Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Jensen Beach, FL

  • Published 2022/08/12

At the edge of the famed Treasure Coast likes Jensen Beach, a scenic and friendly town with lots of hidden wonders.

This census-designated place belongs to Martin County, sitting next to the tranquil Atlantic and beautiful St. Lucie River.

Because of these features, Jensen Beach has many natural attractions for adventurers and thrill-seekers.

But it’s also a modern town offering attractions like museums, golf courses, and community parks.

Whatever your preference, there’s something for you in this charming beachside destination.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Jensen Beach, FL:

Play With Your Dog at Walton Rocks Beach

Boardwalk at Walton Rocks Beach

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Way up north along Ocean Highway lies the farthest beach from Jensen Beach’s main landmass: Walton Rocks Beach.

One of the best features of this attraction is that it’s open to dogs.

So you can bring your furry best friend along the trip and let them have fun under the sun—no leash needed.

They can swim on the shallower parts of the sea, run around the soft sand, and socialize with other dogs visiting for the day.

Dog at Walton Rocks Beach

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You too can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and gentle sea breeze as it blows from the Atlantic.

Just a heads up: there’s a section of the beach for those who like to go out au naturale.

So don’t be surprised if you happen to see people in the buff—just say hi and proceed with your day.

Go Sportsfishing Into the Atlantic

Fishing pier at Jensen Beach

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Since you’re already in a place sitting next to the majestic Atlantic Ocean, you might as well head into the open waters and experience new adventures.

There are many local charters in Jensen Beach who would be glad to give you a half-day or full-day fishing trip.

They’re maritime experts living beside the sea their whole lives, so you’d be at the hands of seasoned pros who will bring you to the best spots.

Try catching large saltwater game fish, such as sailfish, yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, and marlin.

But if fishing is not your thing, there are still plenty of activities to try on the waters near the Jensen Beach coast.

You can go surfing, parasailing, and jetskiing when the conditions are right.

See the Sunset at Indian Riverside Park

Sunset view at Indian Riverside Park

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Indian Riverside Park is a premier community park famous throughout the county.

Spanning 63 acres in total area, the destination has space for an array of attractions for the whole family.

One of the favorites among these is the mangrove boardwalk, an elevated wooden path that takes you above the area’s lush vegetation.

View of Indian Riverside Park

Stephen B Calvert Clariosophic, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The views here are outstanding, especially in the late afternoon when the tall palm trees frame the setting sun.

Don’t miss the Tuckahoe mansion, an immaculate, art deco-style home sitting on a hilltop.

Boardwalk at Indian Riverside Park

Noah Densmore / Shutterstock.com

It’s listed under the National Register of Historic Places and now serves as the favorite wedding venue in all of Martin County—brides and grooms simply cannot resist the magical ambiance of the regal house.

For those with kids, bring them to the interactive fountain so they can splash around and have fun all day!

Or they can visit the engaging Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast in the park’s southern section.

View of Indian Riverside Park

Stephen B Calvert Clariosophic, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Join the Pineapple Festival

Back in the day, Jensen Beach was the largest pineapple producer in the whole world, earning it the title Pineapple Capital of the World in 1895.

But due to fires, hard freezes, and other agricultural problems, the farms collapsed, and the town lost its title.

This rich heritage is still celebrated during the weekend-long Pineapple Festival held every November.

You’ll see arts and crafts stalls, world-class music concerts, carnival rides, food vendors, and a host of other attractions for the whole family.

Of course, pineapples are the star of the whole show.

You can find them on various dishes, paintings, street performances, and other places where you least expect them to be.

There’s also a Bahamian Market, with people from the Bahamas showcasing their products, performances, and culture to visitors.

So keep an eye out for all the wondrous things happening during the festival so you won’t miss the best parts!

Bring the Kids at Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Exterior of Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s no shortage of kid-friendly destinations here in Jensen Beach, and one of these is the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast.

The Treasure Coast region is so-called because the 1715 Treasure Fleet bound for Spain sunk in the nearby waters, and the gold and other precious materials have since been found in the location.

At the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast, this history is celebrated, along with other significant eras of the region as well as its natural history.

Back exterior of Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

But the highlight of the attraction are the many educational and engaging programs offered to stimulate the imagination of learners.

Here, kids can try their hand in various art forms, role-play their dream careers, and socialize with other children.

They’d get a chance to experience the culture on this side of Florida and gain some important life lessons along the way.

Relax Under the Sun at Jensen Beach Park

Jensen Beach Park is the most accessible beach in town, located right at the edge of Causeway Boulevard.

And thanks to its length, it’s seldom crowded and often serene.

So most visitors come here for a relaxing time under the sun, listening to the waves as they crash on the golden sand.

The sunsets here are also spectacular, especially when the waters are calm and the colors play on the surface.

For your convenience, there are several dining establishments located just at the edge of the beach.

So you can simply walk towards them for snacks and refreshments, even alcoholic drinks.

And no one’s stopping you from sipping a margarita any time of the day you want—you’re on vacation, after all!

Witness a Rare Sight at Jensen Sea Turtle Beach

Exterior of a house at Jensen Sea Turtle Beach

Stephen B Calvert Clariosophic, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There’s a certain area along Ocean Highway where hundreds of turtles visit seasonally to lay their eggs: the aptly named Jensen Sea Turtle Beach.

This beautiful segment is often isolated from the rest of the coastline, especially during the height of nesting season.

However, there are still sea turtle watching tours held from March to November.

You’ll be accompanied by a guide at night to try spotting loggerheads, green turtles, and leatherbacks as they dig the sand and lay their precious eggs.

The grounds of Jensen Sea Turtle Beach

Stephen B Calvert Clariosophic, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It’s one of the most sought-after experiences by many, a rare, once-in-a-lifetime sight that you definitely shouldn’t miss.

The beach is still open for regular activities like sunbathing, seashell collecting, and swimming.

Just stay within the designated segments so that lifeguards can keep an eye out for your safety.

Play a Few Rounds at Jensen Beach Golf Club

Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, a great game is waiting for you at the Jensen Beach Golf Club.

This panoramic attraction was designed by acclaimed architect Tom Fazio, winning the title from Golf Digest as #1 New Course in America when it was first opened.

And the recognition is well-deserved, as this 18-hole course takes advantage of the region’s natural features and scenery.

You’ll see palm trees standing in majesty, swampy water features glistening under the Florida sun, and lush fields rippling with the breeze.

It’s like being in a deluxe private golf course, but you don’t need memberships to play in Jensen Beach Golf Club.

So book a tee time during your trip and enjoy this beautiful, award-winning golf course.

Try Fishing at Jensen Beach Causeway Park

Aerial view of Jensen Beach Causeway Park

Noah Densmore / Shutterstock.com

There are a few other places in the US with a beautiful park under a bridge, and one of these is Jensen Beach Causeway Park.

It’s located right beneath the Jensen Beach Causeway, which connects the main landmass to the outer fringes.

With plenty of amenities and attractions, the park is a great destination for the whole family!

The waters of Jensen Beach Causeway Park

Noah Densmore / Shutterstock.com

You can let the kids stay at the playground while you go fishing on the piers, or you can launch a boat and go fishing or kayaking into the Indian River.

There’s also a well-paved bike trail that lets you ride around the park and to its beautiful lookouts.

But if you’re not up for any strenuous activities just yet, you’re always welcome to have a nice little picnic on one of the many spots of the park.

Go Kayaking Along Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve

Spanning 23,000 acres in total area, the Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve is an expansive destination that showcases the best of Florida.

From native terrestrial wildlife to marine creatures, this destination is teeming with flora and fauna endemic to the region.

Many people come here to try their hand at fishing, with freshwater game fish such as groupers, red drums, and snappers swimming in the depths.

There’s also plenty of kayaking and boating opportunities, as the waters are much calmer here than in the neighboring Atlantic.

While on a kayak, you can explore the pristine banks of the preserve, which are usually populated by mangrove trees.

These waterside forests are home to many birds, insects, and other species.

So you’d have plenty of wildlife encounters as long as you’re patient and have a keen eye.

Explore the Wonders of Savannas Preserve State Park

View of Savannas Preserve State Park

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Another vast natural attraction in the region is Savannas Preserve State Park.

While its main headquarters is in Port Lucie, a considerable chunk of the park spills over to Jensen Beach, with several entrances leading to the park’s interiors.

This flat, low-lying land feature has an array of habitats that make it an ecological hotspot, including swamps, lakes, and marshes.

Sign of Savannas Preserve State Park

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So there are plenty of opportunities to encounter the many species of animals living in the area, such as tortoises, deer, and fearsome alligators.

Birdwatching is also highly encouraged, with many migratory and neo-tropical species hunting and resting in the trees and tall grasses.

The grounds of Savannas Preserve State Park

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

On several sections of the park, there are modern amenities like playgrounds, picnic benches, and interpretative centers open for the whole family.

And if you’re the adventurous type, mountain biking and dispersed camping are just some of the activities you can try within the destination.

Marsh of Savannas Preserve State Park

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Go Sunbathing at Waveland Beach

Nature trips, kayaking on rivers, and golfing may be fun, but sometimes, you just want a gorgeous beach where you can relax and do nothing all day.

Jensen Beach has no shortage of these tranquil destinations, with Waveland Beach as one of the top spots.

This attraction is located in front of condos and doesn’t get too crowded thanks to its length that spans all the way to St. Lucie.

Aside from lying under the sun with your favorite book, you can try other activities here like strolling, swimming, and shore fishing.

And if you need some snacks and refreshing drinks, there are several dining facilities within walking distance.

Once you’re ready for more strenuous activities, try cycling the 13.2-mile bike path that begins at Waveland Beach.

Without going too far from Jensen Beach, you’ll be able to see other hidden attractions in the region within just a few miles from the route’s starting point.

Learn to Sail at the US Sailing Center of Martin County

Extraordinary yachts and boats are perfect for unwinding with loved ones.

Experience a rush of happiness as you travel away from land and into the open sea, where you can gaze at the vastness of the water and enjoy the soothing air.

In 1992, the United States Sailing Center – Martin County made its home on the sands of the Jensen Beach Causeway.

The first Sailing Center was only a tent, a camper, and several boats.

You may hire sailboats from US Sailing Center, the most dependable sailing club in Jensen Beach.

Summer camps, learn-to-sail courses, and other activities are also available for you to try.

Go Antique-Hunting at Then & Now Gallery

If you love bringing back souvenirs from your travels, stop by Then & Now.

Camille and John Staropoli opened the Now & Then Gallery in 2013.

This locally owned antique shop results from the proprietors’ desire to showcase their artistic interests and appreciation for the past.

Look around its 6,000 square feet of space packed with antiques, beach-themed décor, and other crafts.

The roughly 30 vendors at Then & Now Gallery ensure that shoppers of all means will find something to their liking.

Take a Break from the Sun with Jensen Beach Bowl

If you’re tired of the sun and want to do something else, Jensen Beach offers plenty of indoor options.

Bowling can be enjoyable for the whole family at Jensen Beach Bowl, which is also clean and well-maintained.

Dine at Strikes & Spares Cafe, unwind in the full-service lounge, and round up the gang for karaoke and Glow in the Dark bowling.

The Redemption Arcade features popular games like Cannon Ball Blaster and many others that kids enjoy playing.

Since 1995, the Sprague family has owned and maintained this “Old Florida” landmark built in 1958.

Play Ball Games at Langford Park

One of the most popular parks in all of Martin County is Langford Park, located at the intersection of Dixie Highway and Jensen Beach.

You have many options to try with its four baseball diamonds with designated areas for children and adults, a playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, racquetball courts, sand volleyball courts, and pickleball courts.

It also has picnic pavilions and a concession stand.

You may also check out the skate park directly connected to Langford Park through a pedestrian walkway.

It’s a one-of-a-kind facility with a street course, two concrete bowls, and a staff available during business hours.

Party and Shop at Jammin’ Jensen Market

Jammin’ Jensen Market on Jensen Beach Boulevard is a long-standing tradition in the heart of Jensen Beach.

Spend the night in a place that feels like “old Florida.”

Once the sun goes down on Thursdays, the fun begins.

It’s a carnival featuring booths set up by local artisans.

Jewelry, candles, soaps, home goods, clothing, and hats, to name a few, are just some of the handcrafted goods that will be for sale.

Enjoy the live music from area bands and satisfying dining options.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Once you’re done with your adventures in Jensen Beach, visit these other attractions just a few minutes away.

Smell Fragrant Blooms at Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens

Aerial view of Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens

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A short drive from Jensen beach lies the Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens, a sprawling attraction for plant lovers and budding horticulturists.

It’s a 20-acre gem filled with carpets of blooming flowers, native trees of the region, turf and grass or all types, and other rare plants endemic to the state.

Plants at Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens

KATHERINE WAGNER-REISS, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

There are also other features that add to the magical ambiance of the attraction, like a pond with a roaring fountain, an events lawn surrounded by trees, and themed sections.

Don’t forget to visit their gift shop to get some great souvenirs of your trip to the Treasure Coast!

View of Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens

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See Marine Animals at Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center

Located in neighboring Stuart, the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center is an educational site that’s perfect for wildlife lovers.

This 57-acre research facility serves as home to many aquatic animals from the nearby Atlantic and other oceans.

With a goal to inspire the stewardship of Florida’s rich ecosystems, this center has created programs that focus on rehabilitating some of the state’s habitats.

They also help breed, treat, and protect various marine species living near the state.

So during your visit, you’d see manta rays, turtles, fishes, and many other animals cared for by the center’s experts.

They can be found swimming in the large, beautiful lagoon surrounded by a boardwalk for visitors.

Cool Down at Sailfish Splash Waterpark

If the Atlantic proves too turbulent during your visit, there’s always Sailfish Splash Waterpark for exciting water-related adventures.

This destination is also located in Stuart, spanning two acres and filled with many attractions for the whole family.

With its towering slides, giant pools, inflatables, and obstacle courses on the water, the park has something for everyone.

Even people who just want to relax will find themselves enjoying the tranquil lazy river.

So when the hot days come, make a stopover here and take a cooling dip!

Final Thoughts

Jensen Beach has all the features that make Florida great: scenic beaches, incredible wildlife, vast swamps, and a welcoming community.

So whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or festival-goer, you’ll have many choices to try during your visit.

Reference this list and add the top spots to your itinerary today!

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