Did you know that The Palm Beaches stretches over 47 miles along Florida’s stunning Atlantic coastline? There’s no shortage of ocean views here. From exceptional beaches and pristine fairways to Polo fields, wildlife preserves and diverse ecosystems, The Palm Beaches are more than just glitz and glamour (but we’re here for that, too!). The Palm Beaches have a rich history with Florida’s Native American roots, early pioneer settlers, and Florida tourism’s founding father, Henry M. Flagler. It was because of the latter, that the area is now considered America’s First Resort Destination®.
Today, visitors can experience destination staples like the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, alongside other cool cultural institutions, year-round sports, gastronomic greatness and enchanting natural riches.
The Flagler Museum – Photo credit The Flagler Museum
When you are ready to plan your sunny escape, here are a few ideas for what not-to-miss in The Palm Beaches. Did we mention that the area comprises a sophisticated collection of 39 distinct cities and towns?
At the northern point of The Palm Beaches, visitors will find Jupiter, Florida. When Justin Thomas, Ernie Els, Rickie Fowler and a few dozen other world-renowned golfers choose The Palm Beaches’ Jupiter as their homebase, you know golf has got to be good here. Jupiter is also the home of the tallest point in Palm Beach County, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum – a beacon that’s been shining its light since 1860. Visit the Museum to learn more about the area’s indigenous history and early-day pioneers. From the top, uninterrupted views of the Atlantic will awe, and prompt you to take a trip to the beach, where the ocean hugs the sand. Close out the day at local favourite hot spots, such as The Square Grouper Tiki Bar or Guanabanas.
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum Photo: © Clay Cook
The Atlantic views give way to the most spectacular sunrises; be an early bird and catch this natural wonder from the many beach access points, the Juno Beach Pier, or spend the morning learning about sea turtles at Loggerhead Marinelife Center, and or native Florida species at the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary.
As you travel a little further south, you’ll find Riviera Beach and Singer Island, renowned areas for snorkeling, scuba diving and boating. Here, a luxury wellness retreat, Amrit Ocean Resort, awaits. On seven beachfront acres, it boasts Florida’s largest spa where guests can experience holistic treatments with mindfulness, nutrition, and relaxation at the heart of the resort’s well-being ethos. From brain-food to longevity to even love, Amrit explores wellness from all angles. Also on Singer Island is The Singer Oceanfront Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton and the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa. All three are located directly on the beach. How dreamy!
The Palm Beaches’ largest city, West Palm Beach, features design-led hotels. The city is centrally located, and just a 10-15-minute drive from Palm Beach International Airport, making this an easy option to explore. The Ben West Palm, The Belgrove Autograph Collection and Delta Hotels by Marriott West Palm Beach are just a few options. The cultural scene is a healthy one with options including the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Palm Beach Dramaworks, Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Antique Row and more ready to welcome you.
Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens – The Beings – Photo credit Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens
The West Palm Beach Food Tours and City Food Hall Grandview offer travelers an easy way to experience several eateries at one go, while farm-to-table experiences such as Fern! Restaurant downtown are worth adding to your must-try list.
Just over the bridge from West Palm Beach is the iconic Palm Beach. Here, visitors can find Worth Avenue – the world’s only ocean-to-intracoastal high-end shopping area, popular for scenic strolls or fashion house brands like Chanel, Carolina Herrera, Ferragamo, Gucci and more. It’s also the birthplace of the American resort brand, Lilly Pulitzer, which is known for its colourful designs and patterns. Historic hotels such as The Breakers Palm Beach, The Colony Hotel and the Brazilian Court Hotel deliver on exceptional service and panache. New to the area are White Elephant Palm Beach and Palm House. Both are a stone’s throw to the beach. Coming soon, guests will have an additional option: The Vineta Hotel, to open later this year. Head west to find Wellington, the playground of Polo players and equestrian fans the world over. Mark your calendars for Sunday brunch at the National Polo Center and the Winter Equestrian Festival.
Worth Avenue Shopping District © Clay Cook
Barefoot luxe and flip-flop casual may rule at Boynton Beach with its boating culture, beaches and dockside restaurants. In Delray Beach, visitors will find seaside style and artistic flair with museums, activities and festivals all year long. The creative community is alive at Delray Beach’s Cornell Art Museum and Arts Warehouse. Book a room at The Ray and you’ll be right in the middle of the action in the city’s Pineapple Grove Arts District. You’ll want to book a table, too, as the hotel’s rooftop and neighbouring dining establishments are fed by the lauded cooking of top chef Akira Back. The area’s hotel scene includes The Seagate Resort & Spa, which gives its guests exclusive access to a private beach. Other hotel options include Crane’s Beach House Boutique Hotel and Luxury Villas, and OPAL Grand Resort & Spa. Feast your eyes at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, where authentic Japanese art and culture rule.
There’s even more to celebrate. Boca Raton is turning 100 in 2025 and the party planners have events in store throughout the year. From public art installations (don’t miss the Boca Raton Museum of Art) to community activities, there are plenty of reasons to explore this city. Venture to Beach Club at The Boca Raton, where its recent renovation highlights coastal living, bringing you even closer to its trademark seaside elegance, or enjoy a stay at the Renaissance Boca Raton Hotel to be closer to the bounty of dining and shopping options at the nearby Town Center at Boca Raton.
The Palm Beaches is lined with an array of big cities and quaint communities. Explore the finest Florida vacation experience in America’s First Resort Destination as you plan your trip. For more information, visit thepalmbeaches.com.
