Dust off the decorations and haul out the holly, because the holidays are finally upon us here in Martin County!
It’s the most wonderful time of year, and after the extremely trying times of these past few months, we could all use a little holiday magic to lift our spirits. But we’re also well aware that it can be stressful trying to find the perfect gift for your loved one, relative, colleague, or fellow quarantine pod member. That’s why we have rounded up some of the best gifts to give this year that are perfect for everybody on your list!
It’s more important than ever to support our local businesses and small businesses everywhere. Plus, many of our fabulous local retailers, attractions, and experience providers offer e-commerce transactions, so you can avoid shopping in-person and still get the satisfaction of clicking “add to cart.” Oh, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to reward yourself with a little something, too!
Holiday decor at Gumbo Limbo Coastal Chic
Reminder: this blog post not by any means an exhaustive list, and there are plenty of other phenomenal local businesses across Martin County that deserve your support. But for the purpose of keeping this gift guide concise, we’ve only highlighted a handful of remarkable recommendations. Please feel free to chime in with your favorites that didn’t make it onto this list – we would love to hear what local gems you’re planning to support this holiday season!
Gift Ideas for Foodies:
It’s no secret that Martin County is home to some of the best restaurants in Florida (and possibly the country, if we do say so ourselves)! Our destination offers every kind of cuisine imaginable, from Italian and French favorites to Vietnamese, German, and Caribbean-inspired fare. Consider picking up a gift card to restaurants like Hokkaido Sushi & Steakhouse in Palm City, the newly-renovated Black Marlin in Downtown Stuart, or the Sand Dune Café in Jensen Beach. Or surprise the epicurean in your life with a memorable meal from one of the other popular Martin County restaurants below:
Gift Ideas for Adventurers:
With our wide-open spaces, uncrowded beaches, sprawling parks, and countless water-based activities, there’s no shortage of social-distanced excursions just waiting to be discovered. Give the gift of a unique experience that will let your loved ones try something new while getting their blood pumping and supporting the local Martin County economy.
Gift Ideas for Animal Enthusiasts:
Martin County is home to an astonishing range of wildlife. From rare fish and beautiful birds to other impressive species, there are lots of animal encounters to experience throughout the county. Consider paying a visit to the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center to feed the stingrays and see the rescued sea turtles and other marine life in their 750,000-gallon game fish lagoon! It’s always a treat exploring Jonathan Dickinson State Park on a horseback riding adventure! Or book an excursion with a local operator like Liquid Aloha Paddle Co (based in Port Salerno) or Stuart Paddle Tours to witness birds, dolphins, and manatees swimming along the mangroves! You can even schedule a river cruise with companies like Island Princess Boat Tours.
Gift Ideas for Fashionistas:
Any shopaholic knows that Martin County is teeming with incredibly cute boutiques, gift shops, and jewelry stores. They’re the perfect place to pick up a special souvenir during a visit, but you can also find one-of-a-kind fashion statements for the trendsetter in your life. No matter who you’re shopping for, the quaint independently-owned shops sprinkled throughout communities like Historic Downtown Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Sewall’s Point are sure to impress. You can also check out DowntownStuartFlorida.com for more inspiration!
Gift Ideas for History Buffs:
Martin County has rich historic legacy. Incorporated on August 5, 1925, and named after Governor John W. Martin, Martin County is comprised of many charming small communities. During visit, people can take a journey back in time and check out the cultural and historic landmarks that make Martin County a truly one-of-a-kind destination. In fact, there’s even a Historic Preservation Tour that people can experience in-person or virtually! Many of our historic points of interests have gift shops teeming with curiosities for any history buff, such as the Elliott Museum, the House of Refuge Museum, and the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast!
Gift Ideas for Homebodies:
Let’s be honest – we’re all spending a lot more time at home these days. So what better way to spread holiday cheer than with some thoughtful home furnishings, accent pieces, and locally-made décor? From beautiful throw pillows and supplies for entertaining to masterpieces created by local artists, there’s something for every taste and style in Martin County. Or, gift an artistic experience for people to unleash their creativity, like a session with Stuart Ceramics or a Paint N’ Sip art class at Arri’s Portal in Port Salerno!
Gift Ideas for Health and Wellness:
For the health nut in your life, make this holiday extra special with one of these awesome wellness experiences. Maybe there’s someone you know who seriously needs to decompress after a stressful few months – or perhaps it’s somebody who wants to focus on adopting healthier habits in the New Year ahead. Either way, our physical and mental wellbeing are more imperative than ever before. Thankfully, Martin County boasts a diverse collection of health and wellness-focused businesses to help you reset, recalibrate, and rejuvenate. Here are a few thought-starters from our #MartinTogeher directory! Another great option for a care package is Herbal Crafters, based in Indiantown. Their medicinal herb products address a range of health concerns, and their line of Custom Blended Teas can help with boosting immunity, increasing energy, aiding restful sleep, and more!
Gift Ideas for Children:
Children can be notoriously hard to shop for. But Martin County is actually extremely family-friendly. In fact, we have an entire For Kids, By Kids section of our website where local little ones to show other children all the can’t-miss experiences in our communities. And because there are so many kids (of all ages) that come to Martin County with their families again and again every year, there are tons of shops catered just to them. If you’re not sure what to get for that particularly picky rugrat, try one of these local favorites!