West Palm Beach
More palms than beaches
West Palm Beach oozes with elegance, history and luxurious comfort. Its palm-fringed streets and golden sunsets are subdued, but elegant. Picturesque waterfront views, quaint shopping districts, outdoor festivals and concert halls can fill your days. If, like most West Palm vacationers, you're looking for great nightlife, scorching dance clubs and cozy pubs can keep you hopping till dawn.
Because most of the island's best beaches are fronted by private estates or resorts, public beach space is hard to find.
Outdoor Focus
Although sandy beaches are rare, you can still do plenty outdoors. West Palm Beach highlights include:
- Polo: Palm Beach Polo and Country Club is one of the world's premier polo grounds and hosts some of the sport's top-rated players. Matches are open to the public and are very affordable.
- Golf and tennis: There's no shortage of golf or tennis courts. Whether you choose to hit the court or the links, the weather will be perfect.
- Boating: Just because most of the beaches are private doesn't mean the open water is reserved.
Area Attractions
West Palm Beach is a shopper's dream, no matter what your budget. If you do manage to shop 'til you drop, regain your strength with a trip to:
- Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts: This three-theater complex hosts major Broadway performances, concerts, dance and celebrity comics. From Lord of The Dance to Howie Mandel, you're bound to find live entertainment that suits your artistic tastes.
- West Palm Beach Zoo at Dreher Park: Endangered tigers and exotic red flamingoes are only the start. Rare bush dogs, majestic jaguars and spider monkeys make their home at Dreher Park Zoo.
- South Florida Science Museum: With a kid-oriented museum, planetarium and aquarium all in one location, it's easy to spend the day exploring all the world - or universe - has to offer.
Area Events
- Clematis by Night (Sundays): This award-winning, fountain-side concert series showcases an array of live music every Sunday - for free.
- SunFest (May): Florida's largest waterfront music and art festival offers a kids-fest, chart-topping bands, themed barges and fireworks.
Nightlife
Artist lofts, sidewalk cafes, bars, restaurants, consignment shops, and galleries dot the street from Flagler Drive to Rosemary Avenue. Most nightspots are open until 3 or 4 a.m.
Accommodation
Major chains, resorts, hotels, motels, condos and bed and breakfasts are easy to find. Try the Palm Beaches Chamber of Commerce for vacation rental ideas.
Need to Know
- Location:
- Florida's south east coast, north of Miami and Fort Lauderdale
- Weather:
- December to February the average temperature barely moves, hovering between 74 and 76 F.
- March through November, the average temperature swings between 79 to 90 F.
- Facilities:
- On Midtown Beach: the more than 100 feet of undeveloped beach doesn't offer restrooms or concessions, but a lifeguard is on duty until sundown.
- Along Ocean Boulevard: This lively public beach has picnic areas, lifeguards and parking.
With most beach space reserved for private homes or resorts, most West Palm Beach action is found in town. If a city-centered West Palm Beach vacation suits you, check out our deals.
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