Treasure Coast Insider

According to Jim Rickards' Strategic Intelligence, low interest rates are not necessarily "stimulus." They are often  associated with recession and even depression. He may have a point many people might not be considering. With mortgage interest rates being part of the "unaffordability" equation in today's real estate market, lower rates sound great. It may also cause a rise in asking price, stunting the market's overall volume, if more buyers rush in than current inventory can accommodate. 

If you're not already receiving a monthly market report, search of a specific area or valuation from me, it's likely I don't have your correct info. Contact me to get customized neighborhood-specific real estate insights or visit monaleonard.com. 

Let's take a look at the most recent data for the four counties of the Treasure Coast for all types of residential property combined and all Price Points...

Palm Beach County (above) is showing a slight increase in the median sale price from a year ago up 2%. Closed sales are also up 2% and active inventory is up 8.5%. Dollar volume is up 6% to 1.1 billion dollars and new listings are down 8%. From a month over month perspective it means the market is holding its own with closed sales in spite of an increase in active inventory With new listings down, pricing may remain steady or even increase over time. Months Supply of Inventory (MSI) is trending down from a high in March of nearly 8 months.

This downward trend keeps the Velocity of Sales up as money flows through real estate, indicating a healthy market. Properties are being "delisted" from the market (i.e. expired listings, canceled listings, and withdrawn status) which will also affect the numbers for inventory and length of time on the market before selling. Perhaps many people wanting to get in on the end of an uptrend overshot their valuations when listing and decided to remove their properties from the market when sales didn't occur.      

Martin County (above) comparatively from a year ago has had a 32% jump in closed sales month over month with the median sale price remaining pretty flat at .9% and active inventory is up 15%. Dollar volume is up a whopping 86% compared to a year ago at 206 million and new listings are down 16%. This may be an indication of more luxury sales over the past year. Inventory is up year over year at 5.1 months currently. Months Supply of Inventory (not shown) is on a downward trend for the first time in 2 years, which shows the market is flowing well. Remember, these numbers are for ALL types of residential real estate, and all price points. 

St Lucie County's closed sales are down 12% and the median sale price is down slightly at 1.2% from a year ago. Active inventory is up 7.6% and dollar volume is down 12%. You can see each County's numbers reflect differently. This is true for each city,  town and neighborhood. That's why it's important to have professional guidance when you might be thinking of buying or selling real estate. St Lucie County's Months Supply of Inventory shows the same downtrend indicating balance in the market. 

And finally in Indian River County, closed sales are up almost 10% albeit only 217 closings. Median sale price is down 3.7% and active inventory is up 15%. Dollar volume is only up 0.8% from a year ago at 116 million. New listings are up a whopping 61% and new pending sales are up 6% over the past year and this looks to be gaining momentum. Just like the other counties, Months Supply of Inventory is trending down.  

Get a professional opinion if you're even THINKING about buying or selling, especially in a shifting market like today's. Get an expert to help with your real estate needs. Programs such as My Florida Home and many benefits for first time buyers are available. A first time homebuyer in Florida is anyone who has not owned a primary residence for the last three years. For specific insights and a free custom consultation, call 772-530-6131 or visit monaleonard.com.

Enjoy your October!

Mona

Mona Leonard Realtor

Keller Williams Treasure Coast 

772-530-6131

monaleonard.com

It's human nature to want and even expect momentum to continue in markets. That's what's happening with real estate in many across Florida as our markets shift in favor of buyers. In this month's report, find the info on closed sales and active inventory for the last decade for all four Treasure Coast counties. It gives a bigger picture of what's happening and the trends over time.

Read on for the story...

Looking at Martin County, Florida, inventory of single-family homes has risen to pre-pandemic levels and has actually dropped recently, perhaps indicating we've reached a saturation point, for the moment. Two things that stand out with this 10-year view below: overall closed sales have dropped significantly and the market gyrations between June 2020 and October 2022 were the rush to Florida from other areas of the country during the pandemic, causing massive inventory reduction.

Now, some of those same people are moving out of Florida for a variety of reasons, the main one being affordability. Home Owner's Insurance and taxes have risen astronomically over the last several years causing residents to seek less expensive states in which to retire or even start a family. Affordability remains a primary driver of this mini-Exodus.

Palm Beach County is similar in reduced overall sales for the decade showing a weakening in purchasing power eroded over time by the factors above, higher interest rates and inflation. The middle class is getting squeezed out of home ownership.

In St Lucie County, inventory has grown well ABOVE pre-pandemic levels and had the EXACT same number of sales in June 2025 as in June 2015... Indicators ale prices will be coming down more in St Lucie County based on current market metrics.

Indian River County has had a less volatile market than the others, yet it too is showing a downward trend in inventory and closed sales.

The My Florida Home program received 280 million in new funding from the Florida legislature this year, giving low to moderate income Floridians a chance to take advantage of the popular program. Florida Realtors advocated for this new funding during the 2025 legislative session to ensure more Floridians could use the program to harden their homes against storms. Since it's relaunch in 2022 the program has provided eligible Florida homeowners with matching hurricane mitigation grants to help fund specific home improvements that are recommended by the programs initial inspection. Ask me about eligibility requirements.

Looking at a broad view of the US real estate market, according to Realtor.com, delistings have surged as sellers quit the market in frustration when they can't get the price they hoped for. This is true especially in Florida and the western states where inventory is back above pre-pandemic levels and prices are flat or falling.

With median list prices essentially unchanged over the past 2 years, it's clear that many sellers remain anchored to Peak Era expectations says realtor.com journalist, Keith Griffith, while the market may be becoming more buyer friendly, sellers still hold a trump card: delist the home and fish for that high asking price at a later date. 

Get a professional opinion if you're even THINKING about buying or selling. It's during shifts in the markets where some people make a lot of money and some people lose much. Get an expert to help with your real estate needs. 

Many newcomers may not realize that rodeos in the Stuart region exist, but they certainly do—and they are thriving! With over 18,000 cattle ranches in Florida, the state ranks 12th in the nation for beef production. Much of the Treasure Coast is rural and agricultural. Some of the most popular rodeos in the Stuart area are held in Indiantown and Okeechobee.

The Okeechobee Cowtown Rodeo

The Okeechobee Cowtown Rodeo, held in March each year, brings cowboys from all over the country in search of prize money and glory. It includes bareback bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, and lots more. It's a well-attended Stuart area rodeo, usually filling the arena with spectators. For the full arena schedule, contact the Okeechobee Cattlemen's Association.

In addition to the adult events (roping, riding, and busting), the Mutton Bustin' contest is loved by kids and adults alike. During this event, young cowboys and cowgirls try to hang on and walk away with great pride after the competition. You've never seen anything cuter. It's serious stuff for these kids, and they love it.

Indiantown Rodeo

Held in October, the Indiantown Rodeo is a favorite of Stuart area rodeos for folks of all ages. Cowboys from all over the country come to compete in Indiantown's rodeo. It's set in lush Timer Powers Park on Citrus Blvd, and the area has a long tradition for everything Western, appropriate for western Martin County. My mom grew up in this little town in the '50s. It's a great place to raise a family.

With all that nature can offer, Indiantown has it all. If you're considering this area of the Treasure Coast, you'll love the freshwater fishing in Lake Okeechobee near Port Mayaca to the west. My absolute favorite fish to eat is freshwater catfish. There's plenty to do living the country life. Ranches and wildlife areas are abundant. It's "Old Florida" beauty with all its flora and fauna. Cabbage palms, live oak hammocks, Cyprus stands, grasslands, White-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobcats, an occasional gator, and friendly people.  

Want to look the part?

Eli's Western Wear is the place to shop if you want some Western wear. A new cowboy hat, some great boots, shirts, jeans, and belts, Eli's Western Wear is the place to shop in Okeechobee. The inventory is vast, and they can likely order it if they don't have what you're looking for.

The Adams Ranch

The Adams Ranch includes 65,000 acres just west of Ft. Pierce. I met Bud Adams several times and rode shotgun in his old pick-up to view some of his ranch's gorgeous landscape and cattle. Four generations have raised cattle here (Bud stands in the photo). Their cattle auctions are second to none, creating a top-notch hoedown for young and old alike.

From raising money for victims of human trafficking to putting on an excellent shindig for the Cattleman's Ball to raise money for the Sunrise Theatre, this family-owned and operated ranch (ranked in the top 50 seed stock ranches in the country) is part of the heritage of the Treasure Coast. 

For more information on other terrific Stuart area rodeos, contact Mona Leonard at www.monaleonard.com or call 772.530.6131. As a blogger for Treasure Coast Insider, feedback is always appreciated.

There are many reasons to work with a Realtor when selling your home. Although it might be tempting to try and sell it yourself, consider the negative consequences because they may be numerous. The falsehood that you'll make more by selling a property yourself because you'll save commission expenses is a misconception many home sellers fall into. The reasons to work with a Realtor far outweigh the benefits you might think you'll gain by buying or selling yourself.

According to the National Association of Realtors, sellers sell for less when they try selling independently. That's because of their lack of knowledge in negotiation, law, property valuation, etc. These are legitimate reasons to work with a Realtor.

The same is true when buying. You need someone in your court to protect you from fraud, unscrupulous sellers, inspection issues, repair problems, and costs. Property valuation is an essential part of a buyer's agent's job. This is critical and prevents you from overpaying for a property, something every buyer wants to avoid. 

Here are many reasons to work with a Realtor you'll want to consider. Your Agent:

• Negotiates terms of sale or purchase, including concessions or repairs 
• Pre-qualifies prospects for safety and protects customers' time and personal property
• Assists, coordinates, and delivers the contract to the seller/buyer
• Completes a Comparative Market Analysis to price the home accurately
• Lists your property in multiple MLS boards for maximum exposure
• Conducts virtual and in-person open houses to get your home sold
• Accompanies buyer to the final walk-through
• Gives property preparation suggestions for the highest sale price
• Lists your home in numerous listing portals and online publications
• Markets your property through social media, video, networking, and pitch sessions with other Realtors
• Offers information on local amenities, local market research, and HOA/Condo Association governance guidance
• Provides and coordinates all access to homes with your favorite features 
• Analyzes comparable home sales and assists you in making an offer on your new home
• Provides support throughout the process and after closing. 
• Creates a list of available homes and schedules viewing appointments (virtual and physical)
• Coordinates all requested inspections and allows access to others as needed
• Coordinates closing with a lender, title company, customer, and all parties in a transaction
• Adheres to a strict code of ethics

According to the National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers

For Sale By Owner (FSBO) Statistics

FSBOs accounted for 7% of home sales in 2020. The typical FSBO home sold for $260,000 compared to $318,000 for agent-assisted home sales.

FSBO methods used to market home: 

• None: Did not actively market home: 34%
• Yard sign: 26%
• Friends, relatives, or neighbors: 23%
• Multiple Listing Service (MLS) websites: 18%
• Social networking websites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, etc.): 14%
• Open house: 14%
• Online classified advertisements: 5%
• Video: 4%
• Virtual Tours: 3%
• For-sale-by-owner websites: 2%
• Print newspaper advertisement: 1%
• Direct mail (flyers, postcards, etc.): 1%
• Television: 1%
• Most difficult tasks for FSBO sellers:
• Preparing/fixing up the home for sale: 17%
• Getting the right price: 14%
• Understanding and performing paperwork: 11%
• Selling within the planned length of time: 5%
• Having enough time to devote to all aspects of the sale: 5%
• Attracting potential buyers: 3%
• Helping buyers obtain financing: 3%

Source: 2021 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers

For many more reasons to work with a Realtor, call your Treasure Coast Living Blogger, Mona Leonard, at 772-530-6131 or email her at mona@monaleonard.com

Stuart FL City By St. Lucie was chosen for this adorable 1964 travelogue from the Chamber of Commerce, among other endearing nicknames. Much of Stuart was still a small town when I moved here from Palm Beach County in 1978. The Palm City Bridge was still a wooden swivel bridge, and Martin Downs was only a dream. Cow pastures everywhere, and horse trails throughout the town.

This 1964 clip is worth the time is taken to dance down memory lane for those fortunate to live here for decades. Many of these clips show much has changed, and many things have stayed the same. Our Loggerhead turtles still nest right here on our beautiful, pristine beaches. The fishing is still excellent, and the House of Refuge awaits visitors to share their past. The Martin County Fair still draws large crowds and livestock competitions.

Boating is still a favorite pastime for many residents, and we still have spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Witham Field Airport is still small even though we have a significant air show here every November. In this adorable Chamber of Commerce travelogue video from 1964, the 1st National Bank had over $1,000,000 in capital. They were proud of that fact. Today that would barely be considered a bank.

The former Outrigger Restaurant, now the Dolphin Bar and Shrimp House, was owned by Francis Langford, an actress during the 1940s, and her husband Ralph Evinrude, the original owner of Evinrude boat motors. They docked their yacht, the Chanticleer, next to the waterfront restaurant. They were both local celebrities for many years. Their huge estate was sold after they passed away, and the area is now known as Langford's Landing, a waterfront development in Jensen Beach, FL. They always had peacocks on the property, and Francis loved them. Now, peacocks can be seen throughout the quiet areas of Jensen Beach.

Rookeries provided the most amazing aquatic life, and Stuart got its moniker, the Sailfish Capital of the World. To this day, residents and visitors enjoy deep sea fishing, water sports, great restaurants, theaters, pristine beaches, and much more. Stuart, FL, City By The St. Lucie is still a spectacular place to live.

For more information about Stuart, FL, City by St. Lucie, and living in Stuart, FL, contact Treasure Coast Insider Blogger Mona Leonard at 772-530-6131 or mona@monaleonard.com

Several Stuart area marinas are located in the Manatee Pocket, an area protected from the elements in Stuart. Known to locals as Salerno, this entire area was a fishing village for many decades. Many fishermen still live on the site today. Just a few minutes to the inlet, these Stuart area marinas offer everything the angler in you needs for boating and fishing. 

Pirate's Cove Resort And Marina Salerno

Pirate's Cove, in Stuart, is a long-time favorite area for boating, hanging out, dancing, great restaurants, and fun. Stay at the Pirate's Cove Resort and Marina and capture the old Florida charm with all the amenities. Newly updated rooms for that extra special feeling while enjoying the amenities. If you live here, this is a great place to recommend when folks visit from out of town. It's the perfect place to relax with a full-service marina, bait and tackle, restaurant and banquet facilities, laundry, limited pet-friendly rooms, a swimming pool, and showers.

Shrimpers Grill And Raw Bar is a favorite for stopping in on your way home or to relax after boating. With great happy hour drinks and delicious appetizers, it hits the spot. You can pull right up to the restaurant in your boat (depending on size). The menu makes my mouth water. A little secret, it's near some of the best snook fishing on the Treasure Coast. Manatee Island Bar and Grill is another favorite. With some of the best restaurants on the coast, the Pocket, as we locals call it, is alive with lots to see and do.

Waterway Marina Stuart

Waterway Marina has slip spaces for rent daily or monthly and is located just north of the Old Roosevelt Bridge in Stuart. If your delight is river cruising, you can choose the north or south forks of the St Lucie River or capture the breathtaking views from the Indian River Lagoon. Both are full of wildlife. 

A short walk across the bridge takes you into Old Downtown Stuart. The lovely boutiques, restaurants, antiques, and the Lyric Theatre make it a particular area along Flagler and Osceola. A few blocks away on the East Ocean, Memorial Park has grassy spaces, footpaths, a pond, and a bridge for beautiful photos. It's a favorite for wedding ceremonies, and on the other side of the Old Courthouse stands a beautiful gazebo ready and waiting for the next bride and groom. 

Fort Pierce Inlet Marina

Fort Pierce Inlet Marina offers beautiful apartments and is within walking distance of restaurants and shopping. Very close to the inlet, you'll be on that beautiful Atlantic Ocean in just a few minutes. Downtown Ft. Pierce is great for exploring. Much of the area has been gentrified recently, and there's lots to do. Stuart area marinas are full of amenities.

Sailfish Marina of Stuart

Sailfish Marina of Stuart is the closest marina to the St Lucie Inlet. Wet slips and dry boat storage are available, as well as a boatyard, charters, and more. The outstanding selection at Fish Heads of Stuart is close by for all your bait and tackle needs. Several waterfront restaurants are just a few blocks away.

The Jib Club Jupiter

Jupiter Inlet to the South has many excellent marinas to choose from. The Jib Club on Jupiter Island provides wet and dry slips for last-minute items, including transient storage and a ship store. You'll be trolling or deep-sea fishing close to the inlet in no time. About two minutes from the Atlantic, this intracoastal waterway marina is close to the ocean. There's excellent fishing in the bay.

Jupiter Island is chock full of great beaches and one of the most scenic drives in Florida. Check out Blowing Rock Preserve on the island while taking in the view. Toward the north end is Hobe Sound Beach, where you can picnic, fish, and swim. Restrooms, showers, and a covered pavilion make it a want-to-see oceanfront beach. Ample parking except during peak season.

The Black Pearl Marina

The Black Pearl Marina, located north of the Jupiter Inlet, has accessibility 24/7 with complimentary ice and a waterfront patio with an outside bar and grill. This marina provides the necessities for a day on the water close to the Jupiter Inlet. 

Carefree Boat Club

Carefree Boat Club in Ft. Pierce offers waterfront dining, laundry, dock carts, free Wi-Fi and cable, a fitness room, and a heated pool. There's something for everyone at this outstanding marina.

For more information on Stuart area marinas, contact Treasure Coast Insider Blogger Mona Leonard at 772-530-6131.

Whether you're interested in riding horseback on a beach or cooking out with friends, Stuart area beaches have lots to offer. With facilities for parties, volleyball courts, restrooms, and free parking, there are plenty to choose from. Some Stuart area beaches are great for large groups and families, while others are little secret getaways!

Stuart Beach 

Stuart Beach offers basketball, volleyball, restrooms, pavilions, a concession stand, picnic tables, grills, and a playground, not to mention great fishing. Stuart Beach is ADA-accessible and guarded. With lots of free parking, it's a Treasure Coast favorite. Easy access to this beach makes it a favorite for weddings, picnics, and birthdays. It's open 24 hours a day, and alcohol is permitted. 

Causeway Beach, Stuart

Causeway Beach is a great spot for avid fishermen and folks that love being on the water. With pavilions, grills, and a boat ramp for your toys, Causeway Beach faces the beautiful Indian River Lagoon. It's perfect for kayaking and canoeing. If you don't have a boat, large swaths of the seawall are waiting for you to cast under the bridge. Causeway Beach is home to the Annual Stuart Boat Races. There's fun for the entire family. Restrooms and ADA accessible.

Jensen Beach

The attraction can't be mistaken at Jensen Beach. Amenities include a concession stand and a beautiful, spacious pavilion available for rental. Showers and restrooms are nearby, and the boardwalk will get you to the beach pronto! Jensen Beach has volleyball, surfing, and fishing and is ADA-accessible and guarded.

Bathtub Reef Beach, Stuart

This reef-encircled beach is perfect for young families, especially at low tide. Teach your kids all the wonders of the aquatic life here. If you like snorkeling or diving, you'll love Bathtub Beach. Just minutes away from the House of Refuge and other wonderful beaches to explore.

Frederick Douglass Memorial Park, Ft. Pierce

If you're up for horseback riding, this is the beach for you! It has restrooms, showers, a pavilion, picnic tables, and grills. It's ADA-compliant and guarded during the summer. Equestrian trails abound in this beautiful Hutchinson Island area. With these amenities, you're sure to enjoy the day!

House of Refuge Beach, Stuart

Great beach for snorkeling and swimming. This thinly-sliced south end of Hutchinson Island has a long history. Used as a beacon in storms, the House of Refuge was built in 1876. The Treasure Coast is named for the ships that sunk off our shores carrying heavily-laden treasures of gold, silver, coins, jewels, and more.

The shipwreck of the Georges Valentine is only 100 yards off the rocky coastline for your snorkeling or diving enjoyment. The House of Refuge has great onshore rocks, making it a hot spot for photo-taking, especially when the rocks are blowing!

Jaycee Park, Vero Beach

There are lots to enjoy at Jaycee Park Beach. It's ADA-accessible and has grills, picnic areas, a pavilion, restrooms, a playground, and lots more. Food vendors make it easy to quench your thirst or grab a bite to eat. Vero's barrier island is stunning, with an abundance of old Florida foliage and trees. I used to ride up and down the streets admiring the majestic oak trees these fortunate residents have in their very own yards.

Chastain Beach, Stuart

This beautiful Stuart beach, located next to Bathtub Beach, has restrooms, showers, picnic tables, grills, and fishing. It's also guarded during part of the year. This area of Hutchinson Island is a thin strip of land just north of Sailfish Point on the inlet. It's close to everything and a little quieter than Stuart Beach. 

Tiger Shores Beach, Stuart

This quiet little gem is a locals' secret two miles south of Jensen Beach. Hidden among condos, this public beach is perfect for a quiet walk on the beach or cooking out with friends. It has showers and is ADA-compliant. Locals come to kite and windsurf here, but don't be fooled. It's deserted much of the time if you'd like some space.

South Causeway Island, Ft. Pierce

In Fort Pierce, South Causeway Island Beach has a museum, boat ramps, grills, picnic areas, and a playground. This beach is on the Indian River Lagoon. Just to the west of the Atlantic, South Causeway Island Beach has calm, beautiful blue/green water, and it's protected from rough seas.

Juno Beach

One of the best beaches in Palm Beach County, Juno Beach has a great pier with a bate shop and snack bar. It also has outdoor showers, restrooms, and 300 feet of guarded beachfront. The water here is amazing. It's a personal favorite.

Hobe Sound Beach

As one of Martin County's most cherished beaches, Hobe Sound Beach is a local favorite. This beach is guarded with a large pavilion, restrooms, showers, and water fountains. Surfers love this beach and can be seen here often. Coming through the Banyan trees before the little draw bridge, it almost feels like you're in a time capsule. This great beach is at the east end of Bridge Rd in Hobe Sound on Jupiter Island.

Walton Rocks Beach, Jensen Beach

This beach has gone to the dogs! This off-leash dog park was established on 24 acres of beach property so canines can romp in the sand and surf. Walton Rocks has pavilions, picnic tables, restrooms, and fishing. Looking to wear Fido out and get some sunshine? This is the spot.

Blind Creek Beach - Clothing Optional, Ft. Pierce

Located toward the north end of Hutchinson Island, this beach is one of the area's few "clothing optional" beaches. Although amenities are lacking, it's a great beach for the free-spirited and you can walk to local restaurants... where clothing is required.

For more Stuart area beaches, contact Mona Leonard at (772) 530-6131, your local area Realtor and Blogger for Treasure Coast Insider.

The restaurants in the Stuart area are sure to delight your palate with their mouthwatering offerings. Locals and discerning food enthusiasts have the inside scoop on the best culinary treasures and exclusive dining discounts. Don’t miss the chance to explore these delightful and budget-friendly Stuart restaurants in person; your taste buds will thank you!

The Sailor's Return Happy Hour

Sailor's Return is where the north and south forks of the St. Lucie River converge. Enjoy riverfront sunsets and views of Sunset Bay Marina. The historic Old Roosevelt Bridge waits for its next "draw" within just a few feet of the canopied bandstand, dance floor, and bar. 

With a formal dining area for more intimate dinners and the inside bar's ambiance, Sailor's Returns' fantastic upbeat atmosphere is a great way to spend the evening or a spectacular afternoon. Great live music Happy Hour at both bars from 3:30 pm -7 pm with $5 drink specials and delicious appetizers for under $8. My favorite is the gourmet flatbread of the day, with locally famous Mrs. Peter's Smokehouse fish dip! 

Conchy Joe's

Enjoy live music, a waterfront bar, and a restaurant at Conchy Joe's Seafood in Jensen Beach. Located directly on the Indian River Lagoon, there's lots to love. Listen to the sounds of local musicians Thursday through Monday while enjoying homemade, delicious conch chowder, calamari, raw bar, or delicious fresh-caught (never frozen) fish. The full-service menu also includes salads and burgers. The wood-burning grill gives a special flavor to filet mignon, NY strip, and chicken dishes.

With "old Florida" charm and atmosphere, enjoy the most exotic of island drinks too! The happy hour menu and drinks are available daily from 3-6 pm for significant savings. With an extensive kid's menu, bring the entire family for a great time.

Jan's Place

There are many Stuart area restaurants to choose from. Just across from the Indian River Lagoon, Jan's Place is an old slice of Americana. Jan's has delicious breakfasts with a great atmosphere and juicy handmade burgers. The portions are enormous! Jan's is in Jensen Beach, where pineapples were grown in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By the early 1900s, John Laurence Jensen shipped over a million boxes of delicious fruit every June through July. The town of Jensen Beach was born, and the "Pineapple Capitol of the World" became its tag.

Basil Garden of Palm City

The best Thai cuisine on the Treasure Coast, Basil Garden in Palm City, offers a complete Thai menu, so the options are many. Located just over the Old Palm City Bridge on the right, Lucky (owner) will help you choose if you have too many choices. She and her staff can create unique dishes for everyone's palate. Basil Garden has the best peanut sauce I've ever eaten. The cucumber sauce is my personal favorite. Dessert is an extra special treat. 

Dolphin Bar and Shrimp House - A Little Background - The Story Behind the Story 

The Dolphin Bar and Shrimp House have terrific happy hour discounts on drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and a spectacular view. It's also home to a fantastic story. Many years ago, I had the good fortune of caring for Ralph Evinrude (yes, that Evinrude). I was a Respiratory Therapist, and he was charming and delightful. He taught me how to view life's shortcomings with acceptance and love.

He married movie star and WWII entertainer Francis Langford in 1955, and they settled on the St. Lucie River, just off Palmer St at the north end of Sewall's Point (now Langford's Landing). It was close to his Evinrude motor testing facilities. On the Indian River Lagoon, they built the restaurant and called it Francis Langford's Outrigger Resort. There were even rooms to rent on the lagoon. For many years, it's been a local treasure with great food, beautiful views, and a shrine to his bride.

The great works Francis Langford so dedicatedly gave to her country during the war years are apparent. Singing in Bob Hope's USO shows and starring in over 35 movies, she became an icon. She was just as sweet in real life as she looks here. 

Although the name Frances Langford's Outrigger is now gone from the marquis, you'll see Ralph and Frances's history at the Dolphin. See their sweet love affair, or visit the exhibit of her works at the Elliott Museum on Hutchinson Island. With an expansive restaurant, several bars, and great views of the Indian River Lagoon, happy hour drinks and appetizers are a local favorite. The Dolphin also provides delicious catering with a pleasant and professional wait staff.

2 Georges Bar & Grille

Nestled in the Manatee Pocket, a protected cove in the fishing village of Port Salerno, 2 Georges Bar & Grille bustles with nightlife, live entertainment daily, and discounts. Happy hour from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm includes money off on mixed drinks, special house wine, beer deals, and $5 "bar bites."

Florentino's 

Stuart area restaurant discounts are all over the menu at Florentino's Italian Restaurant in Stuart. With savory Italian aromas seeping into the dining room from the kitchen, my mouth starts watering when I walk through the door. The best chop steak and fries in the county are whipped up by Tino (owner and chef). He also makes the best clams linguine (I like the angel hair) in a white sauce you've ever had. Daily 2-for-1 specials abound on this complete menu.

Fujiama Hibachi

Authentic Japanese cuisine that's fresh, healthy, and delicious, it's always a performance. Excellent scallops, filet mignon, sushi, shrimp, and more, with great chefs to dazzle everyone on table-side Hibachi grills with three locations to choose from Stuart, Vero Beach, and Melbourne.

Watch the very end! I wasn't expecting that!

The Black Marlin

Located in the center of downtown Stuart, The Black Marlin has $5, $6, and $7 appetizers and two-for-one drinks from 4 pm to 6 pm Mon-Sat. It's a delicious reason to stop in. The menu includes Bam Bam shrimp, grilled portabella caprese, and fried calamari, among other great dishes. Enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere and great food with downtown Stuart at your fingertips. Shop, take in a play at the Lyric Theatre, or perhaps a stroll down the boardwalk on the St. Lucie River. All are just steps away.

Diamond Tearoom and Bistro

For a unique experience, check out the Diamond Tea Room and Bistro. Terry outdoes herself with a killer menu if you plan a baby shower, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, birthday, or engagement party. From Boston lobster cakes to risotto funghi, there's deliciousness throughout the menu.

They offer chicken pot pie, Queen Margaretta flatbread, gazpacho, salmon, and lots more. Terry's soups, salads and chowders, stews, and amazing desserts help round out a complete menu. Terry's high tea and lecture series is a delight. Catering (including private catering) is available as well. Located on A1A in Stuart, it's easily accessible and a real treat. 

11 Maple Street

Locally known for offering the finest, most delicious cuisines, 11 Maple Street is a Jensen Beach icon. Their famous elk tenderloin, pan-fried Caicos conch, and wood-grilled Spanish octopus are delicious. The rare seared Wahoo sushi comes with quail egg salad and date jalapeno salsa. 

For more information on these beautiful restaurants and others, contact Mona Leonard at www.monaleonard.com, your Treasure Coast Insider blogger, or call 772-530-6131.

Stuart area waterfront restaurants offer substantial happy hour and early bird specials. Food and drinks are discounted to the point where almost anyone can afford to stop in for a late-afternoon delight. The house drinks are often half price so it's a win-win. Many Stuart area waterfront restaurants present delectable appetizers you'll want to come back again and again to enjoy.

The Stuart, FL, area (also known as the Treasure Coast) has many great waterfront restaurants. From casual to elegant, there's no shortage of great places to eat.  

Seafood and Steak Houses

The dining area at Kyle G's Prime Seafood and Steak has spectacular ocean views. Located on Hutchinson Island in Jensen Beach, winning the Diner's Choice Award in 2017 just after opening, the restaurant is now open for sunrise breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Reasonably priced and delicious! Happy hour 2 for 1 Monday through Friday from 3-6 means you get all that atmosphere for half the price. Live entertainment too! Check their site for coupons and save!

Sailor's Return has excellent service with happy hour, specials, live music, and a fabulous view of the St. Lucie River in Stuart, Florida. Catering to all age groups, Sailors' attire is dressy, and events can be scheduled for wedding receptions, birthday parties, business events, and more. 

Sign up for monthly specials, including lobster tails and prime rib. Packed most Friday nights (you may see me there dancing), the entertainment is upbeat and easy to dance to. On the weekends, the bands that play with people worldwide enjoy fresh seafood and American cuisine. Dining is available indoors and out.

Bar and Shrimp Houses

Dolphin Bar and Shrimp House in Jensen Beach on the Indian River Lagoon has waterfront seating for couples to accommodate large parties or private deck seating. Casual, elegant dining on the Indian River Lagoon makes it a favorite spot. Delicious seafood, happy hour, and entertainment have been staples for decades. Owned by Ralph Evinrude and Francis Langford for many years, it's also a great place to have a business or private events in the banquet room. The service and food are delicious! 

Tucked away in the Manatee Pocket, The Twisted Tuna is a favorite for casual dining, including a raw bar. Come by land or sea to relax and enjoy this Stuart gem.

Drift Kitchen + Bar is located in the beautiful Hutchinson Shores Resort and Spa and offers a variety of choices in dining. Fresh seafood and Italian specialties in a contemporary oceanfront space. Enjoy an al-fresco lunch on the ocean veranda, or reserve the private dining room for special occasions. Reservations accepted. 

Protected in a pocket of the Loxahatchee River in Jupiter, FL, Guanabanas has a flair that's all Floridian. Pull up, dock, or park your car to enjoy this delicious cuisine in a tropical oasis with exotic flora. Open breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the weekends. Lunch and dinner only Mon-Fri. Catering is also available.

2019 Diner's Choice Award winner, 1000 North, has views of the Intracoastal waterway near Jupiter Inlet. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, with stunning views of the Jupiter lighthouse. This elegant eatery has several levels to choose from to gaze at the waterfront scenery and enjoy a glass of wine from the extensive wine list. 

12A Buoy in Fort Pierce has a casual feel and delicious seafood. With an extensive menu, you'll have trouble deciding what to order. Open for lunch and dinner with weekly specials offered. 

Many Stuart area waterfront restaurants have live entertainment most nights. And can draw quite a crowd. Click on each restaurant's name to learn more, or contact Treasure Coast Insider Blogger Mona Leonard. 772-530-6131.