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Port Salerno, FL

Frequently asked questions

Port Salerno, FL

Port Salerno is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Martin County, Florida, United States. In the 1920s, a small settlement was created in the southern shores of the St. Lucie River inlet. It was named "Salerno" because of its visual resemblance to the Italian city of Salerno as observed by an early visitor. 

Port Salerno is located in eastern Martin County at 27°8′39″N 80°11′30″W (27.144090, -80.191765). It is bordered to the north by the St. Lucie River and Indian River Lagoon, to the east by one of its branches, known as Great Pocket, to the northwest by Manatee Pocket, and the southwest by U.S. Route 1. It is 5 miles (8 km) southeast of Stuart, the county seat, and 8 miles (13 km) northwest of Hobe Sound.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the Port Salerno CDP has a total area of 4.1 square miles (11 km²), of which 3.6 square miles (9.3 km²) are land and 0.5 square miles (1.3 km²), or 12.38%, are water.

In the 1920s, a small settlement was created on the southern shores of the St. Lucie River inlet. It was named "Salerno" because of its visual resemblance to the Italian city of Salerno as observed by an early visitor. Early settlers were fishermen who lived along the banks of the Manatee Pocket, a small natural bay in the St. Lucie River. Some descendants of these original settlers remain in the area, with some families owning land for over 100 years.

The area increased in population and importance after World War II, with many people from the northeastern United States moving to Florida. In 1960, the name was changed to "Port Salerno", to differentiate it from that of the Italian city.

Health and wellness are at the forefront of Port Salerno's community initiatives, evident in the plethora of recreational facilities and parks dotting the town. These amenities encourage outdoor activities, aligning with the town's commitment to fostering an active and balanced lifestyle. The Martin County Health Department plays a pivotal role in supporting community well-being by offering health services and various wellness initiatives. Bliss Spa offers a range of massages including Swedish, deep tissue, and prenatal massages, as well as specialty treatments like their "Blissage" and "Betweeny" waxing services. The Salt Room offers unique salt therapy sessions along with massage services, combining the benefits of massage with halotherapy for respiratory and skin health. The Spa at PGA National Resort offers a variety of massages including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and aromatherapy massages, in addition to other spa treatments. Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island provides a range of massage therapies including their signature "Heaven in a Hammock" massage, deep tissue massage, and reflexology. LA Fitness offers a variety of fitness equipment, group fitness classes, personal training services, and amenities like pools and saunas.

Top Sites in Port Salerno, FL: Saint Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, Seabranch Preserve State Park, Sailfish Splash Waterpark.

Population: 10,401 (2020). Elevation: 13 ft (4 m). Zip Code: 34992. Area Code: 772. Area: 3.8 square miles (9.8 km²)

FAQs

What is the history of Port Salerno, FL?

Port Salerno has a history of an independent, “can-do” spirit. The village began in the early 1900s as a stop named “Alicia” on Henry Flagler's railroad and eventually grew into the small fishing village of Salerno. The first substantial growth in the area came thanks to a real estate developer by the name of Mulford.

What are the demographics of Port Salerno, FL?

As of the census of 2000, there were 10,141 people, 4,466 households, and 2,862 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 2,803.2 inhabitants per square mile (1,082.3/km²). There were 5,126 housing units at an average density of 1,416.9 per square mile (547.1/km²).

What is Port Salerno, FL known for?

This historic small-town fishing village blends local color with art galleries, working artist studios, and waterfront dining, featuring locally-caught seafood, as well as land-lover fare. Known originally as the hub for the South Florida commercial fishing industry, Port Salerno has working waterfronts and fishing fleets that provide fresh seafood to local restaurants and markets. We also welcome “captains of industry” from around the world, who come to the area every year for world-class sport fishing tournaments that are based out of marinas and parks located on the Manatee Pocket.

Sources

Martin County

Wikipedia

Discover Martin

Martin County Health Department

Bliss Spa

The Salt Room

The Spa at PGA National Resort

Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

LA Fitness

Saint Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park

Seabranch Preserve State Park

Sailfish Splash Waterpark

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