected cove on the north side. Its firm bottom and gentle slope make it easier for families and less confident swimmers. However, depths vary, and currents near the inlet can be strong. Always check the warning flags and stay inside the marked swimming areas. The park has restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic areas, concessions, nature trails, fishing areas, and two museums. Camping and boat ramps are also available. A state park entrance fee is required.

Wabasso Beach Park

Surfers often choose this beach when the Atlantic swell begins to rise. On calmer days, the open shoreline works well for swimming, fishing, shelling, and long walks beside the dunes. A live beach camera makes it easy to check the waves before leaving your hotel.

Lifeguards are on duty during posted hours. The park also has paved parking, restrooms, showers, and a boardwalk leading over the dunes. Because the lot is fairly small, it can fill quickly on warm weekends and good surf days. Arrive early for the easiest parking.

Golden Sands Beach Park

This full-service beach park is a strong choice for families. Lifeguards watch the marked swimming area during posted hours. In addition, a playground, picnic pavilions, grills, and a wide sandy shore make it easy to stay for several hours. The park provides paved parking, restrooms, showers, drinking fountains, and an ADA beach crossover. With 128 regular parking spaces, it has more room than some of the smaller beach accesses. Still, popular weekends can bring a crowd.

Treasure Shores Park

Choose this beach when you want more space and fewer buildings. Tropical plants and sea grapes line the shore, while large oak trees shade the picnic area. Children can play on the pirate-themed playground before or after time on the sand. The park has restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, drinking fountains, paved parking, and an ADA crossover. However, there are no lifeguards. Check the beach flags and use extra care when the surf is rough.

Ambersands Beach Access

This quiet access point lies within the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge. A simple boardwalk crosses the dunes and reaches a wild stretch of Atlantic shoreline. Sea turtles nest throughout this protected area, so marked nests and closed sections must remain undisturbed.

Facilities are limited. The parking area is unpaved, and there are no lifeguards, restrooms, or outdoor showers. Bring water, pack out everything you carry in, and check ocean conditions before swimming. The beach is best for peaceful walks, wildlife watching, and enjoying an undeveloped piece of the Treasure Coast.

A weathered waterfront structure, wooden pilings, marsh grass, and calm lagoon water reflect the character of Florida’s historic fishing coast.

Sebastian Scenic Spots & Natural Gems

The scenery changes from open lagoon views to shaded river bends, pine forest, scrub, and mangrove wetlands. Several parks sit close to the waterfront district, while larger preserves protect miles of wild land beyond town. Bring binoculars because dolphins, manatees, pelicans, herons, and other wildlife may appear throughout the area.

Waterfront and River Views

Riverview Park

This waterfront park offers broad views across the Indian River Lagoon. Twin piers extend over the water for fishing and wildlife watching. Oak-shaded paths also connect with the walkways that follow the Riverfront District. Arrive near sunrise for soft light over the lagoon. Then, watch for dolphins, pelicans, and boats moving through the water. The park also has picnic pavilions, a splash pad, volleyball courts, and a veterans memorial.

Sebastian Canoe Launch

This small launch provides access to one of the area’s quietest waterways. The narrow river passes through thick plants and offers a glimpse of Old Florida away from the busy lagoon. Paddlers may see alligators, manatees, native fish, and many types of birds. From the launch, you can travel toward Donald MacDonald Park, Dale Wimbrow Park, or the lagoon. A longer one-way trip may take three to four hours, so arrange transportation at the other end.

Dale Wimbrow Park

This riverside park combines natural views with useful facilities. A walking and fitness trail passes through the property, while fishing areas and a boat ramp provide access to the water. Large trees shade the picnic pavilions and playground. As a result, families can spend time by the river without planning a full hiking trip. Restrooms, drinking fountains, paved parking, and boat-trailer spaces are available.

Wild Florida

St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

This vast preserve protects longleaf pine forest, scrub ridges, cypress domes, wetlands, and more than 20 other natural areas. Over 60 miles of trails are open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. Wildlife may include deer, turkey, scrub-jays, red-cockaded woodpeckers, and gopher tortoises. The Manatee Overlook provides another chance to see manatees, herons, pelicans, and fish in the river. Day use is free, but trail conditions and access points may change after storms or planned burns. Pick up a map and check current park notices before choosing a route.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

President Theodore Roosevelt protected Pelican Island in 1903. His action created the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. The island itself remains closed to visitors because it serves as an important bird rookery. The easy three-quarter-mile Centennial Trail passes a pond before reaching a long boardwalk. At the end, an accessible observation tower looks across the lagoon toward the island. Bring binoculars for pelicans, ospreys, herons, egrets, and other water birds.

Sebastian Stormwater Park

This unusual park combines nature trails with a working water-treatment area. Its wetlands help filter stormwater before it reaches the Indian River Lagoon. Trails pass through oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, scrub, and grassy wetlands. Along the way, look for ospreys, wading birds, butterflies, and gopher tortoises. Some low sections may become wet after heavy rain, so wear suitable shoes and bring insect repellent.

Sandy beach path framed by golden sea oats near Sebastian, Florida

Best Day Trips From Sebastian

Within about 90 minutes, you can visit tropical gardens, military museums, freshwater wetlands, and Florida’s Space Coast. Each trip offers enough to fill most of a day, so choose one destination and focus on its best attractions.

Vero Beach

Drive south for tropical gardens, art, shopping, and an easy lunch near the ocean. Begin at McKee Botanical Garden, where paths wind through an 18-acre jungle landscape filled with palms, bamboo, lily ponds, and historic garden structures. The smaller side paths often reveal the prettiest water views and unusual plants.

Afterward, visit the Vero Beach Museum of Art or continue to Ocean Drive. Restaurants, boutiques, and Humiston Beach Park are close enough to explore on foot. This trip works well when you want a mix of nature, culture, and time beside the ocean.

Fort Pierce

Head south for military history and one of the Treasure Coast’s most active waterfront districts. The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum stands on land once used to train the original Navy combat divers. Boats, equipment, vehicles, and mission displays trace the development of the Frogmen and modern SEAL teams.

Next, explore the murals, shops, and restaurants downtown. You can also visit the A.E. Backus Museum or learn about lagoon wildlife at the Manatee Observation and Education Center. On Saturday mornings, the waterfront farmers market brings produce, prepared food, and live music to Marina Square.

Brevard Zoo

Families can spend most of the day seeing animals and trying experiences that go beyond a standard zoo visit. Brevard Zoo is home to more than 900 animals within shaded, walkable habitats. Popular encounters include feeding giraffes and walking through areas devoted to animals from Florida, Africa, Australia, and South America.

For something unusual, reserve a kayak experience through the zoo’s wetlands or Expedition Africa. Some guided routes pass giraffes, rhinos, and other animals from the water. These activities depend on weather and availability, so check the schedule before you arrive.

Blue Cypress Lake

Drive west to see a completely different side of Indian River County. Bald cypress trees rise from dark water, while Spanish moss hangs from their branches. Ospreys, herons, egrets, wood storks, and bald eagles may be seen around the lake and surrounding wetlands.

The scenery is best experienced from the water. Launch a kayak or boat at Middleton’s Fish Camp Park, or arrange a trip with a local fishing or nature guide. The park has two boat ramps, a floating dock, parking, and basic facilities. Visit early for cooler temperatures, softer light, and calmer conditions.

Kennedy Space Center

Plan a full day for rockets, spacecraft, and the history of American space exploration. At Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, you can stand beneath Space Shuttle Atlantis, walk through the Rocket Garden, and explore exhibits devoted to astronauts and future missions.

The included bus tour travels beyond the main visitor area to The Gantry at Launch Complex 39 and the Apollo/Saturn V Center. Allow several hours for this portion alone. If a launch is scheduled, check for delays before leaving because weather and technical issues can change the time without warning.

Cocoa Beach

Choose Cocoa Beach when you want surf culture, beach activity, and casual waterfront dining. Take a surfing lesson, browse the enormous Ron Jon Surf Shop, or spend the afternoon near the Cocoa Beach Pier. Rentals are easy to find if you need a board, chair, or umbrella.

The shoreline can also provide a distant view of rockets leaving Cape Canaveral. However, launches are never guaranteed and may be delayed. Even without one, the town offers a livelier beach day than the quieter stretches of the Treasure Coast.

Swimmers, kayakers, and paddleboarders enjoying clear coastal water near Sebastian

Best Sebastian Tours & Activities

Most local tours take place around Sebastian Inlet and the Indian River Lagoon. These waterways provide access to calm coves, mangrove habitat, fishing areas, and open ocean.

Some trips leave from nearby communities rather than the town itself. Therefore, check the meeting point and drive time before you book. Tour routes may also change with the tide, weather, and wildlife activity.

Kayak and Paddleboard Tours

Dolphin and Manatee Eco Kayak Tour
Paddle through the sheltered water near the inlet with a local guide. During the two hour trip, you may see dolphins, manatees, rays, fish, and coastal birds. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the calm route provides plenty of time to explore.
Book with Expedia | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor

Clear Bottom Wildlife Kayak Tour
This tour begins a short drive north in Brevard County. The transparent kayak lets you look into the water as you paddle across seagrass beds and shallow lagoon habitat. Guides also watch for dolphins, manatees, rays, and fish along the route.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor

Vero Beach Clear-Kayak Tour
Head south to Round Island for a guided paddle through calm water, seagrass flats, and mangrove tunnels. The clear kayak provides a view beneath the surface, while the protected route works well for newer paddlers
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Boat Cruises and Wildlife Tours

Private Inlet Wildlife Cruise
Explore the inlet and lagoon on a private boat for up to six guests. The captain searches for dolphins, manatees, pelicans, and other wildlife while explaining the surrounding habitat. Because the trip is private, the pace may be adjusted for your group.
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Sunset Cruise and Waterfront Dinner
Watch the sun set over the lagoon during a private evening cruise. Some trips can include a stop at a waterfront restaurant before returning to the marina. However, food may not be included in the tour price, so check the booking details first.
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Island-Hopping and Sandbar Cruise
This private pontoon trip departs from the Melbourne Beach area. Cruise across the lagoon, watch for wildlife, and stop at a sandbar when conditions allow. The route may change with the tide and weather.
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Guided Fishing Charters

Sebastian Inlet Fishing Charter
Join a local captain for a four-hour fishing trip around the inlet. Depending on the season, you may target snook, redfish, tarpon, or other coastal species. The captain chooses fishing areas based on the tide, weather, and recent activity.
Book with GetYourGuide

Private Fishing and Eco Charter
This private trip combines time with a rod and reel with a slower cruise through the lagoon. It works well for groups that include both anglers and passengers who prefer wildlife watching. Before booking, ask whether tackle, bait, licenses, drinks, and fish cleaning are included.
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Headwaters Lake Bass Fishing
Travel inland to Fellsmere for a guided trip on Headwaters Lake. These half-day and full-day charters focus on largemouth bass and welcome both beginners and experienced anglers. Boats, tackle, and fishing instruction are often included, although packages differ by operator. Several local guides offer trips on Headwaters Lake.
Book with GetYourGuide

Airboat Adventures

Wild Florida Airboat and Wildlife Park
This trip requires a drive inland to Wild Florida Adventure Park near Kenansville. An airboat crosses the marshes at the headwaters of the Florida Everglades while the captain looks for alligators, eagles, wading birds, and other wildlife.

Airboat tickets include admission to the Gator Park. Some tours may add lunch, animal encounters, or the drive through safari, so compare the options before booking.
Book with Viator | GetYourGuide | TripAdvisor

Best Sebastian Area Stays

The area has fewer large hotels than many Florida beach towns. Instead, you will find riverfront cottages, marina lodging, private condos, and a lively waterfront resort. Guests who prefer an oceanfront pool and full service spa can stay farther south in Vero Beach.

Capt Hiram’s Resort ⭐⭐⭐ | 9.2/10

This waterfront resort places dining, boating, and live music in one convenient location. Rooms have furnished balconies, with select options facing the Indian River Lagoon. Mini suites add a sitting area and wet bar, while larger poolside suites provide more space for families or longer stays.

The resort includes a marina, swimming pool, river cruises, and several places to eat and drink. The SandBar hosts frequent live music beside the water, while the restaurant serves seafood, sandwiches, steaks, and tropical drinks. Guests enjoy the river views, friendly setting, and ability to walk from their room to dinner or a boat tour. However, if you are looking for a quiet stay, you may prefer a smaller option away from the area.

River Rentals Sebastian ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 10/10

These private condos are a great choice for guests who want more space and the freedom to prepare their own meals. Units include full kitchens with everything you need for your stay. A washer and dryer also make this stay useful for longer trips or families returning from the beach with wet clothes and towels.

Furnished balconies or patios provide private outdoor space, while free parking and WiFi cover the everyday basics. Because this is a condo property rather than a regular hotel, guests should not expect a full service restaurant, daily services, or a resort pool. Choose it for the quiet setting, full kitchen, and room to settle in without paying for services you may not use.

Island View Cottages Sebastian ⭐⭐⭐ | 10/10

This small waterfront property captures the Old Florida character that is missing from larger hotels. Its individually decorated cottages have full kitchens, comfortable living areas, and views of the Indian River Lagoon. With only a limited number of units, the grounds feel more like a private coastal retreat than a standard hotel complex.

Kayaks, canoes, boat dockage, grills, and fresh ground coffee are included with each stay. Guests can also fish from the pier, relax in a hammock, gather around the firepit, or use the small beach area. The combination of a full kitchen and free water activities makes it a strong choice for couples, boaters, and families who plan to spend more than a night or two.

Sebastian Saltwater Lodge ⭐⭐ | 9.8/10

This marina lodge works especially well for anglers, boaters, and guests who prefer a simple waterfront base. Room options includes dockside studios and two bedroom townhomes. Studios have queen beds, sitting areas, and full kitchens, while the larger townhomes provide extra room for families or groups.

Covered patios overlook the Indian River, giving guests a quiet place to watch boats and wildlife. The adjoining marina makes getting onto the water easy, while the on-site Saltwater Restaurant serves seafood, drinks, and casual meals on a large waterfront deck. Shops and other restaurants are within walking distance. It lacks the pools and spa services of a traditional resort, but guests value the spacious rooms, water views, and convenient marina setting.

Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa by IHG ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 9.4/10

Stay here when you want direct Atlantic access and the services of a polished beach resort. Rooms range from standard guest rooms to large suites, with select options adding furnished balconies, soaking tubs, kitchens, and full ocean views. The heated oceanside pool has loungers, umbrellas, poolside service, and a nearby hot tub.

White Orchid Spa provides massages, facials, and body treatments. For dining, Cobalt serves seafood and steaks in an oceanfront setting, while Heaton’s offers cocktails and casual dishes beside the pool. Guests can also use beach chairs and bicycles or attend the daily Kimpton social hour. The hotel is pet-friendly and within walking distance of Ocean Drive. It suits couples and spa travelers who want an upscale stay directly on the sand.

Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 9.4/10

This smaller oceanfront resort has a sleek design and a lively pool area without the scale of a sprawling hotel complex. Rooms and suites offer rainfall showers and modern furnishings, while upgraded choices add balconies, separate living space, or wider Atlantic views.

The beachfront infinity pool sits steps from the beach and includes nearby food and drink service. Guests can book a massage or facial at the full service spa, work out in the fitness center, or relax in the resort’s beachfront chairs. The Wave Kitchen & Bar combines seafood, local produce, and Cuban-inspired dishes, while the Cabana Bar serves lighter meals beside the water. Guests choose it for its polished design, attentive service, walkable Ocean Drive location, and easy movement between the pool and beach.

Iconic Local Foods

The food scene reflects the area’s fishing roots and its location along the Indian River Lagoon. Fresh fish, shrimp, and shellfish appear across local menus. Southern comfort foods and familiar Florida desserts add even more variety. Some dishes are regional favorites rather than foods created here. Still, they fit the casual waterfront setting and offer a good taste of Florida’s coast.

Key Lime Pie
This Florida dessert balances tart Key lime juice with sweet condensed milk. The smooth filling sits inside a crisp graham-cracker crust and may be topped with whipped cream or meringue. Authentic filling is pale yellow rather than bright green.

Shrimp and Grits
Tender shrimp are served over warm, stone-ground grits for a filling coastal meal. Each restaurant adds its own touch, such as bacon, cheese, peppers, Cajun seasoning, or a rich cream sauce. Ask whether the kitchen uses Florida shrimp if the source matters to you.

Fried Green Tomatoes
Firm green tomatoes are sliced, seasoned, breaded, and fried until crisp. The tart center contrasts with the crunchy coating. They are often served with ranch, rémoulade, or another creamy sauce and work well as a shared appetizer.

Fresh Catch of the Day
The available fish changes with the season and the restaurant’s supplier. Mahi-mahi, grouper, snapper, cobia, and flounder may appear as daily specials. Order your selection grilled or blackened if you want the fish itself to remain the main flavor.

Rock Shrimp
Rock shrimp have a firm texture and a sweet taste that often earns them the nickname “little lobsters.” Their hard shells are usually split before cooking. Try them steamed with butter, fried, grilled, or added to a mixed seafood platter when they are available.

Two blackened fish tacos with peppers, fruit salsa, herbs, and creamy sauce

Signature Local Drinks

Waterfront bars lean toward tropical rum drinks, fresh citrus, and cold local beer. Menus change, but these choices fit the area’s riverfront setting and warm climate.

Indian River Grapefruit Crush
This variation on a citrus crush uses grapefruit juice, vodka, orange liqueur, and sparkling soda. The grapefruit adds a tart edge that keeps the drink from tasting overly sweet. It is an especially fitting choice in a region known for Indian River citrus.

Rum Runner
A Rum Runner blends light and dark rum with banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, and fruit juice. Some bars serve it frozen, while others pour it over ice. Although the recipe changes from place to place, the berry and banana flavors should remain easy to taste.

Local Brewery Flight
A flight lets you sample several beers without committing to a full glass of each. Pareidolia Brewing Company and Mash Monkeys Brewing Company both produce beer nearby. Since the taps rotate, ask which lager, pale ale, stout, or seasonal release was brewed on-site.

Orange Crush
Fresh orange juice gives this cocktail its bright flavor. Vodka, orange liqueur, and lemon-lime soda complete the drink. The fresh juice makes it lighter and sharper than a cocktail made with bottled orange mix.

Frozen Piña Colada
Rum, coconut cream, and pineapple create this smooth frozen drink. It is rich, sweet, and best enjoyed slowly. Some bars add dark rum on top or blend in mango, strawberry, or banana for a tropical variation.

5 Must Try Restaurants

Several of the strongest restaurants sit beside the Indian River Lagoon. The views are part of the experience, but each choice below also offers a dish worth ordering.

Blackfins at Capt Hiram’s Resort

Blackfins serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner beside the lagoon. The setting is casual, with river views and easy access to the SandBar’s live music and outdoor seating. Come here when you want seafood followed by drinks or entertainment without driving elsewhere.

The menu includes conch fritters, crab cakes, fish tacos, smoked fish dip, and peel-and-eat shrimp. For something unusual, try the Dirty Oysters. This house specialty tops freshly shucked oysters with caviar, sour cream, onion, and hot sauce.

Squid Lips Overwater Grill

A walkway leads over the lagoon to this open-air restaurant, allowing you to dine above the water. Boats can arrive at the restaurant’s dock, and dolphins or pelicans may pass while you eat. The relaxed setting works well for lunch, dinner, or sunset drinks.

Oak grilling is the menu’s main feature. Choose the day’s fish with honey-lime, citrus butter, garlic teriyaki, or another available sauce. The bacon-wrapped sea scallops are another house favorite, while the coconut shrimp provides a sweeter option.

Mo-Bay Grill

Mo-Bay combines Jamaican seasoning with Florida seafood in a colorful dining room overlooking the lagoon. It feels more intimate than the area’s large tiki bars, making it a good choice for a date night or relaxed dinner.

Jerk chicken, seafood tostadas, grilled grouper, crab, and shrimp bring Caribbean flavor to the menu. Begin with the shrimp pepper pot, a rich island-style soup with seafood and warm spices. Then, try the grouper sandwich with Mo-Bay seasoning or ask about the chef’s current fish special.

Mulligan’s Beach House

Despite its name, this location sits beside the Indian River Lagoon rather than the Atlantic. Its patio overlooks the water near Riverview Park, and the broad menu makes it an easy choice for families. Breakfast is served alongside lunch and dinner, so it also works well before a day on the water.

Seafood, steaks, tacos, salads, and sandwiches cover a wide range of tastes. For a tropical dish, order the Caribbean pineapple mahi-mahi. The fish comes grilled or blackened and is finished with pineapple salsa. Breakfast lovers can choose stuffed French toast, eggs, or one of the restaurant’s large morning platters.

The Crab Stop of Sebastian

Come here when you want a hearty seafood meal rather than a polished dining room. Crab combinations arrive with sides such as potatoes, corn, sausage, and eggs. The menu also includes fried shrimp, fish sandwiches, conch fritters, and smoked fish dip.

The Snow Snack Pack is a good introduction if you want crab without ordering one of the largest combinations. It pairs a snow crab cluster with shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and an egg. Another unusual choice is the fried snow crab, served with garlic butter.

Outdoor Activities at Sebastian Inlet State Park

The state park offers much more than swimming and surfing. Visitors can hike through coastal hammock, watch migrating birds, camp near the inlet, or explore the barrier island by bicycle.

Hammock Trail
This mile long trail passes beneath a shaded canopy of palms and live oaks. It follows the edge of the mangroves, while signs identify plants found within the coastal hammock. The short route works well when you want a quiet walk away from the beach and jetties.

Birdwatching
The park belongs to the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. Pelicans, ospreys, herons, egrets, terns, plovers, and other shorebirds appear throughout the year. Fall and winter bring loons, ducks, and other seasonal visitors. Pick up a bird checklist at the ranger station before exploring the inlet, marina, and riverside trails.

Camping
The campground has 51 sites for tents and RVs. Each site includes water, electricity, a picnic table, and a fire ring with a grill. Restrooms, showers, a dump station, and a Wi-Fi area near the marina are also available. The inlet and Atlantic beach are both within walking distance. Because the campground is popular, reserve well ahead for weekends and cooler months. Pets are permitted at the campground but not on the beach.

Cycling
A paved multiuse path follows A1A through the park and passes several beach access points. For a rougher ride, three mixed-surface cycling trails begin and end near Bayside Marina. These routes cross sandy and sometimes wet ground, so ask the marina staff about trail conditions before leaving.

Current trail, camping, and activity information is available from Florida State Parks.

Golden sunset over calm water and old wooden pilings along the Sebastian waterfront

Parking for Sebastian Beaches & Trails

Parking is usually straightforward, but smaller beach lots can fill quickly on sunny weekends and holidays. Arrive early when visiting the inlet or Wabasso Beach. Overnight parking is not allowed at county beaches or conservation areas.