Why Go to Palm Beach
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Palm Beach is classic Florida glamour: pastel mansions, palm-lined avenues and a social scene that's been dazzling visitors since the late 1800s. Often called America's first resort destination, this barrier island on Florida's southeast coast blends luxury, history and elegance in a way few places can match.
Start with a stroll down Worth Avenue, lined with designer boutiques, art galleries and sidewalk cafes. Then explore the town's history. Tour Whitehall, Henry Flagler's opulent mansion that's now the Flagler Museum, and admire The Breakers, the grand oceanfront resort Flagler opened in 1896, inspired by the palaces of Renaissance Italy. Mediterranean-style estates and historic landmarks fill the island.
About 9,000 people live here full-time, but the population triples in winter when the snowbirds arrive, bringing extra energy to the season. Whether you come for beach days, shopping or culture, Palm Beach offers luxury with a relaxed coastal pace. I'll match you with the right resort and plan the dining and experiences that make a stay feel special.
BEST FOR
Couples, beach lovers, boutique shoppers and architecture fans
BEST MONTHS
November–April
EXPLORE
Worth Avenue features shopping and distinctive courtyards; the Lake Trail follows the Intracoastal; nearby West Palm Beach offers additional museums and dining across the bridges.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Palm Beach
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Elegant coastal avenues and Atlantic shoreline beauty
Coastal & Harbor
Luxury
Shopping
Golf
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Build an efficient cultural day around Flagler Museum, Worth Avenue and the Lake Trail, saving a separate day for the more spread-out attractions across Palm Beach County.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check guided-tour and special-event schedules before your visit.
Henry Morrison Flagler Museum
Tour Whitehall, the lavish former Flagler residence, for an introduction to Palm Beach’s Gilded Age origins and the development of Florida’s east coast.
Explore the small side vias, not only the main avenue.
Worth Avenue
Stroll a landmark shopping corridor with elegant courtyards, galleries and Mediterranean-inspired architecture, even if you are browsing rather than buying.
Go early for comfortable temperatures and bring water.
Palm Beach Lake Trail
Enjoy a waterside walk or bike ride with views over the Intracoastal Waterway and glimpses of historic residences.
Check beach conditions, public access points and parking rules.
Palm Beach Municipal Beach
Spend time on the Atlantic shore close to central Palm Beach, with an easy pairing of beach time and downtown strolls.
Visit in the morning and confirm operating days before heading over.
Mounts Botanical Garden
Explore themed tropical gardens in West Palm Beach, a quieter contrast to the beach and shopping districts.
A landmark luxury oceanfront resort in Palm Beach, suited to travelers seeking a full-service retreat with easy access to the island’s central shopping districts. Confirm resort inclusions and room categories.
The Breakers Palm Beach
Midtown / Oceanfront
Hotel Tags
A distinctive boutique hotel close to Worth Avenue, a strong choice for guests who enjoy walkable shopping, local restaurants and Palm Beach’s historic character. Verify beach arrangements and parking.
The Colony Hotel
Midtown / Near Worth Avenue
Hotel Tags
An upscale beachfront resort toward the southern part of Palm Beach island, suited to a relaxed ocean-focused stay. A car or arranged transfer helps with trips into the northern shopping district.
Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
South Palm Beach / Oceanfront
Hotel Tags
A boutique-style property set around courtyards near Palm Beach dining and shopping. Its intimate setting suits couples and guests who prefer a quieter hotel rather than a large beachfront resort.
The Brazilian Court Hotel
Midtown / Brazilian Avenue
Hotel Tags
A boutique luxury hotel near Royal Poinciana Way, convenient for island restaurants and northern Palm Beach attractions. Check beach transport arrangements and individual room types.
White Elephant Palm Beach
North End / Near Royal Poinciana Way
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Palm Beach
High 81°F · Low 67°F · Rain 3.8 in
Drier patterns may return, making outdoor walking attractive. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Worth Avenue.
November through April generally offers pleasantly warm, less humid sightseeing weather; summer is hotter and wetter. Atlantic hurricane season runs June through November, so monitor forecasts and travel flexibility.
Best Times to Visit Palm Beach
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Explore Worth Avenue and nearby streets for refined cafés and restaurants, or cross to downtown West Palm Beach and Clematis Street for a wider mix of casual dining and evening options. Waterfront tables are popular; reserve ahead during winter peak season.
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Parking & Island Access
Public parking varies by beach and shopping district, and time limits may be enforced. Review posted rules rather than assuming beach parking is free.
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Walking & Cycling
Worth Avenue and adjacent Palm Beach streets are pleasant for strolling; some waterfront routes also suit cycling. Use marked crossings and stay clear of private properties.
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Rideshares & Taxis
Rideshares and taxis work for short island transfers and West Palm Beach dining. Confirm pickup points at hotels and rail stations.
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Brightline & Regional Rail
Intercity Brightline trains and Tri-Rail provide options for travel through parts of South Florida, using stations on the mainland rather than directly on Palm Beach Island.
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Driving & Rental Cars
A car is useful for exploring Palm Beach Island, West Palm Beach and nearby coastal communities. Bridge approaches and island parking can be busy.
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Airports & Transfer
Palm Beach International Airport serves the area, with Fort Lauderdale and Miami as alternatives farther south. Transfer times change markedly with traffic.
Palm Beach International Airport serves the area. A rental car or rideshare is practical for trips between the island, West Palm Beach museums and northern county sights; downtown West Palm Beach also has rail connections. Budget extra time for bridge crossings at busy periods.
Getting Around Palm Beach
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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