St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park

St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park was opened to the public in 1969. Since then it has remained just as it was, an undeveloped barrier island. One of the few remaining along east Florida's widely developed coastline, the park protects 10 distinct natural communities, a host of birds and turtles and a nearly five mile long coral reef.

Visitors who come to the park enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, kayaking, hiking and wildlife viewing. Bring your kayak and a sense for adventure and come enjoy one of Florida's most unique-and private state parks.

Access to St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park can be found at nearby Port Salerno. From there, kayakers and powerboats can use the local boat ramps to navigate their way from the Intracoastal Waterway about 2/3 of mile to the island. At the beach of the island you can land your small craft. Other boats can tie up at the dock. A fee of $3 is required by the honor system pay box on the boardwalk.

The boardwalk leads onto the island through two coastal hammock areas. The white stopper tree dominates the area and produces a notable skunk-like smell from its oily bark and leaves. Along the 3,300 feet of boardwalk that winds its way throughout the island, live oak, paradise trees, wild lime and the rare beach-star.

Fishing at St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park is second to none. Several areas in the park offer anglers different fish species to catch. Drop a line from the docks and expect to catch snook, snapper and sheepshead. Try your luck from the beach and you're sure to catch snook, pompano and bluefish. Hit the reef and catch cobia, snapper and mackerel year round.

For those who like an underwater adventure, an offshore living reef is just offshore a hundred feet or more. 4.7 miles of reef extends along the beach side of the island. This reef is the northernmost limit for several species of coral. Scuba diving and snorkelers must display a divers down flag when swimming at the reef.

Once you've had your fill of the reef, you'll probably have worked up a pretty good appetite. A covered picnic shelter is available on a first come first serve basis. Eight tables and two grills offer guests a place to eat snacks, cook on the grill and all within view of the beach.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operations or other park questions, visit the official Florida state park website here.