Finding the True Treasures of Florida’s Treasure Coast

I love destinations that surprise. And though I'd been to many east and west coast Florida beach towns, this was my first visit to Florida's Treasure Coast. And it certainly won't be my last. The locals call it "Florida's best-kept secret," and after discovering her treasures, I couldn't agree more.

Indian River County is situated just 34 miles south of Melbourne and 87 miles north of West Palm Beach. This northern part of the Treasure Coast consists of three delightfully unique towns-Vero Beach, Sebastian and Fellsmere. Vero Beach is magical with windswept beaches scattered with seashells and shorebirds. Sebastian is a quaint riverfront fishing village and Fellsmere an idyllic eco-friendly wonderland.

This picturesque region was aptly named as the graveyard of a Spanish treasure fleet returning from the New World to Spain. In July 1715, eleven of the twelve ships of this fleet were lost in a horrific hurricane near present-day Vero Beach. The galleons were packed with an immense hoard of plundered gold, silver, gems and artifacts now worth billions of dollars.

Though much of the treasure has been recovered, there was much more to be found. Today, treasure hunters continue to search these Atlantic waters for gold, jewels and other historic pieces. Locals have found sunken treasures just 10 feet from shore or washed up on the beach itself. And given that one Spanish wreck sits only 100 yards off Wabasso Beach, it's easy access for adventurous divers and snorkelers.

But the coast's true treasures are not about the booty, but rather in its nature preserves, eco-tourism, sublime coastline, stunning beaches, thriving art community and absolutely fascinating historic tales.

An absolutely beautiful place to home base in this magnificent area is The Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa. This swanky beachfront sanctuary is ideally situated on a pristine beach with stunning ocean views and the most majestic sunrises.

Rooms and suites are beautifully appointed, and the hotel offers two impressive oceanfront dining options. One of the best perks of staying at Kimpton is its prime location-walking distance to the local eateries and charming boutiques of Vero Beach's Ocean Drive.