Port St. Lucie is one of the true Old Florida towns -- reminiscent of the pre-neon, pre-condo-maniacal Florida, a sleepy world apart from the Gold Coast and Miami. Along with Fort Pierce, both towns thrive on sport fishing, and a seemingly endless row of piers juts out along the Intracoastal Waterway and the Fort Pierce Inlet for both river and ocean runs. Visitors can also dive, snorkel, beachcomb, and sunbathe in an area that has been left untouched by the overdevelopment that has altered its neighbors to the south and north.

Most sightseeing takes place along the main beach road (the strip across from the Ocean/A1A). Driving along Fla. A1A on Hutchinson Island, you'll discover several secluded beach clubs interspersed with 1950s-style homes, a few small inns, grungy raw bars, and a few high-rise condominiums. Much of this island is government-owned and kept undeveloped for the public's enjoyment.

Port St. Lucie Attractions:

Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution

Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; visitor center gift shop Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Arrive at least 20   min. before tour      
                       
Address: 5600 U.S. 1 N         
Phone: 772/465-2400                        
Web site: www.hboi.edu                                
Prices: Admission $10 adults, $6 children 6-12

UDT-SEAL Museum (Underwater Demolition Team Museum) Frommer's Recommended
                       
            Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm; Sun noon-4pm   
            Address: 3300 N. S.R. A1A  
            Phone: 772/595-5845            
            Web site: www.navysealmuseum.com            
            Prices: Admission $5 adults, $2 children 6-12
            Season: Closed Mon in off