Beachgoers choosing to frequent the clothing-optional Blind Creek Beach in Fort Pierce must consider the long walk required to get there and be sure to stay dressed until they reach their destination.
That’s the message from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, which has recently arrested a number of beachgoers for indecent exposure.
The parking lot of the popular beach has been closed for renovation since Jan. 6, and the only legal parking is at the Little Mud Boat Ramp parking lot, a mile north of Blind Creek.
After a number of complaints about nude sunbathers outside the labeled area, the sheriff’s office took action.
Six people were arrested, while three others were issued notices to appear in court on Oct. 25, all charged with “Indecent Exposure – Exposure of Sexual Organs.” The arrestees, five men and one woman, were from out of the area. The three who were issued notices to appear in court were local residents.
Two additional arrests were made on Oct. 29 for the same offense. A 62-year-old woman and a 66-year-old man were found in violation of county ordinances on nudity because they were outside the designated areas for nudity.
Consequences for the misdemeanor can include one year of jailtime, one year probation, a $1,000 fee or a combination, according to St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office Spokesperson Lt. Andrew Bolonka.
“It’s probably the busiest beach in St. Lucie County,” Bolonka said. He described many who patronize Blind Creek Beach as some of the nicest people he has met, but they are required to abide by the law.
Deputies have maintained a visible presence in the area since September, with foot and ATV patrols. They have also taken time to talk to beach visitors, reminding them that there are signs denoting the areas allowing no clothing.
“While the ongoing Blind Creek Beach renovation project may be a temporary inconvenience to beach goers, it does not permit the use of undesignated public areas as extensions of the designated nude-optional beach. Some visitors have attempted to relocate north of the permitted area, prompting an increase in calls from concerned residents and visitors,” reads a press release issued by the Sheriff’s Office.
“The St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to addressing these concerns through both education and enforcement. Deputies will continue to enforce all state laws and county ordinances related to Blind Creek Beach, including violations involving unauthorized nudity and illegal parking along A1A.
“Illegal parking poses safety hazards for bicyclists, pedestrians and motorists, and deputies will remain vigilant in addressing these issues.”
“We have to enforce the law,” Bolonka said. “Is it inconvenient? Yes,” he said. But he believes that, when completed, the improved amenities will be worth the wait and the inconvenience.
“It takes time for construction to happen. People knew it was coming.”
Deputies will maintain increased patrols in this area to ensure compliance and to preserve the comfort of all residents and visitors.
According to St. Lucie County Communications Director Erick Gill, the beach parking lot closed on Jan. 6 for renovations, including improvements to the parking area and restroom facilities leaving no nearby parking.
Parking is not permitted on A1A nor anywhere else near the beach, which is located at 5460 S Ocean Drive on South Hutchinson Island.
The beach is open with an alternative pedestrian access, but parking is only allowed at the Little Mud Creek lot, with the walk to Blind Creek Beach accessible along the sidewalk heading south on A1A or along the beach.
Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by December of this year.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office if they observe violations or unsafe activity.