The Indian River Lagoon spans 156 miles through the Treasure Coast, offering calm-water paddling through mangrove tunnels, seagrass flats, and open water. Launch sites are available in Stuart, Jensen Beach, Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, and Vero Beach. Best conditions occur during early morning hours, just after sunrise, with low wind and incoming tides. Permits are not required for recreational paddling.
About the Indian River Lagoon
The Indian River Lagoon is the most biodiverse estuary in North America, supporting over 4,300 species of plants and animals. The lagoon system extends from Ponce de León Inlet in Volusia County south to Jupiter Inlet in Palm Beach County.
On the Treasure Coast, the lagoon includes the Indian River proper and the St. Lucie River. Average depth ranges 3–6 feet, making it ideal for kayaking and shallow-draft vessels. Along Florida’s central Treasure Coast, the lagoon often feels more like a quiet river than a large estuary.
Water clarity varies by location and season. Northern sections near Vero Beach typically offer clearer water, while areas near inlets experience tidal influence and reduced visibility…