The beaches are reason alone to visit Palm Beach. The beach east of Worth Avenue and the Colony is a lovely public beach. If you have a car, the parking is by meter and you typically have to pay every two hours.

The prettiest and quietest beaches are on the north end of Palm Beach. Although the beach there is also technically public, there are almost no places to park without risk of getting towed. For this reason, we recommend going here only by foot/bike or Uber. The best access point is at 1495 N Ocean Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480.

Also called the Lake Trail, this five-and-a-half-mile trail runs along the intracoastal waterway from Worth Avenue up to just north of the Sailfish Club. From the Sailfish Club, it is about a half mile to the inlet, which is a beautiful place to watch the boats come in and out (or if you’re lucky, to see a manatee). The bike trail is the absolute best place for a run, bike ride, or a stroll—especially at sunset. If you’d like to rent a bike to check it out, we recommend the Palm Beach Bicycle Trail Shop.

If you’d like to learn more about Palm Beach’s history, we highly recommend the Flagler, which is the former home of Henry Flager, the railway magnate and one of Palm Beach’s seminal families. The Gilded Age mansion is in pristine condition and is a fascinating way to spend an afternoon.

The Four Arts houses some of Palm Beach’s most beautiful public gardens and libraries. The gardens are simply stunning, and the main library is one of the most relaxing places on the island. The Four Arts is about a half mile from the Flagler Museum and adjacent to the bike trail.

Worth Avenue is known for its luxury shopping. It’s worth a stroll up and down the avenue not only for the window shopping, but also for the lovely vias designed by Addison Mizner, one of Palm Beach’s most notable architects.

Recently redone in the last five years or so, the Poinciana Plaza is home to luxury stores as well as some of our favorite restaurants. It’s right next to the North Bridge and adjacent to the bike trail.

If you have a car, the Palm Beach Zoo is one of our favorite places. Located in West Palm Beach, the zoo houses a variety of animals and is far less crowded than most zoos despite its size. As a heads up, we don’t recommend going on a hot day as the animals tend to sleep in the warmer months.

Located in West Palm Beach, the Norton is a true gem. The exhibits are often what you would expect to see in a metropolis. Despite its impressive collection, the museum is a quiet and tranquil place to spend an afternoon. And its cafe is simply wonderful!

If you have a car, and want a flavor of old Florida, we recommend visiting. You can walk on the boardwalk over the mangroves, kayak next to the alligators, or go swimming at the beach. It’s one of Steph’s favorite places.

Located on the main strip of Palm Beach, Cucina is great for drinks and a great Italian meal. It also turns into Palm Beach’s primary “night club” after a certain hour. As a former waitress here, Steph recommends it for food and drinks, and definitely for a late-night stop and dancing.

This is the Barnhart family’s absolute favorite place to get drinks and dinner. The food, drinks, ambience, people (and people watching) are top notch. They don’t take reservations so we recommend getting there early (5:00-6:00) or be prepared to wait at the bar. The dress is Palm Beach casual.

Located in the Breakers, this lounge has amazing cocktails (and food), and is architecturally stunning. HMF does not take reservations but the wait usually isn’t too bad. Although pricey, HMF is worth it if you want to splurge on a night out.

Located in West Palm Beach, this is a true Barnhart favorite. The fun and funky atmosphere, amazing food, and wonderful owners/chefs make this restaurant worth the visit for a relaxed meal. If your sensibilities are at all offended by homoerotic artwork, either prepare yourself in advance for the bathroom artwork or perhaps skip this gem.

The BEST seafood restaurant! Located in Juno Beach, this is best for those with a car. This is where locals go (as well as the extended Barnhart family). The seafood is unparalleled. Dress is casual. They don’t take reservations, though, so be prepared for a wait.

For those with a car, this amazing vegan restaurant is located in West Palm Beach. Not only is the food amazing, but you can also bring your dog! Part of your check will also go to support the Darbster Foundation, which helps rescue animals at risk of being euthanized in Palm Beach County. They take reservations, and dress is casual.

E.R. Bradley’s (Cucina’s sister restaurant) in West Palm Beach is a fun and rowdier place to get a drink.

Camelot, a lounge in West Palm Beach just up the street from Bradley’s, is another fun place to go for drinks and dancing. It has a cash cover.