Discover the Best Beaches in Martin County, Florida: A Guide for Jensen Beach Visitors
Looking for the best beaches in Florida? You will fall in love with the sun and surf at these Martin County beaches. With over 22 miles of shoreline and over 150 miles of waterways, paradise is here.
This guide will discuss some of Martin County’s best beaches, including well-known favorites and little-known gems.
Martin County itself is a hidden gem on the east coast of South Florida. Located on the Treasure Coast, Martin County is halfway between Miami and Orlando.
There are plenty of outdoor activities and charming spots to visit. And with its beautiful beaches and blue oceans, Martin County is a great choice for anyone looking for the perfect beach getaway.
We’ll start by spotlighting some of the area’s most well-known beaches, such as Hutchinson Island and Jensen Beach. Then we’ll visit some of the lesser-known beaches that provide a unique and serene experience.
We’ll be sure to give you all the information you need to plan the perfect beach vacation. This guide will help you discover the best beaches of Martin County, whether you are a local or just passing through.
So grab some sunscreen and get your picnic ready – come explore some of Florida’s most beautiful beaches!
Table of Contents
- What beaches are in Martin County?
- Popular Beaches in Martin County
- Hidden Gem Beaches in Martin County
- Martin County Parks with Beaches
- Beaches Worth the Drive from Martin County
- Recap of the best beaches in Martin County
- Frequently Asked Questions
What beaches are in Martin County?
Complete List of All Martin County Beaches
- Jensen Beach: Officially “Jensen Sea Turtle Beach”, this public access beach on Hutchinson Island is popular with locals and visitors. Enjoy the wide sandy beach, picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, bathrooms, showers, and the Sand Dune Café.
- Stuart Beach: Located across from the Elliott Museum and Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, Stuart Beach is a favorite among Martin County’s beaches. Enjoy amenities like covered picnic areas, beach volleyball courts, basketball courts, showers, restrooms, and the Seaside Cafe.
- Bathtub Beach: Popular for sunning, swimming, and scuba diving in shallow waters around the reef.
- Hobe Sound Beach: Guarded beach with a scenic drive and amenities for a day trip.
- Blowing Rocks Preserve: A limestone shoreline with a rare intact Florida dune habitat, hiking trails, and a chance to swim, snorkel, and scuba dive.
- Curtis Beach: Amenities for fishing, swimming, shelling, and dune walkovers.
- Bob Graham Beach: Undeveloped stretch of sand with good fishing and wildlife viewing area. No lifeguards on duty.
- Fletcher Beach: Unguarded, quiet shores for fishing, swimming, and bathrooms on site.
- Glascock Beach: Beach with amenities for fishing, surfing, shelling, and long walks. Bathrooms on site.
- Ross Witham Beach: Adjacent to the House of Refuge Museum and location of the Georges Valentine Underwater Archaeological Preserve Shipwreck Dive Site, which rests only 100 yards offshore.
- Santa Lucea Beach: Unguarded beach with ample parking and ADA accessibility.
- Tiger Shores Beach: A favorite beach for fishing.
- Chastain Beach: Guarded beach, seasonally with amenities like bathrooms and showers.
- Bryn Mawr Beach: Popular for fishing and wildlife viewing.
- Virginia Forrest Beach: Secluded and serene beach in Stuart, perfect for a quiet day of relaxation and nature appreciation.
- Indian Riverside Park: Family destination park in Jensen Beach, with a beachside location and amenities like playgrounds, fishing, and walking paths.
- Jensen Beach Causeway: A great spot for fishing with a bike path, boat ramps, picnic sites, restrooms, and a playground.
- Stuart Causeway Park: This park provides bike path access, a boat ramp, fishing access, picnic sites, and restrooms.
- St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park: Boat-accessible barrier island with a preserved Atlantic beach, wildlife, hiking trails, and popular for surf fishing.
- Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge: Coastal refuge with sea turtle nesting habitats, nature trails, and the popular sea turtle walk program.
Popular Beaches in Martin County
Most of the popular beaches in Martin County are on Hutchinson Island. Hutchinson Island is a short drive, less than 10 minutes, from downtown Jensen Beach. The island spans a large portion of the Treasure Coast and Martin County only includes the southern island.
South Hutchinson Island is a popular destination for beach-goers and water enthusiasts. There’s no question that South Hutchinson Island has some of the best beaches in Martin County, attracting visitors from all over the world with its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand.
Jensen Beach
Jensen Beach is a popular destination for families and those seeking a relaxed beach experience. This long, wide beach offers plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the sun and surf.
Known officially as Jensen Sea Turtle Beach, but often referred to simply as Jensen Beach, this wide sandy beach on Hutchinson Island is the perfect spot for soaking up the sun. In addition to the breathtaking ocean views, Jensen Beach also offers plenty of amenities to make your day at the beach a comfortable one.
There are several picnic pavilions and volleyball courts available, as well as clean bathrooms and showers. And, when you get hungry, make sure to check out the Sand Dune Café, which is open seven days a week.
Whether you’re a seasoned beach-goer or a first-timer, Jensen Beach has something for everyone. With its beautiful views and convenient facilities, this beach is the perfect place to spend a day with family and friends. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed!
Stuart Beach
Stuart Beach is a popular beach with nearby attractions. This beach is a must-visit for those looking for a fun-filled day at the beach.
Stuart Beach, a public access beach, is located on the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its stunning beauty and serene atmosphere. The park offers a variety of amenities that make it an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo travelers alike. From covered picnic areas and beach volleyball courts to basketball courts and showers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the highlights of this beach is the Seaside Cafe, where you can grab a bite to eat or just relax with a cold drink. The menu features a variety of delicious options, ranging from light snacks to hearty meals. Whether you’re looking to fuel up for a day of activities or want to enjoy a casual lunch, the Seaside Cafe has you covered.
Stuart Beach is also close to several popular attractions, including the Elliott Museum and the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center. This makes it an ideal spot to spend the day after a morning of exploring the area.
Bathtub Beach
Bathtub Beach, located on the south side of the island, is a tranquil spot that is ideal for families and those seeking a more intimate beach experience. The calm waters of Bathtub Beach are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and visitors will find plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun.
Bathtub Beach is a paradise for beach-goers in Martin County. It boasts soft, sandy shores that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Not only that, but the beach is also a popular spot for early morning and evening walks.
If you’re looking to add a little excitement to your beach day, consider exploring the shallow waters offshore where you can go scuba diving. Bathtub Beach gets a fair share of erosion so be sure to check its conditions.
Hobe Sound Beach
Hobe Sound Beach is a hidden gem located on Florida’s beautiful Treasure Coast. This guarded beach is the perfect spot for a peaceful and relaxing day in the sun.
With its lush tree canopy, scenic drive along SE Bridge Rd, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Hobe Sound Beach is a must-visit destination for those looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking to spend the day lounging on the sand, taking a refreshing dip in the ocean, or simply soaking up the beautiful surroundings, Hobe Sound Beach has something to offer everyone. The park also offers amenities such as picnic areas, showers, restrooms, and more, making it an ideal place to spend a day with family and friends.
Blowing Rocks Preserve
Blowing Rocks Preserve is a fantastic spot located along the beautiful Atlantic coast of Florida. With its unique Anastasia limestone shoreline, this preserved sanctuary provides visitors with a rare chance to witness Florida’s natural history in its purest form.
Whether you’re looking to explore the state’s rarest surviving landscapes, such as the Florida dune habitat with its beach sunflower, bay cedar, sea grape, and sea oats, or simply looking to enjoy the water crashing over the rocks, Blowing Rocks Preserve is a must-see.
One of the highlights of the preserve is its well-maintained hiking trails and boardwalks. Each trail is up to 1/3 of a mile long and features interpretative signs that guide visitors through the breathtaking landscapes. If you’re looking to get active, Blowing Rocks Preserve also offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving during specific hours.
The Hawley Education Center is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about the preserve’s efforts to protect native habitats, plants, and animals not only in Florida but around the world. Whether you’re a resident or a tourist passing through, Blowing Rocks Preserve is a unique and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Hidden Gem Beaches in Martin County
Martin County is home to a plethora of beautiful beaches, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful beach experience, look no further than Martin County’s lesser-known beaches.
Hutchinson Island Beaches
Hutchinson Island is a magical place. In addition to the more popular beaches we’ve already discussed, there’s a handful of beaches where you’ll find no crowds on the island. We fell in love with Hutchinson Island the first time we crossed the bridge and drove around.
Take a drive on Highway A1A and you’ll notice beach access points with free parking throughout Hutchinson Island. While these beaches may not have the full amenities of the more popular options, the little pockets of shoreline will let you experience the serene beauty of South Florida…without crowds. And the 4-story rule limits building heights on Hutchinson Island, letting you experience the nature of Old Florida while still being close to all the action.
Curtis Beach
Curtis Beach is a hidden gem that locals love to visit for its serene and unspoiled surroundings. This beach is a perfect destination for those who love fishing, swimming and shelling. If you are a fishing enthusiast, you will enjoy casting your line off the shore and trying to catch a variety of fish species that are abundant in the area.
Swimming in the crystal-clear waters is a must, as the beach offers ample space to soak up the sun and take a dip in the sea. Shelling is another popular activity at Curtis Beach, with a variety of shells and sea creatures washed up on shore, making it a fun treasure hunt for all ages.
For those who love nature, the dune walkovers are a must-visit. These wooden walkways provide stunning views of the dunes and the surrounding landscape and are a great place to enjoy a peaceful stroll. The beach also offers ample parking, making it easy for visitors to find a spot and spend the day in this stunning location.
Bob Graham Beach
Bob Graham Beach is a hidden gem located just south of Jensen Beach on A1A. This beautiful stretch of sand is known for its peaceful and natural atmosphere, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
With its undisturbed and undeveloped shoreline, this beach is also a popular destination for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for various species of birds and other marine animals that call the area home. Just be sure to pack a picnic, as there are no amenities or lifeguards on duty.
Fletcher Beach
Fletcher Beach is a hidden gem for those looking for a quiet and peaceful beach experience. Located on Hutchinson Island, just half a mile south of Stuart Beach on A1A, this unguarded beach offers a serene environment for swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the ocean.
Fletcher Beach is an ideal destination for those who enjoy nature and solitude, as it remains relatively untouched and unspoiled by crowds. You’ll find plenty of room to spread out and relax on the quiet shores, whether you’re fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun.
For those who prefer a more structured beach experience, Fletcher Beach has the bonus of having bathrooms on-site for your convenience. So if you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of more crowded beaches, be sure to add Fletcher Beach to your list of must-visit destinations.
Glascock Beach
Glascock Beach is a hidden gem for those who love the great outdoors! This serene beach is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a quiet getaway. Whether you’re into fishing, surfing, shelling, or simply taking long walks, Glascock Beach has it all.
This beautiful spot is easily accessible from County Line Road and A1A, just north of Jensen Beach Causeway. With the convenience of on-site bathrooms, you’ll have everything you need to spend a day enjoying the sun and the sand.
Ross Witham Beach
Ross Witham Beach is a unique and exciting destination for beach-goers and history lovers alike. Located on the beautiful Treasure Coast, this beach is home to the Georges Valentine Underwater Archaeological Preserve Shipwreck Dive Site. The wreck rests just 100 yards offshore, making it a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers.
This location offers a chance to explore the fascinating history of the area while also enjoying all the activities that come with a day at the beach, like swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Whether you’re an avid diver or simply looking to spend a day at the beach, Ross Witham Beach is a must-visit destination.
Santa Lucea Beach
Santa Lucea Beach is a quiet and unguarded beach that provides ample parking for visitors. One of the unique features of this beach is the 5-acre natural area that visitors can explore, making it perfect for nature lovers.
Santa Lucea Beach is also accessible for people with disabilities, with an ADA-accessible wooden boardwalk leading to the shore.
Tiger Shores Beach
Tiger Shores Beach is located just 2 miles south of Jensen Beach on A1A. The pristine waters and untouched natural beauty make it an ideal destination for fishing and enjoying the beach. Visitors can cast a line, take a stroll along the shoreline, or simply soak up the sun.
Chastain Beach
Chastain Beach is a beautiful natural beach that offers plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the tranquility of the ocean. This guarded beach is a great spot for families and individuals who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax by the water.
Chastain Beach has lifeguards depending on the season. The beach is also equipped with bathrooms and showers, making it easy to freshen up after a long day of playing in the sand.
Located between the House of Refuge and Bathtub Reef along A1A, Chastain Beach is easily accessible and offers plenty of parking. This beautiful beach is perfect for those who are looking to spend their day sunbathing, swimming, and soaking up the serene surroundings.
Bryn Mawr Beach
Bryn Mawr Beach is a quiet spot and great for beach photography. If you’re in the mood for a scenic day by the water, surrounded by the beauty of nature, this is the perfect spot for you. This charming beach is known for its fantastic fishing opportunities and is a hot spot for those who love to watch and admire the local wildlife.
Located just one mile south of Jensen Beach on Highway A1A, Bryn Mawr Beach is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re here to cast your line, relax in the sun, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery, you won’t be disappointed.
Virginia Forrest Beach
Virginia Forrest Beach is in Stuart, Florida, and offers a break from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. It’s a great option for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time by the ocean.
The secluded location of this beach ensures that you can have the sand and waves all to yourself, making it an ideal spot for a romantic picnic or just to unwind and relax. Virginia Forrest Beach is great for beachcombing, birdwatching, or taking long walks along the shore.
Martin County Parks with Beaches
Martin County is home to several beautiful parks with beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring nature. From Indian Riverside Park to the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, there are plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the sunshine and the great outdoors.
Indian Riverside Park
Indian Riverside Park is a hidden gem in Jensen Beach, perfect for families looking for a day filled with fun and adventure. This is one of our favorite spots for our kids!
The park is on the stunning Indian River Lagoon, offering visitors a walking path, a fishing pier, and a lovely beach. The park is home to several facilities that are accessible to everyone, including picnic sites, restrooms, and a dockside pavilion.
If you’re looking to spend time in the water, the interactive water play area is the perfect place for kids and adults alike.
While you’re at IRSP, be sure to take a tour of the historic Mansion at Tuckahoe or Captain Henry Sewall’s Home, which are both located within the park.
If you’re interested in sailing or boating, IRSP is also home to the U.S. Sailing Center of Martin County.
If you’re traveling with kids, IRSP is an ideal destination as it’s also home to The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast, which offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for children.
With so much to see and do, Indian Riverside Park is a must-visit for families looking to experience the beauty and excitement of Martin County. So, pack a picnic, grab the sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy a fun-filled day at Indian Riverside Park!
Jensen Beach Causeway
Ah, the Jensen Beach Causeway! If you’re a fan of fishing, this is the spot for you. The causeway is a prime location for anglers of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting. With plenty of space to spread out and cast your line, you’re sure to have a great time reeling in the big one.
But fishing isn’t the only activity you can enjoy at the Jensen Beach Causeway. Take a leisurely bike ride or walk on the bike path, and enjoy the stunning views of the water and surrounding area. If you’re feeling adventurous, launch your boat from one of the ramps and explore the surrounding waters.
For families with kids, the causeway has a playground and picnic sites, so you can enjoy a day out with the whole family. And with restrooms available, you won’t have to worry about finding a place to go when nature calls.
Stuart Causeway Park
Stuart Causeway Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a scenic place to relax. Located in Stuart, Florida, this park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.
With a bike path, boat ramp, fishing access, picnic sites, and restrooms, this park is the perfect place to spend a day. Whether you’re fishing for your dinner or simply taking a stroll along the bike path, you’re sure to enjoy the beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park is accessible only by boat and located on a classic Florida barrier island. Visitors can explore the unique flora and fauna of the island through a boardwalk that takes them across mangrove forests and hammocks of live oaks.
During the summer, the island is an important nesting area for loggerheads, leatherbacks, and green turtles. The preserve is popular among nature students and beach-goers, who come to swim, sunbathe, or picnic at the pavilion on the quiet beach.
The park also offers great surf fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving opportunities, as well as fully equipped showers, camping, restrooms, and a nature center. Open from 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year, St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for those who love nature and wildlife. This coastal refuge is bisected by the Indian River Lagoon and covers over 1000 acres of land, including a 735-acre Jupiter Island portion that is one of the most productive sea turtle nesting habitats in the United States.
At the Hobe Sound Nature Center, visitors can enjoy on and off-site native wildlife presentations and field experiences. Hike the nature trails to explore the estuaries, barrier islands, and sand pine scrub.
One of the most popular events is the sea turtle walk program, held on warm summer nights from the end of May through mid-July. Reservations are required, so make sure to plan ahead.
Whether you’re just visiting or looking for a new nature spot to explore, Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge has something for everyone. Take a scenic drive to the refuge and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Florida coast. With camping, restrooms, and showers available, this is the perfect place for a nature getaway.
Beaches Worth the Drive from Martin County
Looking to explore beyond the borders of Martin County? There are plenty of beaches worth the drive just a short distance away. Whether you’re looking for a dog-friendly beach, a spot to catch some waves, or just a quiet place to unwind, these nearby beaches are sure to please.
From Walton Rocks Beach in St. Lucie County to Waveland Beach in Port St. Lucie, to Palm Beach County and beyond, there are plenty of options to choose from. So pack your beach gear, hop in the car, and get ready for a day of fun in the sun!
Walton Rocks Beach
Walton Rocks Beach is the ultimate destination for dog owners and their furry friends looking for a day of fun in the sun. This unique beach is located near the power plant and is the only one in St. Lucie County that allows dogs to run off-leash.
With 24 acres of beach property, there is plenty of room for dogs to play and enjoy the sand and surf. In addition to the spacious, dog-friendly beach, Walton Rocks also offers covered picnic tables, restrooms, and plenty of space for picnicking and relaxation.
So, if you’re in the area and looking for a fun day with your furry friend, be sure to check out Walton Rocks Beach. The park offers a great opportunity to spend time with your pet while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the Florida coastline.
Waveland Beach
Waveland Beach is a hidden gem in St. Lucie County, Florida. Located at the southernmost point of the county, it offers a unique and peaceful beach experience that is hard to come by. With a guarded beach, visitors can feel safe and secure while they soak up the sun and enjoy the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
For those who love to be active, Waveland Beach offers a great environment for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, and surfing. With plenty of open space for picnicking, playing beach games, or just relaxing, there is something for everyone.
The beach is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it attracts a variety of seabirds and shorebirds to the area. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting, Waveland Beach is a great place to see some of Florida’s most fascinating feathered friends.
So if you’re looking for a secluded, peaceful beach experience that offers plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure, be sure to check out Waveland Beach in St. Lucie County. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this hidden gem is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
Palm Beach County, St. Lucie County & Other Beaches
All the beaches listed above are worth a visit for those seeking to enjoy the beauty of Florida’s coastlines. Each of these beaches offers a unique experience, from the upscale luxury of Jupiter Island to the natural beauty of Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
Jupiter Island is a pristine, secluded beach that is perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway. The island is known for its luxurious homes and crystal-clear waters, making it the ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Juno Beach is another great option for those seeking a quiet, peaceful beach day. With soft, white sand and calm waters, this beach is perfect for families with young children or those looking to relax and unwind.
Palm Beach is a more upscale destination, offering a wide variety of restaurants, shops, and activities. Whether you want to spend the day lounging on the sand or exploring the local area, Palm Beach is a great choice.
Peanut Island is a popular destination for boaters and beachgoers alike, offering a picnic area, camping grounds, and a snorkeling trail. This island is a must-visit for those seeking an adventurous beach day.
Blind Creek Beach is a secluded, clothing-optional beach that offers a more private experience. This beach is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed, natural atmosphere.
Dollman Park is a great option for families, offering a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. The park also has a beach area, making it the perfect spot for a family beach day.
Finally, Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a must-visit for those seeking to experience Florida’s natural beauty. With hiking trails, campsites, and a beach area, this park is perfect for a more adventurous beach day.
No matter which of these beaches you choose, you are sure to have a great time and enjoy the beauty of Florida’s coastlines.
Recap of the best beaches in Martin County
Martin County is a coastal paradise for beach lovers and sun seekers. With a variety of beaches, from the popular and bustling Hutchinson Island Beaches to the serene and peaceful Hidden Gem Beaches, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun in the sun with your family and friends or a relaxing day of solitude, Martin County has you covered.
In conclusion, Martin County, Florida is the perfect place to spend your beach vacation. With so many beautiful and diverse beaches to choose from, you’re sure to have an amazing time. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, we hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to plan your perfect beach day.
So grab your sunscreen, towel, and beach gear, and head out to discover the best beaches in Martin County. Happy beach-going!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the beaches on Hutchinson Island nice?
Yes, the beaches on Hutchinson Island are known for their natural beauty and pristine condition. With miles of unspoiled coastline and crystal-clear waters, the beaches offer visitors a chance to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as swimming, fishing, and surfing. Hutchinson Island also has a reputation for being less crowded than other popular beach destinations, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a more peaceful and secluded beach experience.
Are beaches in Martin County dog-friendly?
Yes, there are several dog-friendly beaches in Martin County. Hobe Sound Beach and Stuart Beach both have designated areas where dogs are allowed on a leash. Additionally, Walton Rocks Beach and Jupiter Beach Park, both located just outside of Martin County, allow dogs off a leash. Be sure to check local regulations and any restrictions before bringing your furry friend to the beach.
Is alcohol allowed on the beach in Martin County?
Yes, alcohol is allowed on Martin County beaches. Alcohol consumption on the beach in Martin County is generally not permitted west of the coastal dune line. Therefore, you must physically be on the beach and in the sand to consume an alcoholic beverage. And avoid glass containers. For more information, check the current regulations.
Can I have a bonfire on any Martin County beach?
No, not all Martin County beaches permit bonfires. Bonfires are only permitted at designated fire pits on Hobe Sound Beach, Jensen Beach, and Stuart Beach. However, the bonfires must be extinguished by 9 PM and beach fire permits are required. Additionally, fires are not permitted during sea turtle nesting season, which is from March 1st through October 31st.
