Hey there, fellow travelers! I’m thrilled to share my amazing experience of visiting Hutchinson Island, a beautiful barrier island located on the east coast of Florida. My wife and I had a fantastic time exploring this tranquil paradise, and I can’t wait to share our adventures with you.
Getting There
We flew into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and rented a car to drive to Hutchinson Island. The drive took around 2 hours, but the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean made it well worth it.
Accommodation
We stayed at a cozy beachfront hotel called the Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina. Our room was comfortable and clean, with a private balcony that offered breathtaking views of the ocean. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the hotel’s amenities were top-notch.
Exploring the Island
Hutchinson Island is a small island, and we spent our days exploring the beaches, parks, and scenic roads on foot or by bike. We visited the Hutchinson Island Beach, which was stunning, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. We also visited the Indian River Lagoon, which was teeming with wildlife and offered beautiful views.
Foods
We loved trying the local cuisine on Hutchinson Island. One of our favorite restaurants was the Driftwood Inn, which served delicious seafood dishes. We tried their famous fish tacos, and they were incredible. The prices were very reasonable, with most meals costing around $15-$20 per person.
Another great spot was the Island Grill, which served amazing breakfasts and brunches. We tried their eggs benedict, and it was cooked to perfection. The prices were around $10-$15 per person, which was a great value.
Health and Safety Tips
Hutchinson Island is generally a very safe destination, but as with any travel destination, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions. We made sure to lock our hotel room door and keep our valuables secure. We also avoided walking alone on the beach at night and stuck to well-lit areas.
The sun on Hutchinson Island can be intense, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and a hat. We also brought insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.
Outdoor Activities
One of our favorite activities was kayaking through the Indian River Lagoon. We rented kayaks from a local outfitter and paddled through the calm waters, spotting dolphins and sea turtles along the way. The cost was around $20 per person for a half-day rental.
We also went on a scenic bike ride along the beach, which was a great way to see the island’s stunning coastline. We rented bikes from a local shop and rode along the beachfront path, taking in the beautiful views.
Tips and Advice
- Book your accommodations and restaurants in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the sun and bugs.
- Rent a car to explore the island and surrounding areas.
- Try some of the local seafood dishes, which are fresh and delicious.
- Don’t forget to visit the nearby towns, such as Stuart and Jensen Beach.
Expenses
- Accommodation: $150 per night, including breakfast
- Food: $15-$25 per meal, on average
- Transportation: $20 per day, on average
- Activities: $20-$50 per person, on average
Additional Tips
- Try to avoid visiting during peak season, as the island can get crowded.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife.
- Be respectful of the island’s wildlife and environment.
- Don’t forget to try some of the local craft beers, which are delicious.
- Consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and the crowds are smaller.
Final Thoughts
Hutchinson Island is a hidden gem that’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. My wife and I had an amazing time exploring this beautiful island, and we can’t wait to return. Whether you’re a beach lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Hutchinson Island is a destination that’s sure to delight.
I hope you enjoyed my article about visiting Hutchinson Island! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to ask. Happy travels!