Located at the end of 17th Street in Vero Beach, South Beach Park features an ADA-accessible guarded beach and all basic amenities including paved parking, restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions. Most visitors (and there are quite many of them in high season) flock to the area near the lifeguard station but if you go a bit right or left from there you will get to less crowded areas with a private-beach kind of vibe to them.
Location and Access
South Beach Park is located at 1704 Ocean Drive in Vero Beach, Florida. It is open from sunrise to sundown. Entrance and parking are free. The parking limit is 3 or 4 hours – after that, you need to move your vehicle and find another spot. On weekdays, parking feels adequate, on weekends, it can get a bit difficult.
Amenities
The beach is equipped with clean restroom facilities and outdoor showers. The facilities are in good condition, probably just in need of a little facelift. There are picnic pavilions and drink vending machines. Note that the beach has no food concessions and there are no stores or restaurants around so bring everything you may need with you.
Beach Area
The beach is big, clean, and absolutely lovely – with beautiful views and a relaxing, laid-back atmosphere. The water is clear and good for swimming. Depending on the weather, there may be seaweed washed up on the shore. There are umbrella and chair rentals on-site but the prices are not very friendly. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:20 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. They are very helpful guys, so feel free to consult them about any matters.
Lovely Ambiance
This beach is a nice place for birthday parties and weddings – it is well-maintained and offers good ocean views. Unhurried strolls along this serene and tranquil shore on a quiet day will bring you calm and joy – watch pelicans flying over and diving for fish or stay until night to see a bright sunset.
Other Activities
For sports enthusiasts, there are sand volleyball nets. Fishing is allowed in a dedicated area adjacent to the guarded area. The sand has plenty of shells so shelling is also popular on the beach.
Dog Policies
Unfortunately for dog owners, no dogs are allowed on the beach.
Driving Time
- 1 hour 45 minutes from Orlando, FL
- 2 hours 20 minutes from Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 2 hours 40 minutes from Miami, FL
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near South Beach Park (Vero Beach) which you can visit:
- Humiston Beach Park (1 mile)
- Jaycee Park Beach (2 miles)
- Wabasso Beach Park (9 miles)
- Treasure Shores Park Beach (12 miles)
- Sebastian Inlet State Park Beach (17 miles)