Hobe Sound: Nature, Coast and Murals

Hobe Sound combines coastal scenery, protected nature and murals as distinct themes for trip planning. The Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, mangroves along the Indian River Lagoon and two nature preserves in Hobe Sound invite you to look beyond the beach. Hobe Sound Beach adds its own coastal touch with white sand and blue water. When planning a stay, you can think of Hobe Sound in terms of nature, wildlife, the beach and art, and tailor your hotel search to your travel interests.

A refuge between the beach, lagoon and mangroves

The Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge encompasses the largest contiguous 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. Nearly 40 species classified as endangered, threatened or of special concern are protected there. Along the Indian River Lagoon, the refuge encompasses almost 10 miles of mangrove stands. The refuge’s character is shaped both by its coastline and by its work to protect species and habitats.

Nature trail and visitor information

In the refuge, a nature trail more than half a mile long winds through scrubby flatwoods and tropical hardwood forest to a beach on the Indian River Lagoon. The trail thus connects three distinct landscape features: scrubland, forest and shoreline. The refuge’s headquarters and visitor center are in Hobe Sound on U.S. Federal Highway 1, two miles south of Bridge Road (State Road 708). The Hobe Sound Nature Center offers educational programs, including turtle walks; schedules may vary. If you are interested in a program, check the current schedule before your trip.

Two preserves with different focuses

The two nature preserves in Hobe Sound also offer different points of interest. Kitching Creek Preserve covers 51 acres and is used by native wildlife, including alligators, otters, songbirds, birds of prey and various shorebird species. Hobe Sound Scrub Preserve is smaller, at 28 acres, and consists almost entirely of rare scrubby flatwoods; it is located on an ancient sand dune. The comparison helps distinguish their themes: Kitching Creek Preserve is notable for the range of wildlife groups mentioned, while Hobe Sound Scrub Preserve is defined by its characteristic landscape of scrubby flatwoods on an ancient dune.

Murals and the beach in Hobe Sound

Hobe Sound’s murals include 17 large-scale works created by 40 artists and more than 100 local volunteers. The murals offer a distinct cultural theme alongside the nature preserves. Hobe Sound Beach has white sand and blue water; its coastal scenery can be considered independently of the protected areas.

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Next, search for hotels in Hobe Sound and compare the specific details of available offers with your personal requirements.

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