Treasure Coast — Beachcomber Pete Travel Adventures

Hobe Sound, Florida

Hobe Sound, Florida, has a most unusual beach named Blowing Rocks Preserve, which is a small 73 acre area with rocks instead of the usual Florida sand. When the Atlantic Ocean wind drives the water through the holes in the limestone, the spray sometimes flies as high as 50 feet. This is a beachcombers dream because there are thousands of gorgeous seashells that can be gathered to take home and treasure. There is a quarter mile that is not rocky, and here approximately 500 turtle nests are dug every year by leatherback, green and loggerhead turtles.

Residents from nearby Jupiter Island gave this parcel to the Nature Conservancy back in 1969, and since then volunteers have restored 42 acres by weeding out invasive trees and planting sabal palms, palmettos, mangroves and other native ones instead. The preserve’s nursery’s seeds were responsible for many of these trees.

The Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is halfway between Port St. Lucie and West Palm Beach on Florida’s Treasure Coast . It is situated on a barrier island down the dead-end North Beach Road, so it is a surprise when you find over five miles of unspoiled shore lined with seashells and vegetation, a wooden observation platform on top of a dune, and a beach filled with turtle nests. If you go by bicycle, entrance is free; there is a charge of $5.00 per person if you are in a vehicle. You can walk to St. Lucie River Inlet.

The Hobe Sound Nature Center is located at the National Wildlife Refuge right on the Intercoastal. It is a non-profit private organization that cooperates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is dedicated to the education and awareness of the environment. There are 43 steps down to its lovely beach. There are trails to walk on and warm waters for the kids to play in while the parents can sit on the beach, enjoy the sun and watch the boats go by. A popular annual event is the “sea turtle walk” from the end of May to mid-July.

The Coral Cove Park is a must for surfers and for those who like to view spectacular rock formations. You must watch out for sharks, however, because there are many in the nearby Jupiter Inlet.

Filed Under: featured, Florida, Hobe Sound, Jupiter, Treasure Coast, United States

Avalon State Park, Florida

Avalon State Park in Florida is a wonderful destination for those wanting to enjoy an undeveloped beach, an increasingly rare find in Florida. Avalon State Park is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast on North Hutchinson Island, just 4 miles north of Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and the Fort Pierce downtown area. Visitors will discover over a mile of sandy beach along crystal clear water offering great activities, relaxation, and a glimpse of native wildlife.

There are several ways to enjoy this area. Avalon State Park’s beach is ideal for sunbathing under the Florida sun. Swimmers will love the firm sandy floor and beautiful surroundings, while snorkeling is an extra special treat. The water is as clear as in the Bahamas, and it is home to a wonderful tropical world of sea life. Kayaking and canoeing is a very popular activity, as one can start off from the beach. Simply carry your craft out 30 to 40 feet, and enjoy a relaxing cruise atop the water.

All visitors enjoying water activities are asked to be careful around steel and concrete obstacles found under water. Left by the United States Navy’s training during World War II; it is an example of the beaches rich history.

Avalon State Park is one of Florida’s best places for fishing from the shore. Fish can actually be seen migrating past during certain seasons of the year. Catch one of the several native species such as Snook, Bluefish, Red or Black Drums, Permit, Pompano, or Whiting.

Many people come to experience the native Florida wildlife found in Avalon State Park. This area is the ideal habitat for several species. Sea turtles are the most popular animal found along the water’s edge. They can be found nesting along the beaches during the spring, including the endangered loggerhead, leatherback, and Atlantic Green. Although they are interesting and fun to see, do not disturb them. That way they will survive for future generations to observe.

One of the best things about this beach is all the features to make your visit convenient from start to finish. Located near the parking lot are four pavilions for picnicking. Along with the sheltered tables, grills are also provided. After a day of exploring the entire beach, there are two showers found near the restrooms where one can clean up before heading home. Facilities are all ADA accessible. A beach wheelchair is available for use at no charge.

Filed Under: Avalon State Park, featured, Florida, Fort Pierce, Treasure Coast, United States

Boca Raton, Florida

Boca Raton, Florida is a city on Florida Treasure Coast whose name is synonymous with wealth and leisure. This city of 80,000 offers visitors beautiful beaches, shopping, restaurants, museums and a variety of entertainments. The warm year-round climate and ever-present sunshine makes Boca Raton a community that visitors of all ages can enjoy.

The Tequesta Indians were the first to inhabit the area of Florida that would become Boca Raton. However, it was the Spanish explorers that gave the city its name. The name Boca Raton comes from the Spanish boca, meaning “mouth” and raton, meaning “mouse” or “rat.” These words were used in sailing terms to mean an inlet with jagged rocks. This name was found on old maps of the Florida coast.

The first person to settle the area was a man named T.M. Rickards who built a house of driftwood in 1895 and began to sell land in the area. When the railway came in the 1800s, the area was opened up to settlers and entrepreneurs. Japanese immigrants came to the area in 1905. The town was incorporated in 1925, when the Florida land boom was at its peak. Architect Addison Mizner chose Boca Raton as the place to build a world-class resort community. As land prices fell, the town became known for the agricultural produce that was grown in the surrounding area. Florida Atlantic University and IBM came to the area and provided educational and employment opportunities.. Over the decades, the city of Boca Raton grew into the prestigious community it is today.

Sugar Sand Park offers a fun time for families with nature trails, a carousel, a science playground and science exploratorium. Red Reef Park is an oceanfront park with swimming, camping, fishing, snorkeling and nature trails. The Coconut Cover Waterpark offers a wave pool, water slides, tube slide and kiddie pools.

Mizner Park offers an urban setting with upscale dining, movies, amphitheater and shopping. Try the Town Center Mall for your favorite stores, like Macy’s, Nordstrom’s, Saks and Bloomingdale’s. Downtown Boca Baton has a number of specialty shops and boutiques for your shopping pleasure.

The Boca Raton Museum of Art houses collections of modern, African Tribal and Pre-Columbian art for visitors. Try a night hike at the Daggerwing Nature Center to learn more about the wild inhabitants of the Boca Raton area. Or try your skills on any of the areas golf courses for an enjoyable day in Florida’s famous sunshine.

Filed Under: Boca Raton, featured, Florida, North America, Treasure Coast, United States

Jupiter, Florida

What comes to mind when you think of traveling to Jupiter, Florida? Probably beaches! Located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, Jupiter offers a year-round temperate climate, breathtaking scenery, and many outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can spend the day shopping in nearby Palm Beach or trek through the swamps for a day of bird watching and up-close and personal turtle and alligator sightings. Located in Palm Beach County, Florida, Jupiter was originally incorporated in 1925. The town’s unique name is the result of a big misunderstanding. Originally named after the Hobe Indian tribe, an early mapmaker mistook the Spanish spelling of “Jobe” for “Jove.” Future mapmakers compounded the mistake, understanding Jove to be the Latin version of Jupiter, the Roman god of sun light, weather, and the sky, and the name “Jupiter” stuck.

Today Jupiter is generally known for its most notable landmark, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, originally built in 1860. Made of brick painted a striking red, the lighthouse is frequently used as the symbol of Jupiter. In addition to its popular lighthouse, Jupiter is also known as home to spring training facilities for the Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals. Sporting events are also frequently held at the Palm Beach International Raceway. The town is also the site of the Burt Reynolds and friends Museum, which houses the Florida Film and Theater Institute, and offers tours of hundreds of Burt Reynolds artifacts and memorabilia.

What tourists and locals alike value most about Jupiter, Florida is its outdoor recreation opportunities. Bicycling, fishing, kayaking, and surfing all entice residents and visitors to the area’s beaches and state parks. Blowing Rocks Preserve, located along the Hobe Sound, features limestone beach side formations that often spout saltwater geysers as waves hit the beach. Rare local flora also abounds at this passive preserve. Canoe and kayaking adventures can be undertaken from Canoe Outfitters of Florida, located in Riverbend Park, which offers one-way canoe rentals down the scenic Loxahatchee River with return transportation. Outdoor enthusiasts can also set out from the Jupiter Outdoor Center, which offers bicycling, kayaking, and birding adventures. Another treat is a visit to the Marinelife Center of Juno Beach, which boasts one of the world’s most active sea turtle nesting sites. The Center offers education and aquarium exhibits open to the public as part of its mission to research and rehabilitated protected and endangered sea turtle species.

Filed Under: Florida, Florida, Jupiter, North America, Treasure Coast, United States

Pompano Beach, Florida

Pompano Beach, Florida is a city located along the Atlantic coast, just north of Fort Lauderdale. There are numerous public and private beaches in the Pompano Beach area, and each has something unique to offer visitors. Surfing, fishing and family fun are all part of the landscape along the Florida Treasure Coast.

For sand and sea on a budget, plan a day at Pompano Public Beach. Open every day of the year, this beach has lifeguards on duty from 9:00 am until 4:45 pm. Public restrooms and showers are available for guests. The picnic area is easily accessible to the beach and is equipped with shelter houses, picnic tables and grills. The addition of a children's playground will help families get more mileage our of their day at the beach. Take a walk along the pier, or throw a line over and relax as you wait for the daily catch. The shop on the pier offers snacks, drinks and live bait.

Pompano Beach Lighthouse, Pompano Beach, Florida

Close to Pompano Beach, is the historical Hollywood Beach Boardwalk. The boardwalk extends for 2.5 miles of the seven mile beach, and is home to many popular restaurants and shops. Couples can dine by the shore as they listen to live entertainment from the Hollywood Beach Theater. First-rate diving and surf instruction are available, and the appetites of the adventurous can be satisfied by taking a parasailing cruise.

Hillsboro Beach is home to the most powerful lighthouse on the east coast. Beachcombers come to enjoy the historical view, as well as assist the sea turtle advocates during nesting season. See the statue of the Barefoot Mailman, built to honor the dedicated mail carriers who walked the 68 mile journey from Palm Beach to Miami, barefoot, along the inlet shore. The inlet at Hillsboro Beach is a tranquil getaway from all the excitement and adventure of the greater Miami-Fort Lauderdale area.

The area surrounding Pompano Beach has much to offer visitors and residents. Resorts and restaurants are in close proximity to the beautiful beaches. Whether visitors crave a sense of timelessness and character, or a taste of adventure, the shores of Pompano Beach will be sure to exceed expectations.

Filed Under: Florida, North America, Pompano Beach, Treasure Coast, United States

Vero Beach, Florida

Vero Beach, Florida is located on the south end of Florida's Space Coast and boarders the northern portion of Florida's Treasure Coast , and is the county seat for Indian River County. Vero Beach offers many recreational opportunities including small craft boating, surfing and fishing. There are many wonderful reasons to visit Vero Beach but the main reason is for the beautiful beaches.

Humiston Park Beach is a family friendly place to visit. It is located 300 yards south of Beachland Boulevard on Ocean Drive. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 10am to 3pm daily. They have lifeguards on duty for extended hours during spring break. The beach is narrow but gives you plenty of room to spread out with your family. It has several large pavilions and a great playground for kids.

Jaycee Park is another lovely beach area north of Beachland Boulevard. It gives tourists access to the Intercoastal Waterway for fishing and water activities. The beach is beautiful and has many amenities that are desirable for families. It has fresh water showers, public telephones, restrooms and a lovely restaurant. Bring a picnic lunch; there are plenty of picnic spaces available to the public.

The Golden Sand Beach has been relocated due to erosion of the beach at the previous site. It has since been reopened with added attractions. The parking is increased, there is a boardwalk over the dunes and has a beautiful playground for children. It also features fresh water showers and public restrooms. Golden Sand Beach is a wonderful area for beachcombers and has lifeguards on duty. A temporary lifeguard tower is being constructed and plans are drawn for a permanent tower that will be tall enough to see the entire swimming area.

This beach is attractive because it is less populated than other beaches on Treasure Coast. It has public restrooms, showers, restrooms and a playground for the kids. It is located at the end of the 17th Street Bridge and is perfect for picnics. It has grills, picnic tables and showers where you can wash off the saltwater and beach sand. It is the perfect beach for lounging and sunbathing.

Filed Under: featured, Florida, North America, Space Coast, Treasure Coast, Vero Beach

Florida’s Treasure Coast

Florida’s Treasure Coast, miles of tranquil sands and peaceful villages stretching from Jupiter and St. Lucie to the Sebastian Inlet, beautifully evokes the tranquil beauty of old-time Florida. Step back to a peaceful life centered on beaches, boats and surf casting along this historic stretch of Atlantic coastline. Rich in natural beauty, the well protected Treasure Coast features a series of narrow sandbars, barrier islands, shallow lagoons, rivers, lakes and pine flatlands. Named for the treasure-bearing Spanish galleons that wrecked on its treacherous reefs, the coast is still a magnet for adventurers seeking the legendary piles of gold and jewels lost beneath its azure waters.

Lovely St. Lucie County is nestled between the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie River, encompassing picturesque communities including Jensen Beach and Hobe Sound. Nicknamed the “Sailfish Capitol of the World”, St. Lucie is renowned for its thrilling big game fishing tournaments, bustling marinas and professional guided deep-sea charters. County seat Fort Pierce boasts retains a laid-back small town vibe and is known for its excellent surfing, rich history and dedication to the arts.

Blessed with a rich history and a beachy charm, Stuart is the only incorporated township on the Treasure Coast’s Martin County. Voted one of America’s Most Beautiful Cities, Stuart boasts a wide, wonderful beach, walkable downtown and vibrant cultural scene. The neoclassical Lyric Theater is a central landmark and hosts a star-studded mix of live performances from country to classical, while the original courthouse has been reborn as an art gallery and cultural center.

Jammed with a sweet jumble of shops, boutiques and galleries, the unincorporated village of Hobe Sound is a vibrant cultural center where numerous annual arts and music festivals draw people from across the state. Hobe Sound is home to the sprawling Jonathan Dickinson State Park, a spectacular nature preserve offering camping, hiking, canoeing and fishing in surroundings filled with incredible tropical and subtropical wildlife.

Loaded with old Florida charm, Jensen Beach boasts great snorkeling, surfing and seafood restaurants. While visiting, take a quick trip across the causeway to Hutchinson Island, a gorgeous stretch of white sand and calm, reef-ringed waters. Popular beaches here include Bathtub Beach, notable for its warm, waveless water, and Sea Turtle Beach, late spring egg repository for green and loggerhead turtles. Once called the “Pineapple Capital of the World”, Jensen Beach still gives an exuberant nod to its tasty history at the annual Pineapple Festival.

Filed Under: featured, Florida, North America, Treasure Coast, United States