Stopped into the Environmental Learning Center on a whim after driving past it many times, and now…read moreI'm wondering why I waited so long. This place is one of those hidden little Treasure Coast gems that almost hides in plain sight. The boardwalk trails through the mangroves were peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly immersive. Every turn felt like a mini nature documentary. Within a short walk I spotted a ribbon snake cruising through the water, an orb-weaver spider that looked like it came straight out of a sci-fi movie, and plenty of birds and wildlife along the way. Bring a camera because you'll use it. Bonus points for the rare opportunity to admire a spider web without immediately walking face first into it. The grounds are well maintained, educational without feeling overly touristy, and just plain relaxing. There's a nice balance between nature preserve, learning experience, and quiet escape from the everyday rush. Also appreciated that you can spend 30 minutes here or easily lose a couple of hours wandering the trails and slowing your brain down a notch. We didn't try the kayak rental this time but made a mental note for the future. If you live in or visit Vero Beach and enjoy nature, photography, kayaking, wildlife, or just finding peaceful spots that don't involve crowds and traffic, this place is absolutely worth a stop.

We came here while visiting the area and really enjoyed the learning center!…read more We only stayed for a few hours but there was definitely a lot more to see and do here. We got to see a lot of fish and native Florida wildlife! There were a lot of walking trails, kayak/canoe launches, and tons of information posted around about native Florida habitats! There was also a play area for kids as well. We spent a lot of the time in the aquarium room (and yes it's a room not a super huge space) since it was air conditioned and our daughter really enjoys seeing the fish. They have a touch tank that's open for a few hours throughout the day, but we noticed that if the tank isn't open, there was no staff in the space. The facilities seemed a bit older but overall well maintained. There were summer camps going on while we were there, and felt like they sort of overtook some of the spaces we were in from time to time. Not a super huge deal as we were able to go explore other parts but it did feel somewhat chaotic as a large group of 8 year olds ran into the area. You do have to pay admission, there is a pass available as well if you plan to visit more than once. Parking was not plentiful so be mindful when planing, to come early or during a more "off" time. Overall this was a neat place to go to if you enjoy learning about Florida wildlife and nature.

We had the best time kayaking today on Turkey creek. We saw many birds and turtles. It was so much…read morefun! We got 3 hours and a map to explore the creek. It was amazing.

We took the tour of Turkey Creek with Julie as our guide. We had never kayaked before and Julie…read morehad the patients of Job with us the tour was 2 hours and moved at a relaxed pace. For a 73 yo and a 71 yo we had no problems. Great tour: 3 gators and numerous turtles. Totally enjoyable afternoon for my wife, son, and I.

The lay who runs the place was very friendly and accommodating about delivery time and place of…read morekayak. However when cold weather hit she cancelled my rental without calling me. I drove 20 mins to the launch site, and sat out in the lot for 25 mins before calling her to find out she won't be coming.

A+ Excellent business and customer service from Scott at Shark Bait Rentals…read more Came home for the holiday weekend and last minute had the urge to get some paddle boards to head out and take advantage of the clear waters just off the coast to the boiler shipwreck near Waldo's. Scott, even though short handed without hesitation, had two paddle boards, vests, and paddles available within an hour of the phone call. Very pleasant to speak with over the phone and easily coordinated all aspects of the rental process. Will definitely be using Shark Bait again for any rental needs beach side and will recommend to all family, friends, and visitors.

I've had good experiences with Sharkbait so this isn't what I wanted to do but…read more.. I've rented from them before and it went great. I've rented from them and not been able to make it to the beach and I was still charged in full. I didn't like it but didn't make a deal of it. For April 11 2023 I rented a fly and 3 chairs ($67). The weather wasn't great but I had company in town so we went to the beach. Sharkbait was a no-show. We walked to the Costa de Esta and explained the situation and they gave us three beach chairs for nothing. Very nice. When I got home I wrote to SB asking for my refund. No answer. I wrote again. No response. And then again. No response. I did tell him that if I didn't hear from him I would write this review for every social media site and then go to the BBB. So here I am. I hate so much to do this - I understand keeping my money when I can't be there but to keep my money when they aren't there? That is dishonest.

Visiting from Orlando, we decided to spend time on the water yesterday. Taking a 2-hour kayak tour…read morewith Chris, owner of Paddles By the Sea, was a perfect decision. His easy going manner yet attention to details such as asking "Do you need some sunscreen?" and "We have the latest kayak launch system in the industry" illustrate the care he demonstrated to my husband and me. His business started with paddle boards and although I've been paddle boarding for a few years I can't wait to take a lesson from him using my own equipment! In addition to having an awesome morning on the intercostal waterway and circling the spoils islands, we made a new friend! Hats off to Chris and his we'll run business. BTW---You may want to check into his yoga paddle boarding, full moon tours and other special events!!!

This was the best event during my vacation in Vero Beach.Theowner Chris took his time getting me…read moreset up to paddle board.I never expected such service,fun from the paddle board to the amazing boat rental.my captain Bob showed my family a fun tour of the river,many awesome sites.Thanks guys for taking my family on the best part of my trip to Vero Beach.