When you imagine life in South Florida, images of swaying palms, turquoise waters, and vibrant communities likely come to mind. Jupiter, a beautiful coastal town in Palm Beach County, delivers on all of that and more. This area is where laid-back living meets refined sophistication, and it offers a lifestyle that’s hard to resist. But the charm doesn’t stop at Jupiter’s borders. The surrounding cities and hotspots each bring their own character, attractions, and appeal. If you’re searching for your next home or just exploring new places to explore, this guide will walk you through what makes Jupiter and its neighboring communities stand out.
Jupiter
In Jupiter itself, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum is one of the region’s more recognizable landmarks. The observation deck promises clear views of the shimmering coastline and the Loxahatchee River.
Afterward, head to the Riverwalk area near Harbourside Place. You’ll find great places to eat along the water and watch boats pass through the Intracoastal Waterway. A walk through Dubois Park adds an extra stop with shaded picnic areas and a protected lagoon that tends to stay calm.
West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach is just a short drive from Jupiter. Here, the Norton Museum of Art is home to a well-curated permanent collection and traveling exhibitions. The museum’s sculpture garden offers a beautiful outdoor space and indoor galleries.
Downtown West Palm Beach includes The Square, which boasts a mix of top restaurants and retailers. Clematis Street remains a local favorite for lunch or coffee, while the GreenMarket brings in vendors with fresh produce and handmade goods. The waterfront promenade allows for a longer walk along the Intracoastal with incredible views at every turn.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Just six miles north of Jupiter, Jonathan Dickinson State Park is one of the larger preserved natural areas in South Florida. The park includes miles of stunning hiking and biking trails and river access for kayaking or canoeing.
The Loxahatchee River runs through the park and offers rental facilities for paddling upriver. Trapper Nelson’s former homestead is accessible by boat and gives a glimpse into the area's history. Along the main driving loop, there are also guided tours and scenic overlooks.
Lake Worth Beach
Lake Worth Beach features a close-knit downtown setting with a distinct personality. Lucerne and Lake Avenue run through the center, which is filled with shops and restaurants with patio seating. The Lake Worth Playhouse anchors the creative side of town, offering performances and screenings in a classic setting.
The beach is right across the drawbridge and features a long pier and beachfront cafes. Benny’s on the Beach is popular, offering uninterrupted ocean views and casual fare. If you want to include more walking, check out the Snook Islands Natural Area for boardwalks and observation points.
Delray Beach
Delray Beach is less than an hour away and provides a wonderful coastal experience. Atlantic Avenue serves as the downtown hub, with walkable shops, cafes, and restaurants on both sides of the road. For a change of pace, spend some time exploring Pineapple Grove or visiting the Cornell Art Museum inside Old School Square.
Beach access is simple, with public parking and smooth transitions between the sand and the town’s main drag. You can walk the boardwalk at Atlantic Dunes Park or grab lunch across the street without needing to relocate your car. Delray Beach also hosts seasonal outdoor art shows and small local events on the green.
Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale is about an hour south of Jupiter and gives you a city-style experience with easy parking and beach access. The Las Olas Boulevard area features higher-end restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shopping spots. You can walk east toward the beach for a change of scenery or take a water taxi through the canals.
The NSU Art Museum and Bonnet House Museum & Gardens are both worth visiting if you want to spend time off the sand. Fort Lauderdale’s central beach area also offers well-kept sidewalks and beach paths, with shaded seating and places to stop for a drink or a meal.
Hutchinson Island
Hutchinson Island is ideal for a low-key beach day, as it has fewer crowds than more centralized locations. The island features several beach access points and nature preserves. Bathtub Reef Beach and Jensen Sea Turtle Beach are excellent places to explore without needing more than a towel and a cooler.
The Elliott Museum and Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center are close to each other and provide indoor exhibits and aquarium access. This area works well for those who want to combine open space with short, engaging activities nearby.
Coral Gables
Coral Gables is about an hour and a half away from Jupiter and offers a more structured urban environment. The Miracle Mile section is designed for pedestrians and includes curated shops, restaurants, and shaded sidewalks. The Coral Gables Museum provides a fantastic introduction to the city’s planning and architectural history.
Venetian Pool is one of the area’s main highlights. It’s a public freshwater swimming pool built from a former coral rock quarry. The space feels vintage and well-maintained, offering a relaxing and distinctive atmosphere.
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