Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge contains the largest contiguous section of undeveloped beach in Southeastern Florida and is considered one of the most productive sea turtle nesting areas in the Southeastern United States.
Sunrise over the ocean with birds on the horizon at NPR Hobe Sound NWR.
Refuge News and Information
Pay your entrance fee on Recreation.gov 

Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge makes it easy for you to pay your entrance fee (or buy an annual pass) before you visit, using recreation.gov

Visit Us

Welcome to the Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge! Stop by the visitor center to learn more about the refuge and see a diverse array of live reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects along with some interpretive displays.

Entrance Fees: $5/daily, $25 annually

Location and Contact Information

      About Us

      The Refuge is a sanctuary for nearly 40 species listed as either threatened, endangered, or of special concern. It is an oasis for people who wish to experience what the early days of Florida must have been like. This biodiversity is supported by a large remnant of sand pine scrub, nearly 10 miles of mangrove communities along the Indian River Lagoon, and 3.5 miles of Atlantic Ocean beach. The beauty and uniqueness of Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge inspires others to protect our wild places for future generations.

      What We Do

      Refuge management activities benefit a variety of plants and animals, including threatened and endangered species.

      Our Species

      A scaly, dark-grey reptile hatchling, partially covered in sand on a beach

      The leatherback is the largest, deepest diving, and most migratory and wide ranging of all sea turtles. The adult leatherback can reach 4 to 8 feet in length and 500 to 2000 pounds in weight. Its shell is composed of a mosaic of small bones covered by firm, rubbery skin with seven longitudinal...

      FWS Focus
      a blue and grey bird perched on a branch

      The plumage of adult males and females looks alike, but males are slightly larger than females. The head, nape, wings, and tail are pale blue. The back and belly are pale gray. The throat and chest are white and bordered by a blue gray bib. Juveniles differ in appearance from adults in that they...

      FWS Focus

      Our Library

      Visit our library for brochures and other publications.

      Get Involved

      The Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is supported by numerous volunteers of all ages. Become a volunteer today and help conserve and protect our nation’s wildlife and teach thousands of visitors that their actions today determine the conservation legacy for tomorrow.