28 May The South Hutchinson Island Guide: Ditch the Car, Keep the Keys
When you plan a trip to South Hutchinson Island, you aren’t looking for traffic jams or the stress of hunting for a parking spot. You’re coming for the real Florida—sun-drenched beaches, fresh-caught seafood, and waterfront tiki bars where the dress code ends at flip-flops.
At Dockside Inn & Resort, we believe the best part of a vacation is being able to park the car and forget where you put the keys. Located right on the Fort Pierce Inlet with our own 58-slip deep-water marina, you’re already exactly where you want to be. And thanks to a surprisingly robust network of free local transit, getting into the heart of the “Sunrise City” is easier than ever.
Whether you’re stepping off your boat or walking out of your room, here is your guide to the best of the island—no gas or parking fees required.
Getting Around for Free
Forget the rental car headache. St. Lucie County makes it easy to get around without spending a dime:
- ART On Demand: Think of this as your local shuttle service. Use the app or call (772) 462-1778 (option #2) to request a ride. It’s curb-to-curb service that covers the island and connects you directly to the greater Fort Pierce area.
- The Freebee: An app-based ride-hailing service that’s perfect for popping back and forth between the downtown business district and the island.
- Downtown Tram & Fixed Route Bus: Once you’re across the bridge, hop on the city’s free tram to hit Marina Square, 2nd Street, and the City Hall garage. For wider travel, the ART fixed-route buses are free Monday through Saturday.
1. Top Attractions
- Jetty Park: An easy walk from our front door. Take a morning stroll along the pier to watch the boats head out into the Atlantic. It’s a great spot to spot manatees and sea turtles—or try your luck fishing for snook.
- South Beach Park: Just a short walk from your room. You get wide stretches of sand, dune boardwalks, and a guarded swim area. It’s the island’s go-to spot for a classic sunrise.
- Navy UDT-SEAL Museum: Located on North Hutchinson Island. Since Fort Pierce is the birthplace of the Navy frogmen, this place is a must. You’ll see actual historical watercraft, training gear, and an outdoor obstacle course. (Take the ART On-Demand van).
- Downtown Farmers Market: Head over on Saturday mornings. The downtown waterfront fills up with local food, artisans, and music. It’s a local weekend tradition. (Take the Freebee).
- Manatee Observation & Education Center: Located on Moore’s Creek near the tram stop. It’s a quiet sanctuary with viewing decks where you can spot manatees in the warm water, plus hands-on exhibits.
2. Where to Eat
Fort Pierce is all about the fresh catch. Whether you’re after a casual basket of conch fritters or a proper dinner, you won’t have to go far.
- On the Edge Bar & Grill (On-Site): Stay local and eat on the riverfront deck. Watch the boats pull into the marina while digging into our signature Crunchy Snapper Sandwich or the Surf & Turf Jambalaya.
- 12A Buoy: Tucked away near the marina at the base of the bridge. It looks like a low-key shack, but it’s arguably the best seafood on the coast. You’ll want the Lobster Mac & Cheese. (Take an ART On-Demand van).
- 2nd Street Bistro: In the heart of the historic brick district. This is your go-to for a more polished evening, with hand-cut steaks and a great wine list. (Take the tram loop).
- Island Pig and Fish – BBQ and Fresh Seafood (True Walking Distance): Located right on Seaway Drive just an 11-minute walk from the resort. This is a brilliant addition for a casual, highly-rated lunch or dinner. They perfectly marry slow-smoked island BBQ (pulled pork, ribs) with fresh coastal seafood baskets, offering a laid-back patio vibe.
- Chuck’s Seafood Restaurant (~2 Miles Away — Take the Freebee): Situated right off the South Causeway island bridge approach. If guests want a massive, classic Florida waterfront seafood dining experience with gorgeous sunset views over the Indian River Lagoon, Chuck’s is an institution famous for its fried shrimp, local catches, and water-facing windows.
3. The Nightlife
On our side of the bridge, we trade velvet ropes for open-air tiki huts and live music.
- On the Edge Bar & Grill: Start or end your night here. Between our daily Happy Hour (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM) and live bands every weekend, it’s the social hub of the marina.
- Square Grouper Tiki Bar: A short walk down the strip. It’s a legendary waterfront spot with a pure sand floor, palm trees, and a stage that brings in the area’s best live acts.
- Archie’s Seabreeze: A local staple since 1947. Their motto is “No shoes, no shirt, no problem.” It’s the perfect spot for classic rock, trivia, and a cold beer with the locals.
- Sailfish Brewing Company: If you’re craving a craft brew over a tiki drink, head downtown for their outdoor patio and a pint of their famous Sunrise City IPA.
- Jetty Lounge (True Walking Distance): Just a 15-minute walk down the island strip on Ocean Drive. This is a beloved neighborhood staple that offers a classic beach-tavern nightlife experience. Open late, it features cold drinks, a friendly local crowd, pool tables, and frequent live local music right near the sand.
- Bottom’s Up Public House: A hidden gem located in the heart of historic downtown Fort Pierce, just across the bridge from the resort. It brings a stylish, high-energy alternative to the standard island tiki bars, drawing a vibrant crowd looking for a proper late-night hangout. The interior boasts a hip yet welcoming aesthetic, serving as an excellent destination to transition from a casual evening to an active dance floor.
Leave the Car Keys Behind
At the end of the day, a true vacation is measured by how little you have to worry about the logistics. When you stay at Dockside Inn & Resort, your days aren’t dictated by traffic updates, parking meters, or rideshare surge pricing. Instead, your schedule is guided entirely by the tides and your own mood.
Imagine waking up to a pristine Atlantic sunrise at South Beach Park, spending your afternoon watching wild manatees cruise the inlet right from our docks, and wrapping up the night with live music and an ice-cold drink under the palm trees at On the Edge Bar & Grill—all without ever touching your dashboard. When you’re ready to cool off, our two heated outdoor pools are waiting for you, offering the perfect spot to kick back with waterfront views after a long day of exploring or charter fishing.
Between our unbeatable inlet location, on-site dining, and Fort Pierce’s fantastic network of fare-free local transit systems, the peace of the Treasure Coast is completely effortless.