Bathtub Reef

Bathtub Reef and Bathtube Beach are located in Stuart, Florida. It is the southernmost public beach in Martin County. The beach was damaged during the 2004 hurricanes, but plans to re-open in 201. The beach underwent repairs over the course of more than five years. Dunes have been added where there were originally sea oats. There are no longer public restrooms at the beach, but there are bathroom facilities easily accessible about 200 yards away at Rocks Beach, Visitors are welcome to trek down to those when exploring Bathtub Beach. The area is a popular swimming and snorkeling destination. The water is clear and following a dive, snorkelers can enjoy the environmental exhibit, located just past the dunes down the boardwalk. The beach does not allow dogs with visitors because it is a guarded area intended to protect the sea turtle nests. There are also concerns for maintaining the new dune system. Bathtub Beach is accessible in three different spots from the sand-filled parking lot. The reef surrounds the beach and creates a large lagoon just off the shore. This helps make it a safe beach for children. It is one of three guarded beaches in Martin County, including Stuart and Jensen.