This Is Fort Pierce...Through a Local’s Eyes

If you’re searching for the real Fort Pierce—not the tourist version—you’re in the right place.

At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we live in the area and do life here, surfing, working, and exploring every corner of the Treasure Coast. This list?
👉 It’s not Google recommendations.

👉 It’s not paid promotions.

👉 It’s where you’ll actually find us when we’re off the clock.

👉 This is made because we LOVE these places and wanted to share the REAL fort Pierce we call home!

From hidden beaches to post-surf food spots, sandbar parties to family days this is Fort Pierce, local style.

Surf the Fort Pierce Inlet (The Jetty)

The Fort Pierce Inlet is the heartbeat of local surf culture. On the right swell and wind, it’s hands down one of the best waves on the Treasure Coast.

👉 Locals check it daily. Using Surfline and Spunky's Surf Report on Facebook
👉 Beginners? Ask us before paddling out we’ll point you in the right direction.

The Cove Sandbar (Weekend Tradition)

Saturday or Sunday = The Cove Days

This is where the boats pull up, music plays, and everyone hangs in waist-deep water soaking up the sun.

👉 It’s a must-do if you want the true local boating vibe.
👉 Bring friends, drinks, and good energy.

Hidden Beaches on South Beach (A1A Gems)

Want to escape the crowds? Cause there's sometimes we just need to clear our heads and relax away from everyone. Cruise down A1A on South Beach and you’ll find hidden pull-offs that lead to quiet, untouched shoreline.

👉 We call it little paradise.
👉 Perfect for: Watching the sunrise, chill days, or just resetting.

JC Park (South Hutchinson Island Family Spot)

If you’ve got kids, this is a go-to. It has a park for the kids to play at and 100 feet away is the river! It has a swim area and great parking! There is also pickle ball courts so jump in and play with the locals! 

JC Park has:
✔ Jungle gym/playground
✔ Calm river access
✔ Easy hangout vibes

👉 It’s where we take our own families to relax and let the kids run free.

Airboat Rides in Vero Beach (Wild Florida Experience)

Want something different?

Take a short drive to Vero Beach and hop on an airboat.

👉 You’ll see real Florida—gators, wildlife, and untouched wetlands.
👉 Fast, loud, and unforgettable.

Where Locals Actually Eat

(No Tourist Traps)

🥣 Beach Bowls Local

Acai bowls, smoothies, and the Spunky’s Bowl.
👉 Perfect after a surf or morning beach session.

🍳 Captain’s Galley

Old-school breakfast and lunch spot.
👉 Omelets, pancakes, and classic comfort food done right.

🦐 12A Buoy

Hidden gem on the water.
👉 Rustic vibe, legit seafood, and one of our crew favorites.

🍔 Sharky’s

Where surfers go after a session.
👉 Burgers, pizza, and beach energy.

🍖 Moonswiners Bar-B-Q

👉 Meat by the pound, no nonsense BBQ.

🍻 Sailfish Brewing

👉 Local beers + chill vibe
👉 Bonus: Monday Night Bingo

☕ Tilli’s Coffee

👉 Coffee + island vibes = perfect morning stop.

🐟 Little Jim Bait & Tackle

👉 Seafood + beer + laid-back dockside feel.

🌅 On The Edge Bar & Grill

👉 Waterfront dining with open-air seating.

Fishing, Boating & Water Life

Fort Pierce isn’t just about surfing it’s about the water in every way. We love eating what we catch! 

Must-Do:

• Fishing Charters (Smokin’ Fish, Captain Billy)
• Jet Ski Rentals
• Boat Days at the Sandbar

👉 If it floats, we’re probably doing it.

Local Culture & Museums

Want to mix in some history or learn about our home?

• Navy SEAL Museum
• A.E. Backus Museum
• FAU Harbor Branch
• St. Lucie County Aquarium

👉 Great for off days or family outings.

Botanical Gardens (Hidden Relaxation Spot)

Need a reset? This is one of the most beautiful places to walk through! 

👉 The Botanical Gardens are quiet, scenic, and underrated.

Perfect for:

• Walks
• Photos
• Getting out of the sun for a bit

Why This List Matters

There’s a difference between:
❌ “Top 10 things on Google”
and
✅ What locals actually do

This list is built from:

• Surf sessions
• Days off
• Family time
• Real experiences

👉 It’s Fort Pierce, unfiltered.

FAQs: Visiting Fort Pierce Like a Local

Q: What’s the best time to surf the inlet?
A: Depends on swell + wind—stop by Spunky’s and we’ll give you the real report.

Q: Is the Cove good for families?
A: Yes—but weekends can get lively. Weekdays are more relaxed.

Q: Are there quiet beaches in Fort Pierce?
A: Yes—South Beach along A1A is full of hidden gems.

Q: What’s the best food spot after surfing?
A: Sharky’s, Beach Bowls, or Lil Jim's can’t go wrong.

Live Like a Local 🤙

Fort Pierce isn’t just a destination—it’s a lifestyle.

From sunrise surfs at the inlet to sandbar weekends at the Cove…
from hidden beaches to post-session food spots…

👉 This is the life we live—and we’re stoked to share it with you.

If you’re in town, stop by Spunky’s Surf Shop.
We’ll get you dialed with gear, boards, and the inside scoop you won’t find anywhere else.