Stuart, Florida to Clewiston, FL

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

A Waterfront Home

Island Hopper left Sunset Bay Maria at 8:00 AM heading to Clewiston, Florida. Today's journey was 58 miles with 1 bridge and 3 locks. Myakka Lock had divers in the water making repairs on the lock's gate. Island Hopper had to tie to a dolphin and wait 1 hour and 45 minutes for the next lock through. Island Hopper arrived at Roland Martin's Marina at 3:00 PM. The marina is in the very small town of Clewiston. The marina has a restaurant, Tiki Bar, and Ship's Store. (http://www.rolandmartinmarina.com/) Besides that, not much happening in Clewiston. Debbie & Kevin ate aboard Island Hopper and opened a bottle of red wine. Just a relaxing evening on the water.

Tiki Bar

AMERICA'S SWEETEST TOWN Clewiston, historically known as America's Sweetest Town, was incorporated in 1925 and occupies 4.57 square miles with a population of approximately 6,900 people. Clewiston is centrally located in south Florida about 60 miles east of Fort Myers on the Gulf of Mexico and 60 miles west of Palm Beach on the Atlantic Ocean. Through more than a half-century of growth, Clewiston has kept its charm and beauty. We are the Gateway to Lake Okeechobee. Where is Clewiston? Take Route U.S. 27. Clewiston is found on the southwest shore of Lake Okeechobee, the second largest fresh water lake in the United States. The cross-state Okeechobee Waterway offers direct access from either coast by water for boats up to 120 feet. The marinas, motels, and condominiums located on the waterway have dock space and most of the motels and restaurants offer courtesy transportation. Many visitors are attracted to Clewiston because of the excellent freshwater fishing in Lake Okeechobee, offering the best in black bass and pan fishing, including crappie and bream. The City has a protected boat basin with several convenient boat ramps and spacious parking for easy access to Lake Okeechobee. The City's 18-hole golf course is seldom crowded and beautifully maintained. Other City-owned recreational facilities include the lighted tennis courts, library, public pool and water spray park. The Sugarland Park Recreational Facility boasts nine ballfields, racquetball courts, and soccer fields. Clewiston is proud to have the Hendry County Regional Medical Center located here. With the small town atmosphere, recreational facilities, and business opportunities, it is no wonder so many people are looking at Clewiston as the place to raise a family or retire. Clewiston’s temperate climate and tranquil palm-filled vistas make it a town for all seasons.