When I started to look for an easy warm weather place to meet up with friends from the upper midwest who already settled in the Atlantic side of Florida, Vero Beach came to mind. 

I had several friends who either owned homes, rented or visited regularly.  Seemed like a possible destination. 

Well,  it was.  What a lovely spot to get out of Michigan.  Great restaurants.  Nice beach.  Not too far from airports and in Jan. not crowded.  I don’t know what it is like in Feb. and March when there’s the Great Migration of Snowbirds from my part of the world, but Jan was great. 

I would say that it probably isn’t the top of the list for grandchildren visits.  Seemed like an older more sedate crowd than those jamming the Orlando airport where we landed.  

So, what did I like?  

Great beach.  Even on the windiest of the days, I enjoyed a beach walk.  For me it was fun to see shells. They aren’t part of our Michigan beach experience but I suspect not unique to the Florida experience.  Later I got a kick out of seeing them incorporated in landscaping.  We would use stones in this kind of hardscape.  

We liked the restaurants and enjoyed some good meals with our friends.  Here’s a list of the ones we enjoyed and some photos.  The top photo is the eclectic Ocean Grill. It has been around forever we understand.  The second one intrigued me because trays were used on one wall for texture and color and pattern.  The third photo is one of the best carrots cakes I’ve ever had. 

Restaurants we enjoyed:  Ocean Grill, Riverside Cafe, River Twist, Scampi Grill and Maison Martinique.

Our favorite breakfast spot was a bit of a hoot.  Looking at the outside, I thought, “This isn’t for me” but the food was great, service well done and I loved sitting outside by the water. 

Shopping was great.  Not particularly bargain hunter paradise but if you’re looking for a special warm weather dress or maybe some packable separates, they are there.  Some places had goofy stuff.  I liked some of the fun funky places.  

I’d definitely go back to the Saturday morning farmer’s market.  Lots of great choices.   As much artsy stuff as food.  All good.

Vero Beach does have an Art Museum. We didn’t get there. Maybe next time.  I was a little surprised not to see art galleries but maybe I was in the wrong area.  

We thought this old hotel right on the beach was a hoot.  Just walking around the parking lot was entertaining.  We stopped in the lobby and learned that they have no web site.  You have to call for reservations.  Every thing is done by hand. 

Of course, I had to try my hand at a reflection.  

We’re thinking we’ll go back. If you are familiar with this part of Florida, please add any suggestions you might have in the comment section for a return visit.  Thank you.