Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Stuart, Florida

Fletcher Beach is a serene and picturesque destination located on South Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida. It is known for its beige sand and rocky portions, composed of limestone, which offer a unique landscape for exploration. The beach is ideal for those seeking a quieter experience compared to other nearby beaches in Martin County. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as sunbathing, beachcombing, wildlife watching, and water sports like surfing and kayaking. The beach is also a seasonal nesting spot for sea turtles, adding to its natural charm. Fletcher Beach is accessible via a small free parking lot located near 45 North East MacArthur Boulevard.

One of the highlights of Fletcher Beach is its pristine and often empty coastline, making it perfect for photography and relaxation. The beach's proximity to the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center and other local attractions enhances its appeal for nature lovers and those interested in marine life.

The area around Fletcher Beach offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, making it a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.

Bathtub Reef Beach, located on the northern tip of Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida, is a beloved destination for families and locals alike. The beach is renowned for its clear waters and soft sand, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and water activities. A coral reef just offshore creates a calm, shallow area perfect for children to play and for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts to explore. The beach has been featured in National Geographic magazine and offers a serene atmosphere, enhanced by the surrounding dune grasses and sea oats. It is also known for its unique 'bathtub-like' conditions during low tide, which are both safe and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

The beach underwent significant renovations to protect it from erosion and enhance its facilities, including the addition of new sand dunes and a substantial amount of sand. This makeover ensures the beach remains a vibrant and safe spot for years to come.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from sunbathing and beachcombing to more adventurous pursuits like surfing and kayaking. The nearby St. Lucie Inlet offers additional opportunities for exploration and scenic views.

Santa Lucea Beach, located on the southern end of Hutchinson Island near Stuart, Florida, is a serene five-acre natural area with beige sand and rocky portions. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a less crowded beach experience. The beach is known for its scenic views and natural beauty, making it perfect for activities like sunbathing, beachcombing, and wildlife watching. Santa Lucea Beach is also a seasonal nesting spot for sea turtles between March 1 and October 31. The beach's proximity to Stuart provides easy access to local attractions and amenities.

The beach itself is unguarded, meaning there are no lifeguards, but it does offer showers and boardwalks, including ADA-accessible paths. Dogs on leashes are allowed, though the beach is generally not considered family-friendly due to the lack of restrooms and nearby food options.

Visitors often enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of Santa Lucea Beach, making it a great spot for relaxation and outdoor activities like surfing and kayaking.

Virginia Forrest Beach is a serene and secluded beach located on South Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida. It features light-brown sand and is surrounded by dense coastal vegetation, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation and nature appreciation. The beach is ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape from urban life, with its serene waves and picturesque backdrop of oceanfront homes.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including sunbathing, beachcombing, and wildlife watching. The beach is also popular for water sports like surfing, kayaking, and fishing. However, it's important to be cautious of the unpredictable rip currents when entering the water.
The beach does not have lifeguards or extensive amenities, but it does allow dogs on leashes, making it a pet-friendly destination.