Flying out of Palm Beach International and wondering how to get there from Stuart without stress? You are not alone. Whether you travel often or only a few times a year, a solid plan saves time, money, and headaches. In this guide, you will find the best routes, parking tips, rideshare and rail options, and exactly when to leave so you make your flight with time to spare. Let’s dive in.
How far is PBI from Stuart?
Palm Beach International Airport sits about 40 to 45 miles from most Stuart neighborhoods, and the drive typically takes 45 to 60 minutes in normal traffic. According to the latest estimates, you should plan on roughly a 45 to 50 minute drive when roads are clear (source: Travelmath driving time, October 2025).
Common routes that work
- I‑95 south is the fastest corridor in many cases, but it can back up during rush hours or after incidents.
- Florida’s Turnpike runs parallel to I‑95 and is usually steady, though it includes tolls.
- US‑1 and other local roads can be helpful if the highways are jammed, especially closer to West Palm Beach.
- Use live navigation before you leave to confirm the best route in real time.
Drive, rideshare, or rail: pick your ride
Drive and park at PBI
PBI offers Premium, Short‑Term, Long‑Term, and Economy parking. Rates are tiered and were updated effective February 1, 2025. If convenience matters for a quick trip, Premium or Short‑Term can be worth it. For multi‑day travel, Long‑Term or Economy usually saves the most. Review current rates, locations, and shuttle details on the airport’s official parking page (PBI website, February 2025).
Tolls and SunPass
If you choose Florida’s Turnpike, expect all‑electronic tolling. SunPass generally offers lower rates than Toll‑By‑Plate and avoids extra fees. Check options on the official Florida’s Turnpike tolls page (October 2025).
Rideshare or taxi
Uber and Lyft serve PBI with signed pickup zones. Fares from Stuart vary by time of day and demand, so confirm pricing and pickup timing in the app. See the airport’s ground transportation guidance for locations and tips.
Private shuttle services
Private shuttles operate between the Treasure Coast and South Florida airports, often with flat rates that work well for families or groups with luggage. Book ahead for early flights and holidays. One example serving Stuart is Prestige Florida Shuttle (confirm current schedules and pricing).
Public transit and rail
- Martin County’s MARTY buses connect locally and link into Palm Beach County systems. Schedules are limited on weekends and holidays, so build in extra time and transfers. Check the latest on the Martin County Public Transit schedule (October 2025).
- Rail can help for some travelers. Brightline and Tri‑Rail serve West Palm Beach, then it is a short rideshare or local bus to PBI. Brightline also runs fixed‑route shuttles in select markets, so review current service on Brightline’s shuttle page before you plan.
PBI parking, check‑in, and security
Parking options and time‑savers
- Economy and Long‑Term lots are the best value for multi‑day trips. Add time for the shuttle from Economy, especially late night or early morning when frequency varies. See updated details on PBI’s parking page (PBI website, February 2025).
- For quick day trips, consider Short‑Term or Premium to minimize walking and shuttle time.
- Meeting someone? Use the free cell‑phone waiting lot and pull to the curb only when they are ready.
Terminal and check‑in basics
PBI has one main terminal with three concourses, which makes wayfinding simple. Check where your airline flies from before you arrive, then go straight to your area for check‑in and security. Review the terminal map and concourses to confirm gates and services (October 2025).
Security and REAL ID
PBI offers TSA PreCheck lanes and CLEAR at some checkpoints. Lines are often short compared to larger hubs, but wait times vary by season and time of day. Starting May 7, 2025, travelers 18 and older must present a REAL ID‑compliant license or another accepted ID, such as a passport. See TSA’s official notice on REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025 (TSA, April 2025).
Peak seasons, backups, and alternatives
Busy periods to plan around
From roughly November through April, winter visitors and holidays can mean heavier traffic and fuller flights. Add buffer time for the highway and at the airport during these months, especially for morning departures.
Alternatives to consider
Fares sometimes push travelers to Fort Lauderdale or Miami for more nonstop options. Those airports are farther from Stuart and face heavier traffic. If you value efficiency over flight variety, PBI is usually the most convenient choice by distance and drive time from Stuart.
When to leave from Stuart
- Domestic flights: Leave 2.0 to 2.5 hours before departure in typical conditions. That allows a 45 to 60 minute drive plus 60 to 90 minutes for parking, check‑in, and security (drive time source: Travelmath driving time, October 2025).
- International flights: Leave 3 to 4 hours before departure to allow for document checks and any extra lines. PBI handles international arrivals on select routes, so plan a wider buffer when traveling abroad (context: PBI international service news, October 2025).
- Parking at PBI: If you will park in Economy or Long‑Term, add 20 to 30 minutes for finding a space and taking the shuttle to the terminal. Rates and shuttle details were updated February 1, 2025, so confirm on PBI’s parking page before you go (PBI website, February 2025).
- Rideshare or shuttle: Book early for peak periods and add time for pickup, possible surge pricing, and luggage loading.
Quick checklist before you roll
- Check traffic and choose I‑95, the Turnpike, or US‑1 based on live conditions.
- Confirm ID. Bring a REAL ID‑compliant license or a passport for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.
- Pick your parking. Decide between Premium, Short‑Term, Long‑Term, or Economy and verify shuttle hours.
- If using toll roads, make sure your SunPass is active or be ready for Toll‑By‑Plate.
- Screenshot your boarding pass and bag rules, and know your terminal and concourse.
- Pad your schedule during winter months, holidays, and weekday rush hours.
Ready to upgrade your home base so every airport run feels easier? When you are exploring homes from Stuart to Jupiter and Palm Beach, lean on local expertise and a turnkey approach that fits your lifestyle. Reach out to Tyler Cameron to start the conversation.
FAQs
How long should I leave from Stuart for a 10:30 a.m. domestic flight at PBI?
- Plan to leave around 8:00 to 8:30 a.m. in typical conditions. That allows a 45 to 60 minute drive plus about 90 minutes at the airport, with extra time added for rush hour or holidays.
What is the best route from Stuart to PBI during rush hour?
- Start with I‑95, then check live traffic. If I‑95 slows, the Turnpike can be a good backup, and US‑1 helps for last‑mile detours near West Palm Beach.
Do I need REAL ID to fly domestically from PBI?
- Yes. Starting May 7, 2025, adults 18 and older must show a REAL ID‑compliant license or another acceptable ID such as a passport.
Where should I park at PBI for a 2‑day trip?
- Short‑Term or Premium offers the fastest walk to the terminal, while Long‑Term is usually the better value. If cost matters most, Economy can work if the shuttle timing fits your schedule.
Can I take the train from Stuart to PBI?
- There is no direct train from Stuart. You can combine MARTY or a drive to West Palm Beach with Brightline or Tri‑Rail, then take a short rideshare or local bus to PBI. This option requires careful schedule planning and extra time.
