The Falls of Jensen Beach Area Information

Experience the 'Sailfish Capital of the World' in Martin County.

Take the time to discover the waters of Martin County. With the Gulf Stream just offshore, Martin County is teeming with picture-worthy fish that even a novice fisherman can land. The area, known as “the Sailfish Capital of the World,” reigns supreme for sport fishing and hosts world-class tournaments every year. It also offers an abundance of boating excursions, including sightseeing charters – as well as festivals and events to keep the whole family entertained.

Boating Haven

Boaters will take pleasure in exploring the waterways of Martin County. Launch your boat from a variety of ramps throughout the county, such as the one at Jensen Beach Causeway, or spend several days at one of the area’s 20 marinas.

Mariner Cay Marina on the Manatee Pocket is just minutes from the St. Lucie Inlet. It features a refueling dock, electricity and water. Hop in your boat and take a leisurely cruise before tying up at Finz Waterfront Grille, a tiki bar and restaurant featuring live music and tasty beverages.

At Harborage Yacht Club & Marina in Stuart, celebrate National Marina Day on June 12. Previous celebrations have included an in-water boat show and land displays by area boat builders.

Guided boat tours are another cool way to enjoy the water. Embark on a nature cruise aboard the 26-passenger Loxahatchee Queen II, which travels the scenic Loxahatchee River in Jonathan Dickinson State Park.

If water is your paradise, Martin County is the place to be. But boating and fishing aren’t all it’s known for.

The area is also home to several signature events. Spend a fun-filled Fourth of July in downtown Stuart. Listen to live bands, play family games and much more.

In September, don’t miss the third annual Treasure Coast Pirates Fest. Don your favorite eye patch and watch as pirates invade Stuart. Participate in a family treasure hunt, enjoy live entertainment on three stages and take part in a costume contest.

To see more of the area’s signature events, visit www.martincountyfla.com/events. Find ongoing events at www.martincountyfla.com/events/recurring-events.php. And for more information on Martin County, visit DiscoverMartin.com.

Turtle Walks and Nature Talks

Each year, thousands of sea turtles come ashore at Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, where the pristine beach and low light provide a safe haven during the nesting season. Starting in May and running until mid-July, nighttime sea turtle walks are conducted by guides from the Hobe Sound Nature Center, a non-profit organization located on the Hobe Sound National Wildlife property. At Barley Barber Swamp, guided tours offer visitors a look into an old-growth cypress ecosystem that’s perfect for wildlife watching, photography and birding. This naturalist’s dream also showcases one of the largest Bald Cypress trees in the southeastern United States – it’s estimated between 700 and 1,000 years old and measures a jaw-dropping 88 feet in height and 33 feet around. Tours are free, but require registration.

Each year, thousands of sea turtles come ashore at Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, where the pristine beach and lack of light provides a safe haven during the nesting season.

Get a look into a coastal ecosystem at the Florida Oceanographic Society’s 57-acre nature center on Hutchinson Island. Take a walk through a coastal hardwood hammock or mangrove swamp on the center’s nature trails (guided tours are available, too) or check out the 750,000-gallon lagoon (where educational programs about stingray, sea turtle and other wildlife are held daily.)

Snorkeling and Sailing

Grab your mask and fins and head to the newly restored Bathtub Reef Beach, a unique, shallow lagoon edged with a living reef is just steps from the sand.

It's the perfect place for both new and seasoned snorkelers alike, where in minutes you'll be floating above the rocky reef. Great water clarity gives the opportunity to see plenty of tropical fish and other marine life.

• Enjoy live music, dance and shop till you drop (or just have some good stuff) from 6 -10 p.m. every Thursday at the Jammin’ Jensen festival in downtown Jensen Beach.

• You’ll find bountiful baked goods, honey, jams, jellies, eggs, cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables galore – and more – at Stuart Green Market every Sunday from 9 a.m. -1 p.m.

• The fun starts at 1:00 pm on the first Sunday of every month at the Riverwalk Jazz Series in Stuart.

• Groove to smooth rhythm and blues starting at 6 p.m. on the second Friday of each month at the Rockin’ Riverwalk Jazz Festival in Stuart.

• Besides tunes, the MusicFest in downtown Stuart offers food, beer, wine, arts and crafts. It’s a kick for the kids, too, with activities that include bounce houses, a rock wall, and face painting. The festival is held from 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. on the third Friday of each month, and admission is free.

Local Area Schools

High School - Jensen Beach High School - "Florida's Department of Education has awarded JBHS its sixth straight "A" grade. Additionally, Newsweek Magazine rated JBHS--two years in a row--as one of the top schools in the nation."