Spring in Martin County: Eco-Tours, Hidden Beaches, and Coastal Adventures Along Florida’s Treasure Coast

Spring in Martin County is when nature takes center stage, and visitors are invited to take part. Timed around the City Nature Challenge (April 24-27), travelers can join locals in documenting flora and fauna across the region, from coastal shorelines to inland preserves and everywhere in between. It’s an easy, meaningful way to connect with the destination, especially when paired with complimentary guided eco-tours through Explore Natural Martin—our award-winning ecotourism program developed in partnership with Leave No Trace. These experiences offer insider access to some of our most pristine natural areas while promoting responsible recreation, sustainable travel, and conservation.

Of course, spring is also prime time to enjoy Martin County’s uncrowded beaches. Thanks to a long-standing four-story building height restriction, the coastline remains refreshingly low-key, with a hidden gem feel that’s increasingly rare to find in Florida. Visitors can explore a mix of free beaches (all open 24/7) and guarded public access points that offer complimentary rolling beach wheelchairs for added accessibility. Spend the day exploring Tiger Shores Beach, catching the sunrise at Stuart Beach, or discovering the dramatic limestone formations at The Nature Conservancy’s Blowing Rocks Preserve. For families and snorkelers, Bathtub Reef Beach offers calm, shallow waters and one of the most unique nearshore reef systems in the state.

As temperatures begin to warm, there’s no better way to stay cool than by getting out on the water. Spring is ideal for booking an aquatic adventure, whether that’s a sunset sail along the Intracoastal, an offshore fishing excursion, a paddle adventure through local waterways, or even checking a new skill off your list, like learning to scuba dive or waterskiing lessons at the iconic Hobe Lake Ski Club. With calm conditions and golden-hour views, it’s a season made for making the most of Martin County’s blue spaces.

Beyond the shoreline, the destination’s attractions offer a deeper look at its history, culture, and coastal ecosystems. Explore classic cars and local heritage at the Elliott Museum, get hands-on with marine life at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, or connect with native wildlife at the Hobe Sound Nature Center. This year also marks the 150th anniversary of the House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar. It’s the last remaining structure of its kind on Florida’s east coast, originally built to shelter shipwreck survivors along a once-treacherous stretch of shoreline. Following extensive restorations, it is slated to reopen to the public this spring. And for a touch of classic charm, catch a performance at The Lyric Theatre, which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. For an unforgettable vacation, book a waterfront stay at properties like Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa, the newly reimagined Marriott Hutchinson Island Resort & Beach Villas, Golf & Marina, or Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina.

House of Refuge