Presented by the Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing
Southern folks are drawn to waterfront cities, and Stuart, Florida is a prime example of this charm. Situated along the St. Lucie River and the Atlantic Ocean, this town of approximately 20,000 residents offers a plethora of opportunities to enjoy scenic waterfront views and water activities to beat the Florida heat. Known as the Sailfish Capital of the World, Stuart is renowned for its top-notch fishing, attracting visitors from far and wide to this gem on the Treasure Coast. However, the town has much more to offer beyond water sports. Stuart boasts stunning natural preserves, a lively historic downtown brimming with art, and a variety of dining and accommodation options worth raving about. Recognized for its many merits, Stuart was recently named the Best Coastal Small Town in the USA Today’s 2024 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Still undecided about making Stuart your next vacation spot? Read on for the top 18 activities to enjoy in Stuart, Florida.
What to Explore in Stuart, Florida
Hit the Beach
The Martin County boasts 22 miles of pristine beaches, with Stuart Beach being a favorite among locals and visitors. This lifeguard-protected beach offers everything needed for a delightful day under the sun, including beach volleyball courts, public restrooms, and colorful murals by local artists. If you’re in need of refreshments, head to the Seaside Café for a frozen cocktail or a bite to eat. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., it’s a great spot to fuel up for more beach fun.
Visit The Elliott Museum
The Elliott Museum isn’t your typical museum with narrow subject matters. Named after the versatile Sterling Elliott, an inventor, businessman, politician, publisher, and social activist, this museum offers a wide array of exhibits spanning from standard history displays to an impressive car collection, baseball memorabilia, and even a temporary exhibit on UFOs. There’s something to captivate every visitor’s curiosity at this unique museum.
Learn About the Sea at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center
Immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, a 57-acre nature center perfect for families. Here, you can interact with stingrays and various marine species, join educational programs on local marine life like gamefish, sharks, and sea turtles, and explore the Ocean EcoCenter with galleries, exhibits, and aquariums focusing on Florida’s aquatic ecosystems.
Experience Art at the Court House Cultural Center and Gallery
Explore Stuart’s thriving art scene at the Court House Cultural Center and Gallery, housed in a historic Art Deco-style building constructed in 1937. This building, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcases rotating art exhibitions featuring works by local, regional, and international artists.
For more information about the Court House Cultural Center at 80 SE Ocean Blvd., Stuart, FL 34994, please visit tists.martinarts.org or call 772-287-6676. Experience the Original House of Refuge, Courtesy of the Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing. In the late 1800s, 10 houses of refuge were constructed along Florida’s Atlantic Coast to shelter shipwrecked sailors and travelers. Managed by the United States Lifesaving Service, only one of these historic structures remains, now overseen by the Elliott Museum. The last standing house, the oldest in Martin County, is now a museum at Gilbert’s Bar. Take a shuttle from the museum or visit independently for a day trip. The wreck of Georges Valentine is a mere 100 yards from the shore, attracting visitors who often walk from the House of Refuge to snorkel or dive the site.
To explore unique shopping opportunities, head to Downtown Stuart. Home to local boutiques, specialty shops, and artisan galleries, it’s the perfect place to find souvenirs and more. Stores like Gumbo Limbo Coastal Chic, Matilda’s, and GypSea Cottage offer home décor, gifts, and apparel to enhance your vacation experience. For more information, visit hsmc-fl.com/house-of-refuge or call 772-225-1875.
Discover the Arts & Entertainment District in The Creek District, officially established in 2019. This neighborhood around Bruner Pond and Frazier Creek offers shops, galleries, fine art sculptures, and murals to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll, grab a bite to eat, and be sure to attend the First Friday Art Walk if you’re in town during the event. Learn more at thecreekdistrict.org.
Immerse yourself in Stuart’s performing arts scene by attending a show at the Lyric Theater. Built in the 1920s, this theater hosts plays, musicals, and performances from renowned talent. Support community theater at The Barn Theatre or A.C.T. Studio Theatre for a diverse arts experience.
Experience fishing in the Sailfish Capital of the World by visiting Martin County. With its diverse estuary and abundant artificial reef systems, the area offers excellent opportunities for inshore, offshore, and freshwater fishing. Book a fishing excursion with local outfitters like Stuart Big Game Fishing and Night Heron Fishing Charters for an unforgettable angling adventure.
Don’t miss exploring Port Salerno, a historic fishing village within Stuart. Once a bustling commercial fishing hub, it still maintains active marinas and fishing fleets supplying fresh seafood to local restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along Manatee Pocket Boardwalk for a glimpse into this unique and charming destination.
Discover Stuart, Florida’s charm as you explore from the Port Salerno Civic Center through the town’s waterfront, past dining spots, and Pirate’s Cove Resort, all along the picturesque Manatee Pocket. A highlight is the Fish House Art Center and Galleries showcasing works by five resident artists.
Be captivated by Stuart’s natural beauty at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, a secluded barrier island reachable only by boat. Lose yourself in ancient mangrove forests, hammocks dotted with live oaks and wild limes. Enjoy a leisurely walk on a scenic boardwalk, relax on the serene beach, or snorkel in nearby waters. Guided eco kayaking tours are available on select days. Seabranch Preserve State Park and Atlantic Ridge Preserve State Park offer diverse landscapes for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. For a peaceful hike or canoe trip, visit Kiplinger Nature Preserve south of Veterans Memorial Bridge.
Savor culinary delights in Stuart at The Gafford, an upscale family-owned restaurant in the historic downtown area. Indulge in local seafood or a juicy bone-in ribeye. Experience waterfront dining at various restaurants in Stuart and Port Salerno, offering a range of cuisines and settings. Waterfront and Stuart Boat House boast stunning river views and diverse menus. Sailor’s Return provides a relaxed harbor atmosphere with nightly specials. In Port Salerno, enjoy island-inspired dishes and waterfront views at Shrimpers Grill & Raw Bar.
For a quick and fresh lunch, visit Colab Kitchen in downtown Stuart. This urban farm, restaurant, and market offer wood-fired pizzas, salads, and sandwiches made with locally grown produce. Crave unique tacos and fusion dishes? Head to…
For a taste of vegan delights, head to Fruits & Roots instead of Taco Shack in Stuart. If you’re looking for a cozy caffeine fix, follow the bright blue door to the downtown coffee shop. Open until late, this cheerful café offers lattes, cappuccinos, and a selection of wines, beers, and bistro dishes. For accommodations, you can choose between a historic inn with modern amenities or a sprawling resort with beach views and various recreational activities. Alternatively, opt for a cozy bed and breakfast like Inn Shepard’s Park for a homely stay.
