Embarking on an electric vehicle (EV) road trip through The Palm Beaches offers a unique blend of eco-friendly travel and unforgettable experiences. Over four days, we’ll journey from Jupiter to Boca Raton, exploring scenic beaches, indulging in local cuisine, and ensuring our EVs stay charged at convenient locations along the way.

Day 1: Jupiter & Palm Beach Gardens

Uncover the History of The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

Begin your journey at the historic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum, a beacon that has illuminated the Florida coast since 1860. Designed by Lieutenant George Gordon Meade, the lighthouse stands 105 feet tall and offers panoramic views of Jupiter and the Intracoastal Waterway.

The area surrounding the lighthouse has a rich history, once inhabited by the Jaega people, a Native American tribe that lived in the coastal regions of present-day Martin and northern Palm Beach counties.

Today, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum welcomes visitors by land or sea, offering climbing tours of the lighthouse and showcasing exhibits that highlight over 5,000 years of regional history. Stroll along native plant pathways and explore waterfront exhibits, either on docent-led tours or using cell phone apps, to fully appreciate the site’s cultural and historical significance.

Relax at Dubois Park

After exploring the lighthouse, unwind at DuBois Park, a waterfront destination located at the mouth of the Jupiter Inlet. The park’s location along the Intracoastal Waterway provides stunning views of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the coastal ambiance.

This expansive park offers calm swimming areas, picnic spots equipped with grills, and a playground suitable for children aged 5-12.

The park’s unique swimming lagoon is ideal for families, providing a safe environment for wading and snorkeling.

For history enthusiasts, DuBois Park houses the DuBois Pioneer Home, built in 1898 by Harry and Susan DuBois. Situated atop a Native American shell mound, this historic residence offers insights into the early pioneer lifestyle and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Jupiter Inlet Historic and Archeological Site.

Lunch with a View

After your morning exploration, indulge in a delightful lunch at one of Jupiter’s premier waterfront restaurants, each offering unique experiences and stunning views.

Situated along the Jupiter Inlet at Charlie & Joe’s at Love Street, Lucky Shuck Oyster Bar & Taphouse provides picturesque vistas of the iconic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and the Intracoastal Waterway. This establishment is renowned for its fresh seafood offerings, including a legit raw bar featuring oysters and other delicacies. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from early 20th-century nautical aesthetics, creating a vintage-inspired ambiance that complements its towering ceilings and expansive indoor/outdoor spaces.

For a more tropical dining experience, consider Guanabanas, a 100% open-air waterfront restaurant nestled among tiki huts and banyan trees. The menu features fresh Florida seafood, including locally caught fish, wild shrimp, clams, blue crab, and Florida lobster. The restaurant’s ambiance offers a true Floridian dining experience.

EV charging nearby:

• 1116 Love Street, 1116 Love Street Jupiter
• Jupiter Medical Center, 1210 S Old Dixie Hwy, Jupiter

Explore More Things to Do in Jupiter

Retail Therapy at The Gardens Mall & Downtown Palm Beach Gardens

Head to The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens for an upscale shopping experience. This mall offers something for every shopper, featuring more than 150 stores, from luxury designer boutiques to popular retail chains. When hunger strikes, enjoy a variety of dining options, from a diverse food court to sit-down restaurants, ensuring you’re fueled up for more retail therapy. Don’t forget to explore the nearby downtown Palm Beach Gardens for an outdoor shopping experience.

EV charging nearby:

• Electrify America Charging Station, 11835 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave, Palm Beach Gardens

Dinner in Midtown Palm Beach Gardens

Stroll through Mainstreet at Midtown, a vibrant area boasting a variety of dining options, self-care services, and specialty shops. The Mainstreet is perfect for an evening walk or bike ride.

EV charging nearby:

• Midtown offers six electric vehicle charging stations

Overnight Stay: PGA National Resort & Spa.

More Things to Do in Palm Beach Gardens

Day 2: Peanut Island & West Palm Beach

Explore the Beauty and History of Peanut Island

Start your day early with a trip to Peanut Island, a tropical paradise just 0.6 miles from Riviera Beach. This 80-acre park is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering a variety of activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and lounging under the coconut palms.

Peanut Island is home to the historic John F. Kennedy bunker, adding an intriguing touch to your visit. If you have a boat or kayak, you can paddle over to the island, or take the Peanut Island Shuttle Boat for $25 per person (round trip). Don’t forget your snorkel gear—this spot is perfect for exploring tropical fish in the crystal-clear waters.

While on the island, you can stroll along the walking path, fish off the pier, relax on the beach, or have a picnic in one of the pavilions.

Lunch at Rafiki Tiki Bar & Grill

After your island adventure, head back to the mainland and grab a bite at Rafiki Tiki Bar & Grill, situated in the waterfront Riviera Beach Marina Village. This laid-back spot is just a short walk from the Peanut Island Shuttle Boat. Indulge in dishes like coconut shrimp, fish tacos, or croquetas de jamón, and pair them with a Caribbean-inspired drink, such as a painkiller or piña colada.

EV charging nearby:

• Port of Palm Beach, 62 E. 11 St. Riviera Beach, FL 33404

Discover Manatee Lagoon: A Unique Educational Experience

Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Discovery Center is a must-see educational center located on the Intracoastal Waterway. This free, 16,000-square-foot facility, operated by Florida Power & Light Company (FPL), offers a unique opportunity to observe Florida’s beloved manatees, especially during the cooler months when they seek the warm waters of the nearby Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center.

The center features interactive exhibits, scenic views of the Lake Worth Lagoon, and dedicated observation areas where visitors can spot these gentle “sea cows” up close. Manatee season runs from November 15 to March 31, offering the best chance to see large groups of manatees gathering in the warm waters.

EV charging nearby:

• Manatee Lagoon, 6000 N Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach

Explore Downtown West Palm Beach

Explore Downtown West Palm Beach, starting with Clematis Street, the historical heart of Downtown West Palm Beach. Starting at Flagler Drive on the Intracoastal Waterway, walk west to experience the indigenous flavor of the area’s colorful boutiques, nightclubs, live music, restaurants and historical landmarks.

Then, visit CityPlace, West Palm Beach’s premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. Just a free trolley ride or walk from Clematis Street, you can shop in this popular West Palm Beach attraction where old-world architecture, beautiful fountains, and sidewalk cafes create a striking atmosphere reminiscent of a European town center. Shop your favorite clothing, home, and beauty brands. Dine at Planta, a chic restaurant that offers an elevated dining experience with an innovative 100-percent plant-based menu. For a taste of Italy, dine at Felice, a restaurant and wine bar offering Tuscan-inspired cuisine and an extensive wine selection. After dinner, enjoy a gluten-free, dairy-free ice cream at the Angie’s Epicurean pop up.

EV charging nearby:

• CityPlace Hibiscus Garage, 700 South Rosemary Avenue
• City Center Garage, 401 Banyan Boulevard
• Clematis Street Garage, 500 Banyan Boulevard
• Evernia Street Garage, 333 Evernia Street
• Kravis Center, 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach

Overnight Stay: Hilton West Palm Beach

More Things to Do in West Palm Beach

Day 3: Delray Beach

Morning at The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Start your day with a peaceful escape into Japanese culture at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Here, you can explore six beautifully designed gardens, each inspired by a different era and style of Japanese horticulture, all crafted by renowned designer Hoichi Kurisu. The museum offers a blend of traditional and modern Japanese culture through exhibits, educational programs, and a stunning bonsai collection. Be sure to browse the museum shop for unique souvenirs.

Stroll along Atlantic Avenue

Take a stroll along Atlantic Avenue, the heart of downtown Delray Beach, known for its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. With palm trees lining brick-paved sidewalks, you’ll find a vibrant mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and unique gift stores offering one-of-a-kind treasures. Don’t miss a stop at the Silverball Retro Arcade, a nostalgic 9,000-square-foot space filled with over 150 vintage pinball machines and classic video games, including classics like Ms. Pac-Man and original Coney Island skeeball alleys. All games are set to free play, so you can enjoy unlimited fun as you wander through this throwback arcade.

Lunch with a View of the Intracoastal Waterway

Enjoy a meal at Deck 84, a waterfront restaurant in Delray Beach offering stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway. This casual spot is known for its fresh seafood and American classics, like flavorful fish tacos, served in a relaxed outdoor setting. You can soak up the sunshine and watch boats glide by, or enjoy the breeze from the comfort of the air-conditioned patio while savoring a delicious meal.

EV charging nearby:

• Old School Square Charging Station, 95 NE 1st Ave. Delray Beach, FL 33444

Relax on the Delray Municipal Beach

After lunch, head east to Delray Municipal Beach for some sun and relaxation. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella from the local concession stand for added comfort. This beach is a favorite for visitors of all ages, including families enjoying the sand, young people playing volleyball, and others simply soaking up the sun.

For those seeking more adventure, you can rent snorkeling gear or paddleboards from Delray Beach Watersports, located near Casurina Drive. There’s convenient parking nearby, as well as a variety of restaurants like Boston’s on the Beach and Caffe Luna Rosa for when you’re ready to eat. Lifeguards are on duty, and the beach is free to access with metered parking available close by.

Overnight Stay: Opal Grand Resort & Spa or The Seagate Hotel & Spa

Day 4: Boca Raton

Morning at Red Reef Park & Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Start your day in Boca Raton at Red Reef Park, a 67-acre oceanfront park perfect for snorkeling and observing marine life. Within the park lies the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, where you can explore butterfly gardens, sea turtle rehabilitation facilities, and scenic boardwalk trails through coastal habitats.

EV charging nearby:  

• Red Reef Park, 1400 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton
• Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton

Shop at the Boca Raton Town Center Mall

Head to Town Center at Boca Raton, a premier shopping destination offering a wide selection of luxury retailers and boutiques. Known as one of South Florida’s top luxury shopping venues, Town Center at Boca Raton boasts over 200 stores, including high-end brands like Cartier, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., alongside popular department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Bloomingdale’s.

EV charging nearby:

• South Garage 1, 6000 Glades Rd, Boca Raton

Spend the Afternoon at Mizner Park

Visit Mizner Park, Boca Raton’s premier lifestyle center, where upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment come together. Stroll through the plaza, explore local boutiques, or catch a live performance at the Mizner Park Amphitheater. The heart of Mizner Park is its high-end shopping, featuring renowned jewelers, boutiques, and national retailers, offering a luxury experience for discerning shoppers. When it’s time to dine, you’ll find a variety of fine restaurants to suit any taste. For an unforgettable movie experience, enjoy iPic Theatres, where you can watch the latest films with gourmet in-theater dining and reserved luxury seating.

Dinner at Loch Bar

Savor dinner at Loch Bar, a renowned seafood restaurant and whiskey bar in Boca Raton’s Mizner Park. Known for its extensive raw bar and classic seafood dishes, Loch Bar offers one of South Florida’s largest selections of fresh seafood, complemented by an impressive whiskey collection. Guests can also enjoy a variety of craft beers and expertly crafted cocktails while listening to live music from local artists.

EV Charging nearby:

• City Hall, 201 W. Palmetto Park Rd.
• Downtown Library, 400 NW 2nd Avenue
• Mizner Park Garage B, 398 North Federal Highway

Overnight Stay: Waterstone Resort & Marina