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Exploring Jupiter Inlet Colony in Florida: Top things to do in this hidden gem

Exploring Jupiter Inlet Colony in Palm Beach County

Jupiter Inlet Colony in Palm Beach County, FL, is a serene coastal gem offering a surprising array of activities and attractions

Jupiter Inlet Colony, nestled at the southern tip of Jupiter Island in Palm Beach County, is a tranquil enclave known for its stunning ocean and Intracoastal views. With just over 200 homes, it offers private beach paths, a community marina, and a tight-knit atmosphere, blending coastal luxury with small-town charm.

Even as a serene coastal gem, this barrier island offers plenty of activities and attractions best explored with family and friends. Enjoy pristine beaches, a waterfront park, and a private beach club, or venture into the nearby city of Jupiter for marinas, golf, dining, and entertainment. Living in this compact yet vibrant town is an ideal mix of tranquility and seaside adventure.

Whether you’re planning a day trip, checking out the neighborhood for a potential new place to move to, or settling into your new home, this idyllic place offers an array of activities that showcase its charm and vibrant seaside lifestyle.

Dubois Park

Dubois Park offers 1,200 feet of beef frontage and a 100-foot guarded lagoon

  1. GO ON NATURE ADVENTURES AT DUBOIS PARK

    Dubois Park is considered a centerpiece of Jupiter Island living, offering natural beauty and recreation opportunities that reflect the area’s relaxed pace.

    • Water adventures

      Located at the mouth of Jupiter Inlet, this park is a prime attraction for those who love outdoor water activities, offering 1,200 feet of beach frontage and a 100-foot guarded lagoon. Visitors can enjoy kayaking to Loxahatchee River (a 7-minute walk from Jupiter Inlet Colony) or boating from the park’s marina slips. The park also features non-motorized boat ramps, saltwater fishing, and areas for surfing beyond the supervised swimming zone. With scenic views of the Jupiter Lighthouse and access to the Intracoastal, DuBois Park captures the essence of the area’s natural allure.

    • Walking trails

      At DuBois Park, you get to enjoy the perfect blend of greenery and sandy shores. Scenic walking trails, including the popular 1.4-kilometer loop, provides a peaceful and scenic route for running and leisurely strolls. As you wander through the park’s lush 18.69 acres, you can admire the local flora and enjoy the calming sounds of the nearby water. These trails also allow easy access to the beach, making them great spots for appreciating coastal views. The park is open year-round, welcoming both dogs on leashes and nature lovers alike.

    • Picnic spots

      Indulge in outdoor dining with numerous picnic tables and pavilions, most equipped with grills. These provide a comfortable and scenic setting for enjoying meals surrounded by nature. While tents and grills are restricted in the waterfront and beach areas, they are permitted in the spacious grassy zones that offer ample shade. Whether hosting a family gathering or savoring a peaceful lunch, the views of the water and lighthouse elevate the experience.

    • Family-friendliness

      DuBois Park provides a variety of family-friendly things to do, making it a great place for Jupiter Inlet Colony residents of all ages. Its playground features fun, age-appropriate equipment for children between 5 and 12, while parents can relax in the nearby covered areas. The park also has a shallow lagoon, ideal for young children to wade in or snorkel. Here, you can often spot tropical fish and young green turtles. With its beautiful vistas and safe environment, the park is a wonderful place for families to bond and enjoy outdoor activities.

      Dogs can go off-leash

      Dogs can go off-leash on Juno Beach Park

  2. SOAK IN THE SUN ON SERENE BEACHES 

    Homes for sale in Jupiter Inlet Colony are situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, offering convenient access to beautiful, uncrowded beaches.

    • Juno Beach Park

      About a 10-minute drive from town is this beach park – a relaxing escape offering a variety of amenities. Open from sunrise to sunset, the beach features 300 feet of guarded swimming area, with a designated surfing zone for wave enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy outdoor showers, picnic shelters, and convenient parking. Bring your four-legged companion along to enjoy the beach, as Juno Beach Park is a dog-friendly destination where pets are welcome to roam off-leash.

    • Jupiter Beach Park

      This 46-acre coastal retreat is located on the south side of the Jupiter Inlet. With 1,700 feet of supervised beach, visitors can enjoy swimming, a sand volleyball court, and outdoor showers. The park also offers a reserved picnic pavilion for group gatherings – the ideal spot for relaxation or bonding with family and friends. You can even visit the nearby fish market for a fresh catch you can grill at one of the picnic tables.

    • Carlin Park

      A sprawling 120-acre destination, this park houses a wealth of recreational activities and stunning beach views. Enjoy its gorgeous turquoise waters and 3,000 feet of beach with a lifeguard service. Just 10 minutes away from Jupiter Inlet Colony, Carlin Park features tennis and pickleball courts, bocce ball, and a sand volleyball court. With picnic areas, playgrounds, exercise stations, and a softball field, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking to stay active or unwind.

      Snorkel

      Snorkel, fish, boat, or kayak among the mangroves in Jupiter Inlet Colony, FL

  3. ENJOY A RAFT OF WATER ACTIVITIES

    If you’re seeking a low-maintenance waterfront lifestyle, Jupiter Inlet Colony features condos for sale, perfect for enjoying a variety of marine pursuits.

    • Fishing

      Because the town is surrounded by water, it is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. Nearby Juno Beach has a 990-foot pier with a bait shop and snack bar, perfect for a relaxing day of fishing. Meanwhile, Jupiter Beach Park’s 24-hour accessible jetty provides excellent saltwater fishing. Whether from the shore or piers, this coastal community offers abundant opportunities for anglers to enjoy their favorite pastime.

    • Boating

      Exploring the water is a breeze with Loxahatchee River and local marinas as favorite boating areas. Here, residents can easily enjoy a day on the water. You can also cross Cato’s Bridge for spectacular views of the Indian River and Inlet, where paddleboarding and relaxing by the water are popular activities.

    • Snorkeling

      Coral Cove Park (3-minute drive) is a popular snorkeling spot for beginners, featuring shallow waters ideal for kids. For a more adventurous experience, Blowing Rocks Preserve (4 minutes) on Jupiter Island features rocky shorelines and diverse marine life like sea turtles and stingrays. Phil Foster Park (24 minutes) in Riviera Beach offers a man-made reef with vibrant tropical fish, sea turtles, and octopuses, along with family-friendly amenities.

    • Kayaking among mangroves

      Try kayaking on the Loxahatchee River, which flows through mangrove-lined sections. This allows you to paddle through dense and shaded environments filled with unique wildlife, including manatees and various bird species. You can also explore the river’s estuarine zone near Jonathan Dickinson State Park (17 minutes), which showcases expansive mangrove systems. Here, the water turns brackish, providing a rich, immersive environment for kayakers.

      Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse

      Immersive experiences showcase the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and the area’s the 5,000-year-old history

  4. VISIT THE JUPITER INLET LIGHTHOUSE & MUSEUM

    Managed by the Loxhatchee River Historical Society, the Jupiter Lighthouse and its exhibits showcase more than 5,000 years of local history.

    • Rich history

      In 1853, Congress approved constructing a lighthouse at Jupiter Inlet, and by 1860, the 108-foot structure was completed under challenging conditions. Lieutenant George Gordon Meade initially designed it, with enhancements by Lieutenant William F. Raynolds, and Edward A. Yorke oversaw its construction.

      The lighthouse endured disruptions, including the Civil War, when Confederate sympathizers disabled its light, which was restored in 1866. Over 70 dedicated keepers managed operations until automation in 1987. 

      Designated as an Outstanding Natural Area in 2008, the lighthouse remains active, featuring one of only 13 First-Order Fresnel lenses in the US. This historic site has been steadfastly conserved, offering public educational access since 1994.

    • Guided tours and programs

      Visitors can enjoy immersive experiences that highlight the lighthouse’s fascinating history and breathtaking views.

      • Lighthouse sunset tour.  Climb 105 steps to admire breathtaking sunset views from the lighthouse. You can also discover its history and receive a gift from the on-site restaurant.
      • Specialized guided tours. Included with admission, visitors can go on themed tours Tuesday to Friday, covering topics like native plants, history, and lighthouse maintenance.
      • Historical trolley tours. Hop on board for a memorable trolley tour, as you’re guided through Jupiter’s fascinating past, from the lighthouse to important Black historical spots.
      • Lighthouse explorer’s club. Every second Saturday of the month, visitors can participate in a unique interactive activity that showcases a different historical theme each time.
      • Twilight yoga at the Light. Enjoy sunset yoga on the lighthouse deck every Monday, a peaceful all-levels class for beginners and seasoned practitioners.
    • Exhibits

      The Lighthouse offers a variety of exhibits showcasing the area’s historical significance, maritime heritage, and rich culture.

      • Museum & Secret Station J. Located in the last remaining building of the World War II naval radio station, Station J, the museum features the “Five Thousand Years on the Loxahatchee” exhibit.
      • Tindall Pioneer House. Jupiter’s oldest house, the Tindall Pioneer Homestead, offers a glimpse of pioneer life with furnishings from the Museum’s collection.
      • Keeper’s Workshop & Deck. This area honors the Lighthouse Keepers and their families, preserving their history despite the loss of their homes and station buildings.
      • Seminole Chickee. Built in May 2009, the Seminole Chickee commemorates the Seminole Tribe’s history and trade with early settlers.
    • Outstanding natural area

      The Lighthouse stands proudly on 120 acres at the confluence of the Indian and Loxahatchee Rivers, surrounded by urban development. Designated as the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area in 2008, it protects the area’s unique natural, cultural, and historical value.

      You can explore scenic trails through Florida scrub, tropical hammock, and sand pine forests, with views of mangrove lagoons and the Indian River. The site offers recreational activities, including fishing, paddleboarding, and birdwatching, along with a playground, sports courts, and a new observation pier.

      DuBois Pioneer Home

      The historic DuBois Pioneer Home, located at the Jupiter Inlet Historic and Archaeological Site in Florida (Photo by Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

  5. IMMERSE IN LOCAL ARTS & CULTURE

    Because of the area’s storied past, it offers a captivating arts and culture scene that celebrates its heritage.

    • DuBois Pioneer Home

      This structure, built in 1898, stands as a rare historic homestead in northern Palm Beach County. Situated in DuBois Park by the Jupiter Inlet, it exemplifies the resourceful lifestyle of South Florida pioneers. The home rests on a significant shell mound built by the Jeaga people, showcasing both historical and archeological importance. Together, the DuBois Pioneer Home and Jupiter Inlet Mound are mentioned on the National Register of Historic Places as the “Jupiter Inlet Historic and Archeological Site.”

    • Pineapple House

      This house was originally built as a storage shed for the pineapple farm of Harry DuBois, a notable South Florida pioneer, who significantly contributed to Jupiter Inlet’s development. Situated near today’s US Highway 1, the Pineapple House served as Harry’s home while building the DuBois Pioneer Home on top of a shell mound. Over time, it was used for storage and briefly as a rental house. It remains one of the country’s oldest wooden buildings.

    • Jupiter Inlet wreck site

      In 1987, a discovery at Jupiter Beach revealed remnants of what is believed to be the San Miguel Archangel, a Spanish ship lost in 1660. Excavations unearthed gold bars, silver coins, and other treasures tied to King Philip IV of Spain. In 1995, beach restoration efforts uncovered additional artifacts. Today, the ship’s remains, including its possible lower hull and a potential trove of valuables, lie buried under layers of sand and water near Jupiter Inlet.

    • Town of Jupiter Community Center Gallery of Art

      The Town of Jupiter Art Committee showcases local and regional talent through exhibitions at Harbourside Place and Town Hall. With displays rotating every two months, the gallery features diverse works, including fine arts, crafts, sculpture, and photography. Visitors have the option to buy directly from the artists. The Town Hall’s lobby, Council Chambers, and other spaces highlight pieces inspired by Jupiter’s coastal charm and family-friendly atmosphere, welcoming guests on weekdays.

    • Lighthouse Art Center

      Just 11 minutes away in Tequesta is this charming gallery, which is also a non-profit dedicated to fostering community through art. Its mission is to inspire and unite people of all backgrounds by offering a variety of art classes, hosting engaging exhibitions, and organizing educational events. Since 1964, the gallery has been a cultural hub in northern Palm Beach County, reaching over 20,000 visitors annually. It also provides outreach programs that make art accessible for all.

    • MAC Fine Art

      Founded by Mary Ann Cohen, an accomplished art dealer with over 35 years of experience in global fine art, MAC Art Galleries have gained recognition as one of the top art venues in the area. The newest location in Jupiter showcases a curated selection of one-of-a-kind artworks, including paintings, photography, and sculptures. Visitors can explore in-stock pieces or browse online to select works. MAC offers personalized consultations, bringing carefully chosen art to clients.

    • Jupiter Inlet Colony

      Shop easy in Jupiter Inlet Colony and its nearby areas

  6. INDULGE IN DINING & SHOPPING

    Jupiter Inlet Colony and its nearby areas offer a charming blend of things to do, from boutique shopping to delightful dining in a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

    • Harbourside Place

      This shopping destination is the ultimate downtown destination in Jupiter, offering a mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, and luxury accommodations. Located along the picturesque Intracoastal Waterway, this vibrant hub captures the essence of coastal living and a close-knit community. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, shop at over 15 specialty and national stores, relax at the Wyndham Grand Jupiter Hotel, and experience live performances at the waterfront amphitheater.

    • Shoppes of Jonathan’s Landing

      Located at the corner of AIA and Indiantown Road in Jupiter, this shopping mall serves as a lively neighborhood center. Anchored by popular supermarket chain Publix, the Shoppes of Jonathan’s Landing is a community-focused spot that offers assorted retailers, dining options, and personal services that cater to local needs. The welcoming atmosphere, with its friendly and patient staff, creates a pleasant experience, reflecting the lifestyle of the surrounding neighborhoods.

    • Ocean Magic Surf

      Described as a “Surf & Skate Superstore,” Ocean Magic Surf is a local staple for surf enthusiasts and beachgoers. Located near the shore, the shop offers surfboards, beachwear, and accessories that cater to both seasoned surfers and beginners. Known for its relaxed vibe and knowledgeable staff, Ocean Magic Surf also provides tips on surf conditions and the best beaches. More than just a retail space, it’s a reflection of the area’s coastal culture and surf community.

    • Jetty’s Waterfront Restaurant

      For over 30 years, this restaurant has been a beloved dining spot in South Florida. Offering breathtaking vistas of the Jupiter Inlet Waterway and the iconic Jupiter Lighthouse, it’s a top choice for locals and tourists. The menu features an array of fresh fish and shellfish, alongside Certified Angus steaks and ribs. Known for its laid-back ambiance and outstanding waterfront setting, Jetty’s provides an authentic Florida dining experience that perfectly complements its surroundings.

    • Lucky Shuck

      Enjoy casual waterfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood and craft beer. Lucky Shuck’s menu features locally sourced seafood, including oysters and shellfish. The menu also showcases Southern specialties like smoked ribs and Cajun steak. With 45 beers on tap from local and regional breweries, plus a curated wine list, Lucky Shuck provides a unique beverage selection. The restaurant’s vintage-inspired, nautical design enhances the breezy setting, making it a popular spot for seafood lovers and beer fans.

    • U-Tiki Beach

      This waterfront restaurant and marina, situated across from the historic Jupiter Lighthouse, offers a relaxed ambiance with gorgeous views. Here, you can choose from a wide selection of fresh seafood, Caribbean-inspired dishes, sushi, and casual bites like salads and wings. With fishing charters, boat rentals, and flexible boat slip rentals, it seamlessly meets your dining and boating needs in one beautiful location.

      Real-Trends-Verified

      To explore homes for sale in Florida’s Jupiter Inlet Colony, work with Mike Ivancevic, an award winning local agent. See what his clients have to say about working with him

  7. FIND YOUR PLACE IN THE SUN IN JUPITER INLET COLONY

    Discover the unique charm of homes in Jupiter Inlet Colony with Mike Ivancevic, a top 1% local Realtor renowned for his integrity, hard work, and expertise. A proud Palm Beach County native, Mike combines deep local knowledge with award-winning skills to guide you through the luxury home market.

    Browse homes for sale in Jupiter Inlet Colony here

    Whether you’re seeking a stunning waterfront retreat or an off-market gem, Mike’s commitment to family values and personalized service ensures you find the perfect fit in this exclusive market. 

    Call 561.202.7102 or send a message to start your journey today.

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