FLORIDA has everything you could want from a holiday destination, from its magical amusement parks to its miles of pristine sands, from its vibrant cities to its sprawling national parks. In the Sunshine State, you can always find the landscape that suits you.
Palm Beach CountyÂ's 47-miles of pristine beaches are only the tip of the iceberg when referring to the areaÂ's outdoor activities. Just an hour north of Miami on FloridaÂ's Gold Coast, Palm Beach County is a haven of wildlife and outdoor adventure. Fishing and wildlife enthusiasts will find Lake Okeechobee, the second largest freshwater lake in the country a natural wonder, and the Florida Everglades bordering Palm Beach County to the south, provide the perfect setting for a fishing or airboat adventure where sightseeing highlights include resident alligators and tropical birds.
Enjoy daylong deep-sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean, pleasure boating on the blue waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, snorkelling amongst the coastline reefs, and parasailing over sunny beaches. By canoe or kayak, see FloridaÂ's wetlands unfold along the StateÂ's only nationally designated wild and scenic river, the Loxahatchee.
Camping, hiking and biking excursions can be found at many of the CountyÂ's parks and campgrounds.
After all the fresh-air fun, there are plenty of options for rest and relaxation and an unmatched menu of culinary options, cultural venues and shopping hotspots. Cruising along the historic ocean highway A1A or exploring the CountyÂ's scenic byways is a great way to discover the destinationÂ's diversely unique towns featuring numerous cultural and family-fun attractions. Picnics are perfect for enjoying a variety of free public concerts, events and festivals.
The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge Â- The refuge explores the northern region of the Everglades and is the last northernmost portion of the unique Everglades. With over 221 square miles of EvergladesÂ' habitat, the Loxahatchee Refuge is home to the American alligator and the critically endangered Everglade snail kite. In any given year, as many as 257 species of birds may use the Refuge\'s diverse wetland habitats.
The Breakers: Reef (45-60 feet) Â- Located just offshore in the legendary resort, The Breakers. Known as one of the most beautiful spots in Palm Beach, the two miles of reef includes a five to 15-foot ledge packed with fish. Large sea turtles are often seen here, along with many unusual species of fish including batfish, morays, stargazers, puffers, scorpion fish and stingrays.
The Lake Region Â- Less than an hourÂ's drive from the beaches, Lake Okeechobee is the second largest freshwater lake in the United States. Visitors enjoy bass fishing trips, camping, hiking, biking, water sports and acres of unspoiled nature. Endangered bird species, native flowers and animals including alligators, turtles and small reptiles are native residents in this peaceful setting. Belle Glade, South Bay and Pahokee are charming Old Florida towns with warm and gracious hospitality.
Lion Country Safari Â- West Palm Beach. The drive-through safari was recently ranked third on a list of the top 10 zoos in America by the USA Travel Guide website. On the grounds, families can encounter hundreds of free-roaming animals.
Okeeheelee Park Â- Located in West Palm Beach. Abundant picnic areas, nature trails, fresh-water fishing, boating, water-skiing, and a BMX track can be found at Okeeheelee Park. Also on site, a 27-hole golf course, playgrounds, tennis courts, ball fields, soccer fields, exercise course, and Dog Park.
Riverbend Park Â- At Loxahatchee River in Jupiter. Visitors can see native plants, trees and observe natural Florida up-close. Animals such as the bald eagle, otter, deer, and alligators call the Loxahatchee River home. Canoes and kayaks provided by Canoe Outfitter of Florida.
Spanish River Park - Located in Boca Raton, this park offers ninety-five acres of land and 1,850 feet of ocean frontage. Five covered shelters, picnic tables and grills, volleyball, restrooms and two-level, 40-foot observation tower.