Jensen Beach Park is our most frequent recommendation, but Hutchinson Island runs for miles, and a handful of other beaches along it are well worth a visit if you’re staying more than a few days.
Other stretches worth trying
- Waveland Beach — a family favorite with lifeguards and full amenities, slightly quieter than Jensen Beach
- Walton Rocks Beach — the area’s dedicated off-leash dog beach, ideal if you’re traveling with a pet
- Bathtub Beach — a natural tidal lagoon that creates calm, shallow water, excellent for younger children and snorkeling
- Stuart Beach — one of the finest on the island, close to the Elliott Museum
Choosing the right one
If you’re after amenities and a lively atmosphere, Jensen Beach or Waveland are the safer bets. For something calmer and better suited to small children, Bathtub Beach is hard to beat. And if the family includes a dog, Walton Rocks is really the only off-leash option on this stretch of coast.