Discover the Natural Wonders of Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers in Florida.
Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge, a stunning nature preserve in Vero Beach, Florida, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This picturesque refuge offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, including marshes, mangroves, and coastal habitats, where visitors can observe a rich variety of bird species and other wildlife in their natural surroundings.
A brief summary to Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
- 4055 Wildlife Way, Vero Beach, Florida, 32963, US
- +1772-581-5557
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to capture the stunning birdlife.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the trails can be uneven and may require some walking.
- Check the visitor center for any scheduled programs or guided tours during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From Big Bend National Park, you will need to drive to Vero Beach, Florida, where Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge is located. Start by taking US-90 E out of the park and merge onto I-10 E. Continue on I-10 E until you reach I-95 S. Take I-95 S to exit 147 for FL-60 E toward Vero Beach. Follow FL-60 E until you reach Vero Beach. Once in Vero Beach, turn onto Wildlife Way, and the refuge will be located at 4055 Wildlife Way, Vero Beach, FL 32963. The drive will take approximately 9-10 hours depending on traffic conditions. Make sure to check for any tolls along the way.
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Public Transportation
While public transportation options are limited directly from Big Bend to Vero Beach, you can take a bus from the nearest major city. Travel to the nearest Greyhound bus station in Fort Stockton, TX. From Fort Stockton, book a bus to Orlando, FL, and then take a local bus or rideshare service to Vero Beach. Once you arrive in Vero Beach, use a rideshare service or local taxi to reach Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge at 4055 Wildlife Way. Keep in mind that this method could take a significant amount of time and involve multiple transfers.
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Rideshare
If you're looking for a more direct option from Big Bend, consider using a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft. You would need to arrange for a rideshare to pick you up from your location in Big Bend and drive you directly to Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge. This may be more costly, but it provides a convenient travel option. Ensure that your phone has a reliable signal and the rideshare app installed to facilitate the pickup.
Discover more about Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge
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