Travel + Leisure designated this Treasure Coast city as best retirement small town

The city was recognized for its community, beach access and downtown area.

“Stuart is a place you stumble upon,” wrote Stacey Leasca for Travel + Leisure magazine. “It’s not always up there in the most searched for spots in Florida, but really, that’s part of its magic. It’s a rare, true, hidden gem.”

In Stuart, Leasca wrote, people greet their neighbors and chat up those around them while out grabbing coffee or lunch.

“Be ready to hear about grandkids and new boats, set up tee times with people you’ve just met, and always be prepared for a bonfire at the beach,” Leasca wrote. “The people of Stuart are really into that kind of thing, and they are utter experts at making you feel welcome.”