Location, location, location. The South Treasure Coast (defined as Martin County on the Florida map) is located at the southern tip of the Indian River Lagoon, a 156-mile long estuary that stretches from Ponce de Leon Inlet to Jupiter Inlet. The area includes dramatic beauty, quiet places and best of all the luxury of time, the real treasure in today’s fast-paced world. For families the area is a secret bonus. What could be better, a rich menu of interesting activities and the luxury of time to enjoy them with the kids. Our treasure list is diverse and includes one-of-a-kind experiences unique to the area. Read on.

Snorkel in a bathtub. Located just east of Stuart, and a half-hour north of Palm Beach is beautifully preserved Hutchinson Island, a narrow barrier island bordered by the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. At the southernmost tip of the enchanting island is “Bathtub Beach,” named for the shallow, clear lagoon created at low tide by a natural coral reef located just offshore. Patrolled by pelicans and inspected by seagulls, it offers a rendezvous point for beach lovers seeking to enjoy an early morning walk or a lingering sunset. It is a perfect setting for children’s enjoyment or snorkeling. The park is bordered by protected undulating sand dunes. It is free to the public and features lifeguards, free parking, restrooms and showers. Bonus points: For the curious, an environmental exhibit explains how Bathtub Reef was formed. Need to know: Bathtub Beach features a shallow ocean lagoon formed by an offshore reef that creates a magnificent safe haven for children and a perfect environment for snorkeling. Located on the southern end of Hutchinson Island, Bathtub Beach has lifeguards, picnic areas, free parking and other family friendly amenities. (Bathtub Beach 1585 S.E. MacArthur Blvd., Stuart 34996. 1(772) 221-1418)

Watch the rocks blowing. On Jupiter Island, at the edge of the sea, “blowing rocks,” provide a daily show. In addition to the natural Anastasia limestone rocks, Blowing Rocks Preserve is also an island sanctuary. It provides an ever-changing window on a variety of natural habitats. Explore a boardwalk with interpretive signs along the Indian River Lagoon, whisper in the butterfly garden, stroll the beachside nature trail. Bonus points: For an escape from the heat of the day, The Hawley Education Center has displays and rotating exhibits that explain the value of area. Bonus points: ach Sunday a guided walk is conducted through Blowing Rocks Preserve. It is a chance to explore the geology, wildlife and native plant communities with a trained naturalist. (Blowing Rocks 574 South Beach Road, Hobe Sound 33455. 1 (561) 744-6668 or Blowing Rocks Preserve)

Discover American spirit. It’s all about: remember when? The Elliott Museum showcases American creativity and includes area history as a bonus. Displays feature an apothecary, a barbershop, blacksmith forge and ice cream parlor. Visitors may examine collections of dolls, clocks and watches, pipes and tobacco, baseball memorabilia and vintage cars. A show piece at the museum is an authentic hand-carved miniature circus. Discovery: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The House of Refuge Museum, built in 1875, is Martin County’s oldest building and was once a refuge for shipwreck victims. Small but really cool inside the stories are very intriguing. The breathtaking ocean view from the museum alone makes the trip worthwhile. Bonus Points: During the summer months they offer summer camps activities. (The Elliott Museum 825 NE Ocean Blvd. Stuart, 34996. 1(772) 225-1961 or www.elliottmuseumfl.org)

Cruise the Loxahatchee. Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a natural treasure. Covering almost 11,500 acres of land including the Loxahatchee River (named "lowchow" turtle, "hatchee" river by the Seminole Indians); the park offers campsites and cabins, kayaking and canoeing, hiking and bicycling, as well as fresh and saltwater fishing. Guided tours of the Loxahatchee River, Florida’s first “National Wild & Scenic River,” provide rare opportunities to view endangered and threaten species. Discovery: There area is rich with legends from the shipwreck of the Dickinson family to stories about the "Wildman of the Loxahatchee." The 44-passenger Loxahatchee Queen II cruises to the pioneer home site of Trapper Nelson, the famous “wild man.” (Jonathan Dickinson State Park 16450 S.E. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound, 33455. 1(772) 546-2771 or www.floridastateparks.org)