Government

About the City

The City of Sebastian is an attractive waterfront community that boasts a quiet, laid-back charm. Sebastian is a 13.5 square miles city and home to approximately 25,000 residents. The area is a paradise surrounded by natural beauty. Just across the Intracoastal Waterway lie some of Florida’s most attractive barrier islands, Sebastian Inlet State Park and Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Sebastian has maintained its small-town atmosphere without becoming a typical tourist destination and residents like it that way. Daily life here is picturesque, with cool sea breezes, plentiful fishing, outdoor parks, and opportunities for bird watching. Sebastian has a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere.

Crime Rates

The community is considered very peaceful and the crime rates are low. The Police Department does a great deal of outreach and, as a result of that and good police work, Sebastian is a very safe City. 

Schools

The schools are very good and, if you apply yourself, you can get an excellent education. A multitude of opportunities for higher education are nearby, the most notable being the University of Central Florida, Indian River State College, and Florida Atlantic University. 

Medical Care

Medical care in the area is excellent led by Sebastian River Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic (Indian River Hospital) in Vero Beach.

Riverview Park

The hub of Sebastian is its Riverview Park, an area that offers a stunning view of the Intracoastal Waterway (also known as the Indian River Lagoon). Here residents gather for festivals, shows, fairs, and other free entertainment.  

Residents enjoy 19 parks which offer:

  • Dog parks
  • Golf
  • Hiking trails
  • Lakes and ponds
  • Playgrounds
  • Skate park
  • Sports facilities
  • A yacht club

The Riverview Park itself features a small playground area, splash pad, and a sidewalk along the lagoon that stretches for miles. The City Golf Course is a gem which also houses a restaurant and Clubhouse.

Community Activities

The Christmas season brings the must see Christmas parade and a Christmas tree to the park, as well as a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. In mid-January, the City hosts the Sebastian Fine Arts and Music Festival. In mid-March, comes the Shrimp Fest and Craft Brew Hullabaloo. 

The Sebastian Lionfish Festival occurs in mid-May. You do not want to miss the 4th of July celebration. In early November, the City hosts the famous Sebastian Clambake. The nature events include Earth Day in April and the Pelican Island Wildlife Festival in May. On Friday night, you will find Concerts in the Park. 

Other important activities include honoring veterans on Memorial holidays, the Halloween costume contest, the Chamber of Commerce Light up Night and the Easter Bunny makes an appearance for the annual Easter egg hunt.

Fishing

Fishing is popular the following are all in abundance in the area:

  • Bluefish
  • Grouper
  • Redfish
  • Snapper
  • Snook
  • Spanish mackerel