{"id":410432,"date":"2026-09-25T15:50:39","date_gmt":"2026-09-25T15:50:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/410432\/"},"modified":"2026-09-25T15:50:39","modified_gmt":"2026-09-25T15:50:39","slug":"best-of-stuart-2026-stays-plays","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/410432\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Of Stuart 2026: Stays & Plays"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"ReelReel in offshore favorites with Catch of the Day Charters. Photo courtesy of Catch of the Day Charters
\nBest Fishing Charter: Catch of the Day Charters<\/a><\/p>\n

When it comes to offshore adventure, Catch of the Day Charters lives up to its name. Led by Captain Trent Shapiro, the Stuart-based operation specializes in targeting sailfish, mahi-mahi, tuna, grouper, snapper, and more. Anglers praise the knowledgeable crew, personalized service, and knack for putting clients on fish.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Nightstalker Charters with Captain Jim Walden<\/a>, Pulling Drag Charters with Captain Bo Samuel<\/a><\/p>\n

\"PaddlePaddle crystal-clear waters with Get Up and Go Kayaking. Photo courtesy of iStock
\nBest Paddle Tours: Get Up and Go Kayaking<\/a><\/p>\n

Seeing Florida\u2019s waterways from a clear kayak offers a whole new perspective, and that\u2019s exactly what has made Get Up and Go Kayaking a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Guided tours take paddlers through scenic waterways where they may spot manatees, sea turtles, dolphins, starfish, and other native wildlife, all while enjoying an up-close look at the natural beauty below the surface.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Feet Wet Adventures<\/a>, Paddle With Me<\/a><\/p>\n

\"CatchCatch live music nightly at Terra Fermata. Photo courtesy of Terra Fermata
\nBest Live Music Venue: Terra Fermata<\/a><\/p>\n

On any given night at Terra Fermata, you might catch a reggae-rock band, a Grateful Dead jam, a Tom Petty tribute, or the next local act on the rise. The outdoor venue has earned a devoted following thanks to its eclectic lineup, tropical backyard vibe, and intimate setting where music lovers can kick back with a craft beer under the stars. No two nights are ever quite the same.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Lyric Theatre<\/a>, Rock\u2019n Riverwalk Downtown Stuart<\/a><\/p>\n

\"JonathanJonathan Dickinson State Park. Photo courtesy of iStock
\nBest Outdoor Recreation: Jonathan Dickinson State Park<\/a><\/p>\n

Adventure awaits around every bend at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Spanning more than 11,000 acres, the park offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, paddling, camping, and wildlife viewing, along with the chance to explore the historic Trapper Nelson homestead. Whether visitors are seeking a peaceful nature walk or a full day of outdoor adventure, there\u2019s plenty of room to roam.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Halpatiokee Regional Park<\/a>, Jensen Beach Causeway Park<\/a><\/p>\n

\"MarriottMarriott Hutchinson Island Resort & Beach Villas, Golf & Marina. Photo courtesy of Discover Martin County\/Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa
\nBest Local Resort or Hotel: Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa<\/a><\/p>\n

Oceanfront fire pits, coastal-chic accommodations, direct beach access, and sunset cocktails at Drift Kitchen & Bar are just a few of the reasons guests return to Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa. The beachfront retreat blends laid-back luxury with the natural beauty of Hutchinson Island, creating the perfect setting for a staycation, romantic getaway, or weekend of relaxation.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Marriott Hutchinson Island Resort & Beach Villas, Golf & Marina<\/a>, Old Colorado Inn<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Bike Trail: Grassy Island Trail<\/a><\/p>\n

Shaded by a canopy of towering oaks draped in Spanish moss, Grassy Island Trail offers a glimpse of Old Florida that\u2019s increasingly hard to find. The multi-use trail system winds through forests and open spaces where riders may spot deer, birds, and other native wildlife along the way. With routes for cyclists of varying skill levels, it\u2019s easy to see why this scenic ride earned top honors.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Fort Pierce Mountain Bike Trail<\/a>, Okeechobee Road Path (Cowboy Trail)<\/a><\/p>\n

\"KitchingKitching Creek Nature Trail at Jonathan Dickinson State Park. Photo courtesy of iStock
\nBest Hiking Trail: Kitching Creek Nature Trail at Jonathan Dickinson State Park<\/a><\/p>\n

A walk along the Kitching Creek Nature Trail feels like a journey through Florida\u2019s wild side. Located within Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the trail winds through pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and oak hammocks, offering hikers the chance to spot native wildlife while experiencing some of the region\u2019s most diverse natural landscapes. The peaceful setting and varied terrain make it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Glass Lizard and Gopher Tortoise Trails at Savannas Preserve State Park<\/a>, KC Trails at Newfield<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Hands-onHands-on fun at The Children\u2019s Museum. Photo courtesy of Children\u2019s Museum of the Treasure Coast
\nBest Family Fun Spot: Children\u2019s Museum of the Treasure Coast<\/a><\/p>\n

At the Children\u2019s Museum of the Treasure Coast, learning and play go hand in hand. Kids can captain a boat, shop at a make-believe market, explore hands-on exhibits, and let their imaginations run wild while discovering how the world works. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity, the museum offers an experience that entertains children and parents alike.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Jensen Beach Bowl<\/a>, Sailfish Splash Waterpark<\/a><\/p>\n

\"StuartStuart Beach. Photo courtesy of iStock
\nBest Beach: Stuart Beach<\/a><\/p>\n

With lifeguards on duty, free parking, covered picnic pavilions, beach volleyball courts, showers, restrooms, and even a beachfront caf\u00e9 (offering made-to-order breakfast, lunch, and bar bites), Stuart Beach offers everything needed for a perfect day by the ocean (including beach wheelchairs for those with mobility limitations). Add in its wide sandy shoreline, rolling Atlantic waves, and family-friendly atmosphere, and it\u2019s easy to see why this local favorite continues to earn top honors.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Bathtub Beach<\/a>, Hobe Sound Beach<\/a><\/p>\n

\"ScenicScenic fairways abound on the Treasure Coast
\nBest Golf Course: Sailfish Sands Golf Course<\/a><\/p>\n

A complete reimagining has transformed Sailfish Sands into one of the area\u2019s premier public golf destinations. Golfers can test their skills on the 18-hole course, sharpen their game at the state-of-the-art practice facility, or enjoy the innovative reversible putting course. With affordable rates, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, Sailfish Sands proves that great golf doesn\u2019t have to come with a private club membership.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Hammock Creek Golf Club<\/a>, Mariner Sands Country Club<\/a><\/p>\n

Best Public Park & Playground: Kiwanis Youth Park at Woodlawn<\/a>
\n\"PatrioticPatriotic art at Tradition\u2019s Stars & Stripes Park<\/p>\n

From its expansive playground and splash pad to basketball courts, open green spaces, and family-friendly amenities, Kiwanis Youth Park at Woodlawn offers something for every age and activity level. The community gathering spot has become a favorite place for families to play, cool off, celebrate special occasions, and spend quality time outdoors together.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Flagler Park<\/a>, Stars and Stripes Park<\/a><\/p>\n

\"High-flyingHigh-flying thrills at the Stuart Air Show. Photo courtesy of iStock
\nBest Annual Event\/Festival: Stuart Air Show<\/a><\/p>\n

Few events stop people in their tracks quite like the Stuart Air Show. Each year, the skies above Witham Field come alive with gravity-defying aerobatics, military demonstrations, vintage aircraft, and breathtaking flyovers that draw spectators of all ages. Equal parts education and entertainment, the high-flying weekend has become one of the region\u2019s most anticipated annual traditions.<\/p>\n

Runners Up: Downtown Stuart Art Festival<\/a>, Treasure Coast Brew Fest<\/a><\/p>\n

Editor\u2019s Pick: Trivia Night<\/p>\n

Ocean Republic Brewing<\/a><\/p>\n

Head to Ocean Republic Brewing\u00a0 and put your random knowledge to good use at Tuesday Tacos & Trivia. Round up your sharpest friends, fuel up with scratch-made tacos and house-brewed craft beer, then battle it out for bragging rights in a lively, laid-back atmosphere. Even if your team doesn\u2019t win, taco night is a pretty great consolation prize.<\/p>\n