Wildlife Encounters & Manatee Viewing in West Palm Beach
Tips on renting in West Palm Beach
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
At the shimmering edge of the Atlantic, West Palm Beach unfolds like a vibrant tapestry of sun, surf, and adventure. Picture the sun-drenched shores of the city’s crown jewel, the pristine sands of Palm Beach, where families build castles from golden grains and couples stroll hand in hand, the distant rhythm of waves harmonizing with lively laughter.
Venture to the Lake Worth Lagoon, where the gentle caress of the breeze invites you to glide atop crystal waters on a kayak or paddleboard, discovering hidden mangroves that cradle dolphins and vibrant birdlife. For a taste of local flavor, dine at the rustic yet elegant Avocado Grill, renowned for its farm-to-table delights, or sip a refreshing cocktail at Clematis Street’s cozy cafés.
Seasonal festivals abound, including the enchanting SunFest, a celebration of art and music along the water’s edge. When day turns to dusk, take a scenic drive along A1A—each turn revealing breathtaking ocean views. In West Palm Beach, adventure awaits at every corner, whispering secrets only a true local would know, ready for you to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what West Palm Beach has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary in West Palm Beach, book a guided tour by calling 561-790-2116, available on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11AM, 12PM, and 1PM. The 1.5-hour tour, priced at $50 for adults and $40 for children, allows you to encounter over 200 animals in a unique and thrilling setting. Arrive 15 minutes early and wear comfortable clothing, as you’ll be outdoors for nearly two hours exploring the sanctuary’s extensive and well-shaded grounds.
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For a seamless boat launch experience near the Lake Worth Lagoon in West Palm Beach, head to the Lake Mangonia Boat Ramp. This ramp, located in a scenic area, offers easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway and is part of the city’s waterfront amenities. The nearby Franklin Sailing Camp adds an extra layer of convenience for those seeking sailing instructions or additional boating resources.
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In West Palm Beach, you can rent kayaks or paddleboards from several convenient and scenic locations. Visit the Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront, where companies like Visit Palm Beach and Paddle Boarding Palm Beach offer single and double sit-on-top kayaks and stable lightweight paddleboards, with options for guided tours or self-guided adventures. For a more natural setting, head to John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, where you can rent kayaks and standup paddle boards at the Beach Outfitters Gift Shop, exploring the park’s pristine waters at rates starting from $15 per hour.
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For wheelchair and stroller users near West Palm Beach, the Okeeheelee Nature Center offers a network of 2.5 miles of wheelchair-accessible paved trails and hardpacked limestone walkways, winding through 90 acres of pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and dense palm hammocks. Another excellent option is the Daggerwing Nature Center, featuring a 0.6-mile boardwalk that is wheelchair and stroller accessible, allowing a relaxing journey through natural swampland with abundant plant and animal life. Both trails are free to access and open from sunrise to sunset.
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For a relaxing hiking trail with scenic views in West Palm Beach, consider the Apoxee Wilderness Trail, a 4.7-mile day hike through the wet prairies and tropical hammocks of Grassy Waters Preserve. This urban wilderness area offers a serene walk with diverse habitats and abundant wildlife. Alternatively, the Palm Beach Lake Trail, an 11-mile paved path, provides beautiful views of Lake Worth Lagoon and is suitable for all ages, with the added convenience of nearby restaurants and shops.