Planning a day trip to Palm Beach? Here’s my family’s recommended one-day itinerary featuring scenic drives, iconic landmarks, beautiful architecture, luxury shopping, and some of the island’s most famous sights.
Last Updated July 2026
Why Visit Palm Beach?
Palm Beach is one of Florida’s most elegant destinations, known for its luxury resorts, Mediterranean architecture, pristine beaches, and palm tree-lined streets.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more, one day is enough to experience many of the island’s most iconic locations.
Starting Your Drive
My family recommends entering Palm Beach from West Palm Beach via Lakeview Avenue, which becomes Royal Palm Way as you cross the Royal Park Bridge.
This entrance is one of the most beautiful in South Florida, lined with towering royal palm trees and perfectly introducing visitors to the island’s elegant atmosphere.
Take your time driving this road—it’s one of Palm Beach’s signature views and the perfect way to begin your day.
Stop 1: The Breakers Palm Beach
One of Palm Beach’s most iconic landmarks is The Breakers Palm Beach.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth stopping to admire the stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped grounds, and oceanfront setting.
If your budget allows, my family highly recommends staying at The Breakers Palm Beach. It’s one of Florida’s premier luxury resorts and offers an unforgettable experience.
Why Visit
- Historic luxury resort
- Incredible architecture
- Oceanfront location
- Beautiful gardens and landscaping
- Excellent photo opportunities
Stop 2: Scenic Drive Along North County Road
After leaving The Breakers, take a drive along North County Road.
This peaceful roadway showcases some of Palm Beach’s most beautiful homes, lush landscaping, and timeless Mediterranean-style architecture.
It’s one of the best ways to experience the island’s charm while enjoying a relaxing drive.
Stop 3: Bethesda-by-the-Sea
Next, visit The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea.
Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, peaceful gardens, and historic significance, this church has become one of Palm Beach’s most recognizable landmarks.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoying a quiet stop, it’s well worth visiting.
Stop 4: Worth Avenue
No visit to Palm Beach would be complete without walking along Worth Avenue.
Often compared to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, Worth Avenue features luxury boutiques, designer brands, art galleries, beautiful courtyards, and upscale cafés.
Even if you’re only window shopping, it’s one of the island’s must-see destinations.
What You’ll Find
- Designer fashion boutiques such as Chanel
- Luxury jewelry stores like Van Cleef & Arpels
- Art galleries
- Beautiful courtyards
- Palm Beach’s famous shopping district
Stop 5: Palm Beach, Beaches
Spend some time enjoying the beach itself.
Palm Beach offers wide stretches of sand, beautiful turquoise water, and a quieter atmosphere than many other Florida beaches.
Whether you relax for a while or simply take a walk along the shoreline, it’s one of the highlights of visiting the island.
Stop 6: Scenic Drive Along South Ocean Boulevard
Finish your day by driving along South Ocean Boulevard.
This scenic road passes beautiful waterfront estates, tropical landscaping, and one of Palm Beach’s most well-known landmarks—Mar-a-Lago.
Regardless of your interest in the property itself, the drive offers some of the island’s most impressive oceanfront scenery.
What We Loved
Our favorite parts of Palm Beach included:
- The incredible beauty of The Breakers Palm Beach.
- The peaceful drive along North County Road.
- Bethesda-by-the-Sea.
- Shopping along Worth Avenue.
- Beautiful beaches.
- Stunning Mediterranean architecture throughout the island.
- The scenic drive along South Ocean Boulevard.
Tips Before You Visit
- Enter Palm Beach using Royal Palm Way for the best first impression.
- Visit Worth Avenue earlier in the day for a more relaxed experience.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and an umbrella.
- Respect private property while exploring residential areas.
- Take your time—Palm Beach is best enjoyed at a slower pace.
Is Palm Beach Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
Palm Beach offers a unique combination of luxury, history, beautiful beaches, elegant architecture, and scenic drives that make it one of Florida’s most memorable destinations.
Even if you only have one day, you’ll experience some of South Florida’s most iconic sights.
Final Thoughts
Palm Beach may be known for its luxury, but it’s also a destination anyone can enjoy.
From driving beneath the royal palms to exploring Worth Avenue, admiring The Breakers, visiting Bethesda-by-the-Sea, and cruising along South Ocean Boulevard, it’s easy to see why Palm Beach remains one of Florida’s most beautiful places to visit.
Overall Ratings
Scenery: ★★★★★
Beaches: ★★★★★
Architecture: ★★★★★
Shopping: ★★★★★
Scenic Drives: ★★★★★
Overall Experience: ★★★★★
Would my family visit again? Absolutely. Palm Beach is one of Florida’s most beautiful destinations, and we’d gladly spend another day exploring everything it has to offer.
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