This unspoiled Atlantic Ocean beach in Florida’s Treasure Coast consists of more than 3 miles of shoreline along one of the more natural and undeveloped areas in the state.  Sebastian Inlet State Park, which encompasses both the inlet and access to unique Indian River ecosystems provides recreation opportunities to all.  This state park is one of the most popular destinations for locals and visitors alike to fish or surf, but still provides endless adventures for the beachcomber, kayaker or naturalist.

The current along the jetties is extremely swift, which creates some challenges for those fishing or boating.  All swimming activities are conducted either on the north or south sides of the jetty walls; well protected from the inlet current, or in the man-made wading pool on the northwestern area of the inlet.

Kayakers will find a fee based marina a short distance north of the state park which is not part of the State Park and charges all users.  This facility also rents kayaks and gear for those without equipment of their own.  Additional river access for kayakers and canoeists include hand launch points from the State Park on either side of the inlet.  Daily use passes are valid for either park entrance.  Beachcombers and others who do not wish to avail themselves of the park amenities will find a convenient local beachside park less than 1/4 mile south on A1A which provides parking, restrooms, running water and rinse facilities free of charge.  This park closes at night and does not reopen until 8AM.

The beach in this area varies with the season and the current weather, but usually is somewhat soft and unpacked though still not too difficult to walk.  The waters here are usually clear and quite beautiful, but when the current from the river contains a lot of algae or other contaminants, a noticeable plume may be observed which the tides slowly shift to the north or south of the inlet.  Beachcombers will usually find items of interest from shells to large barnacles as they head south along the shoreline.

There is a relatively short trail on the west side of A1A just south of the public park which winds along the mangrove covered banks of the Indian River Lagoon through some very interesting habitats and back into the State Park near the camping facilities.  Naturalists will generally find this route a rewarding opportunity to observe local flora and fauna.

State park visitors will want to head along the jetty from the north park entrance toward the Indian River where they can observe the sea-life moving from the ocean to the river.  Those wanting to take a relaxing dip without the waves of the ocean may wish to stop at the swimming hole created through the use of protective rock outcroppings maintained by the park.

 

[forecast location= “sebastian inlet, fl”]