The site marks the base camp where the Spanish survivors waited for rescue after the 1715 fleet was destroyed by a hurricane.
The Spanish ships were en route from Havana to Spain, carrying a massive payload of gold and silver meant to fund the War of the Spanish Succession.
The treasure remained largely undisturbed for over 200 years until modern salvage operations began in the mid-20th century.
The location is officially recognized as the site of the 'Captain-General's camp' during the salvage efforts in 1715.
Most of the gold and silver coins displayed were minted in the Spanish colonies of Mexico, Peru, and Colombia.
The McLarty Treasure Museum stands on the exact site of the 1715 Spanish Plate Fleet survivors' camp. It houses an extensive collection of gold and silver coins, jewelry, and weaponry recovered from the wreckage of eleven ships lost during a hurricane. The facility is operated by the Indian River County Historical Society. Exhibits detail the maritime tragedy where over 1,000 sailors lost their lives after the fleet sailed into a severe storm off the Florida coast. Visitors can observe actual artifacts salvaged from the seabed near the barrier island. The building offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, emphasizing the proximity to the original disaster site. The museum provides context on the 18th-century salvage operations and the historical significance of the Treasure Coast region.
The observation deck overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Bring binoculars for potential whale or dolphin sightings from the viewing deck.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent beach for a view of the coastline where the ships originally foundered.
Read the historical markers near the entrance before entering to understand the timeline of the 1715 tragedy.
Do not attempt to search for treasure on the nearby beaches, as state law prohibits the unauthorized removal of historical artifacts.
Closed on Sundays.
