Take a Tour of the Quiet Side of Downtown Sarasota

October 4, 2022 | Read Time: 3 minutes

From the vibrant waterfront Downtown to stunning coastal beaches, the city of Sarasota is a dynamic and beautiful location, ranked #9 in the U.S. of the best cities to reside in. What many people may not know about this city along Florida’s Cultural Coast, however, is that a 22-acre peninsula provides an exclusive sanctuary just minutes away from the excitement of the inner city. Let’s take a short stroll to the Golden Gate Point neighborhood to see how residents benefit from this exceptionally unique location.

A Private Retreat Surrounded by Sarasota Bay

As you exit downtown towards John Ringling Causeway, you will find a slight turnoff into the neighborhood of Golden Gate Point. Brick paver streets and rows of palm trees welcome residents to a unique garden-like setting. One road circling the entire neighborhood creates a small-town, community feeling, with friendly neighbors and peaceful surroundings that create a welcoming private escape. Best of all, a premier location jutting out of the Sarasota Bay allows residents to enjoy stunning waterfront views of the bay, watch boats gliding across the waters to and from Marina Jack, and relish in the scenic beauty of the John Ringling Bridge.

Just One Block Away from Sarasota’s Waterfront Downtown

Park the car, you’re just a short stroll or bike ride from the heart of Sarasota’s thriving waterfront Downtown, where dozens of Zagat-rated dining venues, boutique shops, and endless festivals await enjoyment. Marina Jack is the quintessential docking for sunset cruises and charters, where residents can hop on a sightseeing cruise or enjoy fine waterfront dining. Additionally, the arts and culture scene in Sarasota is an art lover’s dream, with a wide variety of galleries and exhibits at locals’ fingertips, including Gallery Row, the Sarasota Opera House, Sarasota Asolo Repertory Theatre, and more.

Peddle Over to Lido Key Beach

Heading west towards the Gulf of Mexico, Golden Gate Point residents are also just a short ride away from coastal Sarasota’s coveted beachside lifestyle. Both Lido Key and Siesta Key are world-renowned for their miles of powder-soft white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life. But it’s not just world-class beaches that beckon residents to explore this region. With over 130 stores, restaurants, and galleries to peruse, St. Armands Circle is an outdoor shopping district that brings European flair to life, with an atmosphere of genuine warmth and timeless style.

Content Courtesy of Peninsula Sarasota

5 Reasons To Live in One of Florida’s Best Small Towns

| Read Time: 4 minutes

Located along the Treasure Coast of Florida lies the charming city of Stuart. Contrary to its quaint size, Stuart has a renowned reputation and is currently listed as #6 on Southern Living’s list of best small towns in the south. A place where you can immerse yourself in coastal history and explore many sights, Stuart is the type of town where locals know everyone’s name. Given the title of “America’s Happiest Seaside Town” by Coastal Living Magazine, see for yourself the top 5 reasons why locals are in love with their little slice of paradise.

1. A Vibrant Downtown

This quintessential town may be small in size, but it is filled with charm. With much to see and do, Historic Downtown Stuart is a highlight of the area. Located directly off the St. Lucie River, this downtown has a variety of award-winning restaurants for every palate including, Café Martier, an eclectic modern European café and speakeasy, and The Gafford, a sophisticated American bistro offering a mouthwatering menu of fresh and locally sourced specials. Shop till you drop at local boutiques and stores such as, Matilda’s, Gumbo Limbo and O’ Sole Mio. If you are looking for a lively art scene, this downtown has a plethora of art galleries and music venues including the 95 year old Lyric Theater. Stop by this charming downtown on Sunday mornings to explore the local greenmarket, and enjoy music from local musicians at Rock’n Riverwalk, a weekly waterfront concert series. Between fabulous shops and dining, a lively art scene and mile of riverwalk, Downtown Stuart is a gem in this small town.

2. 152 Years of History

In the center of Martin County, Florida, Stuart is a city that has a long and rich history. Founded in 1870, this town embodies authentic Florida history and is home to many historic landmarks. Located right on the coastline is The House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar, the oldest structure in all of Martin County. This former house once provided shelter for shipwreck survivors but now is used as a museum. Right up the road lies The Elliott Museum and the Historical Society of Martin County. The museum encompasses many local history exhibits pertaining to cars, artwork, baseball and more. Just two of many historical attractions.

3. Gorgeous Scenery

Located in the heart of Martin County, Stuart is home to breathtaking waterways and pristine beaches. Connected to the surrounding areas via bridges, there is a surplus of waterfront views. Feeding out into the Atlantic Ocean, St. Lucie Inlet and Indian River Lagoon have several small islands and sandbars meant for gathering and exploration. The long shorelines of pristine beaches on Hutchinson Island are undoubtedly what draws people to Stuart. Clear waters and sunny weather make every day feel like a vacation. The barrier island also encompasses a wide variety of tropical wildlife, such as sea turtles, manatees, herons and egrets. Its lush landscape consists of gorgeous mangrove forests and untouched estuaries. Stuart is truly a nature lover’s dream. Tropical scenery and seemingly endless waterfront views transform this unassuming town into a scenic resort-style area.

4. Sailfish Capital of The World

A hotspot for deep-sea fishing, Sailfish Alley runs from Fort Pierce all the way down to the Palm Beaches. Located right in the middle of this oceanic phenomenon is Stuart, the “Sailfish Capital of the World”. Popular for sportfishing, Stuart has an abundance of sailfish, tarpon, lobster, snook, and more just yards from the shore. Between the St. Lucie River, Indian River Lagoon and Atlantic Ocean, there are a wide variety of places to boat and fish. For those longing for adventure, the Bahamas are only 55 nautical miles away by water. Whether you’re deep-sea fishing for sailfish or kayaking around the river, there are an infinite amount of ways to be active on the water.

5. Central Location

Stuart, Florida is the centermost point of Martin County. Surrounded by smaller adjacent cities such as Palm City and Jensen Beach, this area is a suburb for The Palm Beaches. A vibrant area with many attractions, shopping and dining, The Palm Beaches are a gateway to all things luxury. There is something that will pique everyone’s interest whether you’re exploring iconic Worth Avenue, visiting The Breakers Palm Beach, a historic landmark hotel, or taking in the lively and colorful ambiance of this famous area. Approximately an hour away from Stuart, take advantage of all this lively area has to offer while still embracing small-town living.

Content Courtesy of Harbour Ridge

5 Reasons Sarasota is a Top Choice for Year-Round Florida Residency

| Read Time: 4 minutes

At the heart of Florida’s renowned Cultural Coast, Sarasota’s waterfront downtown region is a dynamic and beautiful gem in the crown of the sunshine state. Located on the west coast, an hour south of Tampa, Sarasota combines a vibrant contemporary lifestyle with the best of waterfront living. Add in some of the country’s top-rated beaches, an enriched cultural scene, and seemingly endless designer shops and restaurants and you’ll see what makes this coastal destination so irresistible.

Here are just a few of the reasons why locals are drawn to this extraordinary Florida destination.

1. Top-Ranked Pristine Gulf Beaches

Situated off the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota is home to some of the most serene beaches in the country. Both Lido Key and Siesta Key are world-renowned for their miles of powder-soft white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. These sparkling waters are teeming with colorful marine life, perfect for exploring via snorkeling or scuba diving. Venture under the waves and relax under the palms along the shoreline. Revel in seemingly endless beach days and feel like you are on vacation every day in a natural paradise.

2. Legendary Cultural Scene

Known as Florida’s Cultural Coast, the arts and culture scene within Sarasota is lively and dynamic. Discover the renowned Ringling Museum, established in 1927. Formally known as The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, this is the official state art museum of Florida. In addition to the renowned museum, the Ringling College of Art and Design also houses the Sarasota Art Museum. Truly an art lover’s dream, this museum exhibits many displays and features each season. Sarasota’s Asolo Repertory Theatre is a regional theater company that puts on a variety of productions each season, including newly commissioned plays and captivating musicals. Few of many cultural attractions, Sarasota houses a wide variety of galleries and exhibits at local’s fingertips.

3. St. Armands Circle, Designer Shopping, and Dining

From dozens of Zagat-rated dining venues to boutique shops, Sarasota has a surplus of opportunities to explore the area’s shops and restaurants. With over 130 stores, restaurants, and galleries to peruse, St. Armands Circle is an internationally renowned entertainment destination. This outdoor shopping district brings European flair to life, with an atmosphere of genuine warmth and timeless style. Within walking distance from Peninsula Sarasota, residents will find that Downtown Sarasota is filled with a plethora of restaurants and shops of its own. Whether you are looking for a more casual grille, Mattison’s City Grille, or fine dining, Bijou Garden Café, there are restaurants for every occasion and every palate.

4. Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico

Home to breathtaking waterways, enjoy the area by exploring Sarasota Bay. Encounter scenic wildlife and aquatic nature up-close through kayak excursions along the waterway. Boating is another favored way to explore Sarasota Bay in a convenient manner. Providing locals with the freedom to travel up and down Sarasota Bay, boaters can also venture to connecting waterways that lead out to the Gulf of Mexico. Departing throughout the day, Marina Jack hosts sunset cruises and charters right off Downtown Sarasota. This marina is the quintessential location for docking private boats, hopping on a sightseeing cruise and enjoying fine waterfront dining.

5. Florida Coastal Address

Sarasota is in a quintessential area to commute or explore from. Nearby cities of St. Petersburg and Tampa are home to a variety of national, championship-winning sports teams, gorgeous beaches and a surplus of waterfront dining and shopping. Naples, Florida, is just 2 hours south and exudes luxury and sophistication. Perfect for a weekend getaway. Less than 2 hours away is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, Orlando, Florida. Amusement parks and attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal can be visited all in a day’s trip.

Content Courtesy of Peninsula Sarasota.

7 Places You Can Only Enjoy in St. Lucie County

September 29, 2022 | Read Time: 5 minutes

two people horseback riding on the beach

From stunning beaches to miles of nature trails, one Florida region has yet to lose its natural charm. Nestled along Florida’s Treasure Coast, St. Lucie County embraces a unique way of life, with plentiful attractions that allow residents to take full advantage of the area’s beautiful natural surroundings. But it’s not just sunny skies and natural beauty that attracts families to the region. Here are some of our favorite St. Lucie County places to visit.

1. Horseback Riding Paired with Warm Ocean Breezes

Perhaps one of the rarest adventures in the city, the beaches of Hutchinson Island in Fort Pierce are the only place in Florida that permits horseback riding. Riders over 10 years old can embark on this unforgettable adventure, with a slow-paced, gentle ride down the secluded and rustic Atlantic shoreline.

2. Sailfish, Snapper, and Snook – Oh my!

sailfish jumping from water with boat in background

St. Lucie County is known for providing nonstop action for anglers of all skill levels. Staying inshore on the Indian River Lagoon is packed with spotted sea trout, snook, snapper, black drum, and flounder. Or head to the offshore waters to catch grouper, snapper, and mahi-mahi. Fort Pierce also marks the northern point of Sailfish Alley, a hotspot for sailfish that runs down to The Palm Beaches. If that’s not enough fishing excitement, the west end of the Bahamas is just 80 nautical miles away.

3. Tee-ing Up Fun For All Ages

For avid golfers, there are plenty of championship golf courses available. The PGA Golf Club and Saints Golf Course are favored choices for championship golf designed by golf legends. For a fun evening with the whole family, Pop Stroke‘s two mini golf courses, golf simulator bays, on-course service for refreshments and cocktails, and more provide an interactive and competitive atmosphere for the whole family. Future residents of Wylder will also enjoy their own championship golf course within their community’s gates.

4. Cheer On the New York Mets

Sporting enthusiasts love coming to St. Lucie County during spring training season, as Clover Park is the spring training hub for the New York Mets, the summer home of the St. Lucie Mets, and the hub for all New York Mets minor league operations. Scoring tickets to the game provides an up-close and personal experience at the ballpark no bad seats in the house. When the players aren’t in town, the Sports Complex is used for a variety of events ranging from festivals and concerts to RV shows and baseball tournaments.

5. A Nature Lovers' Playground

Whether you’re a hiker, biker, beach lover, hunter, or kayaker, Port St. Lucie’s natural wonderlands provide a place for every activity. Savannas Preserve State Park boasts over 17 miles of multi-use nature trails to explore by foot, bike, or ATV, while canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in the wetlands are popular recreational activities. Only accessible by boat, the St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park takes visitors through mangrove forests and hammocks of live oaks to a neatly preserved Atlantic beach. During the summer months, the island is an important nesting area for loggerhead, leatherback, and green turtles, and it is not uncommon to see hatchlings making their way to the water.

6. Shop 'Til You Drop in Downtown Fort Pierce

From local boutiques to novelty stores, the downtown Fort Pierce area is filled with shops any fashionista would love to peruse. Artists cherish the several galleries throughout the downtown district, with large art pieces, and murals scattered throughout the city. On Saturdays year-round, the lively Fort Pierce Farmers Market fills the area with delicious foods, farm-fresh goodies, distinctive artwork, and more to peruse – all while enjoying waterfront views. For those just wishing to soak in the Florida sunshine, Jetty Park is a favored destination. Afterward, nearby waterfront restaurants are well-known for their laidback atmosphere and seafood staples, including Square Grouper Tiki Bar, Sunrise Sands Beach Resort, Taco Dive, and more.

7. A Slice of St. Lucie History

History is also intertwined into many of St. Lucie’s attractions, ensuring the lifelong learner has plenty to explore. Take a self-guided tour along a heritage trail, learn the history of the Navy SEALs and how they first began training in Fort Pierce during WWII, or go straight to the St. Lucie County Regional History Museum for a glimpse at the foundation that the St. Lucie County is built on. For more ways to explore the incredible wildlife of the area, airboat rides along the St. Lucie River and the St. Lucie County Aquarium are both dedicated to educating the public on the diversity and complexity of Florida’s marine environments.

How This Coastal Province Became One of The South’s Best Small Towns

September 20, 2022 | Read Time: 4 minutes

With picturesque natural scenery and friendly locals in abundance, Florida’s small towns celebrate the very best of leisure lifestyles. Contrary to their quaint sizes, however, charming small-town cities like Stuart along Florida’s Treasure Coast have a renowned reputation. Ranked #6 on Southern Living’s Best Small Towns List for 2022, Stuart encompasses the essence of coastal small-town living. A truly one-of-a-kind area, see for yourself what makes Stuart so authentic.

A Community Surrounded by Water

The Okeechobee Waterway and St. Lucie Inlet converge and surround the quaint city of Stuart to create a natural paradise. Enveloped by these scenic waterways, this community is uniquely connected by bridges. Leading to the Intracoastal Waterway, the bodies of water feed out into the Atlantic Ocean, a true dream for waterfront living. In unique proximity to both fresh water and salt water, locals are often found boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and enjoying the very best of living in paradise.

two surfers on the beach in stuart

Dive Into an Active Lifestyle

Given the gorgeous natural scenery, it is no surprise that locals love to live a healthy, outdoor lifestyle. A plethora of ways to stay active provide a fresh and fun twist on staying happy and healthy. Venture into the outdoors and enjoy activities unique to living in a coveted beachside town, including yoga on the beach, hiking protected nature trails, playing racquet sports and golfing on internationally renowned courses. Watersports are popular for those wanting to make the most of coastal Florida living. Spend the day on the water via paddleboard or kayak. With a gorgeous backdrop and sunny weather, there is always something to do on land or water!

shop windows in downtown stuart

Explore The Vibrant Downtown Within This Scenic Hideaway

Known by few but cherished by many, Stuart oftentimes feels like a private hideaway. Surrounded by adjacent coastal towns, Stuart is the local epicenter for shopping and dining. The vibrant downtown embodies the charm and leisure lifestyle of the area. Popular boutiques like April Daze, Matilda’s and Gumbo Limbo are local favorite places to find coastal gifts for family, friends and yourself! A wide variety of restaurants including the Stuart Boathouse, Hudson’s on the River, and The Gafford make dining experiences exciting and lively. This waterfront downtown hosts a green market every Sunday morning, highlighting the best small businesses in Martin County. Immediately following the market is Rock’n Riverwalk, a boardwalk concert series featuring local musicians who never fail to bring the community together for a good time. Although seemingly hidden off the map, Stuart is a lively area with much to see and do.

refuge house at the beach in stuart

Over a Century of Rich History

Established in 1870, Stuart has a rich and authentic history. Residents take pride in the area’s locally famous landmarks. A museum that was once a shelter for shipwreck survivors, The House of Refuge is a scenic spot to watch sunsets and learn about Florida’s maritime history. Located in the heart of historic Downtown Stuart, The Lyric Theater was a silent movie house popular in the 1920s and is now a dazzling performing arts venue. For those looking to learn about a century and a half of Stuart’s history, look no further than The Elliott Museum and the Historical Society of Martin County. More than just another coastal small town, Stuart has played an important role throughout the course of Florida history.

cultural parade in downtown stuart

A Close-Knit Community Like No Other

A place that is warm and welcoming, Stuart’s locals have a reputation for supporting the community and its people. From supporting local farmers at the green market to inspiring a passion for the arts with the annual ArtsFest, the community prioritizes helping the area and its people in any way possible. Friendly faces are in abundance and community involvement is at an all-time high, as there is always an event being celebrated. United by a love for leisurely coastal living, locals embrace all that the Stuart community has to offer.

lilac sky over the hutchinson island

Discover Downtown Sarasota’s Culture and Entertainment Venues

| Read Time: 3 minutes

Located in the heart of Florida’s Cultural Coast, Downtown Sarasota boasts an abundance of arts, music, and entertainment venues throughout this quaint, yet cosmopolitan city center. Here are a few of the world-class entertainment destinations that await exploration.

The Bay Park

The scenic nature of The Bay Park along the shores of Sarasota Bay is a unique backdrop for three exceptional venues. This spectacular waterfront setting is undergoing a transformation to integrate the flora and fauna of the Botanical Gardens with a new Performing Arts Hall and the Sarasota Symphony. In addition, walking trails, fishing piers and boating access make this 53-acre park a central component of the Sarasota lifestyle.

aerial of the bay park aerial

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Located within The Bay Park, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is one of the area’s premier entertainment venues. Since its inception in 1970, the Van Wezel has presented spectacular Broadway musicals, top national and international performers, popular comedians, world-class symphony orchestras, and a compelling mix of classical, modern, and ethnic dance. With over 100 events annually, there is sure to be something to entertain every cultural enthusiast.

aerial of the van wezel performing arts center

Sarasota Opera House

Known as “one of America’s finest venues for opera” by Musical America, the Sarasota Opera House has provided world-class performances since 1960. This internationally acclaimed professional company showcases the best in opera music. Innovative technology ensures visitors of any language can follow along easily. Sarasota Opera House is also the only company in the world to have completed the entire Verdi Cycle, a unique undertaking to perform all 39 works of renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. Nearby Main Street also is home to Gallery Row and dozens of top-rated restaurants and boutique shopping.

Ringling Museum of Art

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is the official art museum of Florida. Established in 1927, the museum’s collection consists of more than 10,000 pieces from across the globe, celebrating every historical period from ancient to contemporary. The campus is located just five minutes north of One Park Sarasota, along the Sarasota Bay Coastline. The impressive campus is also home to a circus museum, the Asolo Theater, and the recently restored Ringling mansion.

The Historic Belle Haven

Immediately adjacent to One Park within the Quay, this three-story building is an architectural jewel filled with culture and history. Built in 1926, the Belle Haven’s Mediterranean Revival design has become a landmark piece of the Bayfront, as well as a designated historic structure by the city of Sarasota. Currently under a full restoration with GreenPointe developers, this important landmark along the bayfront is a symbol of pride for the city, hosting numerous art shows and events throughout the year.

exterior image of the historical belle haven

Theatres and Museums Abound

The Florida Studio Theatre is a local favorite within Downtown’s Rosemary District, bordering the Boulevard of the Arts. The Asolo Repertory Theatre and the Sarasota Classic Car Museum can be found nearby, adjacent to the Ringling Museum campus. The Asolo’s innovative programming is focused on drawing patrons from every generation, including youth training, lifelong learning for adults, and professional development for educators. The slate of plays run the gamut from contemporary drama to classical comedy, introducing audiences to many talented artisans from around the globe.

St. Armands Circle

Nestled between the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, St. Armands Circle is an internationally renowned entertainment destination. St. Armands Circle brings outdoor European flair to life, with an atmosphere of genuine warmth, enduring elegance, and timeless style. This one-of-a-kind marketplace features exceptional local galleries, gourmet restaurants, designer boutiques, and luxury retailers.

Original story published by One Park Sarasota

4 Benefits of Fort Lauderdale Oceanfront Living

| Read Time: 3 minutes

Imagine waking up to the sun dancing along the horizon. The waves are gently lapping on the shore, and you step out onto your terrace and immediately feel that refreshing ocean breeze. With experiences like this right outside your door, it’s no surprise why oceanfront residences are in high demand, especially along South Florida’s Atlantic coastline. But it’s not just the stunning views that attract people to this coveted oceanfront destination. Here’s a glimpse into how Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront encourages a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle.

1. Promoting Physical Wellness

There’s nothing like the sun and the sand to get residents excited to get outdoors and become active. With soft sand that’s gentler on the feet, many residents love to take long walks or jogs in the evenings. Or they head into the water to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and surfing adventures. For those who worry about the sand, A1A stretches the entire coastline, with a wide pedestrian sidewalk perfect for running, biking, roller skating, and more.

It doesn’t take an active person, however, to enjoy the physical benefits of oceanfront living. Oceanfront studies have shown that the salty air encourages respiratory health and stimulates the immune system, while salt water is known for its anti-inflammatory effects on the skin, creating two naturally soothing remedies.

2. Mental Wellness and Relaxation

woman meditating on beach

Known for its restorative properties, being near the ocean also leads to an elevated mood and a more relaxed state. The ocean acts as a regulator, with the sea breeze and frequent, soothing tapping of the waves offering solace and peace. In fact, simply looking at the ocean, or other areas of water promotes dopamine and a good dose of Vitamin D, two feel-good hormones connected to happiness. Sunrise beach yoga is also a perfect way to bring balance to the mind and body, and Fort Lauderdale Beach is filled with classes for all ages and stages of life.

3. Entertainment Venues Surround Fort Lauderdale Beach

las olas oceanside park

Fort Lauderdale Beach is also one of the few places in the world where residents are surrounded by such a diverse array of entertainment, dining, and boutique shopping just a short stroll away. The Las Olas Oceanside Park, commonly referred to as The LOOP, offers residents a palm-tree-lined public park and open-air amphitheater that plays host to a variety of events year-round. Events are created for every interest, ranging from fitness programs and Saturday morning’s Farmers and Artisan Market to Friday Night Sound Waves every summer. The Tortuga Music Festival, Las Olas Arts Festival, and the Land, Sea, & Sky air show are also favored annual traditions.

4. Ample Beachfront Activities for Every Interest

bikes for rent on Fort Lauderdale Beach

While there are ample entertainment venues surrounding Fort Lauderdale Beach, sometimes a day spent in the sand is all that’s needed to entertain friends for hours. Volleyball nets along the beach provide the perfect opportunity for a pickup game or bring frisbees and a soccer ball for endless hours of sporting fun. A relaxing dip in the ocean after a hectic day of work is the perfect way to cool off and float away any worries. Or just bring a beach towel and a good book for a peaceful retreat in the sand.