Holiday rentals in West Palm Beach

Sun and water are never far from view when you’re in the South Florida city of West Palm Beach, which stretches along the Lake Worth Lagoon that separates it from the barrier island of Palm Beach and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The lagoon is home to a galaxy of bobbing yachts, and the Flagler Memorial Bridge crosses its waters to arrive at large expanses of golden sand. Arts, nightlife, shopping, and pure relaxation all intersect here.

Head to downtown West Palm Beach to browse the shops around Rosemary Square, with its lush shade trees and spectacular water features, or attend a performance at the Harriet Himmel Theater, built in 1926 in a Spanish style with a striking clock face above its entrance. A few blocks to the north is the city’s main entertainment hub, Clematis Street, while nearby Fern Street is a draw for art lovers who come to admire the 8,000-square-foot Spirit of Communication mural. The waterfront area includes Centennial Square, where you can watch the interactive Centennial Fountain light up at night.

Although the Atlantic Ocean exerts a moderating influence on the heat in West Palm Beach, like the rest of South Florida the city experiences hot, muggy summers and mild, pleasant winters. Many people from colder climates come to West Palm Beach between January and April to make the most of the mild coastal conditions. This is when the streets are at their busiest, and the city puts on the Holiday in Paradise festival in December.

Between March and May, you’ll benefit from the springtime Florida sun and lower visitor numbers than the summer and winter seasons. From May through September, be prepared for the kinds of high temperatures that seem to demand you spend your days by the water (or in air-conditioned spaces). June through October is also the rainiest time of year, and hurricane season typically runs between June and November, so you may want to check future weather conditions before your trip.

Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens

Head to the waterfront to immerse yourself in a vast collection of tropical plants at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens. Amid the more than 250 rare species of palm trees, you can make your way through the jungle canopy, where you will be greeted by a collection of striking sculptures.

Norton Museum of Art

Housed in a striking white Art Deco building from 1941, the Norton Museum of Art is located in the heart of West Palm Beach. Its permanent collection has more than 8,200 works ranging from Chinese sculptures to contemporary paintings. The institution also features temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Okeeheelee Park

The western part of West Palm Beach is home to a vast green oasis called Okeeheelee Park. The park covers more than 1,700 acres where you can explore 2.5 miles of nature trails leading through woodland, water-ski on the lake, play golf or disc golf, or sweat it out on a mile-long fitness trail.