Jupiter in Palm Beach County is a popular holiday spot, straddling the River Loxahatchee as it winds its way to meet the Atlantic.   The beaches along the shoreline here attract both holidaymakers and celebrities – one of its most famous residents is Burt Reynolds and the local Burt Reynolds & Friends Museum is an impressive collection of memorabilia celebrating the famous actor and his involvement with the local community.

Another of the town’s most famous landmarks is the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse.  Built in 1860, it was painted its distinctive red in 1910 and is still used as a navigational aid today.  Tours of the lighthouse are recommended and a climb to the top will reveal fantastic coastal views.  You can learn more about the history of the lighthouse and the surrounding area at the neighbouring waterfront museum run by the Loxahatchee River Historical Society.

From one of the oldest landmarks to the newest - Riverwalk is an ongoing project along the eastern shoreline of the Intracoastal Waterway.  Part of this recreational route, alongside the Jupiter Yacht Club, has been already opened and when finished it will provide almost 3 miles of pedestrian and bike paths along the water as well as observation decks and fishing jetties.

But if it’s beaches you’re after then head for Jupiter Beach Park where you’ll find plenty of facilities including lifeguard stations, picnic areas and a fishing jetty.  Or head south to the sands of Juno Beach which are also an important nesting site for Loggerhead turtles (May - September).  For a glimpse of this endangered species, you’re best joining an organised turtle watch for a nocturnal visit.

For more encounters with the local wildlife, head north to Jonathan Dickinson State Park where you will find a choice of walking and off-road biking trails.  Look out for the gopher tortoise, bald eagle and alligators along the way.  As well as boat trips, visitors are able to hire motorboats and canoes and you can paddle your way through the forest and down to Jupiter along the scenic Loxahatchee River.

Continuing north, Blowing Rocks Preserve, located on Jupiter Island, is also worth a visit.  During extreme high tides, the waves break against the limestone shore, forcing saltwater geysers up towards the sky – an impressive sight which gives the sanctuary its name.  Visitors can also enjoy an interpretive nature trail and butterfly garden. Parking here is limited and there are small fees for accessing the beach.