Day 142 - February 20, 2013: Vero Beach

Shortly after departing Fort Pierce, we saw our first ICW billboard, which was fastened to a sailboat anchored in the channel. The city was advertising its marina!

Fort Pierce City Marina billboard

Our destination, only a couple of hours away, was Vero Beach, which is billed as a laid back community with a strong focus on the arts. We stayed at the Vero Beach Municipal Marina on a mooring ball, which is well protected in a side channel with a large dinghy dock. This was definitely one of our favorite mooring sites so far, as it was private and quiet, yet close to attractions.

Vero Beach Municipal Marina and mooring field

We took the dinghy to shore and walked through quiet neighborhoods a few blocks to the Atlantic beaches and shopping areas. The Atlantic waters were calm and a wonderful azure blue, and these beaches were every bit as nice as Fort Lauderdale.

Vero Beach on the Atlantic

From there, we took the free trolley across the bridge, and all the major stores are available within a couple of miles along the route. It would be easy and relaxing to stay here for a week or more. After a rest back on Great Laker, we took the bikes to a cafe style restaurant called the The Lemon Tree on Ocean Blvd. Despite its simple appearance, the service and food were top flight.