Nestled along the Atlantic coastline of the Treasure Coast is Hutchinson Island.
With ocean views and access to the Indian River Lagoon — the most biologically diverse estuary in North America — Hutchinson Island has been named by Forbes Advisor as one of the 50 best places to travel internationally in 2024.
The 23-mile-long barrier island was lauded for being like a “trip back in time to old Florida” and for its “charm.”
“This laid-back barrier island about an hour north of West Palm Beach is the kind of place where you can come with sandy feet and flip-flops to dinner and every menu has a catch of the day,” wrote Forbes Advisor contributor Adam Frankel.
A shortage of commercial chains and minimal development on the island also was cited by Forbes, noting oceanfront housing is “mostly low-rise condos or undeveloped nature set way back from the shoreline.”
Did Forbes rank any other Florida towns?
Hutchinson Island was the only Florida location to snag a spot on the list.
The list also includes travel destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, Australia and Asia.
What can you find on Hutchinson Island?
There are more than a dozen beaches to choose from when visiting Hutchinson Island. From dog-friendly to family-friendly to clothing-optional, its beaches spread throughout the barrier island.
Hutchinson Island also is home to sea turtles for most of the year during nesting season, which runs from March to October. Loggerhead, green and leatherback sea turtles nest on Hutchinson Island beaches during the season.
Gianna Montesano is TCPalm’s trending reporter. You can contact her at [email protected], 772-409-1429, or follow her on X (formerly Twitter) @gonthescene.