Tucked away on the Treasure Coast of South Florida just north of Palm Beach, Martin County offers visitors a laid-back destination that’s perfect for a romantic retreat. Lovebirds flock to this hidden gem year-round for its diverse mix of romantic properties, restaurants and activities. Building restrictions limit structures to four stories, preserving breathtaking views throughout the county, combining sophisticated coastal charm accented with Key West whimsy.
Mild Florida winters are ideal for unplugging and exploring the area’s state parks, nature preserves and National Wildlife Refuge that surround visitors with natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Be sure to check out their award-winning ecotourism program, Explore Natural Martin. Visitors can sign up in advance for free guided eco-tours through the area’s outdoor wonders.
There are also plenty of ways to explore this dreamy destination by water. Treasure Coast Sailing Adventures is a local family-owned day sailing company that offers private and public sailing excursions on the St. Lucie River and Indian River estuaries. They specialize in gaff-rigged classic sailing vessels, often modelled after fishing and cargo boats used in a bygone era. Book a romantic sunset sailing aboard their 6-passenger boat to view wildlife in their natural habitat without the disruption of an engine.
From luxurious stays to quaint escapes, Martin County offers an impressive range of romantic lodging options to suit every style and price point. The Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa in Jensen Beach was named one the “Top 20 Resorts in Florida” in the 2021 Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Couples searching for breathtaking oceanfront views, spa and massage services and outdoor heated pools find bliss here, along with oceanfront dining at Drift Kitchen + Bar.
Others fall in love with the irresistible charm of the Old Colorado Inn in Stuart, with its collection of 1890-1914 buildings just a short walk from waterfront fine dining, shopping, and entertainment at the grand Lyric Theatre. Tucked away in Indiantown, the heart of Florida’s citrus and cattle industry, The Seminole Inn captures the rustic grandeur of “Old Florida.” The inn’s famous Windsor Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and Sunday Brunch via reservations. Click for more ideas on where to stay.
In a county known for its food, there’s one way to solve the delicious dining dilemma. The Flavor Excursion is a one-of-a-kind tour that rivets the senses with interesting history and delicious food at some of Downtown Stuart’s best restaurants. Learn all about a ruthless pirate, Stuart’s own Bonnie and Clyde, a speakeasy and more while grazing around the endlessly charming, award-winning historic Downtown Stuart waterfront district. Click for more dining ideas.
For something a touch more out-of-the-box, book a Sound Vibrational Healing at the Elliott Museum. This ancient healing practice uses sound to reduce anxiety and downshift the nervous system. Part of the museum’s new HI Mindfulness Forums program, Singing Crystal Bowl Vibration Healing Sessions use a collection of crystal sound bowls, rain drums, and other instruments to help people unwind and reconnect. During this hour-long session, participants get comfortable and surrender to the sounds while finding a rhythmic breathing pattern. You’ll leave with a sense of inner peace, elevated mood, improved creativity, and deeper appreciation for the wonder of sound.
The scenic drives of Bridge Road, The Grade, and St. Lucie Blvd appear to be plucked from the pages of a fairytale. Wind through towering tree tunnels and discover some incredible photo ops – especially when the light hits just right at dawn and during sunsets. Blowing Rocks Preserve in Hobe Sound is easily one of the coolest of Martin County’s uncrowded beaches. During extreme high tides and after winter storms, seas break against and inside the otherworldly limestone rock formations and force plumes of saltwater 50 feet skyward. It’s unlike any place on the Eastern coast and often ranks among the best beaches and most unique spots in Florida. DiscoverMartin.com
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