Best Things to Do in Fort Pierce, Florida: Beaches, SEALs, and Sunsets

Fort Pierce calls itself the “Sunrise City” thanks to its gorgeous east-facing beaches that catch the morning light just right. While there’s plenty of opportunity to catch a sunrise along one of its free ocean beaches or the Fort Pierce Jetty, a day in this beachside city isn’t complete without watching the sun set to the west over the Indian River Lagoon.

Set sail to this popular beach town with its dynamic naval museum, a botanical garden with the largest bonsai collection in the United States and water activities along inlets, bays, the Indian River Lagoon, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Fort Pierce’s Prize Museum: National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

Undoubtedly, one of the best museums of any kind in Florida is the National Navy SEAL Museum.

With huge pieces of authentic equipment and visually strong exhibits, learn how, after the advent of World War II, the Navy transformed Fort Pierce by bringing in 40,000 troops and constructing 450 buildings to build the Naval Amphibious Training Base.

Discover the start of the U.S. Navy Frogmen program, the forerunners of today’s Navy SEALs.

Beyond World War II, follow the trials and successes of the Navy SEALs through the Vietnam War, the Iran Hostage Crisis, and recent involvement with the plan to assassinate Osama Bin Laden. Anyone can sign up to “train” to be a Navy SEAL at the museum’s outdoor obstacle course.

Hit the Sand along the Inlet or the Ocean Beach at Fort Pierce Inlet State Park

For sun, sand, and surf, head to Fort Pierce Inlet State Park on the north side of the inlet. For a modest fee, wade in the calm waters of the inlet beaches, join the surfers on the ocean side, or cast a fishing line from the jetty. It’s an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Explore Historic Downtown Fort Pierce

Step back in time as you wander through the charming Downtown Fort Pierce Historic District. Discover a delightful mix of local shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Catch a show at the historic Sunrise Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that hosts a variety of theatrical and musical performances. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, waterfront views, and walkable downtown that’s the county seat of St. Lucie County.

Take a Walk or Dine at Fort Pierce Jetty Park

On the opposite side of the Inlet from Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is the Fort Pierce Jetty Park, the most popular waterside attraction in town because it’s free to visit and to park! Cast a line or simply soak in the scenery at Fort Pierce Jetty Park.

Watch the boats sail in and out of the inlet, get your steps in for the day, or sip a cool drink at one of the outdoor restaurants and bars surrounding the park.

Relax in the Shade of the Heathcote Botanical Gardens in Fort Pierce

Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Heathcote Botanical Gardens. This stunning garden showcases a diverse collection of tropical plants, flowers, and trees.

Be sure to visit Heathcote’s Bonsai Gallery, featuring the largest public bonsai display in the United States. Admire the vibrant colors and find serenity in this botanical oasis, a non-profit garden that’s been part of the community for 40 years.

Experience the Eye-Opening Blind Creek Beach Near Fort Pierce

For a different kind of beach experience, drive eight miles south of Fort Pierce Jetty Park to Blind Creek Beach, one of the few clothing-optional beaches along the entire Eastern Coast of the United States.

Enjoy the freedom and natural beauty of this secluded stretch of sand. Please remember to respect the rules and regulations of this unique beach. Parking is also free!

Ride a Horse at John Brooks Beach in St. Lucie County

Discover a different kind of freedom on the beach as you ride a horse at John Brooks Beach. Trot along the shoreline, feel the wind in your hair, and enjoy the unique perspective of the beach from horseback.

It’s a truly unforgettable way to connect with nature. Contact Tours on Horseback (beachtoursonhorseback.com) for more information.

See a Manatee Up Close at the Manatee Observation and Education Center

Get up close and personal with Florida’s gentle giants at the Manatee Observation and Education Center located downtown along Moore’s Creek that flows into the Indian River. Especially in cold weather during winter and spring, manatees congregate in the creek to bask in its warmer waters.

Observing manatees is free. A small donation is requested to visit the Education Center nearby. The Center’s gift shop is a particular favorite of manatee fans.

Sail Away on Miss Fort Pierce from the South Causeway Marina

Set sail on an exciting adventure with Miss Fort Pierce or one of the other boats at the South Causeway Marina. Whether you’re looking for a fishing charter, a scenic cruise, or a thrilling dolphin tour, you’ll find it at this bustling marina halfway between downtown and the Fort Pierce Jetty Park.

See Sea Life at the St. Lucie County Aquarium

Discover the wonders of the marine world at the St. Lucie County Aquarium. Explore interactive exhibits showcasing the diverse marine life of the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean.

Get hands-on with touch tanks, see the Smithsonian Marine Ecosystems Exhibit, and learn about the importance of marine conservation at this small but interesting museum along the South Causeway.

Admire Landscape Art at the A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery

Appreciate the artistic talents of Florida’s preeminent landscape painter, A.E. Backus, at the A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery. Visitors can explore the museum’s four wings featuring changing exhibits of contemporary artists.

A highlight of the museum is its permanent multimedia exhibition on the Florida Highwaymen, a group of 26 African American artists known for their vibrant landscape paintings.

Head Out to Gator Lake at D.J. Wilcox Preserve

This 105-acre preserve along the Indian River Lagoon features a diverse ecosystem, including pine flatwoods, mangrove swamps, hammocks, and Gator Lake, which features a boardwalk for safe wildlife viewing.

A one-mile self-guided interpretive trail winds through the site, which contains remnants of Indrio, a ghost town from the Florida land boom of the 1920s.

Experience FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Center

Embark on a journey of scientific discovery at the FAU Harbor Branch Ocean Discovery Center. Take a tour of the facility, learn about cutting-edge marine research, and explore exhibits showcasing the wonders of the ocean.

Of special note is the educational 90-minute boat tour on Fridays and Saturdays led by a marine scientist. Passengers have unique opportunities to see below the surface of the water from their seats. The tour often sells out, so book in advance.

Getting to Fort Pierce

Florida’s major north-side thruway on its East Coast, I-95, has several exits with direct access to Fort Pierce. Visitors heading north from Stuart or south from Vero Beach can enjoy a leisurely oceanside drive to get to Fort Pierce.

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Author Bio: For more than 40 years, R.C. Staab has been a tourism and culture expert who has been quoted by and had photos published in numerous publications including the New York Times, USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, the LA Times and CNN. He wrote 100 Things to Do at the Jersey Shore Before You Die, now in its second printing, and is a frequent contributor to New Jersey Monthly magazine. His latest book, New York City Scavenger: The Ultimate Search for New York City’s Hidden Treasures, explores Manhattan from Battery Park to Washington Heights.

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