Waldo’s & The Sexton’s: Vero’s Landmarks and Legacies

Waldo'sWaldo’s Restaurant & Bar, “The Last of the Great American Hangouts” has been a Vero Beach landmark and icon for almost a century. Waldo Sexton, Vero’s most notorious pioneer, stormed in to town in the 1920’s and his imagination, vision and drive left Vero with lasting landmarks that have stood the test of time: Sexton Plaza, Ocean Grill, Driftwood Inn, Szechuan Palace, The Patio, & McKee Jungle Gardens. Waldo’s is one of the best and most widely known of the senior Sexton’s legacy!

Last week, Waldo’s son, Ralph Sexton passed away and the Vero community lost another pioneer who followed in his father’s footsteps. Ralph carried his father’s passion and drive forward with his determination to fight for beach renourishment, land conservation, and maintaining the small town flair that is so important to Vero’s identity. Besides these causes, Ralph was intensely passionate about life on Treasure Hammock Ranch and the importance of family.

Waldo’s is no longer owned by the Sextons but the legacy and history will forever remained linked to this family. Waldo’s is not only a family friendly gathering place but its staff operates as a family; influenced by the example of the Sexton patriarch and its namesake.

Like Waldo & Ralph, Waldo’s excels at serving our community and giving back toVero. Christmas in July, hosted by Waldo’s, has become an annual affair and a phenomenal success benefiting Toys for Tots. The Vero Beach Lifeguard Association was a recent recipient of Waldo’s generosity through another event hosted by Waldo’s and managers, Lee & Joe host a radio talk show (1370 AM & 107.9 FM) on Monday’s called “The World According to Waldo’s”.

Sherry Nist