This park is named for Joseph Frances O' Mara. He loved the beauty of the Indian River Lagoon and…read morehis parents donated part of the land for the park in his honor. Adjacent to the parking lot is a picnic pavilion. A boardwalk takes you from the parking lot across the wetlands as you travel through a red mangrove swamp. The mangroves are an important part of the ecosystem because they prevent coastal erosion and provide a home for fish, mollusks, crab, and shrimp, that are the basis of the food chain for the marine life in the coastal communities. The biodiversity of this area makes it popular with researchers. The boardwalk ends at an overlook that people use for fishing the Indian River Lagoon. There is also a floating dock.

This beach was named Bob Graham Beach on March 8, 1983 when it was dedicated to Daniel Robert…read moreGraham (November 9, 1936 - April 16, 2024). Graham was a lawyer, author, and democratic politician who served as the 38th governor of Florida from 1979 to 1987 and as a Florida senator from 1987 to 2005. He was famous for his work days in which he spent a day in different parts of the state working various regular jobs. Some of the jobs he worked included a police officer, a bank teller, a construction worker, a marine biologist, and rehabilitation aide. Working these jobs enabled him to understand the issues facing people living in Florida. Bob Graham established the Save Our Coast Program which resulted in the acquisition of additional Martin County beach property. Bob Graham Beach Park has a shower and parking. Less than a mile north is Jensen Beach Park where you can find lifeguards, restrooms, and food. If you are looking for a more secluded beach experience, Bob Graham is the better choice. The Hutchinson Island Coastal Trail connects this beach to Beachwalk Pasley Beach to the south. It takes about 15 minutes to walk between the two parks through beach dune, coastal strand, maritime hammock and mangrove habitats.

One of many beaches on Ocean blvd., in Martin County. This beach is closer to Jensen Beach where we…read morehad lunch. They have a private parking lot no fee, and its steps away from the beach. This is a relaxing beach and it wasn't packed when we were there. They have a shower for rinsing off. In my case, for cooling off. The waves at the beach are intense so I was not able to go in but the shower cooled me off nicely. If you need the restroom or need to change your clothes, drive north for the main Jensen beach next to the Hutchinson Island Resort.

Tiger Shores Beach is one of several free beaches north of the Elliot Museum. This beach is north…read moreof Stuart Beach and south of Virginia Forrest Beach. The beaches on this end of Hutchinson Island tend to be less crowded than those south of the Elliot Museum near Gilberts Bar. Over here you are more likely to find parking at the beaches on but there aren't restrooms or lifeguards. There is however a shower and benches. This beach is popular with swimmers, anglers, and even treasure hunters. In the 1970's a local surfer discovered cannons in the water off the beach. Researchers believe they may belong to a Spanish ship carrying gold that wrecked off the beach in a hurricane in 1715. From the parking lot you follow the trail nestled between condos up the sand dune through coastal vegetation to the white sandy beach. There were a number of sea turtle nests roped off among the sun bathers. Even if you don't end up finding a piece of eight the calm clear waters and unspoiled natural beauty make this a good choice if you are looking for a more secluded beach experience.

Public beach with its own parking lot. All parking is free and was safe. Located on Hutchinson…read moreIsland in Stuart, FL. This is the Treasure Coast! Parking lot has a beach shower and foot shower. Dogs allowed on beach, leashed. People were NOT following this rule when I visited. Extremely rude and annoying, especially on the beach! Water can be a bit rough and no lifeguards, so I recommend only for strong swimmers. Beach is pretty but not super wide. Not sure about tides? I visited in early afternoon and you can see how it looked then from my pictures.

There are several public beaches in Stuart north of the Elliot Museum. Virginia Forrest Beach is…read moreone of the more secluded options. This beach park was created with land donated by Virginia Forrest in 1973 In 1961 Virginia Forrester became the first woman to win the Florida Governor's Award for Conservation. She participated in community affairs throughout her life. In 1972 she founded the Bucks County Conservation Alliance in New Hope, Pa., and she continued to serve as an adviser to the organization. She was a director of the Environmental Studies Center in Stuart, and a founder and director from 1966 to 1975 of the Martin County Conservation Alliance in Stuart. She passed away in 1991 at the age of 94. It was so kind of Virginia Forrester to donate this land so that her message of conservation can live on. I know she would be pleased that sea turtles are nesting on her beach. Another great feature of this low key beach is the fact that you are more likely to get a parking spot which are free but there is no lifeguard or restrooms. The beaches south of Gilbert's Bar are way more crowded. If you are looking for a more peaceful beach then Virginia Forrest Beach is great for swimming, beachcombing, birdwatching, or taking long walks along the shore. From the parking lot it is just a short hike up over the sand dune to paradise.

Herman's Bay Beach has human history that dates back to the Okeechobee period (A.D. 1000 - A.D…read more 1513) when Florida's earliest residents lived here. Herman's Bay Midden was discovered here and researched by a team from Florida Archaeological Services under direction of Robert Johnson, Florida Archaeological Services. Middens are a kind of ancient garbage dump and when you examine it you can discover a lot about the people who used to live here. This midden is along a beach dune line facing the the Atlantic Ocean and an estuarine system of the Indian River to the west. It was discovered that this midden contained architectural evidence of a house structure, attendant cooking hearth, and the animal remains used by the Okeechobee period people. Based on the midden evidence it was determined that the people who lived here were fisher, hunter, and gatherers who utilized the animal resources from the Indian River Estuary and from the Atlantic Ocean. These people used fish nets and other fine catch devices to fish and their main protein source came from fish and turtles. The entrance to Herman Bayh's Beach is near Diamond Sands gated community off of S Ocean Drive. Today Herman's Bay Beah Park is a one acre beach front park with free parking, beach access, picnic tables, and pavilions. A boardwalk takes you over the dune and onto the beach. Like the ancient people who once lived here, you can still fish. You can also swim and sunbathe but there are no lifeguards or restrooms.

The beach presently is a dangerous place because of hidden jagged rocks which are partially…read moresubmerged just below the surface only about ten to fifteen feet out from shore ! These rocks seems to have been exposed by recently rough sea encounter. Do not just run or dive into the water from the shoreline especially during choppy sea days!

Fletcher Beach is located one half mile south of Stuart Beach on A1A and just north of Gilbert's…read moreBar Refuge House Museum on Hutchinson Island. The Scott and Billie Fletcher Beach was purchased by Martin County in 1973. This is the only beach on this end of Hutchinson Island that I was easily able to find parking for. It does not have a lifeguard or restrooms so it is not as popular as some of the other beaches. While it may lack in amenities it is more secluded which is nice if you are looking for a more peaceful beach experience. From the parking area you just hike up a trail over the sand dune to the beach. The beaches on this part of Hutchinson Island have rocky looking outcroppings known as the Anastasia formation which was named by E. H. Sellards in 1912. The formation was deposited during the deposited during the late Pleistocene and the "rocks" are really sand and coquina limestone embedded with mollusk shells and sparry calcite. It forms cliffs and caves that form a habitat for sea life. It is not very comfortable on bare feet but it makes a lovely backdrop for pictures. If you are looking for a more off the beaten path beach, Fletcher Beach is ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, wildlife watching, fishing, surfing, swimming, and photography.

This spot was a place that my parents decided to take me when I was visiting them in Florida for…read morethe holiday. They wanted to do something outdoorsy but safe so we decided to visit the beach for a bonfire. The beach was a quick drive from their condo and the parking was just off the road, and the parks department keeps the lot clean. You have to walk on a wooden path to get to the beach which is over a slight hill. The beach is large and well kept, we found a perfect spot to build a small fire and just relax and star gaze. As far as beaches go, it's a nice one! I didn't see any trash which is always impressive to me. This is a place I'd like to come back in the daylight to check out and do a traditional beach day. But if you want to enjoy a nice fire and beautiful night skies, this is your place! Kudos to to Florida and their awesome beaches.

I've traveled across Florida since I was a kid, from Jacksonville to Key West and Pensacola to…read moreOrlando but I discovered some new spots ins recent visit to dear friends, from Massachusetts, who have become snowbirds.  They bought a cool home that's nestled along Florida's picturesque Treasure Coast, Hutchinson Island has a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant amenities. Stretching across 23 miles, this barrier island is a haven for snowbirds, and tourists of course, seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. The Island's history traces back to the early 20th century when it was primarily used for fishing and agriculture. In the 1920s, the island became a hotspot for parties and gatherings, and during the Prohibition era, when it was a hub for rum-running operations. Today, the island is a thriving community that embraces its colorful past while offering a wealth of modern beach ammenities and conveniences. Among the island's must-visit attractions is the Elliott Museum, which showcases the region's history through interactive exhibits and vintage automobiles. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, where they can observe and learn about the diverse marine life that inhabits the area. For those seeking culinary delights, Hutchinson Island offers an array of restaurants to satisfy every palate. Conchy Joe's Seafood Restaurant is a local favorite, serving fresh catches and some stunning riverfront views. On the Edge Bar & Grill lives up to its name with its prime location perched on the coastline, providing guests with an outstanding dining experience. My favorite was a shack along the strip call Adventure Seafood that had some crazy amazing seafood chowder that I highly recommend.  In addition to fine dining, Hutchinson Island caters to various accommodation preferences, from luxurious hotels to cozy vacation rentals. We opted for a throwback motel along the river that was really comfortable and even had a fishing pier that my friend Bill and I took full advantage of. (Driftwood Motel)  The beaches of Hutchinson Island are a haven for sand between your toes enthusiasts, with lots of  opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and shelling. If you're seeking adventure, nearby attractions like the historic House of Refuge provide a glimpse into the island's maritime past. Bottom line: Hutchinson Island, FL, is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and amenities that make it an outstanding destination for travelers seeking a slice of paradise. I will returning again to visit with my friends. Recommended!!!

We attended the Hutchinson Island park on a early Sunday morning for a triathlon race. Talk about…read moremosquitos galore! I received about 50 bites, with OFF! Please beware. The park itself is small and nice. Nothing major; just a small playground and access to the beach.

Super cool to see remaining wildlife: alligators, manatees Hope it stays like it is foreverread more

Sooo, this morning rather than go to the gym. I went to White City Park in For Pierce and Kayaked…read moredown the St. Lucie River. Thanks to Steve Ware for the invite. We paddled thru the scenic St. Lucie River on the North Fork and observing all the gorgeous oak hammocks bordering either side. Amazing how tranquil the trip is, you would have thought you were in a time warp, because this surely represents how Olde Florida used to be. Just think it is in our backyard and it is FREE. White City Park has a Pirate playground for the kids, boat ramps, fishing access, plenty of picnic tables and much more. #lovingtreasurecoastlife #ftpierce #treasurecoast