Known as the “Sunrise City”, Fort Pierce is perched on the Indian River Lagoon and is one of Florida’s oldest communities. Along with a historic downtown district, it boasts charming beaches, fishing expeditions and a thriving marina dotted with tiki bars and cafes.

Things to do

The Fort Pierce City Marina is the heart of the waterfront, with opportunities for charter fishing as well as scuba diving in natural and artificial reefs. You can also go dolphin watching and paddleboarding or take a swampland boat down the Indian River. For a windswept beach experience, go horseback riding along the shoreline.

Some of the best beaches in Fort Pierce lie within state parks, including Fort Pierce Inlet State Park with its observation tower and specialty gardens. At Avalon State Park you can encounter endangered loggerhead and leatherback turtles. To spot manatees and pelicans, head over to the Manatee Observation Education Center at Moore’s Creek.

Walk the Nora Zeale Hurston Trail for a fascinating commemoration of the life and work of the Harlem Renaissance writer who lived in Fort Pierce. Don’t miss seeing the works of 26 world-famous African American landscape painters showcased along the Florida Heritage Trail.

In the evening, hit the happy hour fun at Bluewater Beach Grill before catching a Broadway-style show, dance production or comedy night at the historic Sunrise Theatre. You can also dine at the Original Tiki Bar and Restaurant on the banks of the Indian River.

Getting around

Taxis, buses, rideshares and bike rentals are available in Fort Pierce, while charter boats offer rides to nearby islands. You can also rent a car at St. Lucie County International Airport, less than a 10-minute drive away.