JUPITER FLORIDA

Jupiter, Florida is one of the most beautiful towns on Florida's east coast.  It has a population of about 62,814 in 2023 and is situated on an inlet to the Atlantic Ocean.

Jupiter Lighthouse Vintage Postcard

Most people who live in Jupiter would rather not live anyplace else.  It's usually voted by travel authorities as one of the best beach towns in Florida.

It is the northernmost town in Palm Beach County and many travelers think of Jupiter as the line of demarcation between heavily urbanized south Florida and the quieter places to the north.

Those Floridians have been known to say "I'll live anywhere in Florida as long as it's north of Jupiter Inlet.

Jupiter Looking East To Inlet and Atlantic Ocean

The area was first settled by the Hobe tribe of Native Americans whose village was at the mouth of the Loxahatchee River.  This river flows into the ocean at Jupiter Inlet. 

The tribes's name is memorialized in Hobe Sound, the brackish lagoon that separates the barrier island from the mainland. 

Somewhere along the line of history somebody thought the word "Hobe" was spelled "Jobe" and it became further corrupted as "Jove". 

Then someone else thought that Jove was the Latin name for Jupiter, one of the ancient gods. 

Jupiter was known by the name of Zeus in ancient Greece, but at least that error wasn't made and early settlers stuck with the name Jupiter.

The name is appropriate, because the ancient Romans believed Jupiter to be the god of weather, light, and the sky.  The weather in Jupiter is superb. 

Just to cap off this story, a nearby town south of the inlet was named Juno after Jupiter's consort.

Jupiter, Juno, and Mars were connected by what became known as Florida's Celestial Railroad.

Jupiter Island Looking North From Jupiter Inlet

One of the most memorable things along this coast is the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.  It was built in 1860 and is made of brick. 

The lighthouse and adjacent museum are open to the public.  The view of Jupiter Inlet and Jupiter Island is magnificent.

Some of the wealthiest families in the United States live on Jupiter Island.  This barrier island stretches north from Jupiter inlet. 

A road along the ocean offers some views of the ocean, but most homesites are heavily landscaped and extremely private.

The community on the north side of the inlet is known as Jupiter Inlet Colony.  For many years one of it's best known and best loved residents was the singer Perry Como. 

He regularly attended church in the nearby town of Tequesta, and died in 2001 at the age of 87.

The mainland around Jupiter is also beautiful, with many upscale golfing and boating communities.  There are many fine shops and restaurants to keep you busy for a long time.

Home on Jupiter Island, Florida

More About Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse

1500 Captain Armour's Way
Jupiter, Fl 33469
Tel:  561-747-8380

The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum has been open to the public since 1972. 

Jupiter Inlet Light

The tower was first lit in 1860 and has a wonderful view of Jupiter Inlet, the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean.

In World War Two the lighthouse property served as a U.S. Navy radio detection station.  

The station is credited with providing information that led to the sinking of more than 60 German submarines that had been torpedoing Allied ships along the Atlantic coast in 1943.

WHAT TO DO:

Tours of the lighthouse grounds and museum, including tower climbs, are available to the public.

The lighthouse is on a large property that also includes nature walks and various scenic events such as lighthouse sunset and moonrise tours.

The lighthouse property also serves as a park and community center for the area and has a busy event schedule.  

The museum is also open to the public and features many exhibits of Native American and early pioneer culture.

ADMISSION FEES AND HOURS:

Access to the lighthouse is by paid guided tour only and tickets are purchased in the museum.  

The lighthouse and museum are open to the public on the following schedule:

May-December.  Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 am to 5 pm.
Closed Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day.

January-April.  Open 7 days a week 10 am to 5 pm.
Closed New Year's Day and Easter

Admission Fees: Adults $12.00 (Veterans and Seniors $10), Children (6-18) $6.00

Admission is free for children 5 and under and for active U.S. Military and their families (with I.D.)

More information about the lighthouse and its various events is at Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum.

Palm Trees Along Jupiter Beach

There are many other interesting things to do in Jupiter.  It is well known for fishing as there are many lakes and waterways perfect for anglers of all levels.

Celebrities are also fond of the Jupiter area, too, such as Michael Jordan and Celine Dion, who both have mansions nestled along the Intracoastal on Jupiter Island.

Passport to Jupiter

Because of how popular Jupiter is, you might come into some higher prices and gas prices. To help save money on your travel, the Jupiter Passport is available to visitors.

Similar to a City Pass in larger cities, you can grab this at the Jupiter Community Center or Town Hall lobbies, and visit all the listed locations on the list! 

THINGS TO DO IN JUPITER, FLORIDA

Palm Beach Zoo
1301 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33405 | (561) 547-9453

The Palm Beach Zoo in nearby West Palm Beach is a great place to visit with your family. This vibrant destination features over 500 animals from around the world. We enjoy the lush, tropical setting and the engaging animal exhibits.

Visitors appreciate the interactive experiences, including wildlife shows and up-close animal encounters. The zoo's commitment to conservation and education adds to its appeal. It's a fantastic spot for a family outing, offering a mix of entertainment and learning opportunities.

Lion Country Safari
2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee FL 33470 | (561) 793-1084

Lion Country Safari is located in Loxahatchee about 20 miles away. It's a unique drive-through safari and walk-through amusement park spanning over 600 acres. Established in 1967, it is renowned as the first 'cageless zoo' in the United States.

Visitors enjoy seeing a wide variety of animals roaming freely in their natural habitats. In 2009, USA Travel Guide recognized Lion Country Safari as the third-best zoo in the nation. It's a must-visit for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Kids at Palm Beach Zoo

Indian River Lagoon
Jupiter, Florida 33458

For a day out on the water, take your family to venture onto the Indian River Lagoon for kayaking, paddle boarding or fishing. You can also find boat and jet ski rentals here!

Carlin Park
400 State Road A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477 | (561) 624-0065 

If you're looking for things to do with the family, check out Carlin Park. This park offers a little bit of everything, including a playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a skate park. The beach is also located here if you're looking for some sand and sun.  

It also features a café and facilities for tennis and bocce ball. The scenic views and well-maintained grounds make it a favorite spot for locals and tourists.

Biker at Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Jonathan Dickinson State Park
16450 SE Federal Hwy, Hobe Sound, FL 33455 | (772) 546-2771

Jupiter is also near Jonathan Dickinson State Park with hiking and biking trails, campsites, and camping cabins.  There are many beautiful nature trails and wildlife viewing areas.

Abacoa Town Center
1200 Town Center Dr, Jupiter, FL 33458

Families can also visit the Carousel at Downtown Abacoa Town Center, where kids can ride on brightly colored horses and elephants.

There's also a playground, splash pad, and miniature golf course for visitors to enjoy.

This shopping and dining complex offers something for everyone, including the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, ice cream shops, and several restaurants.

Riverwalk
Riverwalk Lane, Jupiter FL 33458

Head over to the Jupiter Riverwalk with the kids, where they can play in the interactive fountain or explore the nature trails.

The Riverwalk also has a playground, a dog park, and plenty of places to sit and relax under the shady oak trees.

DuBois Park
19075 Dubois Rd, Jupiter, FL 33477 | (561) 966-6600

Dubois Park is a popular spot known for its beautiful lagoon and historic Dubois Pioneer Home, one of the oldest homes in Palm Beach County. The home is open and available for tours free of charge.

We enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the calm, clear waters of the lagoon. Visitors appreciate the picnic areas, playground, and scenic walking paths. The park is perfect for family outings, offering a safe and fun environment for kids.

Riverbend Park
9060 Indiantown Rd, Jupiter, FL 33478 | (561) 741-1359

If you're looking for things to do in Jupiter that are a little more low-key, there's always the option of taking a walk or bike ride through Riverbend Park.

It winds through downtown Jupiter and is perfect for visitors to enjoy the playgrounds, fishing pier, kayaking, canoeing, and boat ramps.

It's a nature lover's paradise with over 600 acres of scenic beauty, and also home to historical sites and informative exhibits about the area's history.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center
14200 US-1, Juno Beach, FL 33408 | (561) 627-8280

Loggerhead Marine Life Center is a great place to learn about sea turtles and other marine life, like the Florida Marlins. The center has interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and more.

It's open Monday through Saturday from 11am to 5:30pm and Sunday from noon to 5:30pm.

If you plan your trip between March 1 - October 31, you'll be visiting during the sea turtle nesting season.

You may see many nests along the beaches, but take care not to bother them!

In fact, it's thoughtful for the sea turtles to knock over any sandcastles you made before leaving the beach.

You can take a day trip over to Juno Beach or explore some of the wildlife refuges and nature preserves in the area. 

Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
10216 Lee Rd, Boynton Beach, FL 33473 | (561) 734-8303

The Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to see alligators, deer, and bald eagles in their natural habitats. We enjoy its scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and tranquil waters.

Visitors appreciate opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking. The refuge's diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and cypress swamps, make it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
17855 Rocky Pines Rd, Jupiter, FL 33478 | (561) 575-3399

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned wild animals, and they offer guided tours throughout the day. 

If you're really lucky, you may even see a manatee swimming in one of the waterways!

Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place
122 Soundings Ave, Jupiter, FL 33477 | (561) 273-6600

You'll find a number of places to stay in Jupiter. One of the places worth mentioning is the Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place.

This waterfront resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, several restaurants, and a private beach club.

Hampton Inn Jupiter-I-95
13801 US-1, Juno Beach, FL 33408 | (561) 626-9090

If you're looking for something more affordable, the Hampton Inn Jupiter-I-95 is a great option. It's located close to all the things to do in Jupiter and offers comfortable rooms and free breakfast.

Best Western Intracoastal Inn
810 US-1, Jupiter, FL 33477 | (561) 575-2936

The Best Western Intracoastal Inn is also a good option, with rooms overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.

Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa
5 Florida A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477 | (561) 746-2511

And for those who want a little bit of everything, the Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa offers guests access to its private beach, three swimming pools, two hot tubs, a fitness center, and more.

There's also a golf course on-site for those who want to hit the links.