The top 8 things to do in Jupiter, Florida and why you should make it your next mini vacation getaway

Jupiter, Florida is a charming town located just north of West Palm Beach, FL. After living here for 4 years I have come to see why the locals love it so much. It has a small town feel with lots to do if you like being outside. I have compiled a list of the tops things to do/see and places to eat on your next visit. 

Things to do:

1. Blowing Rocks Preserve- home to the largest limestone shoreline on the Atlantic Coast. This one is best to visit during windy/high tide weather. The rocks form blow holes that can shoot water into the air as high as 50 feet! If you are from Florida, you will realize how special this area is as soon as you visit. It's not flat! There are cliffs and small cave like pockets you can explore on low tide. 

2. Loggerhead Marinelife Center-this is a special place you have to see. Loggerhead Marinelife Center is one of the biggest nonprofit sea turtle conservations in Florida. Seas turtles are often injured by boaters and abandoned fishing gear, and they help to rehabilitate them. Technically in Juno Beach, and just a short 5-10 minute drive from Jupiter, they are donation based and open daily. https://marinelife.org/

3. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum- you can tell from the name but the lighthouse sits on the inlet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. There is also a beautiful banyan tree at the foot of the lighthouse that is almost as breathtaking as the views from up top. 

4. Jonathan Dickinson State Park- technically located in Hobe Sound this state park is a short 10 minute drive from town. I felt like it had to make the cut for one special reason- its insanely cool mountain bike trail. It is unlike any mountain bike trail you will find in Florida. There are plenty of hills and bumps that will keep you entertained for hours. You can rent bikes at a local shop before heading to the state park where it is a $5 fee per vehicle to enter. My advice would be to visit between November- March when the weather has cooled off, or early in the morning/late in the evening April-October. The weather can be pretty brutal in the Summer. 

Places to eat:

1. Guanabanas Restaurant and Bar- you can't leave Jupiter without checking out Guanabanas. It is a local favorite for very good reasons! As soon as you arrive you feel like you've departed to a tropical oasis. The food is great, the live music is good, and it is truly a special place! After you're done with dinner walk across the street and head over to Blueline Surf and Paddle Co surf shop, and finish the night with ice-cream from Coral Cones which is located right next to Blueline Surf and Paddle Co.

2. Square Grouper- this bar is 21+ but worth a mention due to the stunning views. It gives off tiki bar vibes with the sand and tiki huts and live music. Located on the inlet, the views at sunset are absolutely beautiful. The food here is really good as well! 

3. PapiChulo Tacos- taco shop serving Mexican street food. Very cute ambience and the food here is really good. 

4. Jupiter donuts- they are a local favorite for good reason. The donuts here are insanely good! They usually sell out before 2pm so make sure you head over for breakfast one morning. 

Jupiter, FL is a beautiful quiet town with tons to do. This list is mostly for things you can do on land. If you have access to a boat there are plenty of good spots to snorkel, hangout, and fish. I'll write another post about Jupiter on the water soon!