My family and I would visit Hutchinson Island, Florida, quite often during my childhood. It’s no wonder that visiting Martin County felt like coming home. I love strolling along the vintage shops downtown, and admiring the beautiful sunrise along the 22-mile stretch coastline gives me a sense of nostalgia.
Martin County, Florida, was also named “America’s Happiest Seaside Town,” by Coastal Living Magazine. It’s one of those slightly off-the-radar places that constitute a local gem. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Miami, or if you’re looking for a quiet getaway, here are some of the best things to do in Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Martin County, Florida.
Best Things to Do in Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Martin County, Florida
Martin County is located in the Treasure Coast region of Florida. The area comprises 10 communities including Stuart, and the more popular Jensen Beach. Although it might not receive the same publicity as Miami or Orlando, Martin County is the perfect place for a coastal getaway.
What to do in Stuart Florida
Wondering what the heck there is to do in Stuart, Florida other than chilling at the beach. Here are some things this city has to offer.
Explore Downtown
The downtown area of Stuart is the perfect place for solo travelers and families alike. Catch a show at the Lyric Theatre, which was once a former silent movie house from the 1920s. You can also explore your inner artistic side by taking in the local art scene at one of the area’s many galleries.
Stuart Heritage Museum
The Stuart Heritage Museum is a free and fun way to learn more about the history of Stuart. Here, you’ll learn why Stuart is the Sailfish capital of the world, and what the deal is with all the pineapples.
Address: 161 SW Flagler Ave, Stuart, FL 34996
Visit the Elliott Museum
Museums tend to be a big hit or miss for me. But the Elliot Museum on Hutchinson Island did not disappoint.
If you are an old car lover, this museum is for you. Having been around for over 60 years, the museum showcases a large collection of classic cars. The best part? The car vending machine--where you pick a car from the chart, order it on a computer, and it’s delivered right to you. (I ordered a 1931 Ford Model AA and a Milk Delivery Truck, because why not?)
Address: 825 NE Ocean blvd Stuart, FL 34996
Go Stand Up Paddleboarding on the St. Lucie River
For outdoor adventurers, paddleboarding on the St. Lucie River is one of the most incredible experiences you don’t want to miss out on. Not only will you feel like you’re in Jurassic Park, but you’ll also more than likely run into a manatee or sea turtle. And because it’s my duty to disclose this… you may or may not run into an alligator, giving you that extra adrenaline rush. This was one of my favorite activities and I highly recommend it.
Sail on the Schooner Lily
Sailing on the Schooner Lily is a one-of-a-kind experience. Built by a man named Rick Brown in the 1970s, this old-world sailing vessel now sails as a Coast Guard Certified passenger boat. Embark on one of Treasure Coase Sailing Adventure’s tours, or turn up the volume rent the boat out for a private party for up to 20+ of your closest friends.
Go on a Segway Tour
Probably the scariest thing I did on this entire trip was going on a segway tour. Segways just scare me after I fell off one in Poland. I know, I know… I’ve done a lot of crazy things on my travels. I’ve jumped out of planes, hitchhiked in Myanmar with two strangers, I’ve have even come face to face with a growling lion. But get me on a segway and I’ll hold on for dear life!
I’m happy to say that my segway tour went smoothly and safely. On top of that, it was a great way to discover Stuart. A one-hour tour costs $59, and it begins at Memorial Park in Downtown Stuart. The tour takes you through parks, historical residences, and waterways. Be sure to book your tour a day in advance.
Visit Hutchinson Island
Hutchinson Island is a barrier island lined with miles of beautiful beaches. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a slow-paced day. Beach parking is easy and free in Martin County, and the city’s ordinance on building height offers beach-goers unobstructed, breathtaking views of the ocean.
Spend a Day at Jensen Beach
Pack your beach towel and a good book and head on over to Jensen Beach. The public access beach is officially called Jensen Sea Turtle Beach but locals refer to it simply as Jensen Beach. If you find yourself at Jensen Beach on a Thursday, be sure to head downtown for Jammin Jensen from 6-9:30 PM where you can enjoy the local art and music scene free of charge.
Hobe Sound
The amazing murals at Hobe Sound are a collection of hard work from over 40 skilled artists. The project was sponsored by locals and local businesses to encourage creativity and promote local culture. There’s a free printed guide for you to do a self-guided tour, or choose a private tour guided by artists.
Visit a Secret Beach at Blowing Rock Preserve
If you’re looking for a place to unplug and unwind, this is it. Here, you’ll see the unspoiled coastline and rare rock formations. Blowing Rock Preserve was named for its rare Anastasia limestone, which is composed primarily of shells, coral fragments, fossils, and sand. Anastasia limestone is usually found either underground or underwater, so this is your rare chance to view these amazing formations above ground as water blows through the holes at 15 to 20 feet.
Florida Oceanographic Society Coastal Center
Situated between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean, the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is a nationally recognized environmental organization that offers great educational programs. Catch a rare glimpse into Florida’s natural habitat history as you learn about Florida’s coastal and aquatic life.
Address: 890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart, FL 34996
Where to eat in Martin County
Don’t underestimate Martin county when it comes to food. As far as I know, Stuart has a ton of delicious eateries and restaurants to choose from. Starting with...
Conchy Joe’s Seafood
Reliably one of my favorite places to eat in Jensen Beach. I’ve been a sporadic patron since I was in the 7th grade. Serving up American-Caribbean cuisine, Conchy Joe’s caters to seafood and meat-loving eaters, while also having options for vegetarians and vegans. The food is well-priced and you get to enjoy outdoor dining right by the water.
Try their “works” burger, a greasy flavorful burger served on a sesame bun and comes with everything (and I mean everything). They also have a good selection of seafood that is fresh and well prepared. But if you think the experience stops at food, you’re wrong. Come enjoy the outstanding live Reggae music from Thursdays to Mondays. Yeah, there’s a reason why I’m a loyal customer.
Address: 3945 NE Indian River Dr, Jensen Beach, FL 34957-4008
Crawdaddy’s N’awlins Grill & Bar
This award-winning restaurant filled with New Orleans flair and taste isn’t for you if you’re on a diet. But if you’re willing to opt for a cheat day, the clam chowder, cajun jambalaya, and crab cakes need to be top of your order list. The atmosphere is fun, with live music right on the waterfront (only on Thursdays through Sundays). Crawdaddy’s N’awlins Grill & Bar definitely one of the liveliest joins in the historic downtown Jensen Beach area.
Address: 1949 NE Jensen Beach Blvd. Jensen Beach, Fl 34957
Hurricane Grill & Wings
Serving the sunshine state with 35+ varieties of award-winning wings, this is the place to be for carnivores (specifically wing lovers). The location in Stuart is clean, warm, and incredibly welcoming. And in case you’re wondering, prices are affordable and the portions are generous.
Address: 1729 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL 34997
Jan’s Place Restaurant
Delicious muffins, eggs benedict, pancakes, and french toast… Jan’s is the place to be for a hearty breakfast. It reminds me of the south where I went to college, adding yet another nostalgic element to Martin County altogether. But if you’re here for lunch, order the spuds (which are similar to a loaded baked potato), the cheddar potato with bacon bits, and the latkes.
Address: 1990 NE Jensen Beach Blvd. Jensen Beach, FL 34957
District Table and Bar
For a little change in scenery, this upscale restaurant serves the finest food prepared with the freshest ingredients. The restaurant’s constantly changing menu is based on the availability of produce depending on what the local farmers and fishermen bring in. Enjoy a high-end dinner and uniquely crafted drinks. If you are looking for atmosphere and service, District Table and Bar hit both marks!
Address: 4665 SE Dixie Highway, Stuart, FL 34997
Where to shop in Stuart Florida
When it comes to Shopping in Stuart Florida, you can expect to find a mix of charming boutique shops, higher-end brands, and quirky finds.
Historic Downtown Stuart
With dozens of independently owned, quaint, and unique shops, you’ll find everything from souvenirs, decor, and fine art.
Coconut Bay Gifts and SeaShore Decor
Know a nautical naughty in your life (or maybe you are one yourself)? This beach-themed decor store has a great selection to “deck” out any beach home.(I’ll stop with these beach puns)
Address: 3 SW Osceola St, Stuart, FL 34994-2116
Earthtones
Let your inner hippie out at Earthtones. Or simply shop for that music lover, surfer chick, or dirty hippie in your life (these are all terms used by Earthtones themselves… you catch the vibe?)
Address: 43 SW Osceola St, Stuart, FLO 34994-2117
Where to stay in Martin County
Let’s be real. Your accommodation can make or break your entire trip. So what if you’ve had a delicious meal or two? Who cares if you’ve done so much in a day? All of that won’t matter if you don’t have a nice place to rest your head and to prepare for another day of adventure and food. Here are some of the best places to stay in Martin County.
Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa
This was where I stayed and I can promise that the Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa is worth every penny. It’s the first new hotel in Jensen Beach in almost 20 years. The rooms feature energy-saving solutions, such as a keyholder that activates the lights only when your card key is in its designated spot.
Overlooking the Atlantic, this property is part of the Opal collection like the Sagamore resort in Lake George, New York. The property consists of 184 luxurious guest rooms and suites, pools, a beach bar, and a pool bar. Not to mention their Signature spa offered an exquisitely crafted experience.
Address: 3793 NE Ocean Blvd, Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Old Colorado Inn
This boutique inn was built in 1917. The Old Colorado Inn offers deluxe studios, spacious and luxurious suites, a charming cottage, and 4 spacious historic guest houses. It’s also a family-run business located in the heart of historic downtown Stuart, steps away from everything you need on a vacation, dining, and shopping.
Address: 211 Colorado Avenue, Stuart, FL 34994
Club Med Sandpiper Bay
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive spot on the water, stay at the Club Med Sandpiper Bay. Unlike most typical beach properties, the Club Med Sandpiper Bay is surrounded by wonderfully lush vegetation. Your all-inclusive stay also includes activities like tennis, water aerobics, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing lessons, and jet skiing. There’s also an adult-only pool close to the river’s edge (it just might be the best view of the river, too).
Address: 4500 SE Pine Valley St, Port St. Lucie, FL 34952
Practical Information for Visiting Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Martin County, Florida
The nearest airport to Stuart is Vero Beach (VRB) airport, 33 miles away. You can also fly into West Palm Beach/Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) which is located 45 minutes away. Or opt for Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FIL) which is 90 minutes away.
From the airport, you can either take a taxi (which costs around $60-75 from VRB) or rent a car.
The most popular time to visit is in the spring (March through May), but that also means more crowds and higher ticket prices. Summer (June through August) is the second busiest season for tourism in Stuart, and the Fall (September through November) brings humidity and strong wind. In my opinion, visiting in the winter is your best bet, as you get to enjoy fewer crowds, more reasonably priced hotels, and cooler weather ranging in the high 70s.
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