Why Hutchinson Island Is Florida's Best-Kept Secret
Hutchinson Island stretches 23 miles along Florida's Treasure Coast, flanked by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Indian River Lagoon to the west. Unlike the crowded beaches of Miami or the tourist traps of Orlando, Hutchinson Island offers authentic Florida experiences — wild dolphins, uncrowded beaches, world-class fishing, and a laid-back vibe that's increasingly hard to find.
Here are the 10 best things to do on Hutchinson Island, ranked by someone who's spent thousands of hours exploring every inch of it.
1. Jet Ski Dolphin Tour on the Indian River Lagoon ⭐
Why it's #1: There is simply no better way to experience Hutchinson Island than riding alongside wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on a jet ski. The Indian River Lagoon — often called the "Dolphin Nursery of the Atlantic" — is home to over 800 resident dolphins, and our guided jet ski tours maintain a 95% sighting rate.
Unlike passive boat tours where you sit and watch from a distance, a jet ski dolphin tour puts you at water level, just feet from these incredible creatures. Dolphins are naturally curious and often approach jet skis to ride the wake.
Details: Tours depart from Fort Pierce and last approximately 1.5–2 hours. No experience necessary — our guides provide full instruction. Book a jet ski dolphin tour.
2. Visit the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park sits at the northern tip of Hutchinson Island and offers some of the best snorkeling, surfing, and beachcombing on the Treasure Coast. The park's Dynamite Point area provides stunning views of the Indian River Lagoon and Fort Pierce Inlet.
Insider tip: The jetty rocks at the inlet are excellent for snorkeling — you'll see tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally nurse sharks.
3. Explore Bathtub Reef Beach (Stuart)
Located at the southern end of Hutchinson Island, Bathtub Reef Beach is famous for its natural reef formation that creates a calm, shallow "bathtub" perfect for families with young children. The reef is made of Sabellariid worm rock and creates a natural pool that's protected from waves.
4. Sunset Cruise on the Indian River Lagoon
If jet skiing isn't your style, a captained sunset cruise on the Indian River Lagoon is pure magic. Our BYOB pontoon cruises take you through the most scenic stretches of the lagoon as the sun paints the sky in oranges, pinks, and purples. Dolphin sightings are common on sunset cruises too.
Details: Private sunset cruises accommodate up to 6 guests. Bring your own food and drinks. Book a sunset cruise.
5. Visit the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center
Located on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is a 57-acre marine life nature center. The highlight is the interactive stingray feeding experience and the sea turtle rehabilitation program. It's educational, hands-on, and perfect for families.
6. Fish the Indian River Lagoon
The Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America, home to over 4,300 species. Fishing here is world-class — snook, redfish, trout, tarpon, and flounder are all abundant. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, the lagoon delivers.
7. Tour the Navy SEAL Museum
The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum on Hutchinson Island is the only museum in the world dedicated to the U.S. Navy SEALs. Located on the actual beach where the first Navy frogmen trained during World War II, it's a fascinating and moving experience.
8. Paddleboard or Kayak the Mangroves
The Indian River Lagoon's mangrove-lined shorelines are perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. You'll glide through tunnels of red mangroves, spotting manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and countless bird species. It's a peaceful, immersive way to experience the lagoon's ecosystem.
9. Visit the House of Refuge at Gilbert's Bar
Built in 1876, the House of Refuge at Gilbert's Bar is the last remaining House of Refuge on the Atlantic coast. Originally built to shelter shipwrecked sailors, it now serves as a museum with stunning ocean views and fascinating maritime history.
10. Catch a Sunrise on the Atlantic Side
Hutchinson Island's east-facing Atlantic beaches offer some of the most spectacular sunrises in Florida. Grab a coffee, find a quiet stretch of beach, and watch the sun rise over the ocean. During sea turtle nesting season (May–October), you might even spot turtle tracks in the sand.
Plan Your Hutchinson Island Adventure
Hutchinson Island offers something for everyone — from adrenaline-pumping jet ski dolphin tours to peaceful sunset cruises and pristine beaches. The best part? It's still relatively undiscovered, so you won't be fighting crowds.
Ready to start with the #1 activity on the island? Book your jet ski dolphin tour or call (772) 300-9506.
