Top Outdoor Activities in Palm Beach, FL

When it comes to blending luxury living with an active outdoor lifestyle, few places compare to Palm Beach. With its year-round sunshine, pristine coastline, and historic charm, this island community offers endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you love the beach, boating, or a leisurely round of golf, the outdoor activities in Palm Beach cater to every pace and interest.

Stretching approximately five and a half miles along the Intracoastal Waterway, the Lake Trail is one of the most iconic outdoor experiences in Palm Beach. This paved, pedestrian-only pathway is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering breathtaking views of the water, historic mansions, and lush tropical landscapes.

Residents often enjoy early morning bike rides or sunset strolls along the trail, taking in sights like the Flagler Museum and the grand historic homes that line the route. The trail’s flat, scenic path makes it accessible for all ages and a favorite among those who appreciate active living with a view.

Few outdoor experiences capture the local lifestyle quite like a day at the beach. Palm Beach Municipal Beach, sometimes simply called Midtown Beach, offers easy public access, soft sand, and calm Atlantic waters perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

With lifeguards on duty, outdoor showers, and nearby cafes along South Ocean Boulevard, it’s easy to make a full day of sun and relaxation here. Many locals prefer arriving early to enjoy a peaceful sunrise over the water before the beach fills with families, sunbathers, and fitness enthusiasts later in the day.

Golf is woven into the lifestyle fabric of Palm Beach. The Breakers Ocean Course, originally designed by Alexander H. Findlay in 1897, is Florida’s oldest golf course and offers an elegant, oceanfront golfing experience with meticulously maintained greens and historic charm.

For a more casual but equally scenic option, locals love the Palm Beach Par 3 Golf Course. Redesigned by Hall of Famer Raymond Floyd, this 18-hole course offers stunning views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal. It’s ideal for golfers of all skill levels and offers a relaxed environment for a quick round or lessons.

One of the best ways to experience the waterways of Palm Beach is by boat. Private charters and guided tours are available to explore the island’s elegant waterfront estates, natural mangrove trails, and sparkling open waters. Whether you’re interested in a sunset cruise or a full-day deep-sea fishing trip, boating is a must-try for those who love life on the water.

For a more active experience, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the Intracoastal is a popular option. Calm waters and stunning scenery make this one of the area’s most accessible and rewarding outdoor activities.

For a perfect blend of beachside beauty and outdoor amenities, Phipps Ocean Park is a local favorite. Located on the quieter southern stretch of Palm Beach, the park offers more than just stunning ocean views. Here, you’ll find a tennis center, a scenic boardwalk winding through the dunes, shady picnic spots, and beach cabanas available for rent—ideal for a full day by the water.

Phipps Ocean Park is the kind of place where you can start your morning with a few games of pickleball, stroll the boardwalk with a coffee in hand, and spend the afternoon relaxing by the surf. It's less crowded than some of the more central beaches, making it a go-to spot for locals who appreciate a quieter, more laid-back slice of the Palm Beach lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for activity or pure relaxation, Phipps makes it easy to enjoy the best of both.

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience beyond the beach, the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in nearby West Palm Beach are a must-visit. Tucked away in the historic El Cid neighborhood, this hidden oasis spans two acres of dense tropical gardens and features more than 100 works by sculptor Ann Weaver Norton, including monumental brick sculptures designed to interact with the landscape.

Visitors can stroll shaded pathways lined with rare palms and native plants while discovering massive sculptures tucked between greenery, some towering as high as 15 feet. The property also includes Norton’s preserved 1920s home and studio, offering a rare glimpse into her artistic process. Throughout the season, the gardens host outdoor exhibitions, artist lectures, and special cultural events, making it a favorite for those seeking a peaceful yet inspiring afternoon just minutes from the heart of Palm Beach.

Palm Beach’s outdoor lifestyle is a natural reflection of its warm climate, coastal beauty, and strong sense of community. From scenic walking trails and historic golf courses to art-filled gardens and quiet parks, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active and connected to the environment. The town’s commitment to preserving green spaces and public amenities elevates everyday life and adds lasting value for those who call Palm Beach home.

Whether you're considering a move to the area or simply looking for new ways to enjoy the sun, these activities highlight the best of what this exclusive community has to offer.

If you’re considering a move and want to explore the finest homes for sale in Palm Beach, trust Elizabeth DeWoody to guide you. As a local real estate expert with deep knowledge of Palm Beach’s unique lifestyle offerings, Elizabeth can help you find a property that perfectly matches your vision. Connect today to start your journey toward a life of sun, sea, and endless outdoor adventure.