Port Salerno & The Manatee Pocket:

The weather here in South Florida is about as perfect as it can get this time of year. So, with sunshine in mind, Brenda and I headed to a little harbor just south of the St. Lucie Inlet. Port Salerno on Florida’s East Coast in Martin County is a sheltered branch of the St. Lucie River known as the Manatee Pocket. This area is a popular spot for fishing and water-related activities. A picturesque bay that includes restaurants, bait shops, marinas, and a bustling art center.

FISH HOUSE ART CENTER

The Fish House Art Center & Marina is located on the waterfront of the Manatee Pocket. The Working Artist Studios is a gallery that hosts multiple resident artists’ studios that includes ceramic and pottery, fine art painters, photographers, a lampwork artist, a fiber artist, the School of Textile Arts, stained glass, fairy hair, and a weaver.

Resident artists work in their studios year-round. The artists encourage you to watch them work and purchase their creations. Some studios offer a variety of workshops that are open to the public.

All this shopping can make one thirsty. The Twisted Craft & Creamery offers a unique selection of Craft Beers, Specialty Wines, and Delicious Ice Cream. How is that for a combination? You can sip a beer, have a glass of wine, savor a cup of coffee, or enjoy an ice cream while gazing out over the Manatee Pocket.

I f you still can’t get enough art, there is another gallery just up the road that showcases the work of Geoffrey C. Smith. A photographer, painter, sculptor, and naturalist who has been inspired for more than forty years to create award-winning works of art that depict the vast wildlife diversity of Florida wildlife with a sense of action and deep emotion. As you browse the studios, you will see detailed sculptures of birds, fish, and wildlife all with elegant detail. Smith is responsible for many sculptures you will see as you tour the area.

Where to Stay

The Manatee Pocket is a great place to relax and spend a few days. The Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina offers comfortable rooms, a lovely pool, an on-site tiki bar, and a seafood restaurant. Drift up and dock if you are traveling by boat. If you don’t have a boat, this is a good place to charter one to take you fishing.

Manatee Pocket Walk

We wanted to get a layout of the area, so we took a walk on the boardwalk. The Manatee Pocket Walk stretches from the Port Salerno Civic Center, through the waterfront restaurant area, and around to the Pirate’s Cove Resort.

Waterfront Restaurants

One of the main reasons that we visited this area was to eat. Waterfront restaurants serve seafood fresh from the ocean. There are several choices for lunch or dinner if you want to be on the water. The local fishing fleet in Port Salerno supplies fresh seafood to most of the restaurants here.

Twisted Tuna

The Twisted Tuna is located in the colorful blue building situated on the water in the Manatee Pocket. They have three full bars and is a great place to come and watch the games on TV. Float up in your boat and tie up on the dock.

We were seated outside and enjoyed the view of boats coming in and going out of the marina. Some folks brought their dogs as the restaurant outside is pet friendly.

The Twisted Tuna is open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week and serves up a brunch menu on Sundays.

Shrimpers

For some of the best clam chowder, seafood, and drinks in a beautiful waterfront setting, you have to try Shrimpers Grill and Raw Bar.

Brenda and I enjoyed the tropical breezes along the Manatee pocket waterway as we sat outside and watched the boats cruise along the water. Fresh seafood is on the menu. A cold brew and a plate of oysters with a cup of their famous clam chowder, please!

Pirate’s Loft

For lunch or a fabulous dinner with a fantastic view of the Marina and Manatee Pocket, try the Pirate’s Loft at the Pirate’s Cove Resort.

Manatee Island Bar and Grill

For waterfront views and open-air dining, a fun atmosphere, and Caribbean cuisine, it’s always island time at Manatee Island.

King Neptune

King Neptune’s is a local favorite for fresh seafood and great service. Family owned and operated for over 50 years. Guests rave about the cracked conch, seafood bisque, and just about everything else on the menu.

Port Salerno Seafood Festival

The Port Salerno Seafood Festival is a popular event held annually in January. Food booths offer the best in Florida seafood. Arts and crafts, mermaids, pirates, a kids zone, and live music make this a fun event for the whole family.

Salerno has done an excellent job of preserving the historic fishing village feel of the town. Port Salerno is “Old Florida” at its finest.