24 Hours for Families in Jupiter
The northernmost city in The Palm Beaches is teeming with activities for kids and grown-ups alike. Local mom and autism advocate Renee Travis takes a look at some of the can’t-miss stops if you only have a day to spend.
I’m raising a planner – an energetic, excited 7-year-old boy who wants to know what we are doing and when we are doing it, at least a week ahead of time. Have mercy.
Thankfully we live in Jupiter, where the sunny weather allows us to have fun year-round. Suffice it to say, we try to take advantage of the many things the area has to offer – and there are a lot! Whether you live in South Florida or are planning your very first visit, here’s our family’s guide to 24 hours of fun in Jupiter.
Breakfast at Lazy Loggerhead Cafe
How does eating breakfast with the sound of crashing waves in the background sound to you? There’s just something about the salt air that makes food taste even better. Lazy Loggerhead Cafe is the perfect little breakfast spot only steps away from Carlin Park Beach. Their food is fresh and enticing, and their prices are easy on the pocketbook.
Runner-up: Jupiter Donuts
Head to this local favorite, where the donuts are so good they don’t even have set business hours – they close when the last donut is sold. So the early bird gets the donut, so to speak!
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
Jupiter is home to one of only six public lighthouses in Florida, and there’s nothing like the mystery of a lighthouse to get kids excited. Rustic atmosphere greets you as you absorb the history of this site; 105 steps later, and you’re taking in one of the best views in Palm Beach County. The sky’s the limit, literally! Also on-site is a breathtaking nature trail, as well as a historic WWII building that has been converted into a museum. (Please note that climbers must be at least 4’ to climb to the top of the lighthouse).
Runner-up: Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
Think of it as a mini-zoo. Visit the wildlife hospital, where 5,000 animals are rescued per year.
Lunch at The Burger Shack at Lighthouse Cove
A free, massive playground with creative miniature golf and an ice-cream shop to complete the package? Sign us up! Kid- and adult-friendly, Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf and the Burger Shack are hidden gems in Jupiter, and my little guy was thrilled to be there. I’m not sure which he liked more, the huge play area or the mini golf. Even in the Florida heat, the proximity to the beach makes for a great atmosphere and breeze when you need it. Even better, kids eat for $2 on Tuesdays with an adult meal.
Runner-up: Dune Dog Cafe
Enjoy a very kid-friendly meal (ice cream always included) at this Jupiter staple. Kids eat for 99 cents on Wednesdays.
Beach Time at DuBois Park
Calling it a park really doesn’t do it justice. DuBois Park is the best of a park and a beach all rolled into one, and my son loves it! There’s a lagoon area where kids can frolic and play without worrying about waves, and a quick walk around the corner brings you to an expansive beachfront where there are waves for miles. Look for hermit crabs, build sandcastles, explore mangroves, snorkel the Intracoastal Waterway, take the boat out, go fishing, play on the outdoor playground, pack a lunch and have a picnic under the pavilion – there is so much to see and do at DuBois Park!
Runner-up: Carlin Park
Explore this 3,000-foot guarded beach, where you can try your hand at bocce, explore the outdoor playgrounds, utilize the sand volleyball court, play a game of tennis, or just plain relax.
Dinner at U-Tiki Beach Waterfront Restaurant & Bar
This Jupiter favorite can be incredibly busy during season, but if you get there early and choose to eat on their “beach” (smart if you have kids), your experience will be spectacular. The food is excellent, the fish is fresh and the view of the lighthouse and Intracoastal is breathtaking. They offer a kids’ menu, and you can even take a quick boat cruise right from their dock while you wait to be seated.
Runner-up: Guanabanas
Right on the Intracoastal, Guanabanas offers a kids’ menu and is a local favorite. You can even rent a kayak nearby and enjoy a relaxing meal by the water after your adventure ends.
Spend the night at Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa
As Jupiter’s only oceanfront resort, this is an easy choice for our family. Upon entering, Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa feels luxurious. And while the beach and spa would make any adult happy, what they offer families is what sets them apart. Need a trusted babysitter so you can enjoy a kid-free night? No problem. Want a discounted family package that includes attending MLB Spring Training? Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa has you covered.
Runner-up: Courtyard by Marriott Palm Beach Jupiter
Located adjacent to Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, Spring Training is just a few minutes’ walk away.
Phew! That was a full 24 hours. There are, of course, more family activities in Jupiter than can be fit into one day. From canoeing at Riverbend Park to exploring touch tanks and exhibits at the River Center, Jupiter is a treasure trove of family adventures just waiting to be had.
