A small town by the ocean is a rare thing in Florida. The state has grown so quickly along its coasts that you’re more likely to find condos and high-rise hotels than peaceful shores. But Tequesta is an exception. Located in the most northern part of Palm Beach County, west of the Jupiter Inlet, this village of about 6,000 people strikes the perfect balance of culture and nature with the laid-back feel of a small town.
Tequesta’s unique geography—it is surrounded by the Loxahatchee River, which feeds into the Atlantic Ocean through the nearby Jupiter Inlet—makes it a haven for nature lovers. You can kayak the river, or take a short drive across Cato’s Bridge to the beach at Coral Cove Park. Or explore the wilderness in nearby Jonathan Dickenson State Park. When you work up an appetite, the area has an impressive number of restaurants for its size. Ideal for a day trip or long weekend, Tequesta feels a bit like a hidden gem. Here are the best things to do there.
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Outdoor Adventures In Tequesta
As its name suggests, this beachfront park has dramatic rock formations with pools and crevices that are home to marine life. Tread carefully over the rocks—many are covered with mossy seaweed and can be slippery. Watching the waves crash over the formations is a beautiful sight. A portion of the beach is ideal for swimming and has lifeguards on duty, and there are picnic areas as well. For even larger, and more dramatic rock formations, head to Blowing Rocks Preserve in Hobe Sound, just north of Tequesta.
Located in nearby Hobe Sound, this is the largest park in Southeast Florida and a must-see if you’re in the area. The lush wildness of the land is a taste of Old Florida. On any given day you could spot a bald eagle, go on a guided nature walk, paddle or fish the Loxahatchee River, or take a tour in a horse-drawn wagon or on a pontoon boat. You can also learn about Trapper Nelson, the “wildman of Loxahatchee”, by touring his restored 1930s-era camp. And this is just the beginning—this vast park offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.
Attractions In The Tequesta Area
Climb to the top of this 1860 lighthouse for photo-worthy views of the area. While the bright structure itself is impressive, there are other interesting things to see here. Tindall Pioneer Homestead is a restored original Florida cracker-style house that’s open for tours. And the Secret Station J and History Museum is housed in a building where the U.S. Naval Supplementary Radio Station (Station J) operated during World War II.
Learn all about the Loxahatchee River through exhibits, touch tanks, aquariums, and more through The River Center’s educational programs. The center also hosts monthly events ranging from lectures to family fishing clinics.
The Lighthouse Art Center Gallery and School of Art is a source of pride in Tequesta. With year-round exhibitions and classes, this center has an active community of members and supporters. Check out whatever is on display and don’t miss the ArtShop, with its handmade pottery, jewelry, home goods, and other items.
Shoppers flock to Gallery Square North on Saturday mornings to find the freshest baked goods, produce, and other locally-sourced products. Open from 9 AM to 1 PM, the Tequesta Farmers Market is also a great place to find handmade gifts and clothing.
Drinking And Dining In Tequesta
This dog-friendly brewery offers a rotating menu of house-made beers and “guest taps,” as well as a wine list, plus a calendar of events (trivia night, music bingo) and live music. Kids are even welcome to hang out with their families until 6 p.m.
“Carve your own path” is the motto at this unique coffee/surf shop. You’ll find classic espresso drinks as well as creative options like the Beetroot Latte and the Turmeric Ginger Tonic. The food menu includes biscuit sandwiches, frittatas, and baked goods.
The Mediterranean coast is the inspiration for this fun and colorful restaurant by Chef Niven Patel and Mohamed “Mo” Alkassar. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and appetizers like a mezzeh platter in the warmly lit dining room (shown above) or plant-filled patio.
This popular spot looks straight out of the Caribbean with its tiki-inspired dining room and fresh catch menu of ceviche, tacos, conch soup, and entrees like crab-crusted snapper. The restaurant also has an extensive sushi menu as well.
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