Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Tequesta, Florida

Covering just over two square miles, this quaint coastal city boasts stunning landscapes. Tequesta features the Atlantic shoreline, part of the Indian River Lagoon, and the lower stretches of the Loxahatchee River.

What fascinates many about the coastline is its unusual rocky formations, particularly observable at the Blowing Rocks Nature Preserve. Offshore, expansive reefs teem with vibrant marine life, and during the summer months, sea turtles nest along the beaches.

Downstream, the Loxahatchee River converges with the Atlantic Ocean at the Jupiter Inlet, where the impressive Jupiter Inlet Light stands tall, a structure with over 160 years of history.

1. Blowing Rocks Nature Preserve

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This nearby coastal preserve is home to the most extensive outcropping of Anastasia limestone along the East Coast.

Blowing Rocks Nature Preserve derives its name from the phenomenon created by surf rushing through cavities in the rock during incoming tides.

This captivating display is cherished by both locals and visitors. However, during my visit, the rocks were not displaying their impressive features due to shifting sand. Nevertheless, the rugged formations and the extended expanse of untouched shoreline are remarkable.

Before arriving at the shore, the trail takes you through charming mangroves. Additionally, the beach is one of the rare local areas with a notable concentration of pristine shells.

2. Coral Cove Park

This park, maintained by Palm Beach County, offers approximately half a mile of sandy Atlantic beachfront. Coral Cove Park also follows the Intracoastal Waterway and is accessible by water for those paddling or boating.

The beach, which was quite steep during my visit, is among the best local spots for shelling. If you enjoy the pursuit of shells, you could easily spend hours sifting through the sands.

Similar to Blowing Rocks Preserve, the shoreline presents a uniquely rugged landscape for Florida. This continues offshore, with rocky reefs rich in marine life, awaiting exploration for those equipped with snorkeling gear.

3. Pointe Paddle

The southernmost section of the Indian River Lagoon, adjacent to Tequesta, is exceptionally appealing.

This area stands out due to its abundance of intriguing and beautiful sights, all in close proximity. Not only do you have Blowing Rocks Preserve and the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, but also Coral Cove Park and the Tequesta Sandbar, featuring luminous shallow waters.

Excellently positioned to serve these attractions is Pointe Paddle, located at Jupiter Pointe Marina, directly across from Blowing Rocks Preserve. Here, kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent, accommodating durations from one to five hours.

4. Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge

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Located just ten minutes north of Tequesta, the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge comprises the largest contiguous stretch of undeveloped beach in Southeast Florida. It is recognized as a vital site for nesting sea turtles.

This property encompasses over 1,000 undisturbed acres on both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway, preserved since 1969 to protect leatherback and green sea turtles.

You can navigate trails along the estuary, through pine scrubs, and across the barrier island. My preferred time to visit is during the guided sea turtle walks, which occur in the evenings during the nesting season from May to mid-July.

5. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum

Constructed atop a dune, the Jupiter Inlet Light was established in 1860. Standing 105 feet tall, it rises to 153 feet above sea level due to the dune’s elevation.

The ascent to the top is more manageable compared to other Florida lighthouses, consisting of just 105 steps. However, the panoramic view of the river and inlet proves immensely rewarding, particularly during sunset tours.

The grounds are equally captivating, featuring an ancient forest, including an impressive banyan tree.

6. Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Situated north of Tequesta, Jonathan Dickinson State Park protects an expansive 11,500 acres, making it the largest state park in Southeast Florida.

One of the park’s standout features is the diversity of landscapes, displaying a tapestry of 16 distinct plant communities.

These range from pine flatwoods to swamps alongside the Loxahatchee River. Given the park’s size, numerous activities are available, including paddling along the serene river, navigating a complex network of mountain biking trails, or embarking on horseback rides.

Canoes, kayaks, and bicycles can be rented from the park’s concessionaire, and visitors may enjoy a relaxing excursion aboard the Loxahatchee Queen II. Additionally, the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center is worth a visit for its informative exhibits.

7. DuBois Park

Regarded as a serene retreat, this public park is situated within the Jupiter Inlet on its southern side. DuBois Park features a delightful swimming lagoon, protected by breakwaters and supervised throughout the week during school breaks (weekends at other times).

Surrounded by palm trees, the beach and waterfront area are nothing short of idyllic. However, it becomes particularly enchanting at sunset, as the sun sets over the inlet behind the lighthouse. Consequently, few sights in Florida can rival this picturesque view.

Additionally, a bridge connects you directly to the oceanfront at Jupiter Beach Park, offering a stunning shoreline experience.

8. Jupiter Scuba Diving

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This dive center, located just across the inlet, serves as a gateway to some of the finest snorkeling and SCUBA diving sites in the region. Enthusiasts flock to this coastline, drawn by an exceptional array of marine encounters.

Such encounters may occur during the turtle mating season in spring or in late summer, when large groups of groupers are present.

Regardless of the season, these waters are abundant with remarkable marine life, featuring sightings of moray eels, hammerhead sharks, and even the occasional whale shark.

The knowledgeable and experienced staff at Jupiter Scuba Diving ensure that guests have safe, exhilarating, and unforgettable experiences.

9. Lighthouse ArtCenter

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This community facility serves as both an art gallery and educational institution, providing cultural experiences and learning opportunities since the mid-1960s.

Founded by the progeny of the founders of the renowned Norton Art Gallery in nearby West Palm Beach, it primarily serves residents of Martin and Palm Beach Counties.

The gallery boasts a remarkable private collection of artworks across various mediums. During my visit, I had the pleasure of attending the captivating Little Lush exhibition, featuring works by distinguished ceramicists nationwide.

The schedule also includes temporary exhibits from other institutions and private collections, art competitions, cultural events, and guided tours.

10. Constitution Park

A delightful venue for families to enjoy an afternoon, Constitution Park is conveniently located just off Tequesta Drive, east of the North Fork Loxahatchee River.

Adjacent to the Tequesta Recreation Center, this area is thoughtfully designed with ample amenities. There are two playgrounds: a tot lot for younger children and a larger play area for older kids.

Moreover, the park features a small skate park, paved pathways, basketball courts, exercise equipment, and shaded picnic tables under the inviting live oaks.

11. Maltz Jupiter Theater

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This professional theater originally started as a dinner theater over forty years ago, established by the renowned actor Burt Reynolds. The theater was initially named after its owner until the mid-1990s and has attracted talents such as Sally Field and Sarah Jessica Parker.

The Maltz Jupiter Theater now operates as a non-profit organization, presenting a diverse array of live performances which include Broadway musicals, dramatic plays, and children’s shows.

The facility has experienced multiple renovations over its four-decade history. Presently, it accommodates over 500 attendees and is equipped with modern lighting and sound systems.

12. Tequesta Brewing Company

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Established in 2011, Tequesta Brewing Company holds the title of Palm Beach County’s oldest craft brewery.

Located in a strip mall on US 1, this brewery features a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse selection of on-site brewed beers with distinctive flavor profiles.

When I visited, twelve beers were available on tap, including three guest options (Pedaler’s Hard Cider). Choices included a Kolsch (Der Chancellor), American IPA (Contraband), and a Helles Lager (What The Helles an Oktobercue?).

I personally enjoyed a pint of Schwarzbier, known for its malty sweetness and chocolate notes. Typically, Friday and Saturday nights feature live music, while trivia events take place on Tuesdays, and wine nights are scheduled on Wednesdays.

13. Agape Healing Arts

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Located within the Gallery Square North shopping center, this local establishment is dedicated to holistic wellness.

To promote health and well-being, Agape Healing Arts provides various therapies, including guided acupuncture, meditation, tai chi, qi gong, yoga, oriental massage, spiritual bathing, aromatherapy, and homeopathy, among others.

Generally, these treatments are non-surgical and non-pharmaceutical, designed to integrate both Western and Eastern medical philosophies.

Furthermore, Agape Healing Arts offers a variety of classes and workshops across multiple disciplines and features its own line of health and wellness products.

14. Bagel Bistro

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It is well known that many native New Yorkers live and vacation in Florida, often searching for familiar culinary experiences reminiscent of The Big Apple.

Bagel Bistro is one such establishment, offering homemade bagels crafted fresh each day. Options range widely, including onion and everything bagels.

Bagel aficionados frequently regard Bagel Bistro as offering the most authentic New York-style bagels in South Florida.

Renowned for their crisp exteriors and soft, doughy interiors, these bagels are the result of a unique cooking technique that incorporates both steaming and baking.

15. Tequesta Chili Cook-Off

A standout community event in Tequesta is the annual chili cook-off held on Main Street each November. This event attracts over 30 competing teams, comprising public safety representatives, military personnel, and private organizations, all vying for the prize of ‘Best Chili’.

The event features an award ceremony honoring veterans and Gold Star families, with the proceeds benefiting organizations such as the Tequesta Friends of Public Safety and the Wounded Veterans Relief Fund.

A panel of judges oversees the competition, while attendees enjoy a military flyover, live music, and performances by pipe and drum bands.