Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge

Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge Review

Within the Indian River Lagoon and on the barrier island across from Sebastian, Pelican Island was founded in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt as the nation's first national wildlife refuge. The island is a closed wilderness area. The historic Pelican Island rockery is viewable from a distance by commercial boat and kayak tours and from a public observation tower on the adjacent barrier island. The Refuge has more than 6 mi of foot trails through the barrier island habitats. A boardwalk and observation tower enable visitors to see birds, endangered species, and habitats.