Jupiter Blowing Rocks Preserve

574 South Beach Road, Hobe Sound FL, 33455
Open daily 9am-4:30pm, except major holidays (check their website before planning a visit for closings)

Just a few miles north of the Jupiter Lighthouse sits natural gem, Jupiter Blowing Rocks Preserve.  The rocky limestone shoreline of the preserve reminds me so much of La Jolla, CA--it's absolutely beautiful and unique.

A $2 cash only admissions fee per adult (children under 12 are free) is required in order to gain access to the beach--but its completely worth it.  I recommend packing a lunch, bringing your beach chairs and water shoes, and spending the day on this quiet beach. Three hiking and walking trails are open to the public as well

Tip:  I recommend checking the tide schedules before going so that you can see what this place is really known for, the large geysers of saltwater that soar into the air during high tides and after storms.

Green Cay Wetlands

12800 Hagen Ranch Road, Boynton Beach FL
Open weekly, from sunrise until sunset

Since I moved down to Florida, it has become one of our regular rituals to head down to the wetlands and walk the elevated boardwalk.  Not only is this a great place to get some fresh air and exercise, but it offers some of the most exquisite views of nature.

What we love most about this place is that you are bound to see something new with each visit--giant alligators basking on land, a group of baby gators along the water's edge, many different species of birds, and even a bobcat from time to time.  This place is a photographer's haven.  And on any given day you are bound to find a number of avid birdwatchers posted along the boardwalk with their professional equipment.

Every so often, Brian and I are able to catch our favorite one-armed alligator moseying along in the water close to the dock of the nature center--we've come to the assumption that he lost a battle to one of the larger inhabitants of the wetlands.  

Walking the entire boardwalk once around is about 1.5 miles, but its easy to complete 2 to 3 laps when you are paying more attention to the surrounding sites.

Note: If you like this place, the Wakodahatchee Wetlands are just right around the corner and offer similar features.