The Stuart Sandbar: A Hidden Gem in the St. Lucie Inlet
Located just inside the St. Lucie Inlet in Martin County, Florida, the Stuart Sandbar is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by beachgoers and adventure seekers alike. This sandbar is a natural wonder that offers visitors an experience unlike any other, with crystal-clear waters and endless opportunities for fun and exploration. If water clarity is important to you, it's best to time your visit with an incoming tide.
Very well known to locals, the Stuart Sandbar consists of a series of small spoil islands (and sandbars) that are surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular destination for boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and anyone who loves spending time in and around the water. The sandbar itself is made up of soft, white sand that stretches out for miles, providing plenty of space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the scenery.
One of the main draws of the Stuart Sandbar is its location inside the St. Lucie Inlet. This natural inlet provides protection from the open ocean, making the water here calm, warm and gentle. Visitors can wade out for quite a distance, making it an ideal location for families with small children. The water is also perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with a variety of marine life to explore. Visitors can also go kayaking or paddle boarding through the mangroves that line the inlet, offering a unique perspective on this beautiful ecosystem. It is not uncommon to see dolphin and manatee in waters adjacent to the sandbar.
One of the best things about the Stuart Sandbar is its secluded location. It's accessible only by boat, which means that during the week visitors can escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet and peaceful day on the water. There are no facilities or amenities on the sandbar itself, so visitors should be sure to bring plenty of water, ecofriendly sunscreen, and snacks for the day. The only exception to this is during summer weekends when the "Crusty Crab" barge will anchor on the north side of the large island, selling burgers, hot dogs and non-alcoholic drinks (they accept credit/debit and cash).
Family Friendly Area
One thing to consider when looking for a family outing to the Stuart Sandbar, especially with small children. The weekends are very busy and as expected there will be a lot of drinking, partying and loud music in certain areas. The map below shows where the various groups seem to be congregating. Obviously this can change weekend to weekend, but the trend seems to be somewhat consistent over the past few years. Even if you have to pull anchor and move, you can almost always find a spot where you will be among like-minded boaters. There is something for everybody...
The Stuart Sandbar is a true hidden gem in Martin County, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. With its clear waters, soft sand, and endless opportunities for adventure, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make this destination a regular part of their summer plans. So if you're looking for a quiet and secluded spot to enjoy the water and the sunshine, head on over to the Stuart Sandbar – you won't be disappointed!
More Stuart Sandbar links.
