If you’re researching a vacation to Martin County, this guide provides fast, authoritative answers to the most common questions travelers ask. As the official tourism authority for Martin County, we’ve put together a clear, easy-to-skim FAQ packed with practical tips, insider recommendations, and key details about our beaches, parks, attractions, activities, and places to stay. Of course, if you have any other questions, feel free to explore our website or get in touch directly!

Top Questions About Visiting Martin County, Florida

1. Where is Martin County, Florida located?

Martin County is on Florida’s Treasure Coast along the Atlantic Ocean, conveniently positioned between Orlando and Miami (just north of Palm Beach County). The area includes the charming communities of Stuart, Jensen Beach, Hutchinson Island, Hobe Sound, Palm City, Indiantown, Port Salerno, and more. Visitors love that it’s close to major destinations yet feels peaceful, uncrowded, and naturally beautiful.

2. What is Martin County known for?

Martin County is known for:

• Uncrowded beaches: open 24/7 with free parking and entry and protected shoreline

• Aquatic adventures: such as world-class fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and more

• Incredible ecotourism: like free guided ecotours with Explore Natural Martin

• Wildlife experiences: including sea turtle walks, manatee viewing, and birding

• Authentic Old Florida charm: no high-rises (thanks to the rare county-wide four-story building height restriction) and adorable seaside towns

• The most bio-diverse estuary in North America

• Vibrant arts and culture: including galleries, award-winning festivals, and attractions like The Lyric Theatre

3. What are the best things to do in Martin County?

It totally depends on your vacation style, but popular activities include:

• Relaxing at Bathtub Beach, Jensen Beach, or Stuart Beach

• Exploring Jonathan Dickinson State Park or the Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge

• Visiting family-friendly attractions like the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center and Sailfish Splash Water Park

• Strolling the waterfront in Historic Downtown Stuart

• Kayaking through mangrove tunnels

• Chartering a fishing boat or scenic sailing tour

• Discovering museums like the Elliott Museum, the Stuart Heritage Museum, the Road to Victory Military Museum, the House of Refuge Museum, and more

4. When is the best time to visit Martin County?

Martin County is a year-round destination thanks to warm weather and ocean breezes.

• Winter & Spring: Ideal for beach days, festivals, and outdoor dining

• Summer: Great for snorkeling, surfing, turtle nesting season, and family getaways

• Fall: Quiet, affordable, and perfect for nature lovers

There truly is an “endless summer” vibe here.

5. What airports are closest to Martin County?

Travelers can fly into:

• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) – 45 minutes

• Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) – 75 minutes

• Orlando International Airport (MCO) – About 2 hours

• Miami International Airport (MIA) – About 2 hours

Many visitors choose Martin County because you can avoid the congestion of large metro hubs.

6. What are the best beaches in Martin County?

Martin County has more than 22 miles of uncrowded beaches. Popular options include:

• Bathtub Beach – calm and perfect for families

• Jensen Beach – great for surfing and sunbathing

• Stuart Beach – award-winning with lots of amenities and the Seaside Cafe

• Hobe Sound Beach – quiet, scenic, and naturally preserved

All beaches offer a laid-back, uncrowded experience rarely found elsewhere in South Florida. Public guarded beaches also offer free rolling beach wheelchairs.

7. Is Martin County family-friendly?

Absolutely. Families love:

• The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

• Sailfish Splash Waterpark

• The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

• Safe, low-density beaches

• Parks, nature trails, playgrounds, and nature preserves

• Dynamic range of family-friendly restaurants

8. Is Martin County a good place for eco-tourism?

Yes, Martin County is a leading eco-tourism destination and is the 2024 Leave No Trace Tourism Partner of the Year thanks to our Explore Natural Martin program. Visitors can enjoy free guided eco-tours, wildlife encounters, pristine landscapes, and responsible outdoor recreation. Just register online for an upcoming event!

9. What outdoor activities are most popular?

Visitors frequently ask about:

• Kayaking & paddleboarding in local waterways

• Hiking in state parks and wildlife refuges

• Snorkeling at our beautiful beaches

• Surfing on Hutchinson Island

• Biking through scenic coastal routes

• Boating, sailing and fishing year-round

10. What are the best places to stay in Martin County?

Martin County offers lodging options for every style and price point. Options include:

• Waterfront resorts on Hutchinson Island

• Charming locally owned inns and B&Bs

• Well-known national brands and international chains

• Vacation rentals perfect for families or groups

11. What makes Martin County different from other Florida destinations?

Travelers choose Martin County because it offers:

• No crowds, no high-rises, no hassles

• A “real Florida” experience with unspoiled coastline

• Locally owned restaurants and shops

• A slower pace that still offers plenty to do

• Easy access without feeling overwhelmed by tourism

• Award-winning downtown districts, restaurants, hotels, and attractions

It’s everything you want from a Florida vacation!

12. What are must-try local foods and restaurants?

Don’t miss:

• Fresh seafood in Port Salerno

• Waterfront dining in Historic Downtown Stuart

• Local favorites like conch fritters, mahi mahi sandwiches, craft brews, and locally grown produce

Check out the Treasure Coast Wine, Ale & Spirits Trail for a fun tasting adventure.

13. What festivals and events happen in Martin County?

Signature events include:

• MartinArts ArtsFest

• Stuart Boat Show

• Stuart Air Show

• Indiantown Rodeo

• Various regattas at the U.S. Sailing Center of Martin County

• World-class fishing championships all year long

• FireFest at Jonathan Dickinson State Park

There’s always something happening in Martin County. To find out what’s on the horizon, check out the Discover Martin events calendar.

14. Is Martin County safe and easy to navigate?

Yes. Martin County is known for being safe, friendly, and easy to explore. Most attractions are a short drive apart, and parking is generally simple and stress-free.

15. Where can I find an official trip planner?

The Martin County Office of Tourism offers maps, guides, itineraries, and curated local recommendations at DiscoverMartin.com. You can also check resources like:

• Stuart/Martin County Chamber of Commerce
• Jensen Beach Chamber of Commerce
• Palm City Chamber of Commerce
• Indiantown Chamber of Commerce
• Hobe Sound Chamber of Commerce
• Stuart Downtown Business Association
• Stuart Main Street
• Florida’s Treasure Coast

Plan Your Martin County Getaway

Whether you’re here for beaches, wildlife, food, arts, or a quiet escape along Florida’s Treasure Coast, Martin County is ready to welcome you. Use this FAQ to guide your planning or search for “Discover Martin” or “Martin County Florida vacation” for the latest trip ideas and inspiration.