Living on the Water: What to Know About Waterfront Properties in St. Lucie County

by Amanda Geller

If you've ever dreamed of waking up to shimmering water views, salty breezes, and tranquil sunrises, you're not alone. Waterfront living is one of the most sought-after lifestyles in St. Lucie County—and for good reason. From the Indian River Lagoon to the miles of scenic canals and the Atlantic Ocean coastline, our area offers a wide range of waterfront properties to suit every lifestyle.

But before you dive into a waterfront purchase, there are a few important things to consider. Here’s what you need to know about buying and living on the water in St. Lucie County.

1. Types of Waterfront Properties

Waterfront real estate in St. Lucie County includes:

Oceanfront Homes – Located directly on the Atlantic, often in areas like Hutchinson Island. Ideal for beach lovers and those seeking a vacation-like lifestyle year-round.
Riverfront Properties – Especially along the Indian River Lagoon. These homes often offer stunning views and access to boating and paddle sports.
Canal-Front Homes – Found in neighborhoods throughout Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie, many with private docks and ocean access.
Lakefront Properties – Popular in master-planned communities like The Lakes at St. Lucie West, offering peaceful views and community amenities.

Each comes with its own perks and considerations, so think about how you want to use the water—boating, fishing, kayaking, or just enjoying the view.

2. Boating Access and Dockage

If you're a boater, pay close attention to:

Depth and clearance – Some canals and rivers have shallow or no-wake zones that may limit boat size or usage.
Dock permits and maintenance – Some homes come with private docks, while others may require permitting to build one.
Access to the ocean – If you want to reach the open ocean, make sure the route from your dock is navigable and bridge-free (or has high clearance).
Seawall - its condition, construction material (such as concrete, vinyl, or steel), and installation method, including features like deadman anchors or batter piles that help stabilize it against water pressure.

3. Insurance Considerations

Waterfront properties may require additional or specialized insurance coverage, including:

Flood insurance – Even if not in a FEMA-designated flood zone, lenders may still require it. It's wise to get a quote before making an offer.
Windstorm/hurricane coverage – Especially important in coastal Florida. Look for homes with impact windows, reinforced roofs, or storm shutters to potentially lower premiums.

4. Maintenance and Resilience

Living near water means dealing with nature a little more closely:

Salt air and humidity can accelerate wear on everything from your AC unit to outdoor furniture and even the exterior paint.
Erosion and storm surge may be a concern for some oceanfront and riverfront homes. Look for properties with good elevation and proper shoreline protection.

Working with local experts who understand these nuances is essential.

5. Lifestyle and Value

Waterfront living is not just a home—it’s a lifestyle. Many St. Lucie County waterfront communities offer:

Private docks or marinas
Fishing piers
Clubhouses and resort-style pools
Gated entrances and HOA-managed maintenance

These amenities can enhance your lifestyle and increase property values over time. Waterfront homes tend to hold their value well and are often in high demand, particularly among second-home buyers and retirees.

6. Popular Waterfront Communities in St. Lucie County

Some of the most beloved waterfront communities we serve include:

Harbour Isle on Hutchinson Island West – Gated, amenity-rich condos near the inlet with spectacular views.

Kitching Cove Estates – A boutique waterfront community with river and ocean access via the St. Lucie River.

Watersong – A gated oceanfront community of about 92 single‑family homes and lots, offering private beach access, a community pool, all with either an ocean or river view and just seconds from the Atlantic Ocean.

Queens Cove – A gated waterfront community nestled on Hutchinson Island, featuring deep‑water canal access for every lot, deeded beach access, no fixed‑bridge access to the Intracoastal, and a variety of older and newer single‑family homes.

Ready to Live the Waterfront Dream?

Waterfront real estate requires a specialized approach, and we’re here to help you navigate every step of the journey—from understanding tide charts and flood zones to finding the right dock for your boat.

At Oceanside Realty Partners, we live and work right here on the Treasure Coast, and we know what makes each waterfront property unique. If you’re ready to explore the lifestyle you’ve always wanted, let’s talk.

📞 Call us today or 📩 contact us online to start your waterfront home search in St. Lucie!