New Year New You: 6 New Skills You Can Learn in 2023

We can’t believe the sun is already setting on 2022 – and what a year it has been! As we look to the horizon and start setting out sights on 2023, it’s time to think about New Year’s resolutions.

While some people opt to adopt healthier habits or break not-so-great patterns, others vow to learn some brand-new skills. If you find yourself in the latter category, you’re in luck! Martin County offers tons of opportunities to pick up a fun hobby, perfect a new art, or brush up some other cool capabilities.

From learning how to ride the waves to unleashing your creative side, here are six new skills you can learn during a Martin County getaway.

Embrace an Epic New Hobby

Martin County’s local tour operators offer a diverse range of aquatic adventures, ranging from surfing and sailing to jet skiing and stand-up paddle boarding! Make the most of your time in Martin County by hitting the waves with our local experts. For example, channel your inner Kelly Slater during a surf lesson with Ohana Surf Shop. You’ll spend the morning or afternoon learning the basics and catching waves in our uncrowded paradise. Zeke’s Surf, Skate & Paddle Sports also offers creative guided tours and lessons so you can brush up on your stand-up paddle skills. Or try your hand at winging with the pros at Next Level Watersports or New Wave Kiteboarding! What’s better than learning a new pastime while exploring the area’s beautiful waterways?

Jensen Beach surfing lesson with Ohana Surf Shop

Become a Burgeoning Beekeeper

Have you ever dreamt of becoming a beekeeper? There’s a lot to learn! Spend an afternoon covering the basics with the experts from Hani Honey Company. They will happily arrange a custom beekeeping lesson on-site at one of their Martin County apiaries. Simply contact them in advance to set up a customizable experience. The lesson also includes beekeeping suits for your to borrow. Afterwards, you can take a trip to their Hani Honey storefront in Downtown Stuart to taste their homemade mead and shop their other honey-based goods.

Get Inspired During an Awesome Art Class

Need to find your muse? Looking to channel your creative energy? If so, unleash your artistic side at one of Martin County’s many artsy points of interest. Try out Stuart Ceramics in historic Downtown Stuart to paint a keepsake of your choice (it makes for a great souvenir)! You can also arrange a private clay lesson with Clay Habit Studio and Supply in downtown Jensen Beach, or sign up for a group class at Painting with a Twist. You can even learn the art of textile dyeing during a hands-on workshop with Suzanne Connors at Aya Fiber Studio. The creative outlets are endless.

Find Your Inner Fisherman (or Fisherwoman!)

It’s no secret that Martin County lures fishing enthusiasts all year long. In fact, the city of Stuart is known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World.” Whether you’re a casual caster or an expert angler, you’ll always learn something new while fishing our waters. Link up with one of our local fishing charters who will teach you the necessary skills to “reel in” the memories. At the end of the trip, many will even help clean, fillet, and bag your catch for you! Whether you’re looking for freshwater, offshore, or in-shore fishing, our local experts will help plan an experience you’ll never forget.

Photo Courtesy of @glasstreampowerboats via Instagram

Swing by the Sea with a Golf Lesson

When you think of Florida, chances are golfing comes to mind. As it turns out, Martin County is dream golfer’s getaway, home to over 28 world-class courses. Those looking to learn the time-honored game can do so at Sailfish Sands. The stunning course offers private one-on-one lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’ve been playing for decades or you’re just getting started, their experienced staff is dedicated to improving your skill level, lowering your scores, and enhancing your enjoyment of the game. They also offer instructional programs all year long, including a Family Golf Program so everyone can compete with dad!

Earn Your SCUBA Certification

Did you know that Martin County’s waters mark the start of the Florida Coral Reef Tract, which extends down to the Florida Keys? It’s the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States and is the world’s third largest coral reef system, measuring at 105 miles! Plus, more than 800 species of fish call our waters home. See these underwater wonders for yourself by getting SCUBA certified! Local diving establishments, like family-owned Kirk’s Dive and Surf Shop and Stuart Scuba, will teach you everything you need to know. You can also sign up for a multitude of recreational courses to brush up on your skills or advance your diving proficiency.