Sebastian Inlet

Sebastian Inlet State Park is a barrier-island state park about an hour south of Cocoa Beach, where the Indian River Lagoon meets the Atlantic through a narrow channel. It is a destination for surfers, anglers, snorkelers and families, with beaches on both the ocean and lagoon sides, boat ramps, picnic areas and a campground. The inlet has one of the best-known surf breaks on the Florida east coast, drawing professionals and amateurs alike, while the jetty rocks and bridge pilings attract fishing from dawn to dusk. It is a worthwhile day trip for anyone who wants to see a different slice of the coast.

The inlet's geography is its attraction. The ocean beaches have waves for surfers and swimmers, while the lagoon-side beaches are calm and shallow, perfect for toddlers and for kayaking. The jetty is a fishing hot spot, where anglers catch snook, snapper, redfish and more, and the bridge over the inlet gives a high vantage over the water.

Bird life is abundant, with pelicans, ospreys and shorebirds, and dolphins often chase fish through the channel. Anyone who likes snorkeling can explore the rocky areas when the water is clear, and kayak and paddleboard rentals are available in the area.

History is part of the park. The McLarty Treasure Museum, within the park, tells the story of the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet, which was wrecked along this coast. Exhibits display artifacts and explain how salvors recovered gold and silver from the shallows, and the site stands near where the survivors' camp once stood. Visitors can walk a short trail with views over the water and read signs about the fleet. It is a small museum, but it adds depth to a beach day, and children enjoy the idea of treasure on the shore.

Insects can be intense on the lagoon side at dusk, so bring repellent. Combine the park with a visit to Brevard Zoo, a dolphin and manatee kayak tour from the inlet, or lunch in the nearby fishing villages. The drive from Cocoa Beach takes about an hour, so start early to enjoy the day.

Think about what kind of day you want. For a family beach day, head to the lagoon side with a cooler, shade and a few toys, then cross to the ocean side for an hour of waves. For anglers, the jetties and the bridge fishing catwalks are the highlights, and for surfers the north side break is a pilgrimage. Bird watchers should walk the marsh edges early, and kayakers can paddle the mangrove shoreline near the marina.

Because the park is popular, aim to arrive before ten in the morning on summer weekends, and bring cash or a card for the entrance fee and any rentals you plan to use. Pack a light rain jacket in summer, when quick afternoon showers can roll through, and remember that cell coverage may be patchy on the jetty and at the south end of the park.