Most Scenic Route from Melbourne to Sebastian Inlet
Hello, everyone. We are planning to drive from Melbourne to Sebastian Inlet to go to the beach, and we are looking for a good scenic route. The amount of time is not very important, we just want a beautiful and scenic drive. Thank you.
The drive from Melbourne to Sebastian Inlet can be made much more enjoyable if you focus on scenic routes rather than just taking the fastest highway. Since you’re not in a rush, there are several options to make the drive picturesque, combining ocean views, rivers, and charming small towns.
Option 1: A1A Coastal Drive
Start by heading east from Melbourne towards the coast, then take Florida State Road A1A north. This route hugs the Atlantic Ocean in several spots, offering beautiful views of the beaches, barrier islands, and Intracoastal Waterway. You’ll pass through small coastal towns and can make stops at parks and beach access points.
- Start: Melbourne Beach and Florida’s Barrier Island beaches.
- Stop at: Sebastian Inlet State Park – scenic fishing pier, wildlife viewing.
- Highlights: Oceanfront views, mangroves, and occasional local wildlife like pelicans and herons.
Option 2: Indian River Lagoon Scenic Route
If you prefer more of a river/lagoonscape instead of the oceanfront, take US-1 north out of Melbourne, then branch east towards Indian River Drive or CR-512 near Wabasso and Vero Beach. This route offers views of the Indian River Lagoon, small marinas, and charming local neighborhoods.
- Stop at: Riverside Park in Vero Beach or other waterfront parks along the lagoon.
- Highlights: Tranquil water views, boats and marinas, birdwatching.
- Optional detour: Drive across the bridges connecting the islands for glimpses of the Atlantic and Lagoon sides.
Option 3: Combined Scenic Loop
You can combine the above options for a more varied experience. Drive north along A1A to experience oceanfront views, then loop west onto US-1 or local roads that follow the Indian River Lagoon, before rejoining A1A near Sebastian Inlet. This way you enjoy both ocean and river vistas, plus have multiple opportunities to stop at beaches, parks, or small cafes along the way.
- Start: Melbourne Beach via A1A north.
- Midpoint: Vero Beach / Wabasso – quick stop for coffee or lunch.
- End: Sebastian Inlet – arrive at the beach and enjoy the sunset or local fishing areas.
Tips:
- Travel early in the day to avoid traffic in Vero Beach or along popular beach accesses.
- Bring a camera or binoculars; the area has many wildlife viewing spots.
- Check tide times if you plan to stop at beaches, especially at Sebastian Inlet State Park, which has great fishing and tide pool areas.
This scenic route allows you to savor both the Florida Atlantic coastline and the serene Indian River Lagoon, making your drive to Sebastian Inlet as memorable as the destination itself.
