Dirt Roads ~ High Heels: Bathtub Reef and Cocktails by the Sea

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Bathtub Reef and Cocktails by the Sea

An early flight from KC had me landing in Orlando at 9 a.m. My Mom picked me up right on time and we were off to the beach! A short drive to the A1A and we made our way to Bathtub Reef, a beach located in Stuart. The reef system if located just off shore and is home to more than 500 different species of marine life, including endangered sea turtles. The reef is created by tiny sea worms and is not only unique but also very fragile. The worms cement sand grains together and as they build on top of one another and over time, this creates a reef system that breaks up the waves, giving it the "bathtub" effect. The reef also serves to aid in beach erosion caused by waves. This bathtub effect is one of the amazing features of these protected waters.

The water here is very clear and the temperature was actually warmer than I expected it to be. There were many people snorkeling around the reef to get a closer view of the marine life below. And if you are into seashells, the beach is filled with many sizes, shapes, and colors. It's a beautiful beach that is great for swimming; it is less crowded, more relaxed, and offers picturesque views. I could stay here for days.

After leaving the reef, we headed to grab lunch making sure we could be on a patio with a waterfront view. Our search led us to Conchy Joe's, located on the Indian River near Jensen Beach. Dozens of Seagulls lined the dock, a lonely pelican perched high waiting to swoop down for fish food, and the breeze off the ocean was perfect. The cocktail menu was full of fruity drinks; island style. I opted for the Voodoo Hooch which is filled with Cruzen, Pineapple, and Mango Rum, Orange and Pineapple juices and topped with a pineapple wedge and did I mention was...super delicious. Fish tacos with mango marinated plantains was the perfect light lunch for a sunny day!

Next Up, Jensen Beach!!