Today is June 3, 2026, and there’s some exciting news brewing up in Martin County! The city officials have given the green light for a brand-new marina at a historic site—the former Lighthouse Restaurant, just north of downtown Stuart. This development, known as Capri Harbor Stuart, is definitely one to keep an eye on.
During a city commission meeting on May 26, plans for the marina were presented, and they certainly have plenty to offer. Imagine this: 158 boat slips able to accommodate vessels ranging from 25 to 150 feet in length! That’s quite a range, making it a haven for both small and large boat enthusiasts alike. Plus, with 141 parking spots on-site, getting to the marina should be a breeze.
Exciting Features in Store
But wait, there’s more. Capri Harbor isn’t just about boat slips and parking. It’s set to include a floating bar right on the St. Lucie River, which sounds like the perfect spot to kick back after a day on the water. There will also be a restaurant boasting up to 275 seats. Can you picture it? Enjoying a delicious meal while watching the boats glide by—talk about a great way to spend an evening!
To enhance accessibility, the project will feature an 8-foot elevated walkway connecting the marina with Northwest Dixie Highway and downtown Stuart. This means folks can easily stroll from the marina to the heart of town, making it a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists. Interestingly, this project didn’t require approval from the city commission, which suggests that the planning was quite thorough from the get-go.
For those wanting to dive deeper into the specifics of Capri Harbor, you can check out more info on their official website here.
The Bigger Picture of Marinas in Florida
While Capri Harbor is making waves, it’s worth noting that Florida is home to a multitude of marinas. According to a survey by Marina Dock Age magazine, a significant chunk—33.3%—of Florida’s marinas are family-owned, which adds a personal touch to the boating experience. Interestingly, the majority of these facilities have been around for a while, with over 72% being between 11 and 50 years old.
Occupancy rates are looking good too! In 2019, nearly half of the marinas reported higher occupancy rates than the previous year. Plus, many facilities are seeing stable or even rising prices for wet slips, indicating a healthy demand for boating in the Sunshine State. It’s a vibrant market, and it’s clear that the boating culture is alive and well, with places like Capri Harbor set to become key players!
So, as the sun shines down on Martin County, the anticipation for Capri Harbor Stuart grows. With its modern amenities and a prime location, it’s bound to become a beloved spot for boat lovers and foodies alike. Who’s ready for some fun on the water?