Sea turtles, gorgeous beaches, surfing “First Peak” and “Monster Hole”, kayaking along the Indian River Lagoon and more await guests to this Florida state park 90 miles south of Orlando. Sebastian Inlet State Park is located 10 miles south of Melbourne Beach and lies along both sides of the Sebastian Inlet.
Its semi isolated location, pristine beaches and “treasure coast” create a welcoming paradise for guests and opportunities for swimming, shell collecting, saltwater fishing, boating, camping, picnicking and wildlife viewing.
Activities
A visit to Sebastian Inlet State Park offers a chance to slow down, relax and enjoy the peaceful nature all around. Spend a day or camp out near the water for a couple of nights. The park is a great place to stargaze! Its semi-isolated location creates darkness and clear viewing especially during the cooler winter nights.
Bring a picnic lunch or pick up something from the park’s concession and sit in the picnic area along the beach, under the palm trees and breathe in that wonderful ocean breeze. This relaxing spot also offers a playground, swimming beach and the BG’s Surfside Grill and Adventures. Inside this building you will find a restaurant, gift shop and a bait shop.
Don’t forget to check out the exhibits and displays inside The Mclarty Treasure Museum and discover why this area is known as “Treasure Coast”.
Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Sebastian Inlet State Park:
Boating at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Paddle out to the islands, along Indian River Lagoon or Sebastian River by kayak or canoe. Bayside Marina carries boat rentals along with other supplies. Boat launches are located on both sides of the inlet.
Swimming at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Sebastian Inlet State Park has more than 3 miles of beaches ideal for swimming, surfing, digging, sunbathing, shell collecting and fishing. A small cove on the north side of the inlet provides guests with small children a more calm swimming experience. Watch for the warning flags that indicate unsafe swimming conditions.
Scuba diving and snorkeling are allowed but must be within 100 feet of a dive bag.
Hiking at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Discover nature and wildlife by exploring the mile long Hammock Trail inside Sebastian Inlet State Park. This multi-use nature trail winds through mangroves, palm and oak hammock and along the water.
Biking at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Sebastian Inlet State Park has three mountain bike trails across paved roadways and through sandy and swampy flatlands. These trails begin and end at the Bayside Marina. Another paved trail runs through the park and along the Indian River Lagoon.
Fishing at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Sebastian Inlet provides ideal saltwater fishing conditions for redfish, flounder, snapper, snook, spanish mackerel, sheepshead, bluefish, grouper, shark and more. Fish along the pier, beach, river or from your boat. Two jetties extend into the Atlantic Ocean offering anglers prime fishing opportunities. Be sure to pick up a Florida fishing license before heading out to the park.
Birding at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Sebastian Inlet State Park lies along The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and 180 native and migratory bird species have been sighted inside the park throughout the year. This bird watchers paradise is partly due to its location along the two barrier islands and surrounded by water. Along the park’s trails and river waterfowl, songbirds and raptors may be seen.
Nature and Wildlife at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Various locations throughout the park provide excellent viewing opportunities for all types of wildlife. Sea turtles are a common sight inside the park. Loggerhead and green sea turtles may be seen along the beaches and near Indian River Lagoon and the reefs off the McLarty Treasure Museum. Other sea creatures you’re sure to see are dolphins and manatees and occasionally the endangered right whale.
Pets at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Feel free to bring your dogs along for a fun day at Sebastian Inlet State Park. Pets are allowed but must be kept on a handheld leash no longer than 6 feet and supervised at all times. Pets are permitted inside park buildings or on the beach.
Camping at Sebastian Inlet State Park
Sebastian Inlet State Park offers modern campsites near the beach and primitive campsites along the Bayside Marina.
The main campground area has 51 sites for RVs or tents; each has electric and water hookups, a picnic table and a fire ring. Accessible restrooms are located nearby.
The primitive area offers guests walk-in/carry-in campsites.
Park Location
Sebastian Inlet State Park
9700 S Hwy A1A
Melbourne Beach, FL 32951
Phone: 321.984.4852
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Sebastian Inlet State Park:
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