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Treasure Coast, Florida – Just What the Name Says #LOVEFL

Treasure Coast, Florida is one of the most beautiful areas in all of the state of Florida. Covering four counties and comprised of some of the most beautiful natural environment in the state, Treasure Coast absolutely lives up to its name. There is no better place to enjoy the beauty of nature and the magic of coastal living than this part of Florida.

Treasure Coast is a State Treasure

This area of Florida is as beautiful as its name implies, offering both natural and man made beauty and attractions. It boasts a laid back atmosphere, amazing fishing and fun watersports, and one of the most diverse ecosystems in the US, along with some of the most beautiful parts of Florida’s geography. So let’s take a look at this treasured area.

Area

This area of Florida located on its Atlantic coast is comprised of three counties – Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin. Within these counties is no shortage of natural beauty, fun adventures, great fishing, and a generally laid back atmosphere.

[tweetthis]Treasure Coast of Florida, on the Atlantic side, is comprised of three counties – Indian River, St. Lucie and Martin. #Travel #LOVEFL #TTOT[/tweetthis]

Geography

The area is shielded from the Atlantic Ocean by narrow sand bars and barrier islands which protect shallow lagoons, rivers, and bays. This means beaches are exceptionally safe due to the natural barrier of the geography. There are beaches on almost every block it seems. There are many beaches such as Bathtub Beach and Stuart Beach in Stuart that are perfect for families. Shallow waters and pristine sand makes these a great spot to learn a new sport too. Make your way inland, and you’ll find pine and palmetto flat lands along with a preponderance of lakes and rivers dotting and crisscrossing the entire Treasure Coast region. This area is also bordered by the Atlantic leg of the Inter-coastal Waterway.

Flora and Fauna

The Treasure Coast boasts some of the most beautiful flora of the entire state. No matter where you go, you’ll see no end to the vibrant colors of the region’s blooms and the rich texture of its foliage. With everything from ferns to palm trees, this are of Florida is a gardener’s dream.

If you love wildlife, there’s plenty to be seen in this area, as well. The area is a bird watcher’s paradise with dozens of colorful species. In addition, you can see deer, alligators (of course), and the always adorable manatee. The ocean angling is great as is fishing in the lakes and streams.

Treasure Coast is a photographer’s paradise. There are tonnes of crabs playing on rocks and near estuaries, and the fish can be seen jumping as you dine at a waterfront restaurant. Herons and pelicans are commonplace here and you can snap pictures of them easily while dolphins play nearby. I was taught a trick while paddle boarding and kayaking one day. Pay attention to the pelicans over water. When they skim the water, you will know where the dolphin pods show up next. When pelicans want food they will steal it practically right out of a dolphin’s mouth. That makes it easier to tell where to stand to take a picture.

Cities

The Treasure Coast isn’t just about wildlife. It also has some vibrant communities just waiting to be explored. All of these communities boast excellent dining and shopping opportunities to begin and go from there. They also have a laid back atmosphere that can help relax even the most tense of individuals. The major cities of the area are:

  • Port St. Lucie
  • Fort Pierce
  • Sebastian
  • Stuart
  • Vero Beach

In addition to these cities, you can find smaller cities and townships with no less to offer in the way of culture and dining. Stop by a local restaurant to experience authentic fresh southern Florida seafood or hit one of the local shops for some funky finds.

Traveler tip: look for the waterfront restaurants and you will be rewarded with beautiful scenery.

While here there are many things to do and I will talk about that in another post. But because this is the Treasure Coast, you have to make time to visit McLarty’s Treasure Coast Museum. The museum is located at 13810 Highway A1A, on Orchid Island, Sebastian Inlet not far from Vero Beach. It is inexpensive and educational. Admission was $2. This museum tells the history of Treasure Coast and how it came to be named.

treasure_coast

I won’t spoil the trip, but I will say that there have been many many shipwrecks over the years off this coast. In 1715 a storm sank a fleet of wooden Spanish ships carrying  treasures and jewels of the Queen. Visit McLarty’s Treasure Museum on Facebook for more information. The jewels from the shipwrecks are still being found today. Divers come from many areas of the world to try to locate some of the lost treasures. Just last year a treasure hunter found a haul worth about $4 million US. About 20 % of the artifacts are claimed by the state of Florida to eventually be displayed as artifacts.

Mel Fisher also has a Treasure Museum in Vero Beach area but I ran out of time and was only able to visit McLarty’s while in the area. McLarty’s exists on the spot where survivors washes ashore and set up camp.

treasure_coast

Treasure Coast, Florida – Exactly What Its Name Says

Treasure Coast, Florida is exactly what it’s called – a treasure. This area of Florida is one of the most beautiful in all the state, and it has a laid back atmosphere that makes it perfect for decompressing from life’s stressful day-to-day’s. Whether you’re a nature buff, a beach lover, an active sporty adventure traveler, or a person who enjoys a little food and wine, Treasure Coast, Florida has something for you.

I was a guest of Martin County and Indian River County, Florida recently and as such I received compensation, flights, some meals, accommodations, and other perks to share travel stories here and on my social media channels. My opinion is honest and always truthful. 

Mom of two beautiful active girls, traveller, fitness junkie, social media consultant, and keeper of the sanity.

18 Comments

  • Alli

    While growing up in GA, my family spent many summer vacations exploring Florida. It’s such a beautiful state and the beach is my favorite place to be. I’d love to visit the Treasure Coast soon.

  • Pam

    Florida is one of our favorite places to visit on vacation. The Treasure Coast is a great area. I have been several times.

  • Jeannette

    Wow – this just looks like a beautiful area! And I love your tips about finding restaurants on the water. There is nothing better than enjoying dinner with a gorgeous view!

  • Breanna

    I have never been to Florida, but would love to go someday. Your post is very informative and definitely helpful! I enjoyed reading all of your tips. It helps to hear advice from others when you are new to an area!

  • Rebecca Swenor

    I have to admit that I have never been to Treasure Coast Florida before. It sounds amazing and it sounds like there is something for everyone there. We will have to check this out for sure and the museum is some place we would be love to see..

  • Jeanine

    I’ve never been to Florida, or heard of Treasure Chest Florida before! I have always wanted to visit FL though, so hopefully one day. Treasure Chest sounds and looks pretty incredible!

  • Bonnie @wemake7

    That is so cool you mentioned Port St. Lucie. I have a friend that moved there a few years ago.

  • christina aliperti

    What a beautiful place! I would love to stay there when we visit Florida. We usually go to Tampa.

  • Jennifer Kearney

    I love Florida! Our family has a house in West Palm Beach but I haven’t been to Treasure Chest! Sounds like an awesome vacation spot and will have to check it out!