Imagine a place where warm waters meet perfect waves. Where soft sand beaches play backdrop for sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming, and snapshots. Where the great outdoors still feels natural, and time isn’t the only thing that’s preserved. Good news: in Martin County, you don’t have to imagine.

Martin County is a true hidden gem, tucked away along South Florida’s charming Atlantic Coast. Nestled between Orlando and Miami, this under-the-radar escape offers more than 22 miles of unspoiled beaches (thanks to a county-wide four-story height restriction), so you won’t find any towering buildings overshadowing the shores. And with over 100,000 acres of sprawling parks and conservation lands, there’s plenty of room to spread out and explore—all while maintaining social distance guidelines. 

This dreamy destination is home to the St. Lucie Inlet (recognized as the most bio-diverse lagoon ecosystem in the Northern Hemisphere) and attracts anglers in search of world-class fishing year-round. You’ll also find the start of the Florida Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., beginning in Martin County and extending down to the Florida Keys. 

Here, rare natural wonders are commonplace. Take Jonathan Dickinson State Park for example. As the largest state park in Southeast Florida, it covers 16 distinct natural communities including coastal sand hills, scrub forests, and upland lakes. From birding and boating to camping and equestrian experiences, there are endless ways to explore this unique enclave by land or water. Blowing Rocks Preserve is another perennial favorite, named for its rocky Anastasia limestone shoreline—the largest on the Atlantic coast. During high tide, waves crash through these unique geological formations and force plumes of oceanwater 50 feet skyward, creating a dramatic display. 

Escape the crowds while discovering Martin County’s countless treasures and timeless charm, which extend far beyond the sun-kissed shores and expansive parks. Here, the legacy of “Old Florida” is alive and well, and unexpected arts and cultural elements have been woven into the fabric of the region, playing an integral role in the community. Visitors can also experience exhilarating eco-adventures, including nature hikes, stand-up paddle tours, river cruises, and more. 

A magnet for multigenerational getaways, there’s something for every type of traveler to appreciate, from high-end shopping and one-of-a-kind museums to rustic rodeos and family-friendly attractions. Kids can play the day away at Sailfish Splash Waterpark; pet a stingray at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center; or engage their minds at the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast. Meanwhile, grown-ups can swing by the sea with endless golfing opportunities, including the newly redesigned Sailfish Sands Golf Course. 

Martin County’s culinary scene simmers with enticing flavors, local ingredients, and inventive dishes. Indoors or al fresco, casual or extravagant—Martin County plates it all, along with a side of hometown hospitality. From waterfront views to award-winning downtown districts, there’s something to satisfy every palate and budget. And there’s no shortage of enchanting places to stay, including quaint inns, stunning oceanfront resorts, rustic campgrounds, and your favorite national hotel brands.  

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Encompassing a vibrant collection of communities, Martin County is easily accessible, despite feeling worlds away from it all. Located just off A1A and accessible by a plethora of scenic routes, it’s a convenient destination for anyone in need of an unforgettable road trip. This under-the-radar getaway is also located within two hours (or less) from four international airports. 

So what you waiting for? Stop by and see for yourself what makes Martin County so special. After all, this is a place for unwinding, reconnecting, and creating memories that last longer than tan lines. Start planning the vacation you deserve at DiscoverMartin.com.