The Glades

The Gateway to The Everglades

As you enter the town of Belle Glade, you’ll see a sign that reads “Her Soil is Her Fortune.” It’s your first hint that things are a little different at the western edge of The Palm Beaches. Perched on the shores of Lake Okeechobee, the largest inland body of water in Florida, The Glades are our gateway to the Everglades, where palm trees give way to moss-draped oaks and tropical landscapes melt into pastures and swampland.

Aerial view of a marina with multiple docks and boats, adjacent to a sandy beach and a residential area with houses and palm trees


 

Popular Things to Do in Lake Okeechobee and The Glades

Discover the rich agricultural heritage of The Glades by visiting the cluster of farming communities that includes Belle Glade, Pahokee, and South Bay—together known as The Glades—form a major hub of Florida’s agricultural heartland. The ink-black soil (so thick the locals affectionately call it “muck”) is fertile ground for sugarcane and sweet corn.

Delve into local history at the Lawrence E. Will Museum, where you can learn about Belle Glade’s pivotal role in Florida’s history. For a dose of culture, catch a concert, theater production, or local art show at the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center.

Experience the thrill of bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in Florida, known as the Bass Fishing Capital of America. Bringing your boat? Head to Pahokee Marina and Campground, which has tent and RV hookups plus a lakeside swimming pool.

Other camping options in the area include Torry Island Campground, a prime spot for bald eagle, osprey, and roseate spoonbill sightings, and the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail—or as locals call it, “LOST,” but don’t let that scare you away. This 109-mile trail is a great place to hike, bike, or even horseback ride along the lake rim, catch crimson sunsets, and simply savor a slower-paced side of The Palm Beaches.

For more outdoor recreation, check out Glades Pioneer Park, a 64-acre area that includes four basketball courts, fields for baseball and softball, a mile-long bicycle path, an exercise course, walking path, tennis courts, volleyball courts, picnic facilities, a playground, a brightly-colored interactive splash park with tipping buckets, a kid-friendly swimming pool, and an aquatic center.

Set along the southeastern edge of Lake Okeechobee, Torry Island is a laid-back outdoor hub for boating, fishing, and scenic lake views. Nearby, Slim’s Fish Camp offers guided fishing tours led by seasoned pros who know the lake inside and out, with half-day and full-day excursions targeting largemouth bass and seasonal catches. Together, they deliver an authentic Glades experience rooted in nature, water, and Old Florida charm.

Read 10 Things to do in The Glades and Lake Okeechobee

Annual Events in Lake Okeechobee and The Glades

The Glades region hosts a variety of events throughout the year that celebrate its rich cultural heritage and agricultural roots. Each September, the country-fried Black Gold Jubilee celebrates the end of the harvest season. This event features live music, delicious food, and family-friendly activities to mark the end of the harvest season. Additionally, the Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center offers a calendar full of concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions, providing entertainment for all ages.

Visit our events calendar for the latest happenings in and around Lake Okeechobee and The Glades.

Dining in Lake Okeechobee and The Glades

Explore a variety of dining options in and around Lake Okeechobee and The Glades. Enjoy delicious seafood at Mr. Shrimp, which has been serving Belle Glade for over 33 years. Or, try southern food at Banyan Tree Restaurant, a small family-owned and operated soul food café. Check out our dining page for more.

Places to Stay in Lake Okeechobee and The Glades

When visiting Lake Okeechobee and The Glades, you’ll find a range of accommodations to suit your needs. Pahokee Marina and Campground offers a unique lakeside experience with tent and RV hookups, a swimming pool, and easy access to the lake. For a more traditional stay, consider booking a room at the Best Western Lake Okeechobee, which provides comfortable amenities and a convenient location near the lake and local attractions. Check out our Places to Stay page for more options.

Whether you’re fishing on the lake, exploring scenic trails, or immersing yourself in local traditions, Lake Okeechobee, Belle Glade, Pahokee, South Bay, and The Glades promise an unforgettable adventure in The Palm Beaches.


Explore All the Things To Do in Lake Okeechobee and The Glades


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