Take it from me, a mother of three boys — the more time you spend in Jupiter, Fla., the more you realize the city is a treasure trove for family-friendly activities. Locals I talk to appreciate Jupiter for its beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife. As a new or prospective Jupiter resident, there are many ways for you and your family to see nature up close. It’s also a historically rich city with many opportunities to create unforgettable memories with the whole family.
Join me as we explore some of the best ways to experience Jupiter as a family.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
Jupiter Beach
One of the most popular family activities in Jupiter, FL, is spending a day at Jupiter Beach. It’s perfect for a fun-filled day of swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The warm waters and gentle waves make it ideal for young children, while the beautiful scenery provides a relaxing backdrop for parents. Want to bring your furry friend? The beach also has a 2.5-mile designated area for dogs extending from beach marker #26 (at Marcinski Road) northward to beach marker #57 (at the Carlin Park property line).
DuBois Park
DuBois Park is another local favorite — the 18+ acres offers a welcoming environment for families. The park is located near the Jupiter Inlet and features a unique lagoon with calm, shallow waters perfect for young swimmers. You can make it a full-day trip, packing lunch for the park’s picnic areas or barbeque grills. The park also has playgrounds, beautiful walking trails, and opportunities for fishing and snorkeling.
Riverbend Park
If you and your family love outdoor adventures,
Riverbend Park is a must-visit. This expansive park skirts the Loxahatchee River, has over 10 miles of biking and hiking trails, and is home to historical sites (including Seminole War battlefields) that you and yours can explore through guided tours. Speaking of tours, the best way to see the Loxahatchee River is with guides from the
Jupiter Outdoor Center. You can customize these excursions to focus on wildlife or history while kayaking the river. Watch for alligators, turtles, and river otters while navigating the river’s winding waterways!
Educational and Fun Attractions
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum
The
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum is a historic landmark that families love exploring. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for awesome ocean views and the surrounding area. The museum features exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and the local area, including Native American artifacts and displays on the early pioneers. The lighthouse grounds also include a nature trail and picnic areas, making it a fun outing for your whole family.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center
The
Loggerhead Marinelife Center is a marine conservation center dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating sea turtles. You and your kids can learn about the different species of sea turtles, their habitats, and their challenges. The center’s popular “Hatchling Release” program lets you witness baby sea turtles making their way to the ocean. Kids love seeing the sea turtles up close in the rehabilitation tanks and learning about the center’s conservation efforts.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary offers yet another unique opportunity to see Florida’s native wildlife in a natural setting. The sanctuary is home to various animals, including alligators, panthers, and bald eagles. Families can walk through the sanctuary’s nature trails and observe these animals in their habitats. The refuge also offers educational programs and wildlife presentations, providing a fun and informative experience for children and adults alike.
Exciting Adventures
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a vast state park you can return to time and time again. Among the many ways to explore the park are hiking, biking, boating, and horseback riding — there is truly something for everyone. My clients particularly enjoy the river tours, where they see manatees, alligators, and a variety of bird species.
The park also has a campground so that families can extend their adventure with an overnight stay. Glamping (a portmanteau of “glamorous camping”) has emerged as a favorite way to experience the park. Options with
Timberline Glamping Jupiter include deluxe safari tents with two or three beds, with heating and air conditioning provided during winter and summer, respectively. It’s ideal for family vacations, romantic getaways, and staycations.
Blowing Rocks Preserve
Blowing Rocks Preserve is a unique natural area known for its dramatic limestone formations and stunning coastal views. During high tide, waves crash against the rocks, creating impressive sprays of water that are exciting to watch. With walking trails, educational exhibits, and a beach area, the Preserve is an excellent place to explore nature as a family (it’s also a great place to snorkel on a calm day).
Just south of Blowing Rocks, you’ll find
Coral Cove Park. These two nature areas share the same stretch of island between Jupiter Sound and the Atlantic Ocean. Coral Cove has more rock formations, tidal pools, and abundant marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and exploring. Your family can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing for seashells in this picturesque setting.
Jupiter Dive Center
For families with older children and teens interested in underwater adventures, the
Jupiter Dive Center offers scuba diving lessons and excursions. Beginners can take certification courses, and experienced divers can embark on guided tours — an exhilarating way to explore the marine life and coral reefs of the coast of Jupiter. The dive center also offers snorkeling trips, making it accessible for those who prefer a less intense underwater experience.
Carlin Park
Carlin Park is another excellent destination for a more laid-back family outing in Jupiter. With beach access to the Atlantic Ocean, the park also has playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities for volleyball and tennis. The park occasionally hosts live music events and community festivals, adding to its appeal as a lovely gathering place.
Harbourside Place
Harbourside Place is a bustling waterfront destination offering shopping, dining, and entertainment. As a family, you can explore the various shops, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, and attend live performances at the amphitheater. The area also features a splash pad for kids, making it a fun spot for younger family members. Harbourside Place frequently hosts family-friendly events, including farmers markets, holiday celebrations, and outdoor movie nights.
Riverwalk
The Jupiter
Riverwalk is a scenic pathway that winds along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering beautiful views and access to various attractions. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Riverwalk, stopping at parks, restaurants, and shops. The Riverwalk also features educational plaques and sculptures, and it’s a beautiful place to take in a spectacular sunset.
Fishing Charters
Fishing charters are a top family activity in Jupiter, FL, offering fun and adventure on the Atlantic Ocean. Jupiter's waters teem with fish like sailfish, mahi-mahi, and snapper, making it an excellent spot for novice and experienced anglers. One notable option is
Black Dog Fishing Charters, known for its experienced captains, excellent service, and customized trips. These trips are licensed for 20 passengers and depart between 6:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
As we’ve seen, Jupiter is brimming with family-friendly activities catering to various interests and ages. From exploring the great outdoors at parks and beaches to engaging in educational and fun attractions like the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum and the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, there is no shortage of ways to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, you'll find that family activities in Jupiter, FL, offer something special for everyone.
About Katie Rawnsley
Are you looking to buy or sell a home in Jupiter? With over 20 years in the real estate industry and a decade serving the Jupiter area, I have the experience and insight to guide you seamlessly through the process. As a working mother of three, I value your time and am dedicated to understanding your unique needs. When you work with me, you'll receive professional, compassionate, and expert guidance to help you achieve your real estate goals.
