Welcome to North Hutchinson Island, one of the untouched paradises of the Treasure Coast.
This tranquil barrier island is best known for its pristine beaches, rich history, and plentiful marine life, and it offers a blend of relaxation and adventure like nowhere else in Florida.
Whether you’re a history buff looking to soak up some Florida maritime history, a nature enthusiast hoping to experience some of the wildly diverse Hutchinson Island ecosystems, or just looking for a serene seaside retreat, there is a wide array of experiences that cater to every visitor’s desires on North Hutchinson Island.
This island is the perfect place to check out historical museums, journey through natural wonders that stretch back to ancient times, and soak up the sun on one of several idyllic beaches.
If you’re already on the island or considering a visit soon, here’s your comprehensive visitor’s guide to North Hutchinson Island that will get you around to several sights, keep you fed, and let you relax in a way you can only achieve on the Treasure Coast.
Popular Things to Do on North Hutchinson Island
First and foremost, North Hutchinson Island is a treasure trove of Florida maritime history, and the island itself offers a captivating journey back through time. Here are a few ways to really bring the past to life.
Navy SEAL Museum
Anyone interested in military history or how the coastal environment helped shape modern special forces will undoubtedly find the Navy SEAL Museum to be a remarkable site.
The museum is situated where the predecessors to the SEALs, the Navy Frogmen trained during World War II, and it’s a tribute to the courage and peerless skill of the United States Navy SEALs.
Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, handle actual equipment, and view unique military and historical artifacts, even climb into real military vehicles while getting an unprecedented look into the lives and training of some of the most secretive and elite fighters in history.
Tours of Hutchinson Island
One of the best ways to really get the full North Hutchinson Island historic experience is to take one of the tours, which are expertly guided excursions going through various sections of the island’s storied past.
Hear tales of the early Native American roots, to insights into its locational importance during the Second World War, all woven into a historical tapestry narrated to you by a local.
These tours are also the perfect way to see smaller, lesser-known historical hotspots that you just can’t find out about any other way.
Many of these options are seasonal or temporary businesses operating as eco-tours or boat cruises, so be sure to keep up with new things to do on Hutchinson Island to see which businesses are offering similar services.
Exploring Parks & Wildlife of North Hutchinson Island
North Hutchinson Island is a haven and hotspot for anyone looking to explore or just deeply appreciate the natural world of the island.
There are diverse ecosystems that range from sandy beaches to lush tropical mangrove forests, which all create sanctuaries for countless varieties of fauna, these locations will help you get closer than you ever thought possible, to this beautiful area.
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is one of the island’s many exquisite natural parks.
Here visitors can explore the coastal hammocks, and sandy beaches, or take time to observe the rich and diverse marine life and the crystal clear waters.
Fort Pierce Inlet State Park is ideal for anyone looking for a spot to swim, snorkel, surf, or enjoy underwater photography, while also offering an amazing array of trails for hiking and bird watching.
The waters of the inlet itself are popular for spotting all sorts of interesting fauna, such as manatees, dolphins, and countless different seabirds.
Here you can find the ideal blend of a serene beach experience and a coastal ecosystem gateway.
Pepper Park Beachside
Pepper Park Beach is a unique location for visiting wildlife enthusiasts, and it’s particularly known as a place where endangered sea turtles make their sandy nests.
During nesting season visitors may have the chance to witness the unforgettable sight of the majestic sea turtle laying her eggs or the moment when the hatchlings begin making their perilous journey from nest to ocean.
The park’s beautiful, unspoiled beachfront, as well as the nature trails and the boardwalks, provide plenty of space for wandering around, enjoying the tranquil setting, and observing diverse local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Aside from the sea turtles, the park is also a favorite spot for beachcombers, picnickers, and anyone looking for a laid-back beach atmosphere with a heavy emphasis on local wildlife.
Dining Near North Hutchinson Island
North Hutchinson Island can be a bit sparse when it comes to restaurants. There are delis and small shops in the area, but options are not as robust as the southern region of the island.
When you need to take a break from the nature, culture, and adventure, it’s time to head to one of the many excellent dining locations near the island.
Here you’ll find some of the best seafood offerings prepared in some of the most unforgettable ways and served in beloved waterfront eateries.
On the Edge Bar & Grill
This is one of the most aptly-named eateries, as it sits perched on the edge of the Hutchinson Island coastline, and offers not only sensational dining but stunning views.
As you sit overlooking the ocean waves, you can enjoy live music events and some of the most amazing seafood dishes you can imagine, with starters like island conch fritters and the Edge’s famous Seafood Tower, which has layer after layer of oysters, shrimp, crab, and more.
Notable mains here include the grilled mahi-mahi, the coconut shrimp, and the island-spiced ribeye, which is a juicy cut grilled with Caribbean spices, and their signature dish, the Edge’s Lobster Roll is a local favorite.
Chuck’s Seafood Restaurant
Chuck’s Seafood Restaurant has been a staple on North Hutchinson Island for years, and it’s renowned by locals and visitors alike for its peerless Florida seafood experience.
Located right on the waterfront, this family-owned eatery is known for its fresh and locally sourced seafood fare, served expertly in the relaxed, charming ambiance.
Favorites like the steamed clams and the blue crab cakes will get your appetite warmed up, and seafood enthusiasts can then dive headlong into specialties like the seafood platter, grouper in key lime butter, or the classic fried shrimp basket.
For diners looking for a more land-based meal, favorites from the grill include the pepper-crusted sirloin, and the unique “Chuck’s Lobster Pot Pie”, which combines fresh, succulent lobster meat with a creamy filling and flaky crust, creating a comforting yet upscale dish.
12A Buoy
12A Bouy is a beloved local culinary landmark, and it stands out on North Hutchinson Island as a place where you can get a perfect blend of casual atmosphere with gourmet, upscale cuisine.
This place is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere overlaid with a driving commitment to top-quality dishes, and that’s what’s helped to make it one of the leading favorites among island residents and visitors.
Unique starters include Bahamian conch chowder, and fried green tomatoes, layered with goat cheese and a balsamic reduction, while some of the seafood classics include a seafood risotto, brimming with creamy rice, shrimp, and scallops, and a divine blackened mahi mahi served with sweet potato hash and topped with a mango salsa.
Grill options include prime rib, while the lobster mac and cheese is sure to become one of your favorites, and the quinoa and roasted vegetable bowl might just change your mind about vegetarian options.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
As you might suspect, North Hutchinson Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts of all types and features beaches, lush flora, and a wide array of outdoor activities.
Here are just a few.
Jetty Park
Jetty Park is a local favorite that’s known for the fishing and surfing opportunities, and it’s named for the long jetty that extends out into the Atlantic.
Surfers here find the waves inviting, and anglers enjoy the unique experience of fishing the jetty, with conditions that suit all skill levels, you can’t go wrong.
Round Island Beach Park
For anyone hoping to find the perfect watersports beach, Round Island Beach Park is the ideal spot, and is particularly popular with kayakers and paddleboarders.
The calm waters around the island shores create a perfect setting for both of these and offer a peaceful way to explore the local waterways and marine environment. It’s also just next to Avalon State Park which is another great place to consider for a day trip.
Additionally, there’s an area in the park that’s ideal for sunbathing and swimming, so if you aren’t fond of paddling there’s still plenty to do here.
Wrapping Up
As we wrap up our journey through North Hutchinson Island, it’s important to understand that we’ve only scratched the surface of the amazing offerings this island has for visitors.
There is such a rich tapestry of experiences, from places to visit, things to see, adventures to have, and flavors to taste, there’s enough on the island to keep you coming back again and again without doing the same thing twice unless, of course, you want to.
As you depart the shores of North Hutchinson Island, carry with you the vibrance and joy of the island life, as well as the serenity and tranquility of its beaches, and start planning your next visit.
