Here is your guide to staying cool and having a blast during the hottest months
The Palm Beaches, Florida: sunshine, beaches, and…well, sometimes overwhelming summer heat! But don’t let the high temperatures stop you from enjoying all this tropical paradise has to offer! The Palm Beaches offer a variety of refreshing ways to stay cool and make the most of your summer vacation. From resort pools to air-conditioned shopping malls and museums, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you comfortable and entertained.
Here’s your guide to staying cool and having a blast during the hottest months.
1. Make a Splash!
Rapids Water Park
Address: 6566 N. Military Trail, Riviera Beach, FL 33407.
Dive into a day of watery fun at Rapids Water Park. As South Florida’s largest water park, Rapids Water Park features 35 action-packed acres and 40 of the biggest, wettest, most thrilling water slides and attractions. Compete on Florida’s 1st Dueling Water Coaster Mega Mayhem or take a relaxing break floating through the serene current of the Lazy River.
Shark Wake Park
Address: 1401 Eshleman Trail Located in Okeeheelee Park, West Palm Beach, FL 33413.
Alternatively, Shark Wake Park in Okeeheelee Park is another fun wake park for people of all ages. This water park is home to a little bit of everything including the largest floating obstacle course on the East Coast, two full-size cable wake parks for wakeboarding and kneeboarding, a Shark Shack snack bar, and a pro shop.
2. Shopping Spree
Escape the heat and indulge in some retail therapy at air-conditioned havens. With a variety of stores and restaurants, you can spend a whole day pampering yourself.
The Gardens Mall
Address: 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410.
Located in Palm Beach Gardens, The Gardens Mall is a haven for shoppers looking to beat the heat. With over 160 specialty shops and department stores like Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, you can spend hours exploring the latest fashion trends in cool comfort.
Town Center at Boca Raton
Address: 6000 Glades Road Suite 200, Boca Raton, FL 33431.
A premier shopping destination, Town Center at Boca Raton features an impressive array of stores, including luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Take a break from shopping and enjoy a meal at one of the many air-conditioned restaurants or cafes.
The Mall at Wellington Green
Address: 10300 West Forest Hill Boulevard Suite 2000, Wellington, FL 33414.
The Mall at Wellington Green features two levels of Mediterranean style and local architecture. Its anchors are Macy’s, Dillard’s, and JCPenney, and more than 150 specialty stores are found inside. Take a break from shopping at a dine-in restaurant or grab a quick bite in the food court.
Boynton Beach Mall
Address: 801 N Congress Ave, Boynton Beach, FL 33426.
At the Boynton Beach Mall, catch a flick at the 14-screen movie theater between visits to department stores, specialty shops, and eateries. Explore hundreds of retailers and grab a delicious meal at any of the several eateries in the Food Court. Aside from shopping, dining, and entertainment, enjoy property-hosted community events, or relax while the kids enjoy the Children’s Play Area.
3. Museum Escapes
Immerse yourself in art, history, or science at one of the many museums in The Palm Beaches, all offering cool respite with fascinating exhibits.
Norton Museum of Art
Address:1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
Beat the heat while immersing yourself in world-class art. The Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach houses an impressive collection of American, European, and Chinese art, as well as photography and contemporary collections. The contemporary design and climate-controlled galleries offer a perfect respite from the summer sun.
Cox Science Center and Aquarium
Address: 4810 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, FL 33405.
Packed with hands-on displays of all types, the Cox Science Center and Aquarium offers hours of learning and discovery away from the summer heat. Kids can get more “edu-tainment” at the 10,000-gallon aquarium and the full-dome digital planetarium.
Flagler Museum
Address: One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480.
Housed in a 100,000-square-foot mansion named Whitehall, the Flagler Museum is the former home of Henry Morrison Flagler, a founding partner of Standard Oil during the Gilded Age. With a whopping 75 rooms to explore, a dreary day is the perfect time to take a self-guided tour of this National Historic Landmark. Don’t miss the Flagler Kenan Pavilion, where you’ll find Flagler’s Railcar No. 91, which was personally used by the railroad magnate and makes for a great photo op.
The Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum
Address: 300 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Visitors are often surprised by how rich the history of The Palm Beaches really is. This converted 1916 courthouse features permanent People and Places galleries, telling the story of the area’s earliest days, from the first pioneers through the development of the exciting communities that dot the destination today. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum hosts in-depth special exhibits each fall and short-term exhibits regularly covering a wide variety of topics.
The Spady Cultural Heritage Musuem
Address: 170 NW Fifth Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444.
Once the residence of Solomon D. Spady, the most prominent African-American educator in the Delray Beach community, the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum now stands as the esteemed Spady Cultural Heritage Museum. Dive into the rich black history and heritage of Palm Beach County through their captivating exhibits, showcasing everything from intricately crafted quilts to powerful photographs from the Civil Rights Movement.
4. Spa Experiences
Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience at a luxurious resort. Many spas offer massages, facials, and other treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and pampered.
Spa at the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
Address: 2800 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach, FL 33480.
Drift away in repose at the Five-Star, Five-Diamond oceanfront Four Seasons Resort’s sophisticated spa in the heart of Palm Beach. Treatments include everything from Himalayan salt stone massages to non-surgical lift facials featuring upscale skincare brands like 111SKIN and Biologique Recherche. Non-hotel guests can play VIP for a day with the Spa Day Package, which includes lunch and full day access to the beach and fitness offerings along with a spa treatment.
The Spa at The Breakers
Address: One South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480.
Immerse yourself in architectural grandeur inspired by the Italian Renaissance when you first arrive at the legendary resort The Breakers Palm Beach, and then be even more swept off your feet at the Spa at The Breakers.
The spa features 17 treatment rooms, eight salon stations, and a fitness center with ocean views. The beautiful coed lounge space offers scrumptious snacks to indulge in during your retreat. Resort guests and non-guests alike are welcome to indulge in the spa’s wide range of treatments, many featuring OSEA and Guerlain Skincare products. Try the Black Orchid Treatment facial to reinforce skin’s immunity and resistance to all signs of aging. After just one session, skin texture is firmer and more supple, and facial contours are redefined.
Spa at the Seagate Hotel
Address: 1000 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33483.
Get your glow on at this 8,000-square-foot Spa at the Seagate Hotel in Delray Beach, which specializes in radiance-renewing facials using ESPA and Doctor BABOR luxury skincare products. Try the celebrity favorite HydraFacial designed to nourish and moisturize the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and hydrated. After your treatment, relax and stay a while. Take a plunge in the pool and spend the day relaxing with all-day access to amenities like the steam room and fitness center included with your spa treatment.
Tammy Fender Spa at Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa
Address: 10 North Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL 33483.
Renew your mind, body, and spirit during a visit to the Opal Grand Oceanfront Resort & Spa in Delray Beach. The tranquil Tammy Fender Spa is a two-floor sanctuary where you can replenish and refresh your body, mind, and soul with transformative facials, wellness services, and various body treatments and massages. Choose the Tammy Fender signature facial for a head-to-toe revival. The treatment includes a 60-minute holistic custom facial with plant-based luxury skin care products, and a 30-minute reflexology.
Amrit Ocean Resort Spa
Address: 3100 North Ocean Drive, Singer Island, Riviera Beach, FL 33404.
Amrit Ocean Resort isa luxury beachfront wellness resort located in Singer Island. Considered the heart of the resort, Amrit’s four-story, over 103,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor spa and wellness facility offers bespoke experiences and services encompassing the five pillars of wellness. Amrit is revolutionizing the wellness experience using a combination of European, Chinese and Indian wellness traditions and techniques, including exclusive offerings such as the first indoor-outdoor hydrothermal water therapy circuit in Florida and one of the few luxury hammams in South Florida.
5. Dive into Refreshing Pools
When the summer sun is blazing, there’s no better place to cool off and relax than by the shimmering waters of a luxurious resort pool. The Palm Beaches are home to an array of stunning resort pools that offer the perfect blend of relaxation and refreshment.
The Breakers Palm Beach
Address: The Breakers, One South County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480.
This iconic resort offers to its guests and club members four outdoor swimming pool areas, including an expansive main pool adjacent to The Beach Club Restaurant, an infinity-style Adult Pool for guests 21 and older, a zero-entry Active Pool ideal for families, and an infinity-style South Pool, home to many private bungalows. Additionally, guests can unwind in one of the relaxing whirlpool spas and indulge in a signature spa treatment or tailored massage.
Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Address: 100 South Ocean Blvd., Manalapan, FL 33462.
Take a dip with the family in Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa’s spacious active resort pool. Lounges paired with shading umbrellas surround the deck, offering outdoor comfort all day long. The Tranquil Adult Pool is available for an onsite getaway to relax while the kids are off to play. Luxury spa treatments in a poolside cabana are also offered through the resort’s Forbes 5-star Eau Spa.
Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
Address: 2800 S. Ocean Blvd., Palm Beach, FL 33480.
The Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach has two outdoor pools—one for families and an adult-only pool—with stunning 180-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean. Surrounded by palms, gardens, and an Egyptian sunny gold limestone terrace, the pools are the perfect place to relax on chaise lounges under umbrellas or a cabana.
The Ray Hotel
Address: 233 NE 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444.
The Ray Hotel features a 22,000-square-foot premier rooftop deck where you’ll find a pool, a and lounge and restaurant that embody the essence of the Delray Beach lifestyle, playing host to relaxed daytime and evening events featuring a signature bar and cocktail experience poolside.
Hilton West Palm Beach
Address: 600 Okeechobee Boulevard, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
Lounge at the resort-style zero-entry pool at the Hilton West Palm Beach, and step into a tropical oasis surrounded by lush palm trees. Here, kids can enjoy fun floats, while adults can sip fruity cocktails from the poolside lounge chairs while soaking in the sunshine.
The Ben West Palm
Address: 251 N Narcissus Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.
This 208-room boutique hotel in downtown West Palm Beach boasts one of the best rooftops in The Palm Beaches. Its heated saltwater pool overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway and it’s open from sunrise to sunset. Right next to the pool, you’ll find Spruzzo, a restaurant and bar offering an Italian-inspired experience. Book a poolside cabana, sit back, and enjoy the views while sipping a handcrafted cocktail.
Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place
Address: Wyndham Grand Jupiter, 122 Soundings Avenue, Jupiter, FL 33477.
Savor poolside delights and soak in the sunset over the scenic Intracoastal Waterway at the Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place. Amenities include an outdoor heated pool, a hot tub, lounge chairs (seating is first come first serve), and food and drinks available from the Pool Bar.
Other Cool Activities
Head to a bowling alley for some family-friendly fun, catch a flick at the IPIC Theater, or cool off at the ice skating rink!
Greenacres Bowl
Address: 6126 Lake Worth Rd, Greenacres, FL 33463.
The Greenacres Bowl has everything you need to have a blast with friends and family. Boasting 60 lanes of pure excitement, this premier bowling alley offers more than just strikes and spares. Their state-of-the-art arcade features the latest games, and they even have billiards and a diner to grab a bite. Plus, don’t miss the chance to explore the Gator Lounge, complete with a full-service bar and an array of HDTVs for your viewing pleasure!
Silverball Retro Arcade Museum
Address: 19 NE 3rd Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483
Featuring more than 100 video games and pinball machines dating as far back as the 1930s, this museum and entertainment center evokes nostalgia for adults and creates memories for newer generations. The 9,000-square-foot museum allows you to play classic arcade games, two floors of pinball machines, and even the original skeeball alleys from New York’s Coney Island – Eldorado Arcade. Even better: The games are set to free play, which means unlimited plays are included with admission.
IPIC Theaters
Addresses:
- 301 Plaza Real, Boca Raton, FL 33432
- 25 Southeast 4th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33483
Dive into the world of cinema at a luxurious movie theater like the IPIC Theaters.
Two IPIC Theater locations in The Palm Beaches — in Boca Raton’s Mizner Park and downtown Delray Beach — make it easy to elevate your movie-going experience on a warm day. These theaters offer large, plush, leather-covered recliners where you can kick back and watch all the latest releases. The concession stands feature a chef-driven menu of fine but fun foods perfect for in-movie dining. A wide selection of wine, beer, and signature cocktails is also available.
Ice Skating Rinks
Addresses:
- Palm Beach Ice Works, 1590 N Florida Mango Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33409
- Boca Ice & Fine Art Center, 900 Peninsula Corporate Circle, Boca Raton, FL 33487
For a truly unique way to cool off, head to Palm Beach Ice Works in West Palm Beach. This state-of-the-art ice-skating rink offers public skating sessions where you can glide on the ice and forget about the summer heat outside.
Or, check out Boca Ice & Fine Art Center. This brand new 73,000 sq ft state-of-the-art indoor recreational facility is South Florida’s premier indoor ice skating destination! The facility features Twin NHL-size Hockey rinks, elite figure skating, NHL coaches, best-in-class Hockey Programs, professional ice shows, real snow, a Pro-Shop, an outdoor space, and performing arts including dance, music, and ballet. Just the perfect place for a rainy day!
Escape Rooms
Challenge your mind and cool off at the same time with an escape room experience! There are several to pick from in The Palm Beaches, each with interesting twists and themes, including:
- The Escape SoFlo, 10800 North Military Trail, Suite 211, Palm Beach Gardens
- Legends of Xscape, 324 Datura Street, Suite 101, West Palm Beach
- Time Travel Escapes – Escape Rooms Jupiter, 401 Maplewood Drive, Suite 18, Jupiter
- West Palm Beach Escape Rooms, 209 South Olive Avenue, West Palm Beach
The Palm Beaches offer a multitude of ways to stay cool during the hot summer months. Whether you prefer lounging by a pool, indulging in a spa day, shopping in air-conditioned malls, or exploring museums, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while beating the heat!
