Explore the best snorkeling spots around Jupiter, Florida, where the underwater world comes to life, and beautiful marine life awaits.
1. Catos Bridge
I was truly captivated by the beauty of this place. The crystal blue water, especially during the incoming tide, created a stunning backdrop. It’s a perfect spot for boaters like me to come together, relax, and enjoy some social time.
My favorite aspect of Catos Bridge is the sense of tranquility mixed with excitement. Watching boats pass by as I sat in the shade was a real treat. Not to mention, there are fantastic opportunities for snorkeling, with a lot of marine life around the pillars.
The water was incredibly clear, which made swimming a delight and allowed for some fantastic photo opportunities. However, I must say that during peak times, it can get pretty crowded, so planning ahead and arriving early is a good idea. The only other minor drawback is the limited parking availability
2. Dubois Park
The park’s beauty had been on my radar for a while, and I finally got the chance to experience it. It’s a perfect destination for families with kids, thanks to the shallow and protected lagoon with crystal-clear water. We were all impressed by the pristine surroundings.
What truly stood out to me was the family-friendly atmosphere. I appreciated the fact that you can visit the park around the clock, and I even had the pleasure of night fishing. Everyone I encountered was friendly and made the experience even more enjoyable. Swimming in the inlet was a blast, and seeing families everywhere having a great time was heartwarming.
The park offers plenty of amenities, with numerous bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, and BBQs scattered throughout. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, and there are plenty of shaded areas to relax.
Now, I must note that the park rangers weren’t particularly dog-friendly, even though dogs are allowed in designated areas.
3. Blowing Rocks Park
This place was truly captivating. I fell in love with the pristine natural beauty of the place, even though the rocks weren’t blowing due to natural sand shifts. The limited parking and restricted hours worked to our advantage, ensuring that the park remained uncrowded, which added to the sense of tranquility.
Exploring the park was an adventure in itself. On one side, there was a small building with information and displays, clean bathrooms, a boardwalk, and a scenic trail through the mangroves. On the beach side, taking pictures with the rocks during high tide was a real treat. While parking was a bit tight, we only had to wait for about 10 minutes before a spot opened up.
The geological features were truly unique, and the rumbling noise of the surf added to the ambiance. I highly recommend visiting in the morning to secure a parking spot and avoid the intense Florida sun.
4. Coral Cove Park
I am truly amazed by its unique and beautiful features. This beach is unlike any other I’ve experienced in Florida, with rocky areas that offer plenty of opportunities to explore and discover beautiful seashells. It’s a fantastic spot for families, complete with a playground for the kids, shaded areas, picnic tables, and even clean and convenient bathrooms for changing.
The water at Coral Cove Park is remarkably clear, and I’m already planning to bring snorkel gear on my next visit to make the most of it. The beach itself, though not too crowded, provides a relaxing atmosphere, and the best part is that parking is free.
However, I should mention that the beach may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a classic swimming experience. It does have a rocky terrain, which, although fascinating for those who like to explore coral formations, may not be ideal for traditional swimming. Nevertheless, the uniqueness and beauty of Coral Cove Park make it a must-visit spot in Florida.
5. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
This place left me absolutely enchanted. It’s now one of my favorite spots in Florida. I opted for a yearly membership that not only granted me free entry but also access to their kayaks, although I found paddleboarding more to my liking. The park is a vast tidal estuary with numerous small, private islands, and it’s a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. I had the pleasure of encountering various creatures, from birds to rays, turtles, and even sharks. The experience was nothing short of amazing, and I developed a deep affection for this place.
What’s truly outstanding about this park is its diversity of activities. You can choose from kayaking, hiking, biking, and enjoying the breathtaking views from the fire lookout tower, which happens to be the highest point in Southern Florida. The park’s pristine boardwalks, unspoiled beaches, and striking mangroves only add to its allure.
But I should note that there was one minor hiccup. The kayak I used lacked back support, which made it somewhat uncomfortable during my trip. However, the overall experience was so incredible that it didn’t deter me from enjoying the park to the fullest.
6. Phil Foster Park / Blue Heron Bridge
This place has left me pleasantly surprised by its many positive attributes. The location is a fantastic place to enjoy a family day at the beach. The bridge provides constant shade, and the water feels more like a peaceful pool, making it a safe and enjoyable environment for kids. Despite the playground being closed during my visit, knowing it’s right on the beach adds to the convenience. I also appreciated the proximity of the parking area, saving us from lugging our beach gear a long way. Plus, there’s the added bonus of being able to do some fishing.
The real gem of this spot is the incredible snorkeling experience it offers, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. The underwater world is simply stunning, with a variety of beautiful aquatic species to admire. To fully enjoy this, it’s best to arrive early and make the most of the snorkel trail, especially in the hours before and after high tide.
However, I can’t deny that I noticed some litter and trash in the area, which was a bit disappointing. It’s such a beautiful location, and I couldn’t help but wish it were better maintained.
7. Peanut Island
My visit to Peanut Island was a memorable one, filled with positive experiences. This little island is truly a hidden gem. My boyfriend and I spent a few hours exploring its scenic beauty, and we were captivated by the stunning views that surrounded us. The crystal-clear water and snorkeling opportunities were the highlights of our trip. The marine life we encountered was absolutely incredible, and we couldn’t wait to return for more underwater adventures.
We accessed the island through Sailfish Marina Resort, and they were accommodating, even when we arrived late for our shuttle. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here, surrounded by the gorgeous marine life and shells. It was a perfect place for a family picnic, and I even learned that you can host birthday parties on the island.
However, there was one issue that left me with mixed feelings. I noticed that there was quite a bit of trash scattered around the island, which was a letdown given the island’s natural beauty. It’s a shame that this little paradise doesn’t always receive the care it deserves.
