Martin: Nature, Waterways and Culture
Accommodation in Martin
Martin County’s designated paddling trails extend for 37.7 miles along the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie River. An additional 2.6-mile branch runs through St. Lucie Inlet State Park. These route distances provide a concrete measure of the waterways portion of your trip; nature trails, museums and historic sites offer different points of interest.
Waterways and Protected Landscapes
On land, too, nature destinations differ in their trails and landscapes. Kiplinger Preserve covers 164 acres. Its one-mile trail passes through pine flatwoods, mangroves and freshwater marshes; a boardwalk leads to the St. Lucie River. A floating dock is available for fishing and launching kayaks or canoes. Peck Lake Park is a 70-acre preserve on the Indian River Lagoon. Its trail, just under a mile long, runs mostly along a boardwalk to the lagoon and ends at an observation platform with a covered pavilion for wildlife viewing.
Comparing the two trails can help you choose a nature experience: Kiplinger Preserve focuses on passing through several habitats, access to the river and the floating dock. At Peck Lake, the mostly boardwalk trail and observation platform lead to the lagoon and wildlife viewing. Peck Lake Park also offers pine flatwoods, baygall wetlands, oak hammocks and mangrove forest.
The lagoon trail at Peck Lake Park has its own destination point: a covered observation platform. Twin Rivers Park, meanwhile, offers walking opportunities, docks and a large lawn. The park is located at the St. Lucie Inlet and the Indian River Lagoon. This gives you a choice between a trail with a designated observation point and a park with waterfront access and open spaces.
Wildlife and Coast
Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge includes the largest continuous stretch of undeveloped beach in southeastern Florida. It is also considered one of the most productive sea turtle nesting areas in the southeastern United States. Its importance for coastal conservation distinguishes the refuge from trails and parks, where the route or visitor facilities are more central.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers another natural setting: it is the largest state park in southeastern Florida and encompasses 16 natural habitats. The Loxahatchee River runs through the park; it is Florida’s first federally designated Wild and Scenic River. Ranger-led tours of 1930s pioneer homestead Trapper Nelson’s take place by pontoon boat. Check tour availability before your trip.
Museums and Local History
The Elliott Museum brings together local history and a range of collections: exhibits on local history are on display alongside collections devoted to classic cars, baseball, art and Americana. A notable exhibit is the 1889 Elliott Hickory Quadricycle, the first vehicle to use Elliott’s steering system. Free guide ID devices are available to visitors in English, French, Spanish and German; check availability in advance.
Captain Henry Sewall’s House was built in 1889 as the home of local pioneer and developer Henry E. Sewall. After years of restoration by Martin County, it opened to the public in November 2012. The house is located in Indian Riverside Park, which offers about half a mile of waterfront, walking trails, a fishing pier, an interactive water-play fountain, picnic pavilions and a butterfly garden. The historic opening date describes the house’s history; check current access for a specific visit.
The House of Refuge is the oldest structure in Martin County. Its public reopening status may change during restoration work, so check current access before visiting. The shipwreck Georges Valentine lies 100 yards offshore from the House of Refuge. An entry point accessible on foot allows for diving or snorkeling; check conditions at the shore before entering the water.
Experiences for Different Travel Interests
The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center occupies a 57-acre site between the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon. The grounds include nature trails, a 750,000-gallon Game Fish Lagoon and visitor pavilions. Visitors can touch a stingray in an interactive touch exhibit. Check operating details before your trip.
In Jensen Beach, the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast is located in Indian Riverside Park. Interactive exhibits and programs offer hands-on learning for children and families. The “Fishing & Boating” exhibit explores natural resources and boating safety through interactive activities; check its availability before your visit. The museum visit thus complements the nature and history themes with a hands-on experience.
Discover more destinations: Stuart, Jensen Beach, Port Mayaca, Palm City, Indiantown, Hobe Sound
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