Experience the best of Vero Beach

Vero Beach is the seat of Indian River County, on the Atlantic coast between the ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. The beachfront is lined with low houses and dunes, and the older centre has shops, restaurants and tree-lined streets.

The McKee Botanical Garden, with its tropical plants and water lilies, is one of the area's best-known gardens. The Indian River Lagoon is a rich estuary that is home to manatees and dolphins. Pelican Island, a short way north, became the first national wildlife refuge in 1903, and the Archie Carr refuge protects loggerhead turtle nesting beaches along the coast.

Citrus is the local product: Indian River oranges and grapefruit are sold along the roads, and stone crab claws, a seasonal Florida seafood, are served in the restaurants. Summers are hot and humid with afternoon storms, and hurricane season runs from June to November. Winter is mild and dry, and the best time to visit.