This Florida Town North Of West Palm Beach Is An Underrated Coastal Gem With Sea Turtles

Some sand on your flip-flops or shoes is a worthy tradeoff for a coastal paradise. This underrated Florida beach town is not just a walkable getaway with retro vibes and seaside charm or a bucket list gem, it's pure atmosphere. Imagine salty air, stunning beaches, lots of sea turtles and majestic sunset vistas that make you feel like Mother Nature is showing off! It's like being invited with a wink and cold drink as the sandy shores and tranquil ocean waves do their magic. That's what you get when you visit Juno Beach, a remote beach town tucked on the beautiful shoreline of south Florida in Palm Beach County.

Known for its sun-kissed Beach Park, Juno Beach is the ideal destination for travelers seeking to unwind or recharge in serenity without crowds. Beach lovers and nature lovers will appreciate the number of nature and water-related activities they can enjoy here. The beach is located along I-95, and lies about six miles south of Jupiter, six miles northeast of Palm Beach Gardens, and about 19 miles north of Palm Beach International Airport (PBI).

The barrier island's formation dates back to the late-1800s, when the Intracoastal Waterway was cut through Lake Worth and dredged along Old Lake Worth Creek. It was officially established in 1953 with around 130 permanent residents. Today, it's grown into a vibrant coastal town with businesses, oceanfront properties, and condos, making it a great destination for a vacation.

Tucked between two extensive waterways (Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway), Juno Beach is a haven for nature lovers who appreciate marine life and outdoor recreation. Enthusiasts will be thrilled by the Loggerhead Marinelife Center along US Hwy. 1. The facility not only serves as a sea turtle rehabilitation, research and education center, but also hosts several turtles on-site, offering tours of a sea turtle hospital where travelers can learn more about rehabilitating sick or injured turtles. For a chance to see nesting sea turtles, visit between June and July. The center also hosts workshops and events year-round, such as TurtleFest, which encourages ocean conservation. The best part? It's free and open to the public. It was recognized as one of the best free attractions in the US by USA Today in 2025. And since Miami is close by, you can add it to your list of fun free things to do during your next trip to Miami!

Another highlight of the town is Juno Beach Park, the ideal spot for relaxing by the ocean while soaking in stunning views of the Atlantic. It features soft golden sand, great for lounging or building sand castles, as well as pristine waters and calm waves perfect for snorkeling, surfing, swimming, and kayaking. Kayaking and paddling gear are available for rent from local outfitters.

As you explore the turquoise waters, be on the lookout for different bird species, dolphins and manatees. Amenities at the beach park include outdoor showers, picnic tables, and a designated swimming area. For a leisurely stroll, plus opportunities to catch different types of fish, Juno Beach Pier won't disappoint. Extending about 900 feet into the Atlantic, the pier gives anglers opportunities to catch different types of fish, including mackerel and snapper, while photographers can capture majestic sunrise or sunset vistas.

After you've had your fill of the coastal town vibe and sea turtles, or need to mix things up, there are plenty of destinations and attractions nearby that are sure to captivate. Coral Cove Park, about seven miles north of town on Jupiter Island, offers the perfect escape from the popular Florida Beaches. The park features limestone formations stretching out into the Atlantic Ocean, and is great for swimming, snorkeling, fishing and shelling. Amenities in the park include bathrooms, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Nature enthusiasts will fall in love with John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, located about four miles south of Juno Beach. The park is home to two trails: Dune Hammock Trail and Richard Weinstein Satinleaf Trail, that wander through floral foliage, towering trees and dense fern cover. The former is roughly a third-mile long, and passes through tropical and subtropical greenery leading to a beach, while the latter is a 1.3-mile walk meandering through hammocks.

If shopping is your thing, pause by Gardens Mall, about five miles southwest. The destination features over 130 different stores, including Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Athleta, Victoria's Secret, and more. For local shopping, head five miles southeast to Downtown Palm Beach Gardens. Here you will find local retailers with offerings like exotic spices, artsy gifts, and pottery. For history-minded visitors, the Historic Flagler Museum, 12 miles south, is sure to captivate! The Beaux-Arts mansion was built in 1902 for Standard Oil co-founder Henry Flagler's third wife. It features 75 different rooms with furniture, fixtures and original art that give a brief look into the lives of the super-rich at that time.