Welcome to Jensen Beach – the former Pineapple Capital of the World! Located in Martin County, Florida, on the stunning Atlantic Coast, Jensen Beach has it all. After dozens of visits from my house a little north in Vero Beach, here are the best things to do in Jensen Beach, Florida, that I’ve experienced. I’ve even included many free things, which never hurt anybody’s feelings.
This small town ticks all the boxes, from beautiful beaches and fantastic restaurants to unique ecotourism opportunities and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. It has inspired many artists to make it their home.
If you’re wondering where Jensen Beach is, it’s about an hour north of Fort Lauderdale and 2 1/2 hours from Orlando. There is easy access to A1A, the Florida Turnpike, and US-1.
History of Jensen Beach
So, how about learning more about the fascinating history of Jensen Beach?
In 1888, John Laurence Jensen opened the first pineapple plantation and quickly became the largest supplier in the state. Sadly, the industry was hit hard by a series of devastating freezes and fires.
Fortunately, Jensen Beach’s rich history is commemorated annually during the Pineapple Festival, which includes carnival rides, food, and top-name entertainment.
Downtown Jensen Beach
When in Jensen Beach, you must explore the charming downtown, easily one of the best things to do in Jensen Beach. Stroll down picturesque streets and stop by antique shops and boutiques, such as We Be Jammin and Ain’t Miss Bee Haven, with everything related to bees and honey.
Pop into Rare Earth Gallery, where you’ll find unique treasures from talented local artists. Window shopping is free, but you can splurge on a delicious coffee from Bunk House Coffee Bar, a 100% plant-based cafe.
I typically choose a Cuban coffee, but the matcha is excellent. Pick up a smoothie bowl or fresh-baked pastry if you need a snack.
You can always quench your thirst with a cold beer or exotic cocktail at Crawdaddy’s bar when you need a little break.
Keep an eye out for the artists (and those in residence) who work in the Maple Street Art Cottages, a neighborhood of more than a dozen small cottages that have been converted into tin-roofed art galleries. They are now artists’ studios where you can watch them work or buy their beautiful creations.
You’ll find pottery, painting, sculptures, and mixed media arts.
Outdoor Attractions in Jensen Beach
Eagle Marsh Golf Club is an exceptional place for hitting the links. Designed by Tommy Fazio, this is the closest course to Hutchinson Island. The beach views, five sets of tees, and overall design will have golfers salivating.
Pencil in time to enjoy the beautiful and free beaches around Jensen Beach, Florida, with Walton Rocks being a favorite. This stunning part of town features 24 acres of sand and space for pets to roam free.
Escape to Sea Turtle/Jensen Beach, a stunning Atlantic coast destination on Hutchinson Island. This 20-mile stretch of walkable sandy beachfront offers guests volleyball courts, lifeguards on duty, swimming, surfing, fishing, shelling, and unforgettable sunrise views.
Pack a picnic for an extra special memory.
Jensen Beach Park is another family favorite. They have a 13-acre area of beachfront that is perfect for building sandcastles or soaking up the sun. There are also multiple volleyball courts if beach games are your thing.
Indian Riverside Park and Tuckahoe Mansion
Finally, no trip to Jensen Beach is complete without a visit to the magnificent Mansion at Tuckahoe overlooking the Indian River Lagoon. This beautiful Mediterranean Revival home and historical landmark, located within Indian Riverside Park, was formerly owned by a Coca-Cola heiress and is a picture-perfect example of Old Florida charm.
Tuckahoe Mansion is mainly used as a premier event space, but tours are conducted by reservation only. Send an email to TheMansion@martin.fl.us to reserve your spot.
Also at Indian Riverside Park are 63 acres with walking trails, a boardwalk, a fishing pier, and gardens. Kids will go gaga over the cool splash pad and interactive fountain.
Kid’s Pick: Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast
Another great option for “not-so-free but fun things to do” at Jensen Beach is the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast. It’s a unique and interactive museum designed especially for kids and families.
They have several exhibits, including a toddler area, a pirate ship where kids can play, and a farm exhibit. They will enjoy learning about recycling, participating in art activities, and much more! Furthermore, the museum has a bubble room and a gymnasium, perfect for burning off some energy.
Our favorite parts of the museum are the grocery store and traditional Florida cracker house.
Splurge Top Pick: Pink Cottage of Jensen Day Spa
If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, visiting the Pink Cottage of Jensen Day Spa & Beautique is the perfect way to relax and unwind. This spa is beautiful and offers a wide range of services, from massages to facials and waxing to body wraps.
My favorite is the Himalayan Hot Rock therapy.
And the best part? Pink Cottage of Jensen Beach has a budget-friendly package for everyone!
The Beloved Pineapple Festival
If traveling to Jensen Beach in November, check out the Jensen Beach Pineapple Festival. This festival celebrates the pineapple and its rich history in the community.
It features live music, a parade, arts and crafts, and delicious food. The Jensen Beach Chamber of Commerce hosts the Pineapple Festival but has been on hiatus since COVID.
In past years, my husband and I paid around $35 per ticket for the VIP experience of two well-known country music artists and the Little River Band. It was a steal!
Best Lodging Pick: Hutchinson Shores Resort
Experience luxury seaside living at Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa. This chic and beautiful resort is perfect for family vacations, corporate retreats, weddings, and meetings. The hotel boasts breathtaking ocean views and offers amenities like easy beach access, pools, and a spa.
The resort also has three on-site restaurants & bars that serve fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes. Prices for a room at Hutchinson Shores Resort vary depending on the season, but an average room costs around $250 per night.
Enjoy the stunning lobby, top-notch spa services, 178 stylish nautical-themed rooms (all with ocean views), two heated swimming pools, a modern fitness studio, a great pool bar, and restaurants boasting outstanding food and drinks.
Plus, Hutchinson Shores is pet-friendly!
Fun Fact: This hotel won me over with bagged ice (in freezers, not loud ice machines) to take to your room and a sand castle in the lobby.
A Nearby Bonus Spot
Thirty-five minutes south in Hobe Sound is the serene and gorgeous Jonathan Dickinson State Park. It is a unique and fascinating spot to explore on land or water. Among the rare environments you’ll discover are coastal sand hills, upland lakes and scrub forests, and the pristine Loxahatchee River.
Along with natural wonders, there are plenty of historical sites to keep you engaged. You can learn about a secret World War II training camp, hear the story of the park’s namesake, watch for wildlife, ride bikes, and go horseback riding.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers paved and off-road hiking trails, or you can enjoy boating, canoeing, and kayaking on the river. The park’s concession provider has a variety of rentals available, including canoes, kayaks (singles and tandems), stand-up paddleboards, and motorboats.
Pick Jensen Beach for Your Florida Vacation
Whether with your family or on a solo trip, there’s no denying that Jensen Beach has much to offer. From rejuvenating spa experiences to beach activities, exploring museums, and dining at local restaurants, you’ll surely find something that fits your budget and preferences.
Include these activities and attractions on your trip to Jensen Beach for a fun time.
Read more about this part of Florida in these posts:
Best Things to Do in Vero Beach