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Hutchinson Island!

 

 

“Barrier Island Beauty Between the Lagoon and the Sea”

Anna Maria Island

Hutchinson Island

Consists of 2 Barrier Islands spread across Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River County, Florida

 

Hutchinson Island, Florida, is a tranquil barrier island stretching along Florida’s Treasure Coast, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Indian River Lagoon on the west.  Made up of two barrier islands that are separated by the Fort Pierce Inlet and are known as “North Hutchinson Island” and “South Hutchinson Island”.

North Hutchinson Island is divided into two counties – Indian River County and St. Lucie County.  Although it is not a separate island, the Indian River county portion of North Hutchinson Island that extends to the Sebastian Inlet sometimes is called “Orchid Island”.

South Hutchinson Island is located in St. Lucie County and Martin county, however the Martin county portion is unincorporated and often called “Stuart Beach”.

Known for its uncrowded beaches, sea turtle nesting grounds, and coastal charm, this scenic island offers a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty. The island spans parts of Martin and St. Lucie counties, covering roughly 23 miles of shoreline with a blend of residential areas, resorts, and protected parks.

Hutchinson Island, Florida

Hutchinson Island, Florida

Photo by Crystal Bolin via Canva

Location & Size

Hutchinson Island is a barrier island on Florida’s central east coast, stretching along the Treasure Coast between Fort Pierce in the north and Stuart in the south. It lies between the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Indian River Lagoon on the west. The island is divided between St. Lucie County and Indian River County  (North Hutchinson Island) and St. Lucie County and Martin County (South Hutchinson Island).

Hutchinson Island is approximately 23 miles long and varies from a few hundred yards to about half a mile wide in most areas.

 

Founded

Hutchinson Island’s history is deeply tied to Florida’s early coastal exploration, settlement, and the rise of tourism along the Atlantic Coast. The island, a long barrier strip separating the Indian River Lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean, was originally home to Indigenous peoples such as the Ais tribe, who thrived on fishing and gathering from the surrounding waters.

The island was named after Captain James Hutchinson, a British mariner who received a land grant from the Spanish Crown in the early 1800s when Florida was still under Spanish control. Hutchinson used the land for trading and agriculture, and the island later carried his name.

During the 19th century, Hutchinson Island remained mostly undeveloped, serving as a refuge for shipwreck survivors along the “Treasure Coast,” named for the Spanish galleons that sank offshore in the 1700s. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, small settlements and citrus farms began to appear, supported by nearby mainland towns like Fort Pierce and Stuart.

Real development came after World War II, when Florida’s population began to grow rapidly. Bridges were constructed to connect the island to the mainland, allowing for residential and resort development. By the mid-20th century, Hutchinson Island had evolved into a peaceful coastal community, attracting retirees, seasonal residents, and vacationers seeking a quieter alternative to more crowded beach destinations.

Today, Hutchinson Island retains much of its natural beauty, with protected beaches, parks, and marine habitats preserving the area’s original charm — a balance of old Florida simplicity and coastal luxury.

HUTCHINSON ISLAND WEATHER

Population

Approximatly 5,000 residents

Known For

  • Scenic beaches and oceanfront living

  • Waterfront views, boating, fishing, and nature access

  • Quiet, retirement-friendly atmosphere with many seasonal residents

  • Proximity to the Indian River Lagoon and marine ecosystems

  • A mix of condominiums, single-family homes, and resort residences

Cost of living

  • The median household income in Hutchinson Island South is ~$61,422. World Population Review+3Census Data+3Census Reporter+3

  • Median home listing price is around $500,000 as of early 2025 for homes on the island. Realtor

  • For the South portion, the median listing home price is about $595,000, with median sold around $517,500. Realtor

  • Median rent (all types) in Hutchinson Island South is about $3,300/month as of mid-2025.

 

 

Things to do

  • Relax and swim on the Atlantic beaches

  • Fish, kayak, or paddle in inlet waters and lagoons

  • Walk or bike along the oceanfront and scenic drives

  • Enjoy sunrise or sunset vistas over ocean and lagoon

  • Visit nearby parks, conservation areas, or nature trails

  • Experience boating or water sports in local marinas or waterways

Fun Facts

  • The South CDP is almost 90% water area (huge portion of the space is lagoon or ocean) in its official geography.

  • A large share of the residents are retirees, which contributes to the high median age.

  • Many homes and condominiums along the island have ocean views or direct beach access, making it desirable for seasonal residents.

  • The island stretches over two counties, so its governance and services vary depending on which side you’re on (St. Lucie vs. Martin).

  • Country music star Jason Aldean purchased a $10.2 million oceanfront mansion on Hutchinson Island in February 2022.

Nearby Cities

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