Sitting by the pool at the end of a week in Palm Beach County, it’s been a great week from start to finish. With so many things in the area, I didn’t get to everything so I’ve saved some for next time. Because when you come to Palm Beach County you know you want to return.
I started last Saturday at the West Palm Beach Green Market near City Hall, and it’s where I’ll spend tomorrow before getting on the plane. It’s a great market with lots of stalls selling everything you expect to find here – fruits, vegetables, flowers, music, Cuban food, fresh pastries and bagels. You’ll love the Café Con Leche from Havana’s stall; I drank mine listening to jazz played by a live band. Later that day I enjoyed the ham croquettes I bought from Havana as well; they are delicious.
Moving on, I drove over the bridge to Palm Beach and The Church Mouse, a very special thrift shop. Stop by when you’re down this way. I found an Armani suit for less than $100 – a true find – and heard women talking about a fundraiser organized by ‘Melania’. After, a walk down Worth Avenue – always a treat – and on to the hotel.
Next day I was at the Palm Beach Gardens Green Market, and bought delicious swordfish from Gulfstream Seafood. This market has great produce and also handcrafts. I found a perfect purse made from palm leaf at CordoBags’ stand, and used it all the rest of the week.
It’s hard to tear yourself away from the pool and the beach when you’re here – almost any spot in the area is a beautiful setting, and the sunsets are a gorgeous pink. Staying on Singer Island, I visited the Loggerhead Marine Life Center in nearby Juno Beach. This is a wonderful place to learn about sea turtles, and visit rescued turtles recovering at the sea turtle hospital, each patient with a name and an explanation of their injuries and treatment.
Mid-week I ventured outside the area and first headed north to Jupiter and Jupiter Island. On Jupiter Island don’t miss Blowing Rocks Preserve to see a barrier island preserved in its original state. I watched a beautiful sunset and then headed to Too Bizarre in Jupiter for dinner. It’s no surprise this local wine bar and restaurant has people streaming in – great food and drinks, wonderful art and fun décor, great crowd. The calamari appetizer was ‘to die for’ and I had a piece of coconut cake that I’ll be thinking about for awhile.
Next I went south for a day in Delray Beach, a true seaside town. I had a tasty tuna melt and iced tea at Caffé Luna Rosa near the beach on S. Ocean Boulevard, and noticed they have live music in the evening along with Italian favorites for dinner. After looking through some shops I took a walk on the town’s long beach. Everywhere I went people were friendly and enjoying the day. Delray Beach has a fun atmosphere, the feeling of a party that never ends. I plan to return for more than just an afternoon.
My last day here I’m soaking in the sun, the wind and the great feeling of being here. I took a walk in the morning and saw a large fish leap out of the water and spent the day at the pool. I’m about to enjoy Happy Hour. A week in Palm Beach County stays with you – the best part about a good vacation spot. I know this great feeling will keep until my next visit, and I look forward to my return.
