YEAR 2017

Experience Ocean, Lakes and Everglades in The Palm Beaches, Florida

Discover the best way to experience Florida’s great outdoors, unique wildlife and natural beauty in The Palm Beaches. Situated between 47 miles of Atlantic Ocean and the shores of Lake Okeechobee, the largest lake in the southeastern United States, The Palm Beaches is the gateway to the Everglades and home to treasured animal sanctuaries, untouched nature preserves and a diverse range of soft adventure activities.

TAKE A HIKE (OR PICTURE) Beauty is just a short hike away. The terrain is mostly flat, but tropical trees and plants abound with exotic wonder. Trek alongside wetlands in the Everglades or through wide-open wet prairie, no matter the trail, hikers will find sunshine serenity.

DuPuis Management Area – Canal Point, FL The DuPuis Management Area is a 21,875-acre multi-use natural area located in the northwestern part of The Palm Beaches. The park land is interspersed with numerous ponds, wet prairies, cypress domes, pine flatwoods and remnant Everglades marsh. The area provides miles of hiking and horseback trails, an equestrian center, graded vehicle roads, backpack and group campsites as well as seasonal hunting. DuPuis is far from urban areas, and its dark night sky lends itself to excellent stargazing.

Harold A. Campbell Public Use Area This site covers 17,000 acres on the southern border of The Palm Beaches, making it the largest constructed wetland in the world. Its public use area provides access to vast wetland habitat where bicyclists, hikers and birdwatchers can see a variety of wildlife native to Florida.

J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area – West Palm Beach, FL Situated approximately 25 miles northwest of West Palm Beach and 23 miles east of Lake Okeechobee is 60,348- acre Corbett Wildlife Management Area. Spend a day exploring the park’s trails on foot, by bike or on horseback. Corbett is also a stop along the Great Florida Birding Trail and Florida National Scenic Trail.

Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) Walk, hike, rollerblade, bicycle or horseback ride around Lake Okeechobee. Designated as part of the Florida National Scenic Trail in 1993, the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail is an approximately 110-mile long trail, which borders the lake. More than half of the trail is paved, and the remainder is a two-track gravel roadway.

Loxahatchee Slough Natural Area – Palm Beach Gardens, FL The headwaters of the federally designated, wild and scenic Loxahatchee River start here. Find the headwaters on trails that run through wet prairie, Everglades slough marsh, wet flatwoods and more.

Northeast Everglades Natural Area (NENA) The Northeast Everglades Natural Area (NENA) is a network of multi-use trails that offer 10-foot wide shell rock paths, shade shelters and other amenities for cyclists, hikers and horseback riders. The Bluegill Trail extends 5.5 miles from Sandhill Crane Access Park in Palm Beach Gardens to Riverbend Park in Jupiter. Its 35 conservation areas and 13 activity-education centers, ensure a full immersion in the great outdoors within the 165,000-acre NENA footprint.

Pine Glades Natural Area – Jupiter, FL This natural area contains five native Florida ecosystems: mesic flatwoods, wet flatwoods, wet prairie, depression marsh, and dome swamp. In addition, there are over seven miles of natural surface hiking trails including a half-mile restored segment of the historic Old Wire Trail from the 1850s. Restoration efforts during the past 10-year period have turned this area into a wetland wonderland. It offers accessible and soft surface hiking trails, a covered observation platform, a fishing pier and a canoe-kayak launch ramp.

The Wakodahatchee Wetlands – Delray Beach, FL Walk the trail to see marshes, ponds and sunning alligators. Become immersed in this serene locale, ideal for photography.

For a full list of natural areas in The Palm Beaches, visit http://www.pbcgov.com/erm/natural/natural-areas/.

START PADDLING Grab a canoe, kayak or paddleboard to explore The Palm Beaches’ eco tresses. Plan the outing using “Paddling Treasures: A Guide to Lake Worth Lagoon and Loxahatchee River Estuary” to find more than 20 kayak/canoe launch ramps and associated points of interest while exploring the coastal waters of The Palm Beaches.

Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge – Boynton Beach, FL Paddling this northern portion of the Everglades is like paddling on a "river of grass," at eye level through sawgrass marsh. The refuge is a prime area for birding and for wildlife watching that can be found in this unique eco-system. The Visitor Center is located next to the 0.4 mile Cypress Swamp Boardwalk. Nearby find a butterfly garden, walking trails, observation areas, a boat ramp, fishing pier, bike trail and canoe trail.

Blueline Surf & Paddle Company – Jupiter, FL Bluelne Surf & Paddle Co. located in Jupiter, Florida is a one of a kind surf boutique for the modern waterman or woman. Blueline specializes in anything water, including standup paddle boarding, surfing and body surfing.

Canoe Outfitters of Florida, Inc. – Jupiter, FL Canoe Outfitters of Florida, Inc. is located on Florida's only "National Wild and Scenic River," the Loxahatchee. The wildlife refuge is famous for its large stands of Bald Cypress, bird population and diverse ecosystems. Paddle a canoe or kayak down a cypress-lined waterway, past heron, egrets, turtles, deer and all manner of birds and four- legged wildlife. Self-guided and guided trips are available.

John D. Macarthur Beach State Park – North Palm Beach, FL Paddlers may oar around the estuary or travel under Burnt Bridge into Lake Worth Lagoon and visit Munyon Island – an outlying part of the Park with a rich history. Depending on the season, see manatees, dolphins, mullet, snook, rays, and abundant birdlife. Munyon Island is best visited when the tide is high, enabling navigation of its scenic interior waterways.

Jupiter Outdoor Center – Jupiter, FL Jupiter Outdoor Center offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, guided eco-tours, lessons, memberships and a variety of camps and youth programs. Kayak with sea turtles in the Loxahatchee Aquatic Preserve, see birds on the islands, or paddle with manatees in the Indian River Lagoon, the most bio-diverse estuary in the country.

Jupiter Waterway Trail – Jupiter, FL The Jupiter Waterway Trail is a series of waterway markers that connect the Loxahatchee River, Intracoastal Waterway and Jupiter Inlet. These legs and off-shoots create a natural playground of eco-tourism activities, from kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding to snorkeling, boating, fishing and diving. Adjacent natural areas also encourage “near-water” activities like hiking, biking, beaching and bird-watching.

Riverbend Park – Jupiter, FL It’s been a Seminole Wars battle site and pioneer homestead, but nowadays, Riverbend can be discovered by kayak or canoe. Paddle along five miles of waterway trails, including the headwaters for the Loxahatchee River. Hiking, horseback riding and bicycling trails are also available.

Singer Island Outdoor Center – Riviera Beach, FL Located at Phil Foster Park at the base of the Blue Heron Bridge, Singer Island Outdoor Center boasts quality and easy-to-use kayaks and paddleboards for rent. Explore Singer Island, Peanut Island and Lake Worth Lagoon. Guided snorkeling tours of the surrounding water’s abundant sea life are also available.

Snook Islands Natural Area – Lake Worth, FL This is a great starting point to canoe or kayak across Lake Worth Lagoon. Cruise alongside the boardwalk and fishing pier, or paddle through restored seagrass beds and growing oyster reefs – into the heart of the Lagoon.

Wild and Scenic Loxahatchee River The Loxahatchee River is not just a river, it’s a time machine. Become an explorer from a bygone time, meander down the Loxahatchee in a kayak or canoe as if discovering Florida’s interior for the first time. One of the state’s most unique treasures, the Loxahatchee River winds through freshwater creeks, down into a brackish estuary, and empties through the Jupiter Inlet into the Atlantic Ocean. The Loxahatchee was the first river in Florida to earn a federal designation as “Wild and Scenic”.

TAKE A RIDE – CATCH A FISH Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway, Lake Worth Lagoon or head out into the Atlantic Ocean. Breeze across the Florida Everglades on a propeller-powered airboat or find a quiet lake to cast a line. Whether it’s a rented vessel or a chartered boat with a captain, tour and fish the local waterways of The Palm Beaches.

Black Sparrow Pirate Adventures – Riviera Beach, FL Embark on an epic family adventure on board the Black Sparrow Pirate ship. Have an experience never to be forgotten searching for long lost treasures and battling the pirates of Peanut Island.

Blue Heron Fleet LLC – Jupiter/Riviera Beach, FL Delivering family fun for more than 50 years, Blue Heron Fleet LLC offers some of the largest and most comfortable fishing vessels available in The Palm Beaches. Excellent fishing year-round can be experienced from the comforts of cushioned seating at both Jupiter and Riviera Beach.

Lacuna Tours – Jupiter, FL Lacuna luxury boat tours offers sightseeing, kids fishing, beaches, snorkeling, and eco tours on the Intracoastal Waterway. Each cruise is private with drink and snack selections included. Lacuna Tours is centrally located between Palm Beach and Jupiter and the areas many golf courses.

STROLL ON A BEACH The Palm Beaches boasts 47 miles of Atlantic coast shoreline and offers numerous public oceanfront and inlet parks from Tequesta to Boca Raton. Many public swimming areas are guarded year-round, seven days a week. Check out current conditions using the county’s beach cams at www.pbcgov.com/erm/beachcams.htm.

Atlantic Dunes Park – Delray Beach, FL Atlantic Dunes Park is located one block north of Linton Blvd. on AIA and is lifeguard supervised by the Ocean Rescue Division. There is a boardwalk and nature trail in addition to metered parking, a pavilion, public restrooms and picnic tables

Boynton Beach Oceanfront Park – Boynton Beach, FL Sail-shade canopy covered walkways, a hardwood boardwalk and the large sea turtle sculpture combine to welcome visitors. Toss in umbrella and lounge chair rentals for relaxing, a great playground and concession stand, and enjoy one of the coolest beach parks around. Amenities include: amble parking, BBQ grills, showers, restrooms, concessions, pavilions, picnic tables and playgrounds.

Carlin Park – Jupiter, FL One of the largest beach areas in The Palm Beaches, Carlin Park offers bocce ball, softball, tennis and volleyball facilities. Run or walk the exercise course that features 20 training stations. Have a snack at Lazy Loggerhead café or light up one of the grills. Children will love the playground before or after beach time. The Seabreeze Amphitheater features live music, special events and the annual Shakespeare by the Sea Festival. Amenities include: pavilions, large beach, covered picnic tables and fishing.

Coral Cove Park – Tequesta, FL This quiet beach offers great snorkeling. Sea turtles, eels, fish and sharks all swim the reefs and rocks of Coral Cove. Amenities include: BBQ grills, playground and picnic tables.

DuBois Park – Jupiter, FL This gem is a large park located on the mouth of Jupiter Inlet with fantastic views of the Jupiter Lighthouse. Take a canoe or kayak and paddle to the Loxahatchee River. Amenities include: DuBois Pioneer Home, Indian Mounds, parking, BBQ grills, showers, restrooms, picnic tables and small family beach.

Peanut Island Park – Riviera Beach, FL The Island is a family sanctuary featuring great snorkeling, pathways, overnight camping and swimming. Best ways to visit the island is by water taxi from nearby Sailfish Marina or Riviera Beach Marina - or anchor a boat right along the shoreline. Tour the John F. Kennedy Bunker, a historical reminder of the Cold War of the 60s. Amenities include: BBQ grills, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, pier and observation deck.

Phil Foster Park – Riviera Park, FL Known for its underwater snorkeling trail and the remarkable sea life found under the Blue Heron Bridge, this Park has become internationally recognized by scientists, scuba divers, underwater photographers, and snorkelers. Amenities include: boat dock, parking, BBQ grills, picnic tables and fishing pier.

Red Reef Park – Boca Raton, FL Swim the Atlantic, fish the Intracoastal Waterway, snorkel at high tide are just a few of the aqua adventures available. After a day in the water, visit Gumbo Limbo Nature Center or go for a round of golf. The Center is located at the north end of the park along with a 9-hole executive golf course. Amenities include: nature walks, showers, restrooms, picnic area, BBQ grills.

For a full list of beaches located in The Palm Beaches, visit http://www.pbcgov.com/parks/aquatics/beaches/#.VVESVE10yUk.

DIVE OR SNORKEL COLORFUL REEFS FILLED WITH MARINE LIFE Due to its proximity to the Gulf Stream Ocean current, The Palm Beaches offer excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling on its numerous artificial reefs. From six to nearly 300 feet deep, there’s another world to explore underwater in The Palm Beaches.

Ana Cecilia Cargo Ship – Lake Worth, FL The Ana Cecilia, a 170-foot Halter Marine general cargo ship built in 1972, was sunk 1.25 miles off the Lake Worth Inlet in 85-feet of water in July 2016, where it is in the natural process of becoming an additional marine habitat as part of the artificial reef system managed by the Palm Beach County Department of Environmental Resources Management (ERM) with the purpose of drawing divers away from natural reefs, ensuring their sustainability.

Andrea’s Reef – Singer Island, FL Andrea’s Reef is the newest artificial reef in The Palm Beaches, was sunk off the shores of Ocean Reef Park on Singer Island on Thursday, August 11, 2016. The reef, which was dedicated to a local three-time breast cancer survivor, Andrea Torrente, features a number of sculptures including Roman columns, a treasure chest, sea turtles, stingrays, and a life-sized mermaid modeled after Torrente.

Jupiter Dive Center – Jupiter, FL At Jupiter Dive Center explore the fantastic coral reefs, ridges, and wrecks. Daily Scuba Diving Charters are offered year-round.

Palm Beach County Diving Association – Palm Beach Gardens, FL Palm Beach County Diving Association in Palm Beach Gardens is an organization of dive professionals who share a mission of providing safe, courteous service to dive clients while working to protect the marine environment through ecologically sound dive and snorkel protocols practiced by both staff and customers.

Palm Beach Eco Tours – Riviera Beach, FL Palm Beach Eco Tours offers fun for everyone, with handicapped-accessible fishing charters, evening cruises, snorkeling adventures and summer camps. Its new vessel, the Thea Marie, has been custom-designed with a loading ramp, bathroom and rounded sides to accommodate wheelchairs. Its electric snorkeling Sea Spis are driven and controlled by hand, providing a view of the underwater world while cruising Peanut Island. Kayaking, paddle- boarding and sailing activities are also available.

Palm Breeze Charters, Inc. – Boca Raton, FL Palm Breeze Charters, Inc. offers catamaran sailing yachts and offshore race boats, as well as day, sunset, snorkeling and swimming cruises. Peanut Island beach parties, beach activities, wave runners, offshore race boat thrill rides, seaplanes, snorkeling, sailing regattas, race boat poker runs, raft parties, kayak tours, bicycle tours and luxury motor yacht charters are also available.

Pura Vida Divers – Singer Island, FL Located on Singer Island, Pura Vida Divers full service PADI IDC dive shop offers daily scuba charters, private charters, scuba instruction, professional level instruction, air and Nitrox fills, and equipment sales, service, and rentals.

Visit Palm Beach – West Palm Beach/ Riviera Beach, FL Visit Palm Beach is a premier provider of recreational water activities, tours, excursions, rentals and events in South Florida. Enjoy daily catamaran sightseeing, sunset and specialty sailing cruises, parasailing, jet skis, kayaks, paddle boards, snorkeling, Peanut Island adventures, biking, history & nature tours and more.

EXPLORE WILDLIFE HABITATS: From the Florida Everglades and the Loxahatchee River to the Atlantic Ocean, discover some of nature's most beautiful wildlife habitats in The Palm Beaches.

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary – Jupiter, FL The Busch Wildlife Sanctuary offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn about Florida’s wildlife and natural environments. This unique refuge combines a nature center with a wildlife hospital. Nature trails lead through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and cypress wetlands. Along the trails are wildlife habitats exhibiting a variety of native animals from eagles to panthers, crocodiles, foxes, snakes, bears, and more.

Daggerwood Nature Center – Boca Raton, FL Daggerwing Nature Center features a 3,000 sq ft. exhibit hall with live animals and interactive state-of-the-art exhibits, classroom facilities, laboratory, lobby, reading area, and an elevated boardwalk that provides a relaxing journey through a swamp. The boardwalk has two trails, bench-style seating, as well as an observation tower to view the abundant plant and animal life including: osprey, woodpeckers, butterflies, endangered wood storks, alligators, and a wide variety of bromeliads.

Grassy Waters Preserve – West Palm Beach, FL Taking in a 23 square mile wetlands ecosystem, the Grassy Waters Preserve serves as the freshwater supply for the City of West Palm Beach and the towns of South Palm Beach and Palm Beach Island. A mosaic of wetlands, tree islands, and forested hammocks, the preserve is home to native Florida wildlife. Commonly sighted species include the everglades snail kite, wood stork, white ibis, great blue heron, white tailed deer, otter, bobcat, and alligator.

Green Cay Nature Center – Boynton Beach, FL Green Cay Nature Center is The Palm Beaches’ newest nature center, which overlooks 100 acres of constructed wetland and provides educational opportunities about this unique habitat. The wetland features 1.5 miles of elevated boardwalk featuring interpretive signs about the habitat. The Nature Center includes a lecture hall, gift shop, and live animals in an extensive exhibit room that highlights wetland attributes.

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center – Boca Raton, FL Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, a unique cooperative project of the City of Boca Raton, Greater Boca Raton Beach and Park District, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), and Friends of Gumbo Limbo, hosts valuable environmental programs for children, adults and families, as well as sea turtle themed activities and events. Programs include sea turtle summer camps, turtle walks, hatchling release observations and free outdoor marine feedings.

Jupiter Ridge Natural Area – Juno Beach, FL The Intracoastal Waterway touches alongside the Natural Area, becoming a draw for birds traveling along the Great Florida Birding Trail. The natural area contains five native Florida ecosystems - scrub, scrubby flatwoods, mesic flatwoods, depression marsh, and mangrove swamp – to be explored.

Loggerhead Marinelife Center – Juno Beach, FL Loggerhead Marinelife Center is an ocean conservation organization and sea turtle hospital located adjacent to Juno Beach, one of the most important sea turtle nesting beaches in the world. Providing free admission to more than 215,000 visitors each year, The Center serves as a sea turtle rehabilitation hospital, with staff leading specialty tours to see these gentle giants coming to nest.

McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary – West Palm Beach, FL McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary has treated hundreds of native animals that were sick or injured. From foxes to bobcats, Sandhill Cranes to pelicans, hawks and owls, local wildlife has received veterinarian care by staff and then released back into their native habitat. Guided tours of the Sanctuary are available by reservation only. Children must be age five and over to attend.

Okeeheelee Nature Center, West Palm Beach, FL Okeeheelee Nature Center features 2.5 miles of trails winding through 90 acres of pine flatwoods and wetlands. Highlights of the center include hands-on exhibits, animal encounters and a nature related gift shop. Marvel at birds of prey, touch a live snake or prowl for owls during one of the many programs scheduled throughout the year for families, youth and adults.

Panther Ridge Conservation – West Palm Beach, FL Panther Ridge’s custom-built facilities are among the finest in the world, providing the cats with native-like habitats, protection from the elements, ample rule to roam, stimulation, and daily attention to their medical needs. Guided tours are available by appointment.

River Center – Jupiter, FL The Loxahatchee River Environmental Center 'River Center' features live aquatic tanks, interactive exhibits, and a touch tank that represent the river system from a freshwater cypress swamp to seagrass-dominated estuary to marine ecosystems. The center provides an opportunity for school children, adults, visitors, and long-time residents an opportunity to learn about Florida's first National Wild and Scenic River.

DISCOVER THE EVERGLADES As the gateway to The Florida Everglades, The Palm Beaches provides access to explore this U.S. natural treasure. The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge comprises more than 221 square miles of The Everglades, and is surrounded by a 57-mile canal and levee system. The unique experience of an airboat tour can be enjoyed along some of Florida’s most serene and scenic waterways. Paddling is also a popular way to explore these awe-inspiring surroundings and spot native wildlife. Farther north, the Grassy Waters Preserve is a 23-square-mile wetland that remains a pristine remnant of this ancient ecosystem. Artists come to paint this mosaic of wetlands, tree islands and forested hammocks. Among other attractions of interest are the many unique and scenic state parks, campgrounds and hiking trails. Learn more at http://www.palmbeachfl.com/vacations/eco-adventure/roam- explore/everglades/.

DISCOVER LAKE OKEECHOBEE Lake Okeechobee is Florida's largest lake and the second largest body of fresh water in the United States. The word Okeechobee comes from the Seminole Indian language "Oki" (water) and "Chubi" (big) and means "big water." These early Floridians chose the name well. Vast surface area (730 square miles), shallowness (averaging only nine feet deep) and enormous habitat diversity makes the ecosystem unique on the North American continent. The lake is a multiple-use resource, which supports valuable commercial and sport fisheries, provides flood control, and acts as a reservoir for potable and irrigation water for much of south Florida. Learn more at http://www.myfwc.com/fishing/freshwater/sites-forecast/s/lake-okeechobee/.

DISCOVER LAKE WORTH LAGOON Significant work has been accomplished over the past few decades to protect, restore and enhance the Lake Worth Lagoon. Explore a portion of this 20-mile long waterbody at the Snook Islands Natural Area in the city of Lake Worth. This created habitat is home to many plants and animals. Visitors might spot an American oystercatcher or a Florida manatee. There’s a boardwalk, an accessible kayak launch, bike racks and informational kiosks. Bring a fishing pole and caste line from the nearly 600-foot long fishing pier. Learn more at www.pbcgov.com/erm/lakes/estuarine/snook/.

STAY WHERE YOU PLAY The Palm Beaches’ offers a variety of hotel accommodations from wild to relaxing.

John Prince Park Campground – Lake Worth, FL Enjoy a relaxing stay at an RV/tent site nestled throughout the 48-acre campground, located in John Prince Park. Launch a watercraft from the boat ramp and enjoy a fun-filled day with friends and family on beautiful Lake Osborne. Enjoy bird watching and other animal sightings while exploring the gorgeous 726-acre park. Enjoy a quiet dinner for two or a group barbeque.

Juno Ocean Walk RV Resort – Juno Beach, FL The Juno Ocean Walk Condo Association and RV Resort is a tropical resort family community of 246 RV sites, which features a combination of rental sites, RV's, and Park models. Located just off Route 1 in Juno Beach, Florida, the resort is walking distance to a magnificent public beach, fishing pier, and the Bluff's Shopping Plaza.

Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa – Singer Island, FL The AAA Four-Diamond Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa is the only all-suite beachfront property in Palm Beach County. Located on the beach and within minutes from shopping, cultural activities, entertainment and sporting events, the hotel features 193 suites with private terraces, a 24-hour fitness center, signature restaurant, lounge, pool bar & grill, coffee shop, two outdoor swimming pools, on-site watersport activities and spa. The Little Loggerhead Package at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa keeps the whole family busy with unlimited non-motorized watersports, a visit to see the sea turtles at Loggerhead Marinelife Center.

Peanut Island Campground – Riviera Beach, FL Peanut Island Campground is well-situated for fishing and boating. Located on a spoil island, it is surrounded by the Intracostal Waterway beside the Lake Worth Inlet. The Palm Beaches only island park offers 20 tropically landscaped, reserved campsites that include a tent pad, grill, and picnic table. The facility also features restrooms with hot indoor showers, a picnic pavilion, and a large fire ring.

South Bay RV Campground – South Bay, FL South Bay RV Campground is situated next to Lake Okeechobee (boat ramp access) and features fire rings, a recreation hall and WiFi. Spacious paved RV sites include water, sewer, electric, and a picnic table and grill.

###

About Discover The Palm Beaches Discover The Palm Beaches, formerly the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the official tourism marketing corporation that promotes the collection of 39 cities and towns and 15 tourism districts spanning 2,000 square miles and 47 miles of pristine beaches from Boca Raton to Jupiter, commonly referred to as The Palm Beaches of South Florida. Tourism is among Palm Beach County's major industries. It generates an annual economic impact of $7.1 billion in the local economy, produces $4.55 billion in direct visitor spending and supports more than 60,000 jobs.

MEDIA CONTACTS: Ashley Svarney, Discover The Palm Beaches [email protected] /561-233-3030

Kayla Lynskey, Development Counsellors International [email protected] /212-444-7199