Favorite Local Spots in Jupiter
Recommended by the FAU Jupiter Honors Peer Mentors!
One of the biggest factors that attract students to the Honors College is its entertaining small-town feel and close proximity to the beach. The following locations have been hand-picked by our very own students at the Wilkes Honors College of FAU. Many of these places are walking distance friendly or a short drive from campus.
Owl Perks!
Florida Atlantic University students, staff, faculty, and alumni members who show their owl card can receive additional discounts at participating Jupiter locations.
Loggerhead Marine Life Center
14200 US-1, Juno Beach, FL 33408
- “Loggerhead is a sea turtle rehabilitation center where injured sea turtles are sent to be cared for. You can see the sea turtles up close in their tanks and learn how you can help keep these animals safe. They also will educate you on beach cleanups you can participate in.” - Briana F.
- “It is fun because you can see a bunch of turtles and fish, learn a lot, and walk through the gift shop.” - Hailey G.
- “I really enjoy seeing all of the turtles throughout their journey to recovery, and I appreciate the cause that they are working to support.” - Nikita J.
- “This place is so fun! You get a tour of the location and get to meet some of the turtles!” - Joelle D.
- “Its great when you must relax during stressful times because its an open environment and its very close to the ocean, plus you get to see sea turtle!” - Octavio G.
- “The LMC is the leading sea turtle research and rehabilitation center in the world, and gives guests the free opportunity to see some of the rarest sea turtles in the world up close.” - Kirk M.
Jonathan Dickinson (JD) State Park
16450 SE Federal Hwy, Hobe Sound, FL 33455
- “State park is great for nature walks - I believe it's free to enter (or nominal fee).” - Ari A.
- “It's a huge protected area with a lot of different ecosystems. I'd recommend it on cooler days during the fall and winter because scrub habitat gets very hot. There are also areas for canoeing/paddle boarding on the Loxahatchee river.” - Ari A.
- “Although it takes about twenty minutes to get to this park, it would be a great idea to go there if someone is interested in kayaking, canoeing, camping, mountain biking, and spending time in a natural habitat for a day or weekend trip. There’s also fishing, hiking, boat tours, picnicking, and nature trails. This would be a great way to enjoy everything nature has to offer and relieve any stress.” - Ellie L.
Coral Cove Park
19450 County Hwy 707, Tequesta, FL 33469
- “Coral Cove is a beach/park that has some beautiful rocks and corals.” - Joelle D.
- “This place is great because it has some really cool rocks on the beach and it's a great place to go for a swim or snorkel.” - Joelle D.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
2500 Jupiter Park Drive, Jupiter, FL 33458
- Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the protection and conservation of Florida's wildlife and natural resources.
- “This place is great because you get to learn about Florida's wildlife and how to help protect it.” - Joelle D.
- “This place is great because you can take a break to visit some animals and get in touch with nature. If you are interested in being a veterinarian or simply love animals, you can also get an internship there!” - Shalakha B.
- “A great place for walks and bike rides. Allows for social distancing.” - Myca-Lee M.
- “It is a very nice place just to relax and chill with nature if you have friends and spare time!” - Anon.

Grassy Waters Nature Preserve
- “Boardwalk paths through FL cypress marsh wetlands.” - Ari A.
- “Very nice, tree-covered retreat through peaceful nature.” - Ari A.
- “The actual nature center is closed but the trail is open. It’s like a 20-minute drive from campus. It’s part of the Everglades and you can just walk around and enjoy nature.” - Kristina L.
Access 36 at Juno Beach
On South A1A, north of Marcinski Road
- “This is one of many beach access points where the area is less populated and you can enjoy the beach with a few friends.” - Shalakha B.
- “It feels much more private than just going to Juno Beach park, so it is a great place to study peacefully or hang out with friends.” - Shalakha B.
Abacoa Greenway
129-121 Waterford Dr, Jupiter, FL 33458
- “People could also go to the Abacoa greenway. It's a few minutes away from campus and it’s a nature trail.” - Kristina L.
Jupiter Inlet
1375 Jupiter Beach Road Jupiter, FL 33477
- “Jupiter inlet is a great place for fishing or swimming. The beach is very relaxing and the water is always nice. Good fish out there for catch and release. Always a good time.” - Mathew P.
Juno Beach
- “Juno beach is lovely to either relax or hang out with friends. It is a public beach that is never busy so it doesn't get much better than that!” - Raven M.
- “I think that Juno beach is great because it is a pretty versatile hang-out spot, or a good place to hang out alone. Whether you like to tan in a bikini or have late-night taco bell picnics in jeans, this is a great spot to get away from campus for a little bit. Just watch where you step because I once saw man o' wars washed up on the beach, and also don't speed or anything in the area as cops are always parked watching the road that runs along the beach.” - Raven M.
Dubois Park
19075 Dubois Rd, Jupiter, FL 33477
- “Dubois Park is a very nice beach to go to whether you want to relax on the shore, go in the water, or just study outside. This park has picnic tables and a lot of free parking, so it is a nice place to go when students need to take a break from their schoolwork, or just need a change of scenery.” - Marissa S.
- “This park is great for fishing, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, or any other beach activity. It has multiple lagoons for swimming and is located along the Jupiter Inlet, one of the best places to fish for snook and other gamefish in Palm Beach County. Relaxing vibes and great views of the lighthouse make this park great!” - Owen M.
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum
500 Captain Armours Way, Jupiter, FL 33469
- Located in Lighthouse Park, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum offers guided climbing tours of the landmark 1860 lighthouse. The Museum (restored WWII building) exhibits Five Thousand Years on the Loxahatchee and outdoor exhibits include the Oil House & Keepers Workshop Exhibit, Tindall Pioneer Homestead, and Seminole Chickee. Enjoy shopping our nautical Museum gift shop and check online for our adult and children’s programs, sunset & moonrise tours, weddings & proposals, and special events. Waterfront venue is perfect for nature and boat watching and a picnic lunch! Hiking trails and observation tower are located on the north & south side of Beach Road. Beaches, restaurants, shopping, playground & watersports are located nearby. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is part of the 120-acre federally designated, Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area.
- “It is also a great place to visit and spend time with friends and family!” - Anon.
Within Walking Distance
There are multiple shopping plazas near Florida Atlantic’s Jupiter Campus that students find helpful and can get to easily:
Alton Town Center Located at 5320 Donald Ross Rd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418, Alton Town Center is a vibrant shopping destination offering a mix of shopping, dining, health, and wellness options. On the west end of the plaza, directly across the street from campus, is a Publix Supermarket.
Abacoa Plaza Located at 5500 Military Trail, Jupiter, FL 33458, Abacoa Plaza is one of the largest community commercial centers near Abacoa’s main entrances. It offers plaza-style shopping and is anchored by another Publix Supermarket. Students can easily walk to this plaza from campus and explore a variety of restaurant and retail options.
These plazas offer convenient amenities and retail choices within walking distance, making them ideal for FAU Jupiter Campus students seeking nearby off-campus options including:
Shopping and Dining Wander and explore an eclectic mix of national favorites and locally renowned eateries and retailers. From brunch spots to sweet treats, there’s something for every taste bud and any time of day.
Health and Wellness Visit multiple types of gyms and fitness center options for amazing workouts and take care of your well-being. Additionally, discover experts in health care, beauty services, and spa treatments.
Community Events Abacoa’s amphitheater and surrounding area as well as Roger Dean Stadium offer many different types of events including festivals, block parties, concerts and more. Alton Town Center also hosts various events throughout the year. From fitness series to live music on the plaza, there’s always something happening.
Whether you’re grabbing groceries, exploring fashion, seeking wellness services, or looking to venture off-campus for some local festivities, both Abacoa and Alton Town Center provide a relaxed setting for students, families and guests to mix, mingle, and explore.
Sweet Treats
Jupiter Donuts
141 Center St, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"Jupiter Donuts is awesome! The workers are always so kind, and the donuts are amazing. My favorite donut is their "kronut" -- which is a donut made with croissant dough. They are amazing, you have to give it a try, but go early, they sell out quickly!" -Anna B.
Matty's Gelato Factory
867 Donald Ross Rd, Juno Beach, FL 33408
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"Matty's Gelato is a small local business that has an amazing variety of flavors. I recommend going crazy and mixing up the flavors, like lemon sorbet and M&M ice cream. Interesting combination, but delicious otherwise." -Kassandra L.
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"Matty's Gelato has so many fun and delicious flavors of gelato that rotate every week so that you can always try new flavors. Every gelato flavor that I have tasted has been fresh and delicious. One of my favorite flavors is banana chocolate which has chunks of banana and swirls of chocolate sauce in their banana flavored gelato." - Kassidy D.
Sweetfrog Premium Frozen Yoghurt
6771 W Indiantown Rd, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"A great place to get frozen yogurt, with many topping options. Less than a ten-minute drive from campus, and so worth it! A cute place to stop by with friends!" -Anna B.
Lunch And Dinner
Dune Dog Cafe
775 Alt A1A, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"I absolutely love this restaurant! It has a wonderful beach vibe, and the food is delicious and affordable. They offer weekly specials such as Two for Tuesday where you can get two dinners for $25.99. My favorite things to get at Dune Dog are the Junkyard Dog and the Yankee Nachos." -Kassidy D.
Culver's
1108 Military Trail, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"This is my Dad and I's favorite fast-food restaurant! All of their food is delicious, and their Culver's signature sauce is incredible. They also offer amazing custards that you can get either choose from their wide range of flavors, including the flavor of the day, or you can create your very own custard." -Kassidy D.
Moon Thai And Japanese
5330 Donald Ross Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
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"It is a great restaurant, right across the street, with incredibly tasty food with items that won't break the bank. Their Thai iced tea, and Thai iced coffee is to die for! You can dine with friends and get fancy or drop in for a casual dinner. The energy in Moon Thai is perfect for both!" -Emily P.
Jumby Bay Island Grill
1203 Town Center Drive, #101, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"A little further across the street from campus, this is a great place to go if you're craving a seafood grill vibe. Highly recommend the fried calamari and french fries." -Kassandra L.
Gardens Pizza And Pasta
1209 Main Street, Ste 102, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"Right across the street with the best pizza ever! Decent price, but you can get a student discount when you show your owl card. Highly recommend trying the fried calamari as well." -Kassandra L.
Hokkaido
1200 Town Center Drive, Ste 125, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"I love hibachi food so hearing there was a hibachi restaurant across the street, I was excited. If you like Benihana, Saito, or Kobe, you will love Hokkaido! The atmosphere is great, the service is good, and the food is even better! Definitely go early to beat the crowd!" -ZaKiyah W.
Entertainment
Loggerhead Marine Life Center
14200 US-1, Juno Beach, FL 33408
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"Loggerhead Marine Life Center is such an amazing place to see. Entry is entirely free, and they are always ensuring you have a good time while informing you on the lives of the turtles you are seeing. They treat the turtles with such care, and even hold public turtle releases on the beach!" -Anna B.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
17855 Rocky Pines Road, Jupiter FL 33478
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"Free entry to see a variety of animals. From otters, to panthers, to black bears that I honestly just want to give a hug lol. It's amazing to see what the community does to make sure these animals thrive." -Kassandra L.
Juno Beach
14775 US-1 Juno Beach, FL 33408
- “I love the free parking, and they will have parallel spots right next to the water most of the time. The people that go are respectful and the water is nice and blue. It gets really hot, so be safe, but the beach is where I go to read and relax while getting some sun. I definitely recommend waking up for the sunrise at least once while you're in the area!" - Emily P.
The Gardens Mall
3101 PGA Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
- “It's a great mall and place to go hang out, walk around, and shop! It's perfect for when you need to escape the Florida heat or rain, plus it's just a quick drive away. Also, the food court has a lot of options!" - Zahava M.
Riverbend Park
9060 W Indiantown Rd, Jupiter FL 33478
- “Beautiful views of waterways and botanical scenes. Free parking, with walking trails and kayak paths. If you're lucky, you might see a manatee swimming beside you. Only a 10-minute drive from campus." -Ian A.
Coffee
Crux Coffee
1155 Main St STE 118, Jupiter, FL 33458
- “Crux is right next to campus! I absolutely love their mocha frappes and also their green tea! It is a great place to study, with both indoor and outdoor seating." - Calyssa S.
Papa Kwans
13882 US-1 Juno Beach, FL 33408
- "Papa Kwans is the perfect option for a beachy breakfast vibe! They have incredible açai bowls, with great topping options. They also have really good deals for a breakfast sandwich and coffee combo, and they offer tons of bakery items. Not only do they serve a wonderful breakfast, but they also have fantastic lunch options. I highly recommend checking out Papa Kwans!" -Calyssa S.
The Lokomotive
105 Center Street, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"The Lokomotive is a unique coffee shop! They not only have amazing drinks, but the atmosphere of the store is also beautiful and whimsical. They even have a free trading library and a great outdoor seating area. This coffee shop is a must to try while in Jupiter!" -Calyssa S.
Lingonberry roastery
4258 Northlake Blvd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
- "Lingonberry is another wonderful coffee shop in the Jupiter area. I absolutely love all of their coffee and pastry options! They have 2 locations, and they are a great small business to support!" -Calyssa S.
Breakfast
Berry Fresh Cafe
3755 Military Trail, Jupiter FL 33458- "My sister and I love coming here for breakfast and lunch. They offer delicious and unique food items such as bacon hot chocolate and lemon ricotta pancakes. The staff are extremely kind, and the restaurant feels warm and welcoming." -Kassidy D.
Juno Beach Cafe
13967 US-1, Juno Beach FL 33408-
"I love Juno Beach Cafe as it's close to the beach, and a great weekend stop. The food is inexpensive, offering both indoor and outdoor seating, it's a great place to go after a beach trip." -Anna B.
Bagel Boyz
5430 Military Trail #80, Jupiter, FL 33458
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"Bagel Boyz is close, with cheap options, great ambiance, and kind staff! It is a great place to grab a coffee (free refills while you're in the store) and chill." - Emily P.
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"For a girly who loves bagels, definitely love to have a bagel restaurant not far from campus. Bagel Boyz is a great place to go to hang out with friends and enjoy a great bagel sandwich. Would definitely recommend The Looper with bacon or sausage!" - ZaKiyah W.
Hurricane Cafe
14050 US-1, Juno Beach FL 33408-
"Classic diner food by Juno Beach, I love going there for breakfast. The staff there are so sweet, and you always meet someone interesting if you sit at the coffee bar!" -Karina S.