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Sebastian, Florida is a fast growing city located between the towns of Melbourne and Vero Beach on the east coast of Florida. This part of the Florida Coastal Region is known as the Treasure Coast. Sebastian is also well known for having the first wildlife refuge in the United States located on Pelican Island. Its city population in 2009 was 20,215 residents. The area of the city is 13.6 square miles. Sebastian has a riverfront district that looks out towards the intra-coastal waterway of the Indian River Lagoon.
The city of Sebastian, Florida is not located directly on the beach. However, across the river and onto the nearby barrier island is Sebastian Inlet State Park. This state park has three miles of beaches, both north and south of the inlet. It is considered to be Florida's best surfing beach. Swimming, snorkeling, and shelling are also popular activities. A catwalk and bridge spans the inlet and is a favorite spot for fishing. Protective jetties are on either side of the inlet.
The beach area is an undeveloped, brown sand, steeply sloping beach. It has good surf waves, nature trails, a snack bar, restrooms and picnic tables. There is also a shallow water lagoon for swimming.
There are three areas for snorkeling at Sebastian Inlet State Park. The first is in the clear waters of the lagoon. This calm area is recommended for children and beginners. The second area is in the inlet by the rocks where the current is stronger. The incoming tide and current can propel a snorkeler along the rocky area and under the inlet bridge. The third area is only for experienced snorkelers. It is a 20-30 foot deep hole known as the Snorkel Monster Hole. The Snorkel Monster Hole is located 30-40 yards off of the end of the jetty. This is also a favorite surfing area.
The Florida Outdoor Center is located at 1606 Indian River Dr, Sebastian, FL 32958
772-202-0220. This center offers very popular guided tours by kayak, bike or foot with certified naturalists and a marine biologist. Tours include eco-systems in the Sebastian area like the Indian River Lagoon and Pelican Island. Equipment may also be rented there. |
