YOUR GUIDE TO A HEALTHY 2024 ON FLORIDA’S TREASURE COAST

June 11, 2024 | Read Time: 5 minutes

As we say goodbye to 2023 and hello to 2024, people across the nation are making their New Year’s resolutions list. Perhaps one of the most popular goals set during this time of year is the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle. Whether aiming to build physical strength or make new friends, the commitment to a more balanced life resonates with many. On Florida’s Treasure Coast, residents are enveloped by endless ways to embrace wellness in every facet of their lives. Let’s delve deeper into how this region makes living a healthier lifestyle so easy!

HIKING, BIKING AND KAYAKING, OH MY!

The Treasure Coast’s state parks are a playground for every activity. Miles of nature trails at Savannas Preserve State Park and White City Park invite exploration by bike or foot, while the more adventurous can opt for ATV rides or horseback adventures. These wetlands and pine forests are also home to rare species of birds and tortoises unique to Florida, making them ideal locations for wildlife watching. The St. Lucie River is one of the most bio-diverse lagoon ecosystems in the nation, teeming with manatees, mangrove crabs, snook, tarpon, and more. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboard adventures flow throughout the region, guiding enthusiasts through river systems, mangrove estuaries, and maritime hammocks. St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park provides 4.2 miles of tranquil waterway exploration, while Fort Pierce Jetty Park extends experiences from the Intracoastal Waterway out to the Atlantic Ocean.

FIND A NEW ADVENTURE ON THE WATER

The array of natural adventures extends beyond land. Twenty one miles of pristine coastline offer the perfect setting for long walks, invigorating swims, or even horseback riding. Snorkeling is also a favored activity, with several shallow reefs located less than 100 yards offshore. Pepper Park in Fort Pierce is home to the state’s first underwater archeological preserve, while Peck Lake Park in Hobe Sound features vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. For those wishing to test their fishing skills, bountiful prized catches await inshore, including spotted sea trout, snook, and flounder. The offshore waters are a habitat for grouper, snapper, mahi-mahi, and the world-class sailfish.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT TREASURE COAST MUSEUMS

For the curious mind always seeking new knowledge, history is intertwined into many of the area’s best attractions. Eclectic local museums range from model trains at the Treasure Coast Model Railroad Club and antique cars at the Elliott Museum to the origins of Florida art at the A.E. Backus Museum. Dive deep into the region’s historical roots at the St. Lucie County Regional History Museum, embark on a self-guided tour along the heritage trail, or learn how the Navy SEALs first began training in Fort Piece during WWII at the Navy SEAL Museum. The 225-acre Oxbow Eco-Center serves as a hands-on natural learning environment to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida’s marine life and local coastal ecosystems.

EAT HEALTHIER WITH FARM-FRESH FAVORITES

For those looking to embrace healthier eating habits in the new year, the region boasts a wide array of offerings. Numerous farmers markets are ideal for those inclined to handpick their produce. Fort Pierce hosts a Saturday morning market, while Stuart’s Market on Main and Tradition’s Neighborhood Market are bustling with activity on Sunday mornings. Each market showcases locally grown produce, delightful baked goods, unique artwork, and more. For midweek needs, Nelson Family Farms, one of Florida’s premier open-air produce markets, is open daily. The Treasure Coast is also filled with farm-to-table dining options. Berry Fresh Café is a beloved spot for homemade breakfast offerings, while Zest Kitchen and Bar, Pastaio, Meating Street, and Kyle G’s Oyster and Wine Bar entice visitors with seasonally rotating farm-to-table dinners.

MAKE NEW SOCIAL CONNECTIONS

In the new year, people often aim to broaden their social circles. Whether through community events or casual encounters on the sidewalks, the welcoming atmosphere of a master-planned community encourages easy conversation. Brystol at Wylder is also constructing an amenity center that’s poised to become the neighborhood’s social hub. Here, neighbors can come together to make a splash in the beach-entry pool, organize friendly pick-up games at the multipurpose sports fields, or partake in spirited festivals on the event lawn. Families with young children will find endless joy at the playground, while four-legged companions can run freely at the dog park. This lakeside retreat is set to be completed by fall 2024.