Lost Tree Island (AKA Earman Island) Is located on the Northern end of what is known commonly to locals in Vero Beach as Gifford Island. The island lies just East of the 45th street boat ramp (Gifford boat ramp) and only a mile North from the Vero Beach Marina and Yacht Club. The island has a dock large enough to accommodate boats up to 35 feet (or larger, Im sure you could try). On Saturdays and Sundays, its not uncommon to see a number of boats tied up together and children frolicking in the water.
The interior of the island can be easily traversed with the help of these well constructed boardwalks. Two open-air huts provide much needed shelter from the elements for boaters caught in a storm or they can provide a great place for a picnic lunch with the family. Do beware though, a large fire pit sits just off the boardwalks and is literally filled with heaps of glass from partiers tossing bottles in. If you bring the kids, which many people visiting this specific island do, make sure to make them wear some shoes.
I usually take my kayak on journeys out to Lost Tree but the island can also be accessed by jet ski, row boat, canoe, power boat, sailboat etc. I highly recommend putting in at Gifford boat ramp and just paddling across. A ton more photos below, enjoy!
All photos by Phil Sunkel
