Port St. Lucie — A Treasure Undiscovered

by Scott Kauffman

This superb Sunshine State location in St. Lucie County isn’t as well-known as its southern neighbor, Palm Beach County, but that’s just how the Port St. Lucie’s populace likes it. They want to keep this uncrowded and unspoiled Treasure Coast a true treasure.

And why not, with 21 miles of pristine bleached white beaches left largely undiscovered? Natural habitats are peacefully preserved as manatees leisurely lounge in the Indian River Lagoon. And abundant Atlantic Ocean life features everything from vibrant barrier reefs to famous underwater, centuries-old shipwrecks to angling opportunities galore.

Yes, nature’s been very good to the people of Port St. Lucie and their St. Lucie County surroundings, which are conveniently situated about 30 minutes north of the famous Palm Beaches.

For golfing delight, this slice of golf heaven features a 35-acre PGA Learning Center, a six-hole short course and a 8,300-square-foot PGA Historical Center used by thousands of PGA Professionals each year.

Savory Eateries

• Fernando’s Dockside Grille is a Portuguese-influenced restaurant offering an excellent seafood stew served in a garlic and saffron-based broth over a bed of linguine.
• Pizza House PSL is a family-run Italian pizza joint that’s small in size but big in satisfaction. The meatball pizza is a must.
• Lily’s Café features a breakfast that can’t be beat, from the French toast to biscuits and gravy and omelets.
• Sushi Goma is run by a 25-year native Japanese chef and serves the highest grade fish and quality seafood.

Top Things To Do

• A.E. “Bean” Backus Gallery Visit the home of the Treasure Coast Art Association and renowned landscape designer Beanie Backus’ masterpieces.
• Fort Pierce’s South Beach Fishing Jetty Go fishing for snook, sea trout, snapper or grouper at the longest jetty in Florida.
• Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution Explore submersibles, aquariums of sea life, exhibits of marine technology and whimsical bronze sculptures at this 500-acre facility.
• Tradition Field Go to a New York Mets spring training game or watch a Minor League ball game during the summer.
• Hutchinson Island Visit one of Florida’s most beautiful barrier islands.
• North Beach Causewayand Fort Pierce Inlet Go underwater treasure hunting at more than a dozen established dive sites.
• St. Lucie River Rent a canoe or enjoy a two-hour narrated tour on this picturesque river. While you’re there, stroll down the beautiful river boardwalk along the water’s edge while a variety of wildlife serve as a peaceful backdrop to a perfect picnic.
• Underwater Team Museum Pay tribute where the first Navy frogmen trained at this unique museum honoring naval combat and underwater demolition units.

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