Waterfront vs. Ocean-Access Homes

On the Treasure Coast, "waterfront" can mean a lot of different things: a condo looking straight at the Atlantic, a house on the St. Lucie River, a lot on a lake, or a canal home where you can run your boat out to the ocean. If you're a boater, the difference matters a lot. Here's how to read the listings, and what to check before you buy.

What the terms usually mean

  • Oceanfront / beachfront: directly on the Atlantic, usually on Hutchinson Island or Jupiter Island. Great views and beach access, but you generally can't dock a boat there.
  • Waterfront: on any body of water: ocean, river, Intracoastal, canal, lake or pond. A waterfront home isn't necessarily boatable.
  • Ocean access: on a canal, river or the Intracoastal Waterway with a boat route to an ocean inlet, such as the St. Lucie Inlet near Stuart or the Fort Pierce Inlet. This is the one boaters usually want.

Our ocean-access searches use the terms listing agents enter in the MLS: ocean access, Intracoastal access, river access, canal access, navigable water and no fixed bridges. Always confirm the route for any specific home.

What boaters should check

  • Fixed bridges and clearance. A low fixed bridge between the house and the inlet can rule out a sailboat or larger center console. "No fixed bridges" is a big plus.
  • Water depth at the dock and along the route, especially at low tide.
  • Time to the inlet. Some canals are minutes from open water. Others involve a long no-wake ride, or a lock on certain routes.
  • Dock, lift and seawall condition. Repairs can be expensive, and new or replacement docks and lifts usually need permits.
  • Insurance and flood zone. Waterfront homes are often in higher-risk flood zones. Get flood and wind quotes early. See flood zones and insurance.
  • HOA and deed rules on boats, lifts and docks.

Where to look

Ocean-access homes on the Treasure Coast are spread across Stuart, Palm City, Port Salerno, Jensen Beach, Port St. Lucie and Fort Pierce. Browse by area:

The listings below show ocean-access homes across Martin and St. Lucie Counties, updated from the MLS.

Tell us about your boat

Share your boat's length and height, and Wayne will look for homes that actually fit, then check bridges, depth and dock condition before you make an offer.

Call or text 772-600-4836.

Common questions

What's the difference between waterfront and ocean access?
Waterfront means the property is on water of any kind. Ocean access means there's a boat route from the property to the ocean, usually by canal, river or the Intracoastal Waterway.

Can I dock a boat at an oceanfront home?
Generally no. Oceanfront homes face the beach. Boaters usually look for ocean-access homes on canals, rivers or the Intracoastal.

What does "no fixed bridges" mean?
There are no fixed (non-opening) bridges between the property and open water, so taller boats can get out. Always confirm the exact route for a specific property.

Treasure Coast Homes with Ocean Access

54 S Sewalls Point Road, Sewalls Point
$5,295,000
4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ R11147412 MLS
Gorgeous new build, wide-waterfront home on one of South Sewall's Point's most historic parcels. Built in 2020 on 3/4 acre, this classic modern property offers 4085 sf under air, pool, large backyard, sweeping wide water views and a white sand beach. 4 bd./4.5 bath with an office, bonus game room, and three car garage. Features include wide plank wood flooring, Sub Zero and Wolf appliances, elevator, generator, impact windows and doors, spacious kitchen, large island, and state-of-the-art security/surveillance system. Outdoor living includes a covered lanai, saltwater heated pool/spa, putting green, plans for outside addition and cabana, and beautiful eastern views of lagoon & Hutchinson Island. Private new dock, 16000 pound lift and completed sewer connection. Must see rare opportunity. Set on one of Sewall's Point's most notable and beautiful wide waterfront sites, this property blends a meaningful past with coastal luxury, perfect for entertaining, relaxing, or watching the sunrise. Once home to the original 1800s Harmer residence with rumored ties to Al Capone, the property now features a custom, no-expense-spared 2020-built home offering refined finishes, clean architectural lines, and exceptional indoor-outdoor living. Bright, open spaces with high ceilings, wide-plank wood flooring, and expansive windows capture sweeping eastern views toward Hutchinson Island, the House of Refuge, the Hutchinson Island Bridge, Bird Island, and the Intracoastal Waterway. The home offers 4,085 square feet under air with four bedrooms, four-and-a-half bathrooms, a library, a bonus game room, and a three-car garage with generous storage and workout configuration. The chef's kitchen includes a Sub Zero refrigerator and Wolf gas appliances, a large center island with storage, custom cabinetry, and seamless flow into the living and dining areas. The living room includes a cozy Chicago brick gas fireplace surrounded by custom built-in bookshelves and mantle. Multiple sliders open to a spacious covered lanai for outdoor lounging or hosting. The home features an oversized 40x20 saltwater pool with dual gas and electric heating capabilities and electronically app-controlled lighting and heating systems. The outdoor dining and lounging areas include a putting green, manicured yet lush landscaping, uplighting, mature palm trees, and an herb garden. The vast and substantial backyard is perfect for outdoor sports or is buildable with included plans for future cabana expansion. The front yard includes an 11-foot mature privacy hedge, a mango tree, a Poinciana tree, and a Magnolia tree. A private dock with a 16,000-pound lift and a dredged navigable slip provides direct access to the Intracoastal, Boy Scout Island, the Sandbar, Sailfish Point, Downtown Stuart, and Jupiter. The dock is constructed with WearDeck composite decking, upgraded lighting, and 10-inch pilings for added stability, with composite materials that offer exceptional resistance to heat and long-term durability. The wide, white sand beach is met by the idyllic waters of the Indian River Lagoon, providing opportunities for dolphin, manatee, and various wildlife sightings. Additional features include an elevator, full house generator, impact windows and doors, and a fully completed sewer connection with new Sewall's Point Road enhancements for a high and dry elevation. This residence combines custom craftsmanship, historic significance, and a premier waterfront lifestyle in one of the most desirable communities on the Treasure Coast. Wonderful for children or retirees, this rare opportunity will not last.

54 S Sewalls Point Road, Sewalls Point

20020 SE Bridgewater Drive, Jupiter
$5,200,000
6 Beds ⋅ 8 Baths ⋅ B26046544 MLS ⋅ Bridgewater Preserve BLDG.
Exceptional Livingston 2-story model in Bridgwater Preserve, built in 2024 and situated on a private 1.11-acre lot with over 5,300 sq ft of luxurious living space. This exquisite residence features a highly desirable first-floor primary suite with a total of 6 bedrooms and 7.5 baths — including a private 1/1 Casita. Upon entry, a stunning floating circular staircase sets the tone for the home's impressive design, opening to a spacious, light-filled living area with soaring volume ceilings. Retractable sliding glass doors blur the line between indoors and out, leading to an extraordinary backyard retreat. The open-concept kitchen is beautifully appointed with an oversized quartz island, deep sink with elegant gold hardware, abundant custom cabinetry, Wolf appliances, and a Sub-Zero refrigerator. Also on the first floor, a private ensuite guest bedroom and a versatile flex space — ideal as a home office or gym — offer convenience and flexibility for everyday living. The second level offers three ensuite bedrooms, an expansive loft/flex space, and a private media room — providing versatility for family and guests alike. Step outside to a resort-style backyard featuring a heated pool with water features, an in-ground spa, and tranquil waterway views. The outdoor living area includes a full summer kitchen with quartz countertops, Italian marble pavers, and a pool deck crafted from Mugla White Marble imported from Turkey — all set within an oversized private lot designed for relaxation and effortless entertaining. A true must-see. Schedule your private showing today.

20020 SE Bridgewater Drive, Jupiter

18411 SE Lakeside Drive, Jupiter
$5,149,900
4 Beds ⋅ 6 Baths ⋅ B26046792 MLS ⋅ River Ridge BLDG.
Set along the scenic Loxahatchee River within the 24 hour guard-gated community of River Ridge, this exceptional WATERFRONT residence offers over 4800 square feet of expansive living, timeless curb appeal, and breathtaking sunset views. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 4 full en-suite baths, 2 half baths, a dedicated office, and a 3-car garage, the home seamlessly blends generous living spaces with effortless indoor-outdoor living. A dramatic two-story foyer with soaring vaulted ceilings creates an unforgettable first impression, while expansive walls of impact glass and premium sliding doors frame tranquil river views and fill the home with natural light. The thoughtfully designed floor plan also offers an eat-in kitchen, formal dining, two en-suite guest bedrooms on the main level, while upstairs you'll find two spacious suites, each with private balconies overlooking the property. A dedicated office also opens onto the balcony, creating the perfect space to work while taking in the peaceful river views. Designed for both everyday living and entertaining, this home features a Sonos sound system, Lutron remote-controlled lighting, electric blinds, a security camera system, climate-controlled garage, whole-house water softening, carbon filtration, UV purification which includes reverse osmosis in the kitchen and primary suite. Step outside to an expansive fenced outdoor living area featuring a summer kitchen, heated saltwater pool and spa, and generous green space. The waterfront has been thoughtfully enhanced with recent dredging, a composite dock with electrical service and a fish-cleaning station, a 13,000-pound boat lift, and a floating dock with a lift for 2 jetskis. Whether heading out for a day on the water or relaxing poolside as spectacular sunsets paint the evening sky, every detail has been thoughtfully considered, allowing the next owner to simply arrive and enjoy the very best of waterfront living. Life in River Ridge is defined by privacy, natural beauty, and an exceptional waterfront lifestyle. Amenities include tennis and basketball courts, a playground, picnic areas, a clubhouse, and on-site management. Just minutes from the heart of Tequesta, residents enjoy convenient access to waterfront dining, local boutiques, championship golf, and some of South Florida's most beautiful beaches.

18411 SE Lakeside Drive, Jupiter

20036 SE BRIDGEWATER Drive, Jupiter
$5,100,000
7 Beds ⋅ 8 Baths ⋅ B26094292 MLS ⋅ Livingstone BLDG.
A Rare Expression of Luxury, Space & Lifestyle in Bridgewater Distinctive in every detail, this extraordinary Livingstone residence—the largest model in Bridgewater—stands apart with its striking Mediterranean-inspired architecture, rich dark brown metal roof, and matching garage doors. The only Livingstone mediterranean model with this distinctive color palette, it makes a memorable first impression with an extended setback, elegant circular driveway, and spectacular custom-designed landscaping. Set on an impressive one-acre, fully fenced homesite, the property offers exceptional privacy, generous outdoor space, and a breathtaking backdrop for sunset views. Inside, an expansive seven-bedroom floor plan is complemented by a dedicated office, an enormous loft reached by a beautiful spiral staircase, and a generously sized media room designed for an immersive private theater experience. Full-house impact windows and doors add protection and peace of mind, while the thoughtfully designed layout offers remarkable flexibility for family living, working from home, hosting guests, and entertaining on a grand scale. The outdoor setting is where this property truly distinguishes itself. A brand-new saltwater pool features an expansive sun shelf, built-in bench seating, and elegant water bowl features. Italian porcelain pool decking, beautifully complemented by emerald-green turf, creates a sophisticated, resort-inspired retreat. Beyond the pool, the expansive one-acre grounds offer a particularly rare advantage: ample room to create your own private outdoor sport court. Whether your passion is pickleball, basketball, or another favorite sport, the ability to add a personalized recreation space—with sport courts permitted within Bridgewater—offers a lifestyle opportunity rarely found in a gated community so conveniently located in town. Further enhancing the home's appeal, a whole-house Generac generator installed in 2025 conveys with a 10-year extended warranty, providing an added layer of preparedness and convenience. Bridgewater is a gated community featuring picturesque lakes and waterways throughout the neighborhood. Its convenient location provides easy access to I-95 and Florida's Turnpike, with Jupiter's beautiful beaches approximately 10 minutes away. Architectural distinction, extraordinary scale, resort-inspired outdoor living, and room to bring your sporting passions home—this exceptional Livingstone offers a rare combination of privacy, recreation, and convenience in Jupiter.

20036 SE BRIDGEWATER Drive, Jupiter

4105 NE Rigels Cove Way, Hutchinson Island
$4,995,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ A12050904 MLS
One of Hutchinson Island's gated premier DEEP-WATER Intracoastal estates, offering nearly an acre(.84) on a private point lot encompassing the entire cul-de-sac w/ preserves bordering both sides for unmatched privacy. Boasting approximately 270 feet of protected Intracoastal waterfront, no fixed bridges, this estate captures breathtaking wide-water views throughout. Only 8 minutes to the Saint Lucie Inlet and 60 miles to Bahamas Low taxes of $19,869 last tax bill 2025. Features a first-floor primary suite w/ panoramic Intracoastal views and indoor-outdoor living. Boaters will appreciate the deep-water 104 ft private dock for large vessels, 5.5ft draft low tide, composite dockage, 40,000-lb boat lift, and a professionally engineered 15-foot polyurethane seawall with a poured concrete cap and riprap reinforcement for extra protection.A rare opportunity to own one of Hutchinson Island's premier waterfront homes,offering expansive Intracoastal views, boating amenities and a private point-lot. Built like a fortress, concrete block from top to bottom and in between with solid concrete block construction, solid poured concrete 2nd story floor w/steel rebar, high-impact windows and doors, durable 50-year aluminum roof. Chef’s kitchen features premium Thermador appliances, including a gas cooktop, opens to elegant living space with a gas fireplace. Best of both worlds, intracoastal and ocean across the street. Downtown Stuart's restaurants, art shows and oceanside restaurants

4105 NE Rigels Cove Way, Hutchinson Island

411 S Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce
$4,950,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ B26077331 MLS
TO BE BUILT Two-parcels. 411 & 401 Indian River Dr. Waterfront development site Permit-ready plans for 12 luxury villas (Additional land behind included for development of residential) 16 total dock slips. Approximately 1,900 SF under air and 2,300 total SF per residence Assigned dock slip for each villa Direct Indian River waterfront location Corner positioning at S. Indian River Drive and Citrus Avenue Minutes from Downtown Fort Pierce, area beaches and the Fort Pierce Inlet Rare boutique development opportunity with significant barriers to entry Offered as a complete waterfront development opportunity. Additional plans, approvals, permits and due-diligence materials are available to qualified prospective purchasers. TO BE BUILT Two-parcels. 411 & 401 Indian River Dr. Waterfront development site Permit-ready plans for 12 luxury villas (Additional land behind included for development of residential) 16 total dock slips. Approximately 1,900 SF under air and 2,300 total SF per residence Assigned dock slip for each villa Direct Indian River waterfront location Corner positioning at S. Indian River Drive and Citrus Avenue Minutes from Downtown Fort Pierce, area beaches and the Fort Pierce Inlet Rare boutique development opportunity with significant barriers to entry Offered as a complete waterfront development opportunity. Additional plans, approvals, permits and due-diligence materials are available to qualified prospective purchasers.

411 S Indian River Drive, Fort Pierce

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