Nettles Island Marina is a privately owned public facility located in the heart of the Nettles Island gated resort community. Situated on the Indian River at Intracoastal Waterway Mile Marker 979.5, the marina provides a distinctive, friendly, and “bohemian” atmosphere for transient cruisers, seasonal snowbirds, and local boaters. Operating as a separate commercial entity within the residential community, it successfully blends the security and amenities of a private island with the open welcome of a public harbor, creating a one-of-a-kind destination on Florida’s Treasure Coast.
Strategic Location & Essential Contact Information
The marina’s prime location on a barrier island offers the rare combination of immediate Intracoastal Waterway access and direct proximity to Atlantic Ocean beaches, providing the best of both the inland and coastal boating worlds.
- Address: 9801 S Ocean Dr, Jensen Beach, FL 34957.
- Official Website: https://nettlesislandmarina.com
- Phone: +1 (772) 229-2811
- VHF Radio: Monitors Channel 16.
- Coordinates: N 27° 16.500’ / W 080° 13.500’.
- ICW Marker: Mile 979.5, Indian River.
Boaters arriving by land must identify themselves as marina guests or diners at the community’s main security gate to receive a vehicle pass for entry. The marina office and docks are a short drive inside the community.
Nettles Island Marina
Table of Contents
Where is Nettles Island Marina located and how do you get there?
Nettles Island Marina is located on the western shore of Hutchinson Island, directly on the Indian River section of the ICW. The approach is via a marked channel from the main ICW route.
Detailed Navigation & Land Access:
By water, look for the marina’s signage and breakwater near ICW Mile 979.5. The channel is straightforward with a controlling depth of approximately 7 feet. Land access is via a guarded gate on South Ocean Drive (A1A). Simply inform the security staff you are visiting the marina or Saunders Landing Restaurant; they will provide a temporary pass. The community is expansive, so having a golf cart or bicycle is advantageous for exploring once ashore.
What services and amenities does Nettles Island Marina offer?
Nettles Island Marina functions as a self-contained village, offering an exceptional range of amenities including a full-service restaurant, a well-stocked market, a fuel dock, and retail shops—all directly on the dock property.
Comprehensive Amenities Breakdown:
- On-Site Dining & Retail:
- Saunder’s Landing Restaurant & Tiki Hut: A popular waterfront restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with live music and a full bar.
- Nettles Island Market: A full grocery store featuring a bakery, deli, fresh produce, wine, beer, and basic marine hardware and supplies.
- Specialty Shops: The marina property includes a hair salon, a resort wear boutique, and dog grooming services.
- Boater-Centric Facilities:
- Fuel Dock: Offers gasoline and propane (note: diesel is not available on-site).
- Boaters’ Lounge: Clean, private restrooms with hot showers.
- Laundry Facility: Coin-operated washers and dryers.
- Pump-Out Service: Available for registered guests.
- High-Speed WiFi: Provided throughout the marina.
- Community & Recreational Access:
- Beach Access: A short walk across South Ocean Drive leads to a pristine, uncrowded Atlantic beach.
- Resort Facilities: Marina guests can often arrange access to the community’s swimming pools, tennis courts, and mini-golf course.
- Golf Cart Rentals: Available for easy exploration of the entire Nettles Island community.
How much does it cost to dock at Nettles Island Marina?
Dockage rates are competitive for its premium barrier island location. Transient rates are approximately $3.00 per foot per day, with discounts available for weekly or monthly stays. Long-term lease rates are customized based on slip size.
Detailed Rate Structure and Policies:
The marina utilizes the Dockwa platform for streamlined transient reservations. Long-term monthly and annual leases are available for those seeking a seasonal or permanent home port. The marina is notably liveaboard-friendly. All slips are equipped with metered 30-amp, 50-amp, and some 100-amp electrical service. Payment is accepted via major credit cards.
Can Nettles Island Marina accommodate a superyacht?
Yes, the marina has the capability to accommodate larger yachts. Standard slips can handle vessels up to 100 feet LOA, and there is specialized space available for yachts up to 120 feet.
Large Vessel Specifications & Considerations:
The approach depth is approximately 7 feet at mean low water, but dockside depth can reach 10 feet, accommodating vessels with a moderate draft. The fixed wooden docks are sturdy, and the dockmaster team is experienced in handling the arrival and docking of large motor yachts. Due to its location within a residential community, the atmosphere is quiet and protected, offering a secure berth for valuable vessels.
What are the key differences between Nettles Island Marina and other area marinas?
Nettles Island Marina’s defining characteristic is its “island village” model. It is not just a place to park your boat; it is a destination where every essential service—dining, groceries, shopping, and beach access—is within a few steps of your slip, all within a secure, gated community.
Comparative Advantages:
- Self-Contained Convenience: Unlike marinas where you need to Uber or walk far for supplies, here a full market and restaurant are on the dock.
- Dual Environment: It offers the calm, protected waters of the Indian River with direct, walkable access to the Atlantic Ocean beach.
- Community Vibe: The atmosphere is more relaxed and socially connected than a large corporate marina, fostering a strong sense of community among boaters and residents.
- Security: The dual-layer security of the gated community entrance and the key-coded dock gates provides exceptional peace of mind.
Is this a good stop on the Great Loop?
Absolutely. It is a highly recommended and popular stop for Great Loopers. Its easy-on, easy-off location on the ICW, combined with unparalleled provisioning convenience and a safe, welcoming environment, makes it an ideal layover.
Why Loopers Choose It:
Loopers appreciate the ability to fully reprovision at the on-site market, enjoy a quality meal without leaving the property, and tackle laundry chores effortlessly. The safe, “off the beaten path” feeling within the gated community is a welcome respite. The dock staff and fellow boaters are known for being exceptionally friendly and helpful to those completing the Loop.
Can you live aboard your boat at this marina?
Yes, Nettles Island Marina is known to be liveaboard-friendly. It welcomes residents who live on their vessels year-round, fostering a stable and engaged community on the docks.
Liveaboard Details & Community:
The marina accommodates a number of long-term liveaboards. Prospective liveaboards should contact the marina office directly to discuss slip availability, rates, and community guidelines. The environment is quiet, safe, and family-oriented, with liveaboards often participating in community events and enjoying the extensive amenities.
What are the nearby attractions and activities?
Beyond the marina’s immediate offerings, the greater Hutchinson Island and Jensen Beach area provides rich opportunities for exploration, from natural preserves and fishing to cultural experiences and golf.
Activity Guide:
- Beach & Nature:
- Nettles Island Beach: The directly adjacent public beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling.
- Savannas Preserve State Park: A short drive away, offering hiking trails, kayaking, and birdwatching in a unique freshwater marsh ecosystem.
- Golf & Recreation:
- Several championship golf courses are located within a 10-15 minute drive on the mainland.
- The community itself features tennis courts and a mini-golf course.
- Dining & Culture:
- Historic Downtown Jensen Beach: A 10-minute drive offers boutique shopping, art galleries, and a variety of additional restaurants and cafes.
- Elliot Museum & Florida Oceanographic Center: Located further north on Hutchinson Island, providing educational and cultural exhibits.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Public Status | Public Commercial Marina within a Gated Community |
| Location | Hutchinson Island, ICW MM 979.5, Jensen Beach |
| Total Slips | ~65 Active Slips (Permitted for 77) |
| Max Vessel LOA | 100-120 Feet |
| Dock Type | Fixed Wooden Docks |
| Depth (MLW) | 7 ft (Channel) / 10 ft (Dockside) |
| Fuel Types | Gasoline, Propane (No Diesel) |
| Power Options | 30 / 50 / 100 AMP (Metered) |
| Core Amenities | Restaurant, Full Market, Shops, Showers, Laundry, Beach Access |
| Security | Gated Community & Gated Docks, 24/7 Patrols |
| Primary Contact | (772) 229-2811 / nettlesislandmarina.com |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Nettles Island Marina private? Do I need to be a resident?
No, it is a public commercial marina. You do not need to be a resident or member of the Nettles Island community to rent a slip, dine at the restaurant, or shop at the market.
How do I get through the security gate to visit by car?
Simply stop at the guard house at the main entrance on S. Ocean Drive and state that you are visiting the marina or Saunders Landing Restaurant. They will issue a temporary pass for your vehicle.
Does the marina have diesel fuel?
No, the on-site fuel dock offers gasoline and propane only. The nearest diesel is available at marinas in nearby Stuart or Fort Pierce.
How do I make a reservation?
Transient reservations are easily made online via the Dockwa platform, which is linked from the marina’s official website. You can also call the marina office directly at (772) 229-2811.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, the marina and community are pet-friendly. Pets must be leashed in all common areas, and owners are responsible for cleanup. The on-site dog grooming service is a convenient perk.
Is the beach within walking distance?
Yes. The marina is directly across South Ocean Drive (A1A) from a public beach access path. It is a very short, easy walk.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies are detailed at the time of booking via Dockwa. Typically, notice of 48-72 hours is required for a full refund.
Are there loaner cars or bicycles?
While the marina does not offer loaner cars, golf carts are available for rent, which are the preferred mode of transport on the island. Some guests also bring bicycles.
Final Verdict: Nettles Island Marina offers a uniquely convenient and charming boating experience that is unmatched on the Treasure Coast. Its winning formula combines the security and amenities of a gated resort community with the warm welcome of a public marina, all while placing a full-service restaurant, grocery store, and Atlantic beach just steps from your boat. It is the ultimate choice for boaters who value convenience, community, and a truly relaxed “island time” atmosphere.
Contact Information
Nettles Island Marina
9801 S Ocean Dr
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
Phone: +1 (772) 229-2811
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://nettlesislandmarina.com
VHF Radio: Channel 16
