A quick jaunt for most people on the East coast, sunny Jupiter might not be on everyone's travel radar, but it should be. The seaside Florida town is relaxed beachside living at its best, and the perfect spot to unwind and warm up now that the temperature has started to dip. We’re showing you what Jupiter has to offer, from where to sleep and where to spa, to what to do and where to get a great meal.
Sleep
There’s no better place to bed down in Jupiter than at Jupiter Beach Resort and Spa, a well-located gem that conveniently sits right on a secluded stretch of sand on the Atlantic Ocean. With a gym, a pool, a full-service spa, and an abundance of on-site activities, it’s not hard to see why the laid back yet sophisticated property gets so many repeat guests. In addition to the aforementioned pool, airy well-appointed rooms, and expertly-crafted cocktails at Sinclair’s Lounge, we love the fact the Jupiter Beach Resort is positioned so close to many of Jupiter’s best sights, attractions and restaurants. Grab a complementary bicycle from the resort to explore the area on two wheels so you can avoid the need for a car – and to work off all of the amazing seafood you’ll be eating.
Do
A highlight of any trip to Jupiter and certainly a highlight of ours, was a paddleboard tour through the mangroves with BlueLine Surf & Paddle Co. The tour can also be done in a kayak, but we opted for a paddleboard (and only ended up veering into said mangroves a few times). The scenic 90-minute tour is an excellent core and upper body workout, and a great way to get a sense of Jupiter’s natural beauty. Make time post-paddle to browse the cute casualwear on offer inside BlueLine. Think loose knits, rompers, sundresses and colourful accessories.
If you’d rather see the sights without donning a bathing suit and hopping on a paddleboard, opt instead for a Pon Tiki boat ride. You’ll get to see much of the same scenery, but from the comfort of a Pon Tiki boat complete with beer, wine, water, and other non-alcoholic beverages. We suggest timing your boat cruise to catch the sunset, which is beautiful in Jupiter.
History buffs and anyone who loves lighthouses should check out the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum. The tour is informative and a climb to the top provides expansive views across Jupiter. There’s a small museum and gift shop on site.
Spa
Follow all that sightseeing and activity with a visit to the Spa at Jupiter Beach Resort. There are a wide variety of treatments to choose from that pamper every part of your body. We went for the OPAL Signature Perfect Massage which allows spa goers to customize their ideal massage. For example, deep tissue can be combined with warm stone massage and topped off with a scalp massage. A consultation with the technician nets the perfect combo for 80 minutes of bliss. Come early or stay post-treatment to take full advantage of the organic tea bar, snacks, and deliciously rich drinking chocolate (sip or dip fruit in it).
Eat
You really could come to Jupiter just to eat, especially if you love fresh fish and seafood. We ate at a few spots worthy of repeat business.
Don’t let its strip mall location throw you off. There’s a good reason Jupiter locals (and those in the know) flock to Little Moir’s Food Shack. A vast menu of creative seafood dishes, local beer on tap, and a lively atmosphere make for an unforgettable experience. At Sinclair’s Ocean Grill at Jupiter Beach Resort, Executive Chef Ricky Gopeesingh creates beautifully plated dishes made from fresh ingredients, using bold flavours. A meal at Jetty’s is also a must for both the fresh seafood on offer and the waterside views, and head to Guanabanas for a relaxed tropical setting, extensive, creative cocktail menu, and great food.
