Planning to chart a course for the 35th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, coming March 25th to the 28th? Then why not turn your trip into a full-blown nautical vacation? We’re going to share with you the best places for dining, docking, and just plain fun in Palm Beach.
The boat show is taking place along the waterfront and Flagler Drive in Downtown West Palm Beach. This year it will be packed with more than $1.2 billion (with a “B”!) worth of the newest yachts and accessories. Attendees get to check out the latest and coolest of everything from 8-foot inflatables to 200-foot superyachts. It will be a veritable Disney Land for boaters!
And when you do step away from the excitement of the boat show, you’ll be in the center of a vibrant metropolis that also boasts secluded beaches, family-friendly adventures, and the ultimate vacation vibe. Many liken it to Miami Beach, but on a smaller scale. Palm Beach truly has something for everyone. That’s exactly why you’ll need a few extra days to enjoy all it has to offer.
Dining
One of the perks of having your boat with you on vacation is the satisfaction of cruising up to a restaurant, tying up and dining. And for the best eats, we think you should go where the locals go. Here are two local haunts you won’t want to miss; the Square Grouper and Jetty’s. At the Square Grouper, a true beach bar, you can enjoy a cold beer and juicy burger while wiggling your toes in the sand and looking out over sun drenched, or moonlit, waters. A bit less casual, Jetty’s, offers superb food, friendly staff and a front-row view of the Jupiter lighthouse.
When you’re ready to set foot on dry land, the funky Rhythm Café is a serious foodie restaurant. They offer delicious eclectic fare from beautifully presented meals to tapas and homemade desserts. Yum!
Docking Nearby
Finding the right marina can sometimes be a tricky business. Here are a few awesome Snag-A-Slip marinas that we know you’ll want to visit again and again.
The Palm Beach Yacht Center, has everything you and your boat need. There’s even a Tiki hut you may rent if you want to have a small gathering of your own. They also offer a ship’s store and a snack shop, where you can grab some quick food and eat at the picnic area overlooking the marina. It’s also a full-service yacht yard with a variety of services to keep your boat shipshape for your next adventure on the water.
JIB Yacht Club and Marina is a public marina on Jupiter Island. This attractive facility is also a Florida Certified Clean Marina. That means your stay will be green and clean! It also offers resort-style amenities, including a pool with a sundeck and chairs. And within walking distance (under a mile), you’ll find restaurants, bars, lodging, and shopping to explore.
Blowing Rocks Marina boasts a pleasant, casual setting with a breathtaking view of Jupiter Island. It has a comfortable, family-friendly, atmosphere where you can take a dip in the pool, freshen up in their pristine showering facilities, and venture out to enjoy entertainment and nightlife, All of this is just steps away from your slip.
Fun
Fun! That’s the point of a vacation. Right? You’ll find plenty of it under the sun in Palm Beach. One stop that the entire family will enjoy is Palm Beach County’s only state park, John D. MacArthur Beach. It’s a preserved piece of natural subtropical coastal habitat – once found up and down the entire southeast Florida coastline. There you can boat, swim, fish, or head to Rock Reef for some first-rate snorkeling. There’s also a playground, nature center, gift shop, and kayak and canoe rentals. You’ll want to set aside a few days to fully enjoy this activity-filled locale.
For a more relaxing excursion, head to Peanut Island Park. It’s a beautiful 80-acre, a man-made island that’s a favorite destination for boaters. With guarded and unguarded beaches, it offers perfect access for bathers of all ages. Plus, if you’re looking for an overnight experience under the stars, there’s beach camping in designated natural areas, as well as a seventeen-site campground for tent campers.
To get up-close and personal with an abundance of unique marine life, immerse yourself in the crystal blue waters around the Blue Heron Bridge, located at Phil Foster Park. This spot is an outstanding oasis filled with tropical fish, spotted rays, squid, octopus, and even starfish. Of course, you choose whether to view these amazing creatures from your boat or behind a pair of goggles. Either way, Phil Foster Park is the place to do it!
It’s also worth mentioning there are 4 golf courses in Palm Beach and 1 is a municipal course. There are also another 96 golf courses within 20 miles, including 16 public, 9 municipal, and 70 private courses. So, if you plan to add playing a round of golf to your itinerary, impressive courses are literally everywhere. From the Sandhill Crane Golf Club to the Palm Beach Par 3, you’ll have your pick.
