Florida is one of the most-visited vacation destinations with some of the most popular beach towns in the U.S. Take US Route 1 along the Sunshine State's east coast between the border of Georgia and Key West, with its many things to do, and you'll have your pick of exciting beachy destinations for laying out in the sun and swimming all day.
Florida's southeast region alone is home to well-known coastal communities like Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach, but destinations like these often attract millions of visitors annually.
If you prefer to skip the most crowded and, perhaps, overrated beach towns, opt for Lake Worth Beach, one of southeast Florida's most underrated beaches, where fun in the sun and sand is met with a Bohemian, artsy feel.
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Why You Should Visit Lake Worth Beach
While not as popular as neighboring beach towns along the southeastern Florida coast, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach, there are many exciting reasons why you should visit Lake Worth Beach.
Located a mere 63 miles north of Miami in Palm Beach County, this is one beachy community you most likely have never heard of, whether you're a tourist or a local. There's so much to love about this town, but let's get into its history first.
Lake Worth Beach was incorporated in 1913, making it older than neighboring city Boca Raton (incorporated in 1925) but younger than West Palm Beach (incorporated in 1894).
The central part of the beach community was first known as Jewell, settled by pioneers beginning in 1885 and owned by James and Fannie Smith, who are said to be former slaves and farmed the land.
The Smiths' land was eventually purchased by the Palm Beach Farms Company, and development began. Soon, people flocked to the area, and a city was born.
Historic Buildings and Landmarks in Lake Worth Beach: | Date Built: |
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Today, not only does Lake Worth Beach offer plenty of historic charm, but also an artsy, Bohemian vibe as well, thanks to its thriving art community, galleries, and murals around town, contributing to Lake Worth's reputation as one of Southern Florida's coolest beach towns!
Visit the town in February, and you can attend the Annual Street Painting Festival, during which hundreds of artists paint and transform the entire town like it's a giant work of art.
In addition to the art scene, Lale Worth Beach is a laid-back town with a stunning beach park, historic sites, fabulous restaurants, shopping, and more.
It also happens to be more affordable than Florida's more popular beach towns, so perfect if you're looking for a more budget-friendly beach vacation destination.
Things To See And Do In Lake Worth Beach
Head to Lake Worth Beach Park for a day at the beach, a stroll or fishing along the historic pier, or dine at one of the restaurants. Benny's on the Beach is perhaps the best-known restaurant in town and with its location on the pier, you'll experience the views and enjoy an ocean breeze while dining on its enticing seafood dishes.
In addition to this beach park, there are several others, including John Prince Park, South Palm Park, and Bryant Park, each one offering a variety of family-friendly outdoor amenities.
Snook Islands Natural Area is a must-visit in town for those looking for a place to go hiking, kayaking, and enjoy a day out in nature. This 118-acre park has 11 acres of mangroves along with two acres of oyster reefs, and attracts a variety of wildlife like manatees, green sea turtles, and the common snook, which is a species of fish.
If you're interested in Lake Worth Beach's art scene, take a walk, drive, or bike around town to see the murals or pop into any number of art galleries. For those who enjoy shopping, this beach community is filled with eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and gift stores.
Where to stay in Lake Worth Beach
If you search on your favorite vacation rental site, you will find several homes, including bungalows and cottages, available in Fort Worth Beach. As for hotels, well, there aren't too many around town.
There is one fabulous option, however: the Sabal Palm House Bed and Breakfast, a charming boutique inn where no two rooms are alike. Otherwise, you'll have to book a hotel stay in nearby West Palm Beach.
Just two miles from Fort Worth is the Tideline Palm Beach Ocean Resort and Spa, located right on the beach and offering 134 rooms and suites. For a more budget-friendly option, book a stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites Palm Beach instead.
The Best Time Of Year To Visit Lake Worth Beach
Florida is certainly a year-round destination due to its impeccable weather—this is the Sunshine State, after all! With fewer crowds and cooler weather between November and April, this is the ideal time to visit Lake Worth Beach, as it is for most beach towns in Southern Florida.
Why? Well, it's typically sunny every day with little to no chance of rain, the temperatures can reach the upper 70s, and the water is still warm enough for swimming in South Florida. However, due to the high number of snowbirds who flock here for the winter, hotel rates are typically higher than they are in the summer.
No matter the time of year, Lake Worth Beach offers a laid-back, artsy, and more affordable getaway than the more popular beach towns that surround it. And with both arty and natural attractions, it's an underrated gem that's worth a visit.