This Florida Fishing Village Is A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers And Seafood Seekers

You'll fall in love with this small town

Key Takeaways

• Located on Florida's east coast on the Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian is a charming fishing village that's perfect for people who love spending time outdoors.
• Nature lovers will enjoy fishing, surfing, and swimming at Sebastian Inlet State Park and Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is perfect for birdwatching and boating.
• Savor fresh seafood and waterfront views at area restaurants, enjoy craft beer at local breweries, and shop locally at The District, a colorful collection of shops and restaurants.

This fishing village between the Sebastian River and the Indian River Lagoon is a nature lover’s dream come true. Located on Florida’s east coast, Sebastian is a quieter alternative to nearby Vero Beach, but it has plenty of things to do. Both on and off the water, it’s easy to spend time outdoors here, especially at scenic Sebastian Inlet State Park, where you can surf, hike, fish, or soak in the sunshine on a pristine stretch of beach. When it’s time to eat, you’ll find fresh seafood aplenty at waterfront restaurants, an award-winning brewpub, and treasured local spots for diner-style breakfasts. Here’s how to plan a fun, nature-filled weekend in this coastal gem.

Fuel Up With A Morning Meal

Start the day with a made-from-scratch meal. If you prefer a hearty spread with hash browns, bacon, toast, and the works, Country Ham N’ Egg Restaurant is a local favorite. You’ll find customers (and their dogs, on the outside patio), friendly servers, and a casual diner-like atmosphere. You’ll find all your breakfast favorites at Hen House Eatery, along with sweet and savory crepes, Belgian waffles, and creative takes on eggs Benedict. If you’re looking for homemade food to-go, A Kitchen of Her Own (AKOHO) is a quaint takeaway spot with quiches in different flavors, baked goods, fresh juices, and more.

Enjoy River Views And Breezes

Sebastian’s location right on the Indian River makes it an especially scenic place. Take in the beauty of the waterfront at Riverview Park. The multi-use area has a playground, picnic areas, and lots of shade from old-growth oak trees. It’s also where most major city events take place, including the Sebastian Fine Arts and Music Festival (January) and the Rhythm on the River Concert Series which is held throughout the year. 

Enjoy The Area’s Outdoor Gems

If you prefer to be surrounded by nature, you’ve got plenty of options. Sebastian is home to Sebastian Inlet State Park as well as America’s first dedicated national wildlife refuge, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. Both are excellent places for birding, boating, fishing, hiking, and finding a little peace and quiet. Sebastian Inlet is also a popular destination for surfers. Unlike most places on the Florida coast, you can actually catch some waves here—the “Monster Hole” attracts surfers from around the state. The park also has a 3-mile stretch of beach with a gentle cove that is popular with families.

Stop For Lunch At A Brewery

Pareidolia Brewing Company has 15 rotating taps including award-winning pilsners, IPAs, and sours. Come hungry because the “pub grub” menu is surprisingly extensive, with flatbread pizzas, hot dogs with creative toppings, sandwiches, and beer-friendly snacks for sharing. Mash Monkeys Brewing Co. also has an ever-changing menu of craft beer brewed in-house and selections from around the country. While there’s no dedicated menu, food trucks are on site most weekends.

Explore The River

You don’t even have to get your feet wet to enjoy the water here. The Indian River Lagoon is a prime spot for boating, whether you’re interested in kayaking, paddleboarding, cruising on a pontoon, or chartering a fishing boat.

Do A Little Shopping

If you’re in need of a souvenir or a retail fix, The District is a charming shopping hub designed like a mini neighborhood. The walkable area is home to 17 independently-owned businesses, including jewelry and home decor shops, as well as a coffee shop, bubble tea parlor, and restaurants like Village Tavern.

End The Day With A Memorable Meal

The perfect capper to a day in Sebastian is dinner at one of the city’s many waterfront restaurants. Locals love Mo-Bay Grill’s dishes inspired by the tropics, like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and coconut-crusted snapper. The colorful, casual spot has nice river views as well. Further north, you’ll find Squid Lips’ Overwater Grill, another local favorite. Come here for burgers, tacos, and raw bar items like oysters and you-peel shrimp. The views here can’t be beat because the restaurant is located right on the river—a walkway over the water leads you right to the dining room. Sebastian Saltwater has a large deck overlooking its own marina and a menu of coastally-inspired dishes like seafood pastas, fish dip, and seared scallops.