Vacation in Glorious West Palm Beach, Florida
by Paul H. Green
West Palm Beach is a beautiful city in the southern Florida metropolitan area. As the county seat of Palm Beach County, it abounds with exciting opportunities for visitors. Culture, sports, recreation and events continue year-round for the best entertainment and recreation to be found.
The tropical weather makes this southern paradise an attractive vacation and retirement area. Winters are mild with lows mostly in the 40s. Summer is a contrast with hot and humid weather lasting about six months, from May through October. The temperature is typically around 90, but frequent afternoon thunderstorms and winds off the Atlantic Ocean help temper the heat.
About West Palm Beach
Henry Flagler began buying up property in this area in the 1890s. His intention was to build a community for house servants. He laid out the streets and named them after native plants. He built two grand hotels on the neighboring island of Palm Beach across Lake Worth, where he employed a large number of workers. Many of these families have stayed in West Palm Beach for generations.
After going through changes of industry and growth, West Palm Beach has emerged as a leading city in this area. The city's historic quarters have been developed along with new high-rises, shopping venues, and entertainment districts. The breathtaking skyline is constantly changing with new residential buildings and attractions for tourists. The latest developments include a new library and a new convention center in the City Center, a waterfront park, a photographic and arts center, and new shops.
Local Arts and Culture
For those seeking enjoyment through the arts, West Palm Beach has many prospects to treasure. At the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, more than 400,000 people attend the events annually. There you can see world-class performances in music, theatre, opera, and dance.
The Norton Museum of Art (http://www.norton.org/) is the largest art museum in Florida. It is internationally known for its collection of 19th and 20th century American and European paintings and sculptures. There are masterpieces by renowned artists such as Gauguin, Monet, Picasso, Hopper, and Hassam. The museum also hosts classes and seminars for children and adults.
Festivals and Events in West Palm Beach
Started in 1982, the annual SunFest is a huge waterfront festival in Florida. Every year, thousands of visitors come to the festival to enjoy the extraordinary art and music. Dozens of well-known artists have performed at this festival. You never know who might be there to entertain.
The National Horse Show (http://www.nhs.org/) is the oldest horse show in America. It is one of the most influential shows in the country where you can see the top horses and riders. The Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction draws thousands of people to see the many unique cars for sale. Some of the classics and famous personal autos have brought amazing prices.
West Palm Beach hosts weekly events and festivals throughout the year. The Moonfest is held shortly before Halloween, and winter festivals are held on Saturdays on Second Street. These city festivals feature live music and a festive atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities – Fun for the Family
In Palm Beach County, you will find some of the best fishing in the world. Take a fishing trip on a charter boat and pull in the big ones from this fertile fishing ground. With the warm Atlantic Gulf Stream just minutes from the beach, you can easily land a sailfish or other prize fish from the blue waters.
The warm waters, the outstanding coral reef ecosystems, and wrecks make this an ideal scuba diving destination. This area is rated the 4th best overall destination in North America by Rodale's Scuba Diving. Visibility averages 60 to 100 feet with comfortable water temperatures for year-round diving.
This is also an excellent place to enjoy the water on speed boats, jet skis, and sailboats. Golf enthusiasts love the Cypress Creek Golf Club and the Emerald Dunes. These courses are beautifully designed with waterfalls, ponds, and dunes for exciting and unique playing.
There are numerous beaches, campgrounds and parks for families to vacation and frolic in the water. Dyer Park has a 33-acre lake with picnic tables and miles of biking, hiking, and equestrian trails. There are also a playground, volleyball court, ball fields, and a radio-controlled airplane facility. At Lake Osborne (http://www.hawghunter.net/Lake_Osborne.htm) in Lake Worth, there are campgrounds, fishing areas, trails, and playgrounds at this 726-acre park.
Visit the nearby beaches where you can enjoy swimming, water sports, and many other water activities. At the Burt Reynolds Park, you can visit the Loxahatchee River Historical Museum while enjoying the beautiful beach. Carlin Park is another beach where you can make use of playgrounds, sports facilities, and much more. Coral Cove Park is a scenic beach with rock formations where you can fish and grill out as you watch the boats and ships on the Intracoastal Waterway.
In West Palm Beach, there is much more to do. Spas and salons cater to your needs, and shopping varies from markets to exclusive shops. The nightlife is exciting with fine dining of all varieties. There are amusement parks for the kids, numerous golf courses for the retirees, and spectator sports for all to delight in.
Accommodations for Travelers
Accommodations in West Palm Beach vary from the economical to luxurious resorts. The Best Western Palm Beach Lakes Inn is centrally located to the local attractions. This hospitable and budget-friendly facility offers suites, meeting rooms, and high-speed Internet as well as comfortable rooms.
The Bradley Park Hotel is in a convenient location for shopping, beach access, and attractions. This beautiful hotel was built in 1924 in an opulent Mediterranean style. It is furnished lavishly with amenities to satisfy the highest expectations. Biba is one of Florida's top ten hotels. It is reasonably priced and furnished in a retro design. Rooms include flat-screen TVs, Internet access, and Italian sheets and towels. The continental breakfast includes fresh juice, fruits, Hawaiian coffee, and other delicacies.
West Palm Beach has so much to offer tourists and residents. Activities and entertainment are available at every turn. Whether you're an active person or just like to relax, treat yourself to a vacation in West Palm Beach.