Mariner Cay is a private, gated waterfront community situated along the Manatee Pocket in Stuart, Florida. Known for its deep-water access and well-manicured landscaping, the neighborhood offers a mix of single-family estates and condominiums along the water. The community is designed to provide a quiet, scenic environment for residents who prioritize coastal living and outdoor recreation.
The neighborhood consists of 67 single-family home sites and 88 condominiums. A defining characteristic of Mariner Cay is its navigable water access; nearly all single-family homes and many of the condos are located on canals or directly on Manatee Pocket, often featuring private docking.
The community maintains a 24-hour manned security gate and 2.5 miles of internal private roads. These shaded, tree-lined streets are frequently used by residents for walking, jogging, and cycling.
The Mariner Cay Marina is a central feature of the community, serving both residents and the boating public. The facility includes:
Slips: 51 slips capable of accommodating vessels up to 80 feet with a 6-foot draft.
Services: A refueling dock offering non-ethanol gasoline and diesel, sanitary pump-out stations, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Transient Boating: Approximately 100 feet of face dock dedicated to transient boaters.
Mariner Cay provides several facilities for fitness and social activity:
Swimming: Residents have access to two pools, one of which is heated for year-round use.
Racquet Sports: The community features one tennis court and three pickleball courts.
Clubhouse: An air-conditioned facility located on the water’s edge that houses a fitness center, a library, and space for community gatherings such as book clubs or card games.
The land now known as Mariner Cay in Stuart, Florida, has a history rooted in the local fishing industry. Originally owned by the Stiller family, noted commercial fishermen, the property was transitioned for residential development in the late 1960s. Many of the interior canals seen today were dug during this era, and the community’s unique clubhouse was famously designed around a large Ficus tree as a tribute to the early residents who helped preserve the neighborhood’s waterfront character.
While the neighborhood offers a secluded feel, it is located within close proximity to several Martin County highlights:
Sandsprit Park: Located just a half-mile away, providing public boat ramps and panoramic views of the St. Lucie River.
The Manatee Pocket: A hub for local maritime culture, featuring numerous waterfront restaurants and specialized marine services.
Proximity to Waterways: Residents are a short distance from the St. Lucie Inlet, the Indian River Estuary, and the Atlantic Ocean.
As of early 2024, the community structure involves a Property Owners Association (POA) with monthly fees that cover 24-hour security and the maintenance of extensive common areas.
Condominium Fees: Generally vary based on the size and location of the unit and may include additional services.
Pet Policies: Single-family homes typically have no pet restrictions, while condominiums generally permit one medium-sized pet.
Rentals: Leasing property within Mariner Cay is permitted but is subject to specific community restrictions.