See Why Florida’s Hutchinson Island is Simply Irresistible
October 4, 2022 | Read Time: 4 minutes
Located just off the Treasure Coast sits a barrier island that’s home to 21 miles of pristine sand beaches, world-class fishing, championship golf, endless natural wildlife and a private residential community that rivals the world’s best. Residents and visitors alike celebrate the pinnacle of coastal living on the shores of Hutchinson Island, just north of the Palm Beaches. Whether it’s the area’s rich cultural history or breathtaking natural waterways, here’s your chance to get to know why everyone loves to explore life on Hutchinson Island.
Hutchinson Island History
Hutchinson Island and the surrounding Stuart area have a rich and colorful history filled with passionate residents that have included Native American tribes, farmers, pirates and avid fishermen. The waters along the coast of southeast Florida once served as a popular route for Spanish galleons returning from Mexico laden with treasure, gaining the area the nickname “Treasure Coast”. During the early 19th century, the Spanish government issued several land grants in the area, one of which went to settler James Hutchinson. His name remains the island we know today.
Hutchinson Island Points of Interest
From delectable dining experiences at Hutchinson Shores and Kyle G’s to historic museums, theatres and ocean activities, there is something on Hutchinson Island for residents of any lifestyle. Discover just a few of the many places worth visiting on Hutchinson Island.
Cultural Exhibitions
Hutchinson Island is filled with ample cultural excursions to explore. The Elliot Museum features antique vehicles, signed baseball memorabilia, local and national artwork, and a collection of inventions by Sterling Elliott, after whom the museum is named. Built-in 1876, The House of Refuge is the oldest structure on the Treasure Coast. It is the only remaining house out of ten originally created to shelter shipwreck survivors and travelers along the Atlantic coastline. Today, it stands not only as a museum of historic lifesaving equipment but also as a picturesque location for receptions and weddings. Located in Downtown Stuart, the Lyric Theatre provides the community with a home for the performing arts. The Lyric Theatre is constantly filled with performances that any lover of the arts would enjoy, including live music concerts, theater shows and cult classic movie showings.
Waterfront Dining
Hutchinson Island also has an amazing array of restaurants to satisfy every palate. Restaurants line both sides of the island, giving guests spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean or the Indian River while enjoying cuisines from the best chefs in the world. The dining options of Hutchinson Shores Resort offer fresh seafood and Italian specials in three separate restaurants, all with enchanting views of the beach and Atlantic waters. Additionally, Kyle G’s Prime Seafood and Steak, Manatee Island, and Chuck’s Seafood all feature a variety of the highest quality of local seafood while Pietro’s on the River is known for its Italian-American cuisines. In Jensen Beach, 11 Maple Street creates innovative and upscale New American and seafood dishes in a quaint, century-old cottage.
Ocean Excursions
Home to the Florida Oceanographic Society’s headquarters, the 57-acre Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is dedicated to the education and preservation of coastal marine environments. The center includes a 750,000-gallon game fish lagoon, sea star and stingray touch tank pavilions, nature trails, and educational programs for all ages. Known as the Sailfish Capital of the World, Hutchinson Island is also a premier destination for sport fishing. From deep sea charters to inlet fishing, this coveted angler spot is known for popular catches all year long. With the west end of the Bahamas only 55 miles away, boaters often love to take weekend excursions. During the summer months, you are also in for a special treat as Hutchinson Island is one of the top places in the world for turtle nesting.