Staycation Vibes: Jupiter, Florida

Staycation Spotlight: Rediscover the Magic of Jupiter, Florida

Why go far when paradise is right in our backyard? Jupiter, Florida, and its surrounding areas provide the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and unforgettable moments for a dream staycation.

Stay in Style: Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place

We kicked off our staycation at the Wyndham Grand Jupiter, nestled along the sparkling Intracoastal Waterway. Mornings on the terrace with a cup of coffee felt like a peaceful retreat, and afternoons by the rooftop pool were pure bliss.
Our two-room, two-bathroom suite was incredibly spacious, giving the whole family plenty of room to stretch out and relax. The pool is very family-friendly, and the kids had a blast swimming while I relaxed nearby, enjoying the latest pick from my book club on my Kindle. As the day faded, we savored sunset views with a refreshing drink from the rooftop pool bar, making it a truly magical way to unwind. With shopping and dining steps away at Harbourside Place, it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge.

The hotel gets even better for the holiday season with the Harbourside Lodge Holiday Pop-Up Bar. Running until January 2, it transforms the lobby into a cozy, festive retreat with seasonal cocktails. Try the Espresso Martini Flight with fun flavors like smores and butterscotch. The Powder Paloma was absolute perfection! The pop-up is open from 4 PM to 11 PM and has fun events like Ugly Sweater Wednesdays and a DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. 

Family Fun at The Burger Shack

A great casual spot was The Burger Shack. It’s everything you want for a laid-back meal: juicy burgers, crispy fries, and shareable snacks like loaded nachos. The kids couldn’t get enough of the sliders, but they loved the attached playground—it kept them entertained while we enjoyed the meal with some adult beverages. It’s an excellent spot for families to relax and refuel. Before our meal, the kids enjoyed a quick round of mini golf at the adjacent Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf.

Adventure Awaits: The Flying Lady Boat Tours

The Flying Lady Boat Tour was a highlight of our staycation. Cruising Jupiter’s turquoise waters offered more than just beautiful views—it was a journey through the area’s rich history. Captain Joe, a longtime local, brought the experience to life with fascinating stories about the landmarks and stunning homes along the island. His tales of the Jupiter Lighthouse, Inlet, railroad, and the notable figures who once lived on the island made the tour entertaining and educational. It wasn’t just a boat ride—it was an unforgettable glimpse into Jupiter’s soul. 

The boat conveniently picks you up and drops you off at Guanabanas’ dock, making it easy to pair this adventure with a delicious meal.  After the tour, we enjoyed lunch at Guanabanas, a tropical hideaway that felt like an island dream. The fresh seafood and guava margarita were absolute standouts, making it the perfect way to round out an incredible morning.

Local Gems to Explore

 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum: Climbing the 105 steps for the panoramic views was totally worth it. The museum has recently reopened, where you will see some of the historical artifacts we house dating back almost 5,000 year

At Loggerhead Marinelife Center, we were inspired by their incredible work rehabilitating sea turtles. The experience was both educational and engaging as we explored interactive exhibits, observed the sea turtle patients up close, and connected with marine experts who shared fascinating insights into ocean conservation

Lighthouse Cove Adventure Golf & 3 Scoops: Mini-golf and ice cream were a hit with the kids—and the adults too!

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary: This non-profit wildlife hospital and sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates sick, injured, and orphaned native Florida wildlife. Enjoy close encounters with local animals and take a serene walk along their trails through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and cypress wetlands.

Delicious Dining Experiences

Dinner at The Jupiter Grill was the most indulgent meal of our staycation. With Hell’s Kitchen Season 9 Winner Celebrity Chef Paul Niedermann at the helm, every dish felt like a masterpiece. The Cajun Ribeye was melt-in-your-mouth perfection, and the deviled egg flight, paired with double-cut smoked bacon, was an unexpectedly delightful combination that became an instant favorite. Adding to the experience, our server, Mark (a.k.a. “Grasshopper”), charmed us with his humor and top-notch service, making the evening truly unforgettable.

We’re already counting down to Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 8! Chef Niedermann will be serving a festive prime rib brunch buffet alongside an array of sweet and savory dishes. Santa himself will be there from 11 AM to 2 PM for photos and holiday cheer. Guests are encouraged to bring unwrapped gifts to support Toys for Tots, adding a meaningful way to spread joy this holiday season. Reservations are required (call 561.768.9582), and pricing is $55 for adults and $25 for kids. We can’t wait to return for this magical holiday treat!

Right outside our hotel, we had the chance to enjoy the Harbourside Christmas Tree Lighting, a festive celebration that brought the community together in holiday cheer. The event featured cozy s’mores stations, delicious eats and drinks from local restaurants, and live performances that lit up the night. A highlight was the sneak peek of Frozen by the talented performers from the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, which captivated kids and adults alike. It was a magical christmas experience, we can’t wait to return for next year. 

A Short Drive South: Manatee Lagoon

Just a short drive south, Manatee Lagoon is a must-visit, especially during the cooler months during Manatee Season (November 15 to March 31), when water temperatures drop below 68 degrees. This is when Florida manatees gather in the warm-water outflows of FPL’s Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center.

We loved learning about these gentle giants and their migratory habits. The center’s interactive exhibits captivated the kids while the adults marveled at how mother manatees teach their calves to follow the warm-water routes.

Manatee Lagoon offers more than just manatee viewing. Their year-round activities include daily educational presentations, kids’ programs, and even yoga on the waterfront observation deck. The experience blends fun, education, and a deep appreciation for Florida’s unique environment. It’s a heartwarming stop for the whole family.

Why Staycation in Jupiter?

This staycation reminded us that you don’t need to leave home to create incredible memories. Jupiter offers everything—stunning views, fantastic food, holiday magic, and activities for all ages.

Take a break from the hustle and treat yourself to a local getaway. Plan your Jupiter staycation today—you won’t regret it!