Manager's Message
Special Notice: With construction continuing on the boardwalk, the park and all facilities at the park will remain closed until November 2009. Thanks for your patience while we undertake these much needed repairs.
Summer in southeast Florida is ‘Turtle Time’ and St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park is a popular place with nesting sea turtles. The first turtles to start nesting are the Leatherbacks in March, April and May. Then Loggerhead and Green sea turtles in May, June and July. The baby sea turtles hatch at night, approximately seven weeks from the time the eggs are laid. Hatchlings continue to emerge into September.
- John Griner, Park Manager
Welcome to St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
This classic Florida barrier island is accessible only by boat, but it is worth the ride. A boardwalk takes visitors across mangrove forests and hammocks of live oaks, cabbage palms, paradise trees, and wild limes to a neatly preserved Atlantic beach. During the summer months, the island is an important nesting area for loggerhead, leatherback, and green turtles. They come ashore at night to dig holes in the beach sand where they lay their eggs. The preserve is a favorite for nature students interested in learning about the native flora and fauna of Florida barrier islands. Visitors come to swim, sunbathe, or picnic at the pavilion on the quiet beach. Others make the trip for the great surf fishing. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities. Located at Port Salerno, on the Intracoastal Waterway, 2/3 of a mile south of the inlet.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, please call 772-219-1880.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park is located in Port Salerno, on the Intracoastal Waterway, 2/3 of a mile south of the inlet.
Park Fees
Admission Fee:
$3.00 per boat. Please use the honor box to pay fees. Correct change is required.
$2.00 per canoe/kayak.
St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park
4810 S.E. Cove Road
Stuart, Florida 34997
Phone: 772-219-1880
Fax: Contact Park for Number
