Seaside Stuart: A playful look at this laid-back, historic town
It’s officially summer, and the town of Stuart knows it – waves, seafood, and sun!
My family and I were lucky enough to spend a couple of days in this seaside town. Stuart’s got so much culture, from its accommodations to the historic town center.
Below are some ideas for a 4-5 day itinerary. Memories (pics) included!
Stay @ the Driftwood Motel Jensen Beach
4150 NE Indian River Drive
Jensen Beach
Family owned and operated since 1958, this 11-unit motel is located on the Indian River with a private dock (try and spot playful dolphin and a fantastic sunrise). Tropical theme cottages are perfect for a short-term stay. They all have full kitchens, within walking distance to popular local eateries, and five minutes to the beach!
Make a special request to stay in the room with a mural painted by the only female Highwayman painter. A personal friend of the motel owner Irene, Mary Ann Carroll is the only woman of the twenty-six Highwaymen Florida Artists Hall of Fame awardees.
Do…
Campification is perfect for kids and parents!
Ohana Surf Camp (from 9 am to 1pm) during the summer school break
Stuart Beach
825 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart
This camp featured is run by Ohana Surf Shop. Parents sit and watch along seaside, while the kids get groovy with the waves!
Visit Historic Downtown Stuart
Stuart is the first town in Florida to be awarded Coastal Living’s Happiest Seaside Town in America. Historic Downtown Stuart, Florida boasts quaint shops, delectable dining, the grand Lyric Theatre, free music events and strolls along the Riverwalk. Embrace the history and charm.
161 SW Flagler Avenue, Stuart
The Stuart Heritage Museum is located in the oldest commercial building in Stuart and Martin County. Step back in time to learn about the unusual, the forgotten, and some of the fascinating people, events, and places from Martin County’s history. The purpose of Stuart Heritage is to help preserve the heritage, artifacts, and history of Stuart and its surrounding communities. The countless relics housed by the museum define the history of the people, businesses, agriculture and community spirit of the City of Stuart and Martin County. Admission to the Museum is always free.
890 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart
Florida Oceanographic Center is a 57-acre nature center located on Hutchinson Island in Stuart. Situated between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean. A leading state and nationally recognized environmental organization, Florida Oceanographic Center offers educational programs to people of all ages. They conduct research and restoration programs that lead to healthy coastal ecosystems.
Take part in the interactive scheduled “Feed the Stingray” program at 1:30pm
825 NE Ocean Blvd, Stuart
The Elliott Museum’s mission is to inspire creativity through exhibitions and programs about art, history and technology for the people who live in and visit the Treasure Coast of Florida. Named after prolific inventor Sterling Elliott, the museum hosts a dynamic and interactive collection of antique automobiles, vintage boats, an impressive baseball collection and a deep trove of Treasure Coast histories and stories sure to delight all ages.
931 SE Ruhnke St, Stuart
Stuart is Sailfish Splash Waterpark a great activity for the whole family! This state-of-the-art complex is open seasonally to the public from March –September and includes:
- 1,000-foot lazy river.
- Two, four-story water slides, one a 253-foot, closed flume “Speed Slide”
- Zero-depth entry, 7,326-square foot water playground with jets, sprays, slides and a 300-gallon“Dump Bucket”
- 700 lounge and deck chairs
- Private cabanas (I recommend getting one of these to secure a spot in the shade!)
Eat @
Many thanks to the Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing!
Happy Travels 