
House of Refuge Gilbert's Bar
Historic life-saving station with unique limestone rock formations, offering maritime history and stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See the rocks at their best

House of Refuge Gilbert's Bar
Best Time
See the rocks at their best
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic life-saving station with unique limestone rock formations, offering maritime history and stunning coastal views.
"A hidden gem with amazing water views and fascinating history!"

Check the Tides! 🌊
Visit during low tide to see the amazing water shooting through the rocks. Essential for the best views!
Parking Can Be Tricky 🚗
Parking is limited. Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a spot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gilbert's Bar Rock Formations
Shoreline
Unique limestone formations where waves create dramatic water displays. A photographer's dream!

House of Refuge Museum
Historic Building
Explore maritime history and learn about life-saving services. Informative exhibits and a peaceful atmosphere.

Historic Dock
Waterfront
A picturesque dock offering serene water views and a peaceful spot to relax. Perfect for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Rocks
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Tides! 🌊
Visit during low tide to see the amazing water shooting through the rocks. Essential for the best views!
Parking Can Be Tricky 🚗
Parking is limited. Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a spot.
History & Hauntings 👻
Rich maritime history and rumored paranormal activity. Great for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts!
Photo Ops Galore! 📸
The rock formations, historic dock, and water views offer stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Tides! 🌊
Visit during low tide to see the amazing water shooting through the rocks. Essential for the best views!
Parking Can Be Tricky 🚗
Parking is limited. Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a spot.
History & Hauntings 👻
Rich maritime history and rumored paranormal activity. Great for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts!
Photo Ops Galore! 📸
The rock formations, historic dock, and water views offer stunning photo opportunities.
Relax and Recharge 🧘♀️
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, rocking chairs, and beautiful beach views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the House of Refuge at Gilbert's Bar, calling it a 'hidden gem' with stunning rock formations and fascinating history. Many appreciate the unique geological features, especially when the tide creates water displays. The historical exhibits and peaceful atmosphere are also frequently praised, though some note limited parking and the need to check tide times for the best experience.
"This is a hidden gem! Super quiet and amazing rock formations. With the right tide water shoots up through them for a unique experience"
Paul Haynes
"I am a paranormal enthusiast/ "Intuitive empath" and this place not only beautiful and historical but also one of the most haunted places in florida and I can 100% now confirm that as I was overwhelmed with the energy of a 2 magnets touching 🧲
Several evps including some minor insults from a few dont believe i have ever felt so many spirits using my energy at once it took me 2 hours to get level after leaving 10/10 for beach loving history buffs who are connected to the other side 👻"
Gabriel Cazee
"What a wonderful little find! I had no idea this even existed & the history is remarkable - and pirate history at that!
It kinda gives a whole new perspective to "pirates of the carribean..." ...the last pirate of the carribean..."
Emily Hahnel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The House of Refuge is located on Hutchinson Island in Stuart, Florida. You can reach it by car via A1A. Parking is available on-site, but it can be limited, so arriving early or on a weekday is recommended.
Public transportation options directly to the House of Refuge are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
Parking is available at the House of Refuge, but it fills up quickly. For the best chance of securing a spot, aim to arrive early in the morning or visit during a weekday.
Yes, the House of Refuge is situated right on the beach, offering direct access to the shoreline and the unique rock formations.
The area around the House of Refuge is relatively compact. The main attractions are the museum building, the historic dock, and the shoreline with its rock formations. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for entry into the House of Refuge Museum. Check the official website for the most current pricing and operating hours.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official House of Refuge website or call ahead to confirm their hours of operation before your visit.
While advance booking might not always be necessary, it's a good idea to check the official website, especially during peak tourist seasons, to see if advance ticket purchase is recommended or required.
Information on discounts for seniors, children, or military personnel is typically available on the official House of Refuge website. It's worth checking for any available offers.
Access to the beach and the Gilbert's Bar rock formations is generally included with museum admission. However, it's best to confirm this when purchasing your tickets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic House of Refuge Museum, learn about maritime history and shipwrecks, admire the unique Gilbert's Bar rock formations, relax on the beach, and enjoy the scenic views from the historic dock.
Gilbert's Bar features fascinating limestone rock formations along the shoreline. During low tide, water shoots through them, creating a spectacular natural display.
Absolutely! The unique rock formations, historic dock, and ocean views make it a prime spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
While primarily a historical site, kids can enjoy exploring the beach, observing the rock formations, and learning about maritime history. The peaceful environment is also a plus.
Swimming is possible at the beach adjacent to the House of Refuge, but always be aware of ocean conditions and any posted warnings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The House of Refuge does not have a full-service restaurant. However, they often sell non-alcoholic drinks and sunscreen, so it's a good idea to bring your own snacks and water.
There are several dining options in the nearby town of Stuart and along Hutchinson Island. You can find a variety of seafood restaurants and casual eateries.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. It's a great way to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Check with the venue for specific rules regarding outside food.
Yes, there is a gift shop at the House of Refuge where you can purchase souvenirs and local items.
It's best to bring your own water bottle. While they sell drinks, dedicated refill stations might not be available.
📸 📸 Photography
The Gilbert's Bar rock formations, especially during low tide, the historic dock with its water views, and the museum building itself offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset provide beautiful golden hour lighting, enhancing the natural beauty of the location. Midday can be harsh, but the water features can still be dramatic.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and state parks. It's crucial to check the specific regulations for the House of Refuge and Martin County before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive rock formations and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A polarizing filter can help manage glare on the water.
Photography policies inside museums can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask staff if photography is permitted inside the House of Refuge Museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks as dining options are limited. Bring sunscreen and hats, as much of the exploration is outdoors. Visiting during low tide is a must for the most exciting rock formations. Consider it a relaxed outing rather than a high-energy theme park experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best times to shoot: Aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for soft, warm light. Always check the tide charts to capture the water shooting through the rocks. A wide-angle lens is ideal for the expansive coastal scenery, while a polarizing filter can enhance the water's texture and reduce glare.
👻 Paranormal Investigators & History Buffs
What to expect: Be prepared for a quiet, reflective experience. Bring recording equipment if you're investigating paranormal activity. The historical exhibits provide context for the area's past, while the natural environment offers a unique, potentially eerie, ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the House of Refuge
Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the lives of the surfmen who manned these stations, the challenges they faced, and the stories of those they rescued. The museum offers a glimpse into a bygone era of maritime safety and the evolution of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, which eventually merged with the Revenue Cutter Service to form the U.S. Coast Guard. Learning about this history provides a deeper appreciation for the site's importance.
Beyond its life-saving mission, the area also has a connection to pirate lore, adding another layer of intrigue for visitors. The historical context makes the House of Refuge more than just a scenic spot; it's a portal to Florida's past and the brave individuals who protected its coast.
Exploring Gilbert's Bar Rock Formations
The best time to witness this phenomenon is during low tide. Checking a local tide chart before your visit is highly recommended to ensure you experience the rocks at their most dynamic. The interplay of water and rock creates a mesmerizing spectacle, offering a unique natural wonder rarely seen elsewhere in Florida.
These formations are not only visually stunning but also a testament to the coastal erosion and geological processes that have shaped this part of Florida. They provide a rugged, natural contrast to the sandy beaches, making Gilbert's Bar a distinctive destination for nature lovers and those seeking unusual coastal landscapes.
Paranormal Encounters and Local Lore
Many believe the spirits of sailors and life-saving crew members linger, drawn to the place where they either found refuge or met their end. The intense energy reported by some visitors suggests a strong spiritual presence, making it a compelling destination for those interested in the unexplained. The combination of history and alleged hauntings creates a unique and intriguing atmosphere.
Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the stories surrounding the House of Refuge add an extra layer of mystique to its already captivating history and natural beauty. It's a place where the past seems to linger, inviting exploration and contemplation.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit