Sebastian inlet to Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

Depart from Sebastian Inlet: Begin your journey from Sebastian Inlet, which is located on the eastern coast of Florida. Make sure your boat is properly fueled, equipped, and in good working condition.

Head north along the Indian River Lagoon: Leave Sebastian Inlet and head north along the Indian River Lagoon. The Indian River Lagoon is a long, narrow body of water known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.

Follow the marked channel and navigational aids: Stay within the marked channel and follow navigational aids such as buoys and markers to ensure safe navigation along the Indian River Lagoon.

Reach Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge: As you continue north along the lagoon, you'll approach Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is located on the eastern side of the Indian River Lagoon, just south of Vero Beach.

Explore Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge: Once you reach the refuge, you can anchor your boat in a suitable location or utilize the designated boat dock at the refuge. Pelican Island is known for being the first National Wildlife Refuge established in the United States and is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans.

Enjoy exploring the refuge and observe the wildlife from a respectful distance. Remember to adhere to any regulations or guidelines set forth by the refuge management to protect the wildlife and their habitat.

Sebastian Inlet State Park: Begin your journey at Sebastian Inlet State Park, which offers excellent boating facilities and access to the Atlantic Ocean. Take some time to enjoy the natural beauty of the park and its pristine beaches before heading toward Pelican Island.

Sebastian Inlet Bridge: As you navigate away from Sebastian Inlet, you'll pass under the Sebastian Inlet Bridge. Enjoy the scenic views and the gentle flow of the water as you make your way toward the refuge.

Indian River Lagoon: The Indian River Lagoon is a scenic estuary that stretches along the east coast of Florida. As you travel north from Sebastian Inlet, you'll be surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of the lagoon. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins, manatees, and various bird species that call the lagoon home.

Wabasso Causeway: Sail under the Wabasso Causeway, a bridge that connects the mainland to the barrier island where Pelican Island is located. Take in the views of the surrounding marshes and mangroves as you approach your destination.

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge: Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is the first national wildlife refuge in the United States. It was established in 1903 to protect the habitat of the brown pelican and other bird species. As you reach the refuge, you'll have the opportunity to see these majestic birds nesting and flying around the island. Take your time to explore the waters around Pelican Island and observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area.

Spoil Islands: Along the way to Pelican Island, you'll encounter several spoil islands. These man-made islands were created from dredging materials and now serve as habitats for a variety of bird species and marine life. Keep an eye out for these unique ecosystems and the wildlife that thrives in and around them.

As you make your way from Sebastian Inlet to Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, appreciate the natural beauty of the Indian River Lagoon, observe the diverse bird and marine life, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this protected sanctuary.