Resources
Resources for exploring the area
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Disclosure: As authors and affiliates, we receive earnings when you buy these through our links. This helps us provide public information on this website.
Exploring Sebastian
On the shores of the Indian River Lagoon, Sebastian is well-known for its excellent saltwater fishing, particularly on the jetties at Sebastian Inlet.
The barrier islands host the nation’s first National Wildlife Refuge, Pelican Island, and an array of public beaches and natural lands offering places to paddle and wander.
Trails and Parks near Sebastian
Ansin Riverfront Conservation Area Alongside the South Prong of the St. Sebastian River, this short loop trail weaves through a forest of stately live oaks covered with colorful air plants. 
Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge Stretching from Melbourne Beach to Sebastian, this refuge protects sea turtle nesting grounds along the Atlantic Ocean 
Doc Ehrhart Sanctuary Home to a gentle mile loop through coastal habitats on the Barrier Island Trail, Doc Ehrhart Sanctuary is a gateway to Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge.
Fellsmere Trailhead Preserve Immediately west of Interstate 95 at the Sebastian/Fellsmere exit, Fellsmere Trailhead Preserve provides a nature break for travelers and a trailhead for recreation
Micco Scrub Sanctuary Hike the best part of two loops across former ranchland amid scrub, flatwoods, and seasonally wet prairies on this 3.1 mile hike at Micco Scrub Sanctuary.
North Sebastian Conservation Area An excellent place to spot rare Florida scrub-jays, the trails at North Sebastian Conservation Area explore a variety of wet and dry natural habitats.
Pelican Island Centennial Trail Designed the first Federal Bird Reserve in 1903, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge celebrated its century mark by creating this short, scenic, accessible trail for birding.
Pelican Island NWR The birthplace of the National Wildlife Refuge system, Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge protects more than 5,400 acres along and in the Indian River Lagoon off Sebastian.
Sebastian Harbor Preserve A network of trails and boardwalks explore mesic and scrubby pine flatwoods dotted with prairie ponds that serve as a refuge for migratory and resident birds.
Sebastian Inlet State Park One of few places where the Indian River Lagoon mingles with the Atlantic Ocean, Sebastian Inlet is the central feature of a state park protecting the tips of both barrier islands.
St. Sebastian Catface Loop Traverse an expanse of prairies and scrub between a creekside hammock and palm hammocks atop tall bluffs on the St. Sebastian River.
St. Sebastian River Preserve Green Trail Winding through 9.7 miles of panoramic pine savannas, the Green Trail at St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park offers a cozy campsite near its trailhead. 
St. Sebastian River Preserve Red Trail Wildlife abounds within scrub, oak hammock, and pine flatwoods habitats along the 14.9-mile Red Trail loop at St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park.
St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park Cut in two by Interstate 95 south of Melbourne, St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park spans 35 square miles across two counties, protecting a mosaic of habitats for wildlife, particularly the Florida scrub-jay.
St. Sebastian River Preserve Yellow Trail Navigating a longleaf pine forest blanketed with countless wildflowers, the Yellow Trail at St. Sebastian State Preserve is a great destination for spotting rare red-cockaded woodpeckers.
Toni Robinson Waterfront Trail An array of wild landscapes is on display along a wide pathway between upland oak forests to a mangrove swamp boardwalk and pier overlooking the Indian River Lagoon.
Trans-Florida Central Railroad Trail If you've seen the prominent Trans-Florida Central Railroad Trail over Interstate 95 at Fellsmere, you've probably wondered about it. Here's what we found when we stopped for a ride. 
Wabasso Scrub Conservation Area A network of crisscrossing unmarked trails invites nature enthusiasts to observe endangered plants and animals on the Atlantic Coastal Ridge in south Sebastian.