Vero Beach Getaway (Day 1): Bike, Hike & Picnic at Highlands Hammock State Park

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION BEFORE YOU SIGN UP !!

This getaway is supposed to be a social event and involves an overnight stay in Vero Beach (or nearby), a beach town on the East Coast of Florida.
During the 3 days we will among others walk, ride our bikes and attend a Blues Festival.

In case you don't want to spend two nights in a hotel or any other accommodation, you can still sign up for each or any of the three days individually.

We will stay for two nights from Friday, February 27th to Sunday, March 1st, 2026. Accommodations are plentiful in the area but you will have to make your own arrangements. You might want to book now, you can always cancel later if needed (make sure you read the fine print).

If you want to join us on several days, please sign up for each day separately so that we know whom to expect.

3 Day Getaway (Day 1): Bike, Hike, Picnic and more

08:50 AM: We will meet in front of the Hammock Inn Camp Store within Highlands Hammock State Park. The park is one of the oldest, most beautiful and diverse State Parks in Florida. The entrance fee for the park is $ 6 per car unless you have an annual pass.
Please wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, carry sufficient water and bring a bike lock.

09:00 AM: Kick off for a casual bike ride and a couple of shorter hikes within the park.
We will ride our bikes on about 5 miles of paved and 6 miles of unpaved roads with occasional patches of grass and over some tree roots. A hybrid or mountain bike is probably the most appropriate bike for the ride.
In addition, we will hike four nature trails with a total length of about 1.5 miles. Each of the trails has its unique character and takes time.

10:30 AM: After a bit less than halfway, we will have a picnic at a picnic shelter surrounded by nature. Please bring your own food and drinks.

The event will take approximately 4 hours + depending on the pace of the group. We might enjoy orange flavored ice cream from one of the close by orange groves at the end of the tour.

01:15 PM: Drive to Vero Beach (or nearby area) and check in at your accommodation. The drive should take approximately 2 hours.

06:30 PM: Dinner in Vero Beach

Options in general are limited and it is fair to assume that the town will be busy on Friday night in season. It can be windy at night but still pleasant if you wear a light jacket. This year however, it started to rain right during dinner time. Thankfully we had to sit indoors as we did not get a desired table outside.

For next year, we try to find a consensus. Please check out the links to the restaurants and provide a ranking of the three options in the question for this event.

Our preferred restaurant Waldo's is considered to be "the last of the great American hangouts". They have a fantastic outdoor terrace facing the beach, live music and a lively bar. Food is also pretty good although a bit pricey. We were lucky once and our fairly large group got a table on the terrace. Chances are however slim and they don't accept reservations.

Alternative would be the American Icon Brewery, a venue that was recommended to us but we haven't been to. They take reservations and offer a wide variety of beer. The venue has a great atmosphere. Food options are however typical bar food but that's not necessarily a bad choice.

We could also end up at Mulligan's Beach House. Location again right on the beach, food typical American food, outdoor seating and they will take reservations. Apparently, food is a hit and miss.

08:30 PM: Head back to your accommodation to get ready for an early morning beach walk, a visit to the botanical garden and a long day full of music.

If you have any questions or need directions, you can always text or call us at (917)774-0941.