Vacation rentals in Vero Beach

The Treasure Coast of Florida, located on the state’s lower eastern side, owes its name to a Spanish ship that sank off its shores in the 16th century, dragging its cargo of gold with it. But today it’s just as likely people attribute the appellation to its miles of white sandy beaches and charming towns like Vero Beach. With wide, pedestrian-friendly streets; historic buildings built of weathered driftwood; and a rule against building high-rises, this seaside town has a restful, bygone feel. Here you have your pick of several beaches, including wide, sandy South Beach, appointed with grills and lifeguards, or secluded Turtle Trail Beach, accessed by a verdant path overhung with vegetation. Visitors can explore the coastal wetlands of Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge from the vantage of kayaks, hoping for a chance to spy the birds, who raise their fluffy chicks here in the spring. Vero Beach’s secret is that it’s low-key fancy: After a day of exploring the shoreline, you can retreat inland to swan around the town’s fine-art museum, before settling into a dinner of fresh seafood with sunset views and a solid wine list.

You’re unlikely to be cold in Vero Beach, and that’s why people book vacation rentals here in the winter to escape chilly weather in other parts of the country. Fall and spring are also warm and sunny. Spring ushers in training season at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, drawing sports fans who come to watch baseball teams prepare for the coming season. The sun shines bright and hot in summer, when temperatures can soar, it can get humid, and there is a threat of hurricanes. September and October are the state’s most active months for hurricanes, so take that into account when traveling.

Vero Beach Museum of Art

Housed in a sleek, white, neoclassical building, the Vero Beach Museum of Art’s collections feature works by famous glass and Pop artists, among others, and an outdoor sculpture park. The museum also screens films and hosts live performances year-round, so check ahead for special happenings.

McKee Botanical Garden

Founded in 1922, the lush McKee Botanical Garden features more than 10,000 native and tropical plants, as well as the state’s largest collection of water lilies, all spread out over meticulously landscaped grounds. It’s home to a few unusual items, too, such as the world’s largest single-piece mahogany table.

McLarty Treasure Museum

Located in Sebastian Inlet State Park, the McLarty Treasure Museum displays artifacts of the Treasure Coast’s past, including cannons, model ships, and goods salvaged from shipwrecks. Tour the small, quirky museum and then drink in the natural splendor of the 1,000-acre park, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse estuaries on the planet.