Hidden gem, Florida destination, ranked among America's best small coastal towns
Florida has no shortage of desirable tourist destinations, but one small town is quietly gathering acclaim without ever going under the radar.
But this Treasure Coast gem has only begun to shine brighter since being named America's best small coastal town.
Stuart, in Martin County, has long been known among saltwater anglers for the abundant sailfish populations found in the fertile waters off the St. Lucie River.
But as the town's attractions inland spread, its population of 18,000 is likely to grow.
“Most residents would say living in Stuart, Florida feels like being on vacation forever,” notes Treasure Coast MLS Search.
The town is the oldest and perhaps best known for its fame as the “Sailfish Capital of America” dating back to 1938, attracting generations of saltwater fishing enthusiasts.
But the charms of the interior, long overlooked, are finally beginning to surface.
The town has the oldest and perhaps best known claim to fame as the “Sailfish Capital of America,” dating back to 1938 when a group of sportswriters were invited on a fishing trip and over 1,000 sailfish were landed.
“In the 1940s and '50s, this was one of the most prolific sailfish fisheries in the world,” Capt. V.J. Bell told Florida Travel & Life magazine.
“And we still have some of the best fishing anywhere here, with some days where we might even catch double-digit sailfish.”
Most recently, Visit Florida named it “America's Happiest Seaside Town,” and the town was thrust into the spotlight earlier this year when USA Today named it America's Best Small Coastal Town.
Stuart beat out competitors such as Pismo Beach, California; Saugatuck, Michigan; and Newport, Rhode Island, by offering “a tranquility and charm that is hard to find in more densely populated areas.”
“When you think of Stuart, the first thing that comes to mind is the abundance of water,” says local real estate agent Maria Wells.
“Stuart boasts breathtaking natural beauty, including pristine beaches, beautiful waterways and lush vegetation.”
Eight separate beaches and the Sailfish Splash Waterpark add to the appeal, along with Discover Martin County's claim that it has “the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere.”
The Banyan Tree Tunnel on St. Lucie Avenue is an unparalleled commuter option for some.
The Stuart Heritage Museum explores the town's history, which dates back to Spanish pirate ships.
The town has a population of fewer than 20,000, but is seeing growing interest from homebuyers.
The city's riverside walk offers beach views for those who don't want to get their feet wet.
100 artificial reefs create habitat for more than 800 species of fish, ensuring the sailfish don't get complacent.
The town's abundance of aquatic life also makes it the perfect home base for the Florida Marine and Coastal Center, which has been educating visitors about the reef's bounty since 1964.
The city's elevated riverside promenade allows you to see the beach without getting your feet wet, and the Lyric Theatre, Stuart Heritage Museum and Elliot Museum are part of a vibrant cultural scene.
Country music star Jason Aldean made waves in 2022 when he purchased a waterfront mansion in the Galleon Bay area for $10.2 million.
But most homes remain somewhat affordable, with a median price of $406,128, up 1.5 percent from last year, according to Zillow.
Reviews on the website bestplaces.net seem to back up that praise.
“The town still has a 'small town' feel, low crime rate and good schools,” one person wrote.
“It's a great place for kids to grow up, taxes are low and property values are finally starting to recover.”
“Stuart is the place to go when you want to relax and have fun without the hassle of crowds,” another wrote. “If that's what you're looking for, I guarantee you won't be disappointed.”
Sailfish Splash Water Park is one of the most popular family attractions in town.
The town's St. Lucie River has been hailed as “the most biodiverse estuary in the Northern Hemisphere.”
The median home price is currently $406,128, up 1.5% in the last year, according to Zillow.
“Lovely place to live,” concluded a third.
“My neighbors and I always get together casually and sit on each other’s patios and chat.
“The kids are all playing together and as long as they're on our street they're free to play, which is great.”
“There are too many strange bugs and horrible poisonous frogs, but it's still good.”
