A BOATER'S GUIDE TO THE TREASURE COAST

Between the St. Lucie River, Indian River Lagoon, Intracoastal Waterway, and the Atlantic Ocean, Florida's Treasure Coast is a mecca for boaters from around the world. Living in this South Florida region means indulging in a coveted waterfront lifestyle. Whether residents are drawn to deep-sea fishing or cruising along the coastline, there is something that will pique the interest of boating enthusiasts of all ages. Here's a closer look at how the area's waterways invite exploration and adventure.

For the sports fisherman who loves to cast a line, the Treasure Coast is an angler's paradise. Nicknamed the "Sailfish Capital of the World," the offshore Atlantic Ocean waters have the reputation for one of the densest populations of sailfish in the world. Deep-sea sports fishermen cherish the open ocean's challenging catches, with plentiful annual tournaments to show off their skills. For a more relaxed fishing experience, take a flats boat through the mangrove's estuary waters, teeming with redfish, snook, tarpon, and trout.

From the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, the Treasure Coast's miles of waterways ensure there are truly no limits to a boater's adventures. Whether heading up to Fort Pierce or down to Jupiter/Tequesta, sandbars dotting the Intracoastal provide days filled with family fun. The Stuart Sandbar is a favored 'off the map' adventure, where families idle up to the shore, enjoy the crystal-clear waters and relish in the Florida sunshine.

Mariners can also sail across the Okeechobee Waterway, a protected inland passage across the entire state from Stuart to Fort Myers. Or, for a weekend getaway, boaters head to the west end of the Bahamas just 55 nautical miles away, with crystal-clear waters, boutique shopping, and ample waterfront adventures to explore. No matter where boaters choose to go, they will surely enjoy Florida's stunning natural beauty, with plentiful boating activities and adventures.

Whether boaters are looking to grab a morning cup of coffee before their trip or enjoy a five-star meal after a day spent on the water, Treasure Coast's waterfront dining opportunities are seemingly endless. Renowned for mouthwatering coastal cuisines and ease of on-site docking, boaters can simply pack up their boat and cruise down to meet friends at their dinner destination. Sailor's Return and the adjacent Gilbert's Coffee Bar are favored spots for boaters, offering 930 feet of docks right in front of the restaurants. Downtown Stuart's courtesy dockage also provides easy access to the area's vibrant culinary scene. Downtown restaurants including TideHouse, Stuart Boathouse, Hudson's on the River, and more are known for their diverse array of fresh catches, carefully curated cocktails and scenic views of the St. Lucie River.

Situated on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River with easy ocean access just minutes away, residents at Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club enjoy a premier home port. Three private marinas provide the perfect launch point, with a combined 98 slips that range from 24 to 80 feet. Harbour Ridge's shoreline encompasses two miles of pristine riverfront, ensuring residents enjoy the well-rounded waterfront lifestyle the Treasure Coast is known for.

Designed to take full advantage of the stunning panoramic vistas of the St. Lucie River, Harbour Ridge's 45,000-square-foot Clubhouse is the heart of the community. Residents can also entertain themselves at the Lakeside Lifestyle Center, home to nine Har-Tru courts and eight pickleball courts, a spacious fitness center with physical therapy, an aquatics center, and a full-service salon. Harbour Ridge is also home to two USGA-recognized championship golf courses designed with tropical charm and sweeping vistas.