15 Things to Do in Jupiter

One of the northernmost towns of The Palm Beaches, Jupiter is a cross between Old Florida and the tropics, with its native landscapes and colorful reefs. Here, we present a roundup of our top 15 things to do when visiting Jupiter!

1. Explore the largest State Park in Southeast Florida

Just off the Indiantown exit of I-95 lies Jonathan Dickinson State Park, the largest state park in Southeast Florida. Explore this unique spot on land or by water, and see environments such as coastal sand hills, upland lakes, and scrub forests as well as the pristine Loxahatchee River. Historical interests include a secret World War II training camp, the story of the shipwrecked Quaker merchant who is the park’s namesake, and Trapper Nelson, the legendary Wild Man of the Loxahatchee.

2. Visit Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium

Are you a baseball enthusiast? Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium is a premier sports venue known for hosting Major League Baseball spring training and minor league baseball games. This state-of-the-art facility offers a unique dual-team setup, as it serves as the spring training home for both the St. Louis Cardinals and the Miami Marlins. With a seating capacity of over 6,800, the stadium provides an intimate and fan-friendly atmosphere, allowing attendees to get up close to the action. The stadium is currently under renovation until February 24, 2024.

3. Unleash at the dog beach

Jupiter is home to one of Florida’s few dog-friendly beaches! Jupiter Dog Beach is a 2.5 mile stretch of beach allocated specifically for dogs. From beach accesses 26 (north of Ocean Cay Park, 2188 Marcinski Road in Jupiter) to 57 (south of Carlin Park, 400 S. S.R. A1A in Jupiter), hit the beach together. It is the only free dog beach in The Palm Beaches, you and your canine can enjoy the sand anytime of the day. Please keep in mind dogs are not allowed in the lifeguarded areas. Also, be sure to clean up after your pet with the bags provided at each crossover.

Beach Rules:

• Only behaved, non-aggressive dogs that respond to voice commands are allowed on the beach. 
• Supervise your dog and do not go beyond the boundaries of the dog-friendly beach areas.
• Dogs should be on-leash while walking from the car to the beach.  It is also recommended to keep dogs on-leash around small children.    
• The beach is open to all people. Remember to be courteous to those who may not want to interact with dogs. 
• Maintain the beach clean.  Friends of Jupiter Beach provides dog waste bags at every crossover along the dog-friendly beach areas.

4. Grab a bite at Guanabanas

Guanabanas is an outdoor-only restaurant and local favorite offering fresh-from-Florida fare and a truly breathtaking view. It was opened by Jupiter surfers as a sandwich shop in 2004 and has since grown into an institution in northern Palm Beach County. The restaurant is known for its lush, tropical setting, great cuisine and cocktails, and live music from both national acts and the hottest names in South Florida. Guanabanas specializes in Florida seafood of all kinds including fresh caught fish, wild caught shrimp, clams, blue crab, and Florida lobster. It’s a tropical paradise that offers the ultimate waterfront dining experience!

5. Paddle the Loxahatchee River

Paddling the Loxahatchee River is a unique experience that allows you to explore Florida’s first designated National Wild and Scenic River. The river has remained mostly unchanged and offers one of the most natural rides in Florida. The most scenic part runs through Riverbend Park, which is connected to the Everglades along the Loxahatchee River. With low-hanging branches and proximity to wildlife, you will feel like you are paddling the jungle. Make the trip by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, carving through the cypress forest while you glimpse herons, turtles, and more wildlife.

So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful day out on the water, paddling the Loxahatchee River offers an unforgettable experience!

6. Find your inner light at the Lighthouse

Juan Ponce de Leon didn’t receive the most hearty welcome after he sailed through Jupiter Inlet and up the Loxahatchee River, as the local Jeaga Native American tribe shot at his crew with arrows tipped in bone and fish spines. Today, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum welcomes all by land or sea into the Inlet and shines a light on Spanish expeditions, shipwrecks, and legends in The Palm Beaches. This national heritage site offers climbing tours of the 1860 Lighthouse and the best views in Palm Beach County! Explore waterfront exhibits and discover over 5000 years of history strolling along native plant pathways with cell phone apps or on docent-led tours. 

7. Enjoy the beach at Coral Cove Park

If you enjoy a quieter beach but still want the benefit of great snorkeling and paddleboarding, Coral Cove Park is the place! Just a few feet offshore and in just a few inches of water are water-carved rock formations shaped by countless seasons. You’ll also see a variety of sea life, including sea turtles, eels, fish, and sharks between the reefs and rocks of the cove. The park is situated close to the Intracoastal Waterway and has picnic benches, grills, and a small playscape.

8. Catch the coastal vibe at Harbourside Place

Harbourside Place is the premier downtown destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and boating. Nestled along Jupiter’s Intracoastal Waterway, Harbourside Place conveys that classic, coastal vibe. Stay at the spectacular Wyndham Grand Jupiter Hotel, noted for its own sense of laid-back luxury. Savor the flavors in one of the mouthwatering restaurants, such as The Woods, Tiger Woods very own restaurant and sports bar. Then, shop in more than 15 national and specialty stores and revel in live entertainment at the center’s waterfront amphitheater.

9. Stop by Charlie and Joe’s at Love Street

Founded on a longtime friendship between two Jupiter area locals, Charlie & Joe’s at Love Street is a piece of paradise that caters to locals, tourists, and other visitors alike. With a spectacular view of the Lighthouse, Love Street is the perfect place for a waterfront dinner or a fun happy hour with friends. Grab a bite at Beacon, an upscale restaurant serving contemporary American fare. Then, head upstairs to Topside, a social destination where you can indulge in classic tiki cocktails while enjoying the view from the rooftop. Alternatively, grab a bite in a relaxing atmosphere at Lucky Shuck and indulge in fresh seafood from their raw bar.

10. Visit DuBois Park

This gem is a large park right at the mouth of Jupiter Inlet with fantastic views of the Jupiter Lighthouse. Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, this waterfront park offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities. The park features a pristine sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the stunning views of passing boats and the shimmering waters. A well-maintained playground is a hit among families.

DuBois Park is also home to the DuBois Pioneer Home and Jupiter Inlet Mound – jointly listed on the National Register of Historic Places as “Jupiter Inlet Historic and Archeological Site.”

11. Toast Sunset From a Catamaran

Set out on the beautiful blue waters of Jupiter for a remarkable sunset cruise. Unwind while you watch the sun dip below the horizon in true Florida fashion and inhale the fresh sea air as you marvel at the golden hues. Boating offers a unique vantage point and is a great way to view landmarks and discover hidden gems. Chartered cruises also come with knowledgeable guides who share stories and local history. Most companies provide options for private or group cruises and have food and drinks available.  

12. Explore Blowing Rocks Preserve

This stunning nature preserve is home to the largest limestone shoreline on the US Atlantic coast, making it quite a spectacular sight. You can watch the waves crash against the rocks and spray water up to 50 feet into the air and understand how the preserve got its name. The best time to observe the “blowing rocks” is a day with rough seas at high tide. As the time of high tide changes each day, you can check the tide calendar before you plan your trip. Nature lovers and photographers will enjoy unique natural wonders and learn about the preserve’s mission to conserve and restore vital landscapes across the globe. Pristine and wild, this area offers visitors an opportunity to hike and explore a sanctuary for area wildlife, including some rare creatures, such as three distinct species of sea turtles: the loggerhead, green, and leatherback. 

13. Visit Burt Reynolds Park

Named for one of Jupiter’s most famous residents, this waterfront park pays tribute to the actor and favorite local celebrity. Reynolds was a proud native to the area, and locals would often see him around town in his cowboy boots. Known for his generosity, he allowed local organizations to use his ranch to sell hot dogs, cotton candy, and soft drinks for fund-raising events. An avid horseman and nature lover, this tribute is indeed lovely. The park offers several boat ramps for boaters and fishermen and 2,000 feet of shoreline along the Intracoastal Waterway, and the playground is covered in shade during the hot summer months.

14. Guided Clear Kayak Tours

Do you want to see what really goes on under the water? Embark on a clear kayak tour and get a true 360-degree view of your surroundings. This popular activity is not only fun, but it also provides an opportunity to learn about wildlife and local waterways. This is also a great way to snap some photos of creatures that normally remain unseen.

15. Stroll or Bike the Riverwalk 

Do you like wildlife such as manatees, stingrays, Ospreys, and the occasional American Bald Eagle? This trail is an excellent place to spot them, especially on early morning or evening excursions. As the trail goes through many of Jupiter’s most popular spots, this is a great way to get an overview of the area. The Riverwalk is a 2.5 mile recreational corridor that runs along the eastern shoreline of the Intracoastal Waterway from the Jupiter Ridge Natural Area north to the Jupiter Inlet. This multi-use ADA-compliant trail meanders through different communities, including environmentally sensitive land, marinas, waterfront parks, and residential and commercial areas.