Things To Do
in Palm Beach

Palm Beach sits on a sunlit barrier island off Florida's Atlantic coast, renowned for its pristine beaches and opulent estates. The town blends luxury shopping on Worth Avenue with timeless resort glamour at historic grand hotels along the shoreline. Beaches, cultural institutions, and world-class dining create a refined yet relaxed coastal experience.

While the island exudes exclusivity, visitors can enjoy accessible nature, golf, and scenic coastal walks just a short drive from West Palm Beach.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Palm Beach
morning
:

Arrive in Palm Beach and settle into your luxurious beachfront resort. Take a stroll along the sandy shores to shake off your travel fatigue while soaking in the warm sun. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast at a nearby café with ocean views.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Worth Avenue for some upscale shopping, where you can find designer boutiques and unique local shops. Stop for lunch at a trendy eatery, sampling fresh seafood dishes that reflect the area's culinary richness. After lunch, spend some time at the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, learning about the history of the area.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a cocktail at a beach bar, watching the colors of the sky change over the Atlantic. For dinner, savor a fancy meal at a renowned restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delicious cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, taking in the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Exploring Natural Beauty
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local diner, then head to the stunning South Cove Park for a nature walk. Explore the lush surroundings, spotting local wildlife and enjoying the ocean vistas. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of the coastal ecosystem.

afternoon
:

Afterward, head over to Peanut Island for some fun in the sun, where you can swim, snorkel, or just relax on the beach. Enjoy a picnic lunch packed with local treats or grab a bite at the nearby snack bar. Spend the afternoon exploring the island’s stunning views and hidden spots.

evening
:

Return to Palm Beach and unwind with a sunset yoga class on the beach, connecting with your surroundings. For dinner, indulge in a sumptuous meal at a beachfront hotel, featuring innovative takes on classic dishes. Wind down with live music at a nearby venue, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$60-120
🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night$180-350
🚗Gasoline per gallon$3.50-4.50
🛍️Daily shopping budget (mid-range)$50-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Upscale coastal charm with beautiful beaches
  • High-quality dining and hospitality options
  • Excellent accessibility from major airports and short drives from West Palm Beach
  • High cost of dining and lodging
  • Seasonal crowds and limited public transit within Palm Beach Island
  • Restricted photography on some private properties

Places to Visit in Palm Beach

Visit one of these nice places.

Henry Flagler Museum (Whitehall)

The opulent Beaux-Arts mansion offers elegant exterior views and grand interiors; exterior shots against the grand staircase and marble details are particularly striking.

Worth Avenue Façades

Mediterranean-inspired architecture, palm trees, and luxe storefronts provide vibrant fashion and architecture photography opportunities.

Palm Beach Municipal Beach

Wide sandy shores with clear blue water; best at sunrise or late afternoon for soft light and wide horizon shots.

The Breakers Palm Beach Exterior

Iconic hotel with dramatic columns and oceanfront backdrop for timeless resort photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Palm Beach

Palm Beach cuisine emphasizes fresh seafood, citrus influences, and refined global flavors, anchored by top hotels and resort dining. Expect elegant presentations, seasonal produce, and a heavy emphasis on seafood and Florida-grown citrus.

Palm Beach Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stone crab claws

Sweet, succulent claws often served chilled with mustard sauce; a local favorite around season (mid-October to mid-May) at many seafood restaurants.

Must-Try!

Key lime pie

Classic Florida dessert with tart lime filling and a graham cracker crust; widely available in most cafés and bakeries.

Conch fritters

Crisp fried conch morsels served with dipping sauce, commonly found at seafood shacks and casual eateries.

Grouper sandwich

Fresh Florida grouper grilled or fried, often served with slaw and tartar sauce.

Cuban sandwich

Hearty pressed sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Palm Beach Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh citrus, seafood, vegetables, and handmade goods; check weekend schedules.

Worth Avenue Street Food Stalls

Seasonal pop-ups and snack stands along Worth Avenue offer quick bites, ice-cold drinks, and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Palm Beach enjoys a tropical, humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The dry season runs roughly from November to April, while the wet season is May to October with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and the possibility of hurricanes during late summer and fall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Etiquette Rule

Dress is polished, especially in dining rooms and hotels; respect private properties and gates on estates; ask before photographing people or interiors of private residences; be mindful of no-photography restrictions in private clubs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for visitors, but stay aware of petty theft in crowded areas and protect belongings on beaches. Use sun-safe precautions, stay hydrated, and swim near lifeguarded areas; heed ocean warnings and posted flags.

Tipping in Palm Beach

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants before tax; for hotel staff, $1-3 per bag for bellhops and $2-5 per day for housekeeping; taxi or rideshares usually 10-20%.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; cash is accepted but tipping is typically done electronically or in cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with daily sea breezes and brief afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun; hurricane season runs June through November.

Fall

Warm temperatures with reduced humidity and lower crowds; great for outdoor activities but watch for tropical storms.

Winter

Mild to warm days with pleasant evenings; peak season for visitors and reservations; beaches and golf courses are in high demand.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and vibrant events; expect occasional sea-breeze showers; perfect for outdoor dining and coastal walks.

Nightlife Guide

Palm Beach at Night

Palm Beach Island offers refined nightlife centered on upscale hotel lounges, chic bars, and private clubs. Expect elegant cocktails, live piano or jazz at select venues, and socializing in resort settings, while most nightlife options in West Palm Beach provide more casual bars and live music scenes along Clematis Street and CityPlace.

Hiking in Palm Beach

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge Trails

Protected wetlands with boardwalks and nature trails ideal for birdwatching and nature photography.

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park Trails

Coastal trails through maritime forest and beach habitats, with scenic overlooks.

Jonathan Dickinson State Park Trails

Extensive hiking and biking routes through sand pine scrub and river landscapes; a short drive north.

Airports

How to reach Palm Beach by plane.

Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)

Main regional airport serving West Palm Beach and Palm Beach County, about 15-20 minutes from Palm Beach proper by car.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

Major international airport about 30-40 minutes from Palm Beach, a common gateway for many visitors.

Miami International Airport (MIA)

Large international hub about 1.5-2 hours away by car or rail, often used for international travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Palm Beach Island is walkable along the beachfront and Worth Avenue, with compact distances between the beach, hotels, and shops. However, many attractions require short drives or rides for access to other parts of Palm Beach and West Palm Beach.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retiree and Seasonal Residents

A substantial community of retirees and seasonal visitors who enjoy the island's amenities and relaxed pace.

Families and International Visitors

A significant number of families and international travelers attracted by beaches, luxury hospitality, and safe neighborhoods.

Affluent Professionals and Residents

High-income residents and professionals contributing to the area's upscale services and cultural events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

Home to world-class courses in and around Palm Beach County; many resorts offer premium play.

Tennis

Popular with resort guests; clubs host tournaments and clinics.

Sailing/Boating

Coastal waters support sailing, yachting, and fishing charters.

Beach Volleyball

Casual beach games on public beaches during peak season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be light to moderate on local roads and around beaches; during peak season, parking and access to Worth Avenue can be challenging. Public transit options include Palm Tran buses and regional rail connections to West Palm Beach; ride-sharing is a convenient option for short trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Palm Beach.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available at most restaurants; look for fresh salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, and seafood-free entrees; communicate any dairy or egg restrictions clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are available in Palm Beach County, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialty clinics. The Breakers and major hotels can arrange medical services for guests; West Palm Beach hosts large hospitals such as St. Mary’s Medical Center and affiliated facilities. For emergencies, call 911.

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