Best Kids Summer Activities • Palm Beach County Guide 2026
🌞 Summer 2026 Guide
Best Kids Summer Activities
Palm Beach County
Your complete city-by-city guide to camps, events, beaches, and family fun — so your kids never hear "I'm bored!" all summer long.
📍 20+ Cities
🏕️ Top Camps
🌊 Beach Fun
🆓 Free Activities
🎨 Arts & Science
🏖️ PALM BEACH COUNTY 2026🌞 Best Kids Summer Activities
🌞 Best Kids Summer Activities
City-by-City Guide
Martin Group Real Estate · FLPalmBeach.com
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Summer in South Florida is pure magic — warm breezes, endless sunshine, glittering Atlantic coastlines, and a Palm Beach County packed wall-to-wall with things to do. But if you've ever Googled "what can my kids do this summer?" and come back empty-handed, this guide is for you.
We've done the legwork so you don't have to. Below you'll find every major kids' activity, summer camp, attraction, and event organized by city — in alphabetical order — across Palm Beach County. Whether you're in Boca Raton, Jupiter, Wellington, or anywhere in between, there's something wonderful waiting right around the corner.
🎯 How to use this guide: Jump to your city in the Table of Contents below, browse every activity in that city, click the event link for current schedules and registration, and start building your summer calendar!
And if all this Palm Beach County sunshine has you thinking about buying or selling a home here — you're in the right place. The Martin Group has helped hundreds of families plant roots in this extraordinary county. More on that throughout the guide. 😊
📢 Disclosure: Some links in this guide are affiliate links and we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and places we genuinely love. Event dates, times, and prices change — always verify with the venue before visiting.
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Boca Raton
5 ActivitiesBoca Raton is a goldmine for family summer fun — from free science museums to world-class nature centers and a full city rec camp program.
🦎 Gumbo Limbo Nature Center Free Admission
📅Open: Tues–Sun 9 AM–4 PM (Mon 12–4 PM); Boardwalk/trails daily 7 AM–sunset
🏠Where: 1801 N Ocean Blvd, Boca Raton, FL 33432
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free admission, parking fee applies
⭐ Why We Love It: Nestled on a barrier island surrounded by rare tropical hardwood hammock, Gumbo Limbo is a 20-acre coastal preserve that educates the whole family about sea turtles, local wildlife, and conservation. The boardwalk, nature trails, and on-site sea turtle rehabilitation hospital make every visit memorable — and it doesn't cost a dime to get in.
Visit Gumbo Limbo🔬 Children's Science Explorium at Sugar Sand Park Free
📅Hours: Mon–Fri 9 AM–6 PM; Sat–Sun & Holidays 10 AM–5 PM
🏠Where: 300 S Military Trail, Sugar Sand Park, Boca Raton, FL 33486
👧Ages: 5–12 (plus the largest free playground in Florida!)
💰Cost: Free; (561) 347-3912
⭐ Why We Love It: This is hands-down one of South Florida's hidden gems. Free interactive science exhibits bring everything from rockets to molecules to life for kids 5–12. The park surrounding it features nature trails, a carousel, a science playground, and a 67-acre park — it's an entire day of fun for zero dollars.
Visit Science Explorium🏕️ City of Boca Raton 2026 Summer Camps Registration Open
📅Dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026 (30+ programs)
🏠Where: Various city facilities across Boca Raton
👧Ages: 4–16
💰Cost: Varies by program; resident/non-resident pricing
⭐ Why We Love It: The City of Boca's rec program is massive — 30+ camps from the famous Gumbo Limbo Environmental Camp to Discover Magic, Fishing Camp, and Shark Camp. Every program is designed to encourage creativity, keep kids active, and build real skills. Spots fill fast — register as early as possible!
Register for Boca Camps💧 Coconut Cove Waterpark Water Park
📅Season: Summer 2026; hours vary — check website
🏠Where: Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park, Boca Raton
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Affordable county pricing; check pbc.gov
⭐ Why We Love It: Lazy river, water slides, and a splash playground — all inside a gorgeous South County Regional Park setting. A perfect full-day escape from the Florida heat that won't break the bank.
Visit Coconut Cove🍔 Tasty Tuesday at Sunset Cove Free Event
📅When: Every Tuesday, 5:00 PM all summer
🏠Where: Burt Aaronson South County Regional Park (Sunset Cove Amphitheater loop), West Boca
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free entry; food truck purchases optional
⭐ Why We Love It: Food trucks + family fun every single Tuesday evening. A free, low-key community gathering where kids can run around while parents grab a bite. A perfect weeknight summer tradition for Boca families.
County Events Calendar🏡 Thinking of Selling Your Home?
Summer is one of the hottest selling seasons in Palm Beach County. Families relocate before the school year, demand is high, and the Martin Group knows exactly how to get you top dollar — fast.
Get a Free Home Value Estimate📞 Call or Text: (561) 339-1779 · Local experts, 40+ years experience
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Boynton Beach
4 Activities🦘 Animal EDventure Park & Safari Unique Experience
📅When: Thurs–Sun; guided 1-hour walking tours
🏠Where: West Boynton Beach area (check website for exact address)
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid; reservations required
⭐ Why We Love It: Meet sloths, kangaroos, llamas, alpacas, goats, donkeys, and cows on this private farm. The guided tour includes feeding and picture opportunities — a totally unique Palm Beach County experience that kids remember for years.
Book Your Tour🏊 Boynton Beach Splash Pad & Rec Centers Affordable
📅When: Daily throughout summer; hours vary by location
🏠Where: Multiple Boynton Beach parks and rec centers
👧Ages: Toddlers through teens
💰Cost: Free to minimal fee
⭐ Why We Love It: Boynton Beach has grown into a thriving city with multiple rec centers, splash pads, and parks for families. A great, budget-friendly way to beat the heat every single day of summer.
Boynton Beach Parks & Rec🎭 Twisters Gymnastics Summer Camp New in 2026
📅When: Weekly sessions, Summer 2026
🏠Where: Boynton Beach (new location opening 2026)
👧Ages: 5+
💰Cost: Weekly tuition; check website
⭐ Why We Love It: Flipping, cartwheeling, and climbing all day in a structured, fun environment. Twisters is one of the most popular summer camp programs in the area and is expanding to Boynton Beach — perfect for kids who love to move.
Twisters Gymnastics📚 Boynton Beach Public Library Summer Reading Free
📅When: All summer; events and programs weekly
🏠Where: 208 S Seacrest Blvd, Boynton Beach, FL 33435
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free
⭐ Why We Love It: Summer reading programs keep kids' minds sharp and offer a cool, air-conditioned escape with story times, crafts, games, and special guests. The Palm Beach County library system has 300+ summer activities across all branches.
PBC Library Events
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Delray Beach
4 Activities🦈 Sandoway Discovery Center Marine Life
📅Hours: Tues–Sun; check website for times
🏠Where: 142 S Ocean Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Affordable admission
⭐ Why We Love It: Southeast Florida's largest private shell collection lives here, plus live shark, stingray, and alligator feedings. This small but mighty nature center on the Delray beachfront punches way above its size for family entertainment and education.
Sandoway Discovery Center🎨 artNEST Creative Summer Camps Arts Camp
📅When: Weekly sessions, Summer 2026
🏠Where: East Delray Beach studio
👧Ages: 3.5+
💰Cost: Weekly tuition; check website
⭐ Why We Love It: Paint splatter rooms, clay, mixed media, and creativity-first teaching in a space designed for imaginative kids. artNEST's east Delray studio is consistently one of the most-loved summer camps by local parents — and kids with glitter in their hair are proof it works.
artNEST Camps🌞 Delray Municipal Beach & Atlantic Dunes Park Free Beach
📅When: Daily; dawn to dusk
🏠Where: Atlantic Ave & A1A, Delray Beach, FL
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free beach; parking fees vary
⭐ Why We Love It: Delray's beach is one of the most beautiful in all of Florida — wide sandy shore, clear water, boardwalk, and the vibrant Atlantic Avenue just steps away. Atlantic Dunes Park next door has a nature trail perfect for kids. Plan a morning beach visit + Atlantic Ave stroll for a perfect summer day.
Delray Beach Info⛳ PopStroke Delray Beach Family Activity
📅Hours: Daily; evenings especially popular
🏠Where: 1314 N Federal Hwy, Delray Beach, FL 33483
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid; check website for current pricing
⭐ Why We Love It: Tiger Woods' PopStroke brings next-level mini golf with a restaurant, full bar for adults, ice cream, and an arcade for kids. A fun early-evening outing that keeps everyone happy — from toddlers to teens and parents too.
PopStroke Delray
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Pro Parent Tip: Beat the Florida summer heat by planning your outdoor activities before 10 AM or after 4 PM. Most outdoor venues — beaches, parks, and nature centers — are far more enjoyable in the early morning and late afternoon. Pack water, sunscreen SPF 50+, and reef-safe products near the ocean!
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Greenacres & Loxahatchee
2 Activities🏞️ Okeeheelee Nature Center & Park Free / Low Cost
📅Hours: Nature Center: Tues–Fri 1–4:45 PM; Sat 8:15 AM–4:45 PM
🏠Where: 7715 Forest Hill Blvd, Greenacres, FL 33413
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free; park facilities vary
⭐ Why We Love It: Walking trails, hands-on nature activities, native Florida wildlife, and a 900-acre park with a BMX track, skate park, fishing, and archery range. This is an incredible, underrated Palm Beach County gem that keeps kids busy for an entire day.
Okeeheelee Nature Center🦁 Lion Country Safari Must-Do
📅Hours: Daily 9 AM–5 PM (last vehicle entry 4:30 PM)
🏠Where: 2003 Lion Country Safari Rd, Loxahatchee, FL 33470
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid; Summer Savings Pass available
⭐ Why We Love It: Drive-through safari across nearly 600 acres with hundreds of animals roaming freely around your car — lions, giraffes, rhinos, chimpanzees, and more. Then exit and explore the amusement park with rides and a walk-through safari. One of the top family attractions in all of Florida and a summer classic.
Lion Country Safari
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Juno Beach
3 Activities🐠 Loggerhead Marinelife Center — Jr. Marine Biologist Summer Camp Top Pick 2026
📅2026 Dates: Ocean Adventures: June 15–19, June 22–26, July 27–31, Aug 3–7 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM–4 PM)
🏠Where: 14200 US Hwy 1, Loggerhead Park, Juno Beach, FL 33408
👧Ages: 6–13 (3 camp tracks by age group)
💰Cost: Paid; scholarships available via Oceans of Opportunity
⭐ Why We Love It: Snorkeling, seining, canoeing, fishing, sea turtle care, and real marine science — this is the gold standard of Palm Beach County summer camps. LMC welcomes 350,000+ visitors annually to one of the world's most important sea turtle nesting beaches. Three camp tracks (Sea Turtle Savers, Ocean Adventures, Conservation Heroes) make it perfect for every age 6–13. Book early — these fill up fast!
Register at LMC🐢 Loggerhead Marinelife Center — General Admission & Sea Turtle Hospital Free Admission
📅Hours: Daily 10 AM–5 PM
🏠Where: 14200 US Hwy 1, Juno Beach, FL 33408
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free; donations appreciated
⭐ Why We Love It: Even without signing up for camp, families can visit the on-site sea turtle hospital, meet recovering turtle patients, explore educational exhibits, and walk the Juno Beach boardwalk. Free, meaningful, and one of the most visited nonprofits in Florida.
Plan Your Visit🏄 Juno Beach & Juno Pier Fishing Free Beach
📅When: Daily; fishing best early morning or late afternoon
🏠Where: Juno Beach Park, 14775 US-1, Juno Beach, FL 33408
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free beach; pier fishing fee
⭐ Why We Love It: One of the cleanest, least crowded beaches in the county with a great pier for fishing. If you're lucky, you might spot sea turtles nesting nearby (most active June–August). Combine with the Marinelife Center for a perfect full day.
Juno Beach Park🏖️ Ready to Live Where You Vacation?
Palm Beach County isn't just a great place to spend summer — it's one of the best places in the country to raise a family. Great schools, incredible outdoor activities, and a thriving real estate market. Let the Martin Group help you find your perfect home.
Search Homes For Sale📞 (561) 339-1779 · Serving Palm Beach County since 2011
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Jupiter
5 Activities🛶 Jupiter Outdoor Center Summer Adventure Camp Top Pick
📅When: Weekly sessions, Summer 2026; Mon–Fri full day
🏠Where: 500 Captain Armours Way, Jupiter, FL
👧Ages: Various; check website
💰Cost: Weekly tuition; register early
⭐ Why We Love It: Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, biking, hiking, archery, animal encounters, eco activities, marine biology, and more — all in one week. Jupiter Outdoor Center's camp is the ultimate unplugged summer adventure that kids rave about. Activities take place across South Florida's most scenic natural playgrounds.
Jupiter Outdoor Center🎭 Broadway Theatre Camp at FAU Jupiter Performing Arts
📅When: Weekly sessions, Summer 2026; exciting themed weeks
🏠Where: FAU John D. MacArthur Campus, Jupiter (Abacoa)
👧Ages: 6–14 (Leadership Program: 15–17)
💰Cost: Weekly tuition
⭐ Why We Love It: Singing, acting, dancing, and confidence-building — every kid gets to be a star! Weekly themes keep it fresh and fun, and the FAU campus setting is fantastic. A wonderful camp for kids who love to perform or simply want to build social skills and self-expression.
Jupiter Summer Camps🌊 Bluewater Surf & Fishing Camp Outdoor Sports
📅When: Weekly sessions, Summer 2026
🏠Where: 2188 Marcinski Rd, Jupiter, FL
👧Ages: 6+
💰Cost: Weekly tuition
⭐ Why We Love It: Learn to surf or master advanced techniques in a safe, fun, outdoor environment all summer long. Bluewater also offers a fishing camp option — so whether your child wants to ride waves or cast a line, this camp delivers the best of Jupiter's ocean lifestyle.
Bluewater Surf Camp🏛️ Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum History + Views
📅Hours: Tues–Sun 10 AM–5 PM; lighthouse climbs on the hour
🏠Where: 500 Captain Armours Way, Jupiter, FL 33469
👧Ages: 4+ (height minimum to climb)
💰Cost: Affordable admission
⭐ Why We Love It: Climb the iconic 1860 Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse for panoramic views of Jupiter and the Atlantic, then explore the restored pioneer settlement, nature trail, and manatee-watching area. A uniquely Florida experience that combines history, nature, and adventure all in one visit.
Jupiter Lighthouse🎵 Abby's Performing Arts Coaching — Summer Camp Arts
📅📅 Summer 2026 sessions
🏠Where: 1200 Town Center Dr, Suite 115, Palm Beach Gardens/Jupiter area
👧Ages: 5–10
💰Cost: Weekly tuition
⭐ Why We Love It: Voice, piano, acting, and performing arts in a nurturing summer camp format designed for younger kids 5–10. A beautiful way to introduce children to music and performance in a fun, low-pressure environment.
Browse Jupiter Camps
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Lake Worth Beach
3 Activities🏒 Palm Beach Skate Zone — Ice Skating & Summer Camp Indoor / Cool Off
📅Hours: Various daily public sessions; Ice Skating Camp: Summer 2026 weekly
🏠Where: 8125 Lake Worth Rd, Lake Worth, FL 33467
👧Ages: 4+ (camp: 5–14)
💰Cost: Session fees; camp weekly tuition
⭐ Why We Love It: Ice skating in Florida feels extra magical! PB Skate Zone offers public sessions, hockey leagues, figure skating, and a summer ice camp with friends, professional instruction, arts & crafts, and games. Perfect for beating the July heat in the most fun way possible.
Palm Beach Skate Zone🎪 Lake Worth Beach & Casino Pool Classic PBC
📅Hours: Daily; pool hours vary seasonally
🏠Where: 10 S Ocean Blvd, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free beach; pool admission fee
⭐ Why We Love It: Lake Worth Beach is one of the most charming and affordable beach towns in the county. The historic Casino building houses a pool, restaurant, and event space right on the oceanfront. A local favorite with a real small-town feel.
Lake Worth Beach City🎠 Fun Depot Family Fun Center Rainy Day Win
📅Hours: Daily; check website for current hours
🏠Where: Lake Worth area
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid; card-based pricing
⭐ Why We Love It: Laser tag, bowling, go-karts, mini golf, and a massive arcade — Fun Depot has completely upgraded its facility and parents love the improved experience. A fantastic rainy-day option or evening activity that the whole family can enjoy together.
Fun Depot
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North Palm Beach & Palm Beach Shores
3 Activities🏊 North Palm Beach Country Club & Village Pool Community Favorite
📅Hours: Daily summer hours; check npbfl.gov
🏠Where: 951 US-1, North Palm Beach, FL 33408
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Resident/membership rates
⭐ Why We Love It: One of the best municipal pools in the county with swim teams, lessons, and open recreation. The NPB village vibe is friendly, walkable, and perfect for young families spending the summer.
North Palm Beach Rec🤿 John D. MacArthur Beach State Park Nature & Snorkel
📅Hours: Daily 8 AM–sunset; Nature Center Thurs–Sun
🏠Where: 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr, North Palm Beach, FL 33408
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: $5/vehicle; kayak rentals available
⭐ Why We Love It: Palm Beach County's only state park features nearly 2 miles of pristine beach, warm snorkeling waters with abundant marine life, estuary paddling with dolphins and manatees, and nature trails through preserved subtropical habitat. One of the most beautiful natural escapes in all of South Florida — don't miss it.
MacArthur Beach State Park⛵ Peanut Island Ferry & Snorkeling Only in PBC!
📅Ferry: Weekends & select days; check Palm Beach Ferries schedule
🏠Where: Departs from Riviera Beach Marina; Peanut Island, Lake Worth Inlet
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Small ferry fee; free on the island
⭐ Why We Love It: A ferry ride to your own private island? Yes, please! Peanut Island is a 79-acre park in the Lake Worth Inlet with a snorkeling reef, beach, camping, and the famous Kennedy Bunker. Kids love the ferry adventure and the incredible snorkeling — colorful fish guaranteed!
Peanut Island Park
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Palm Beach Gardens
4 Activities🧬 Palm Beach Atlantic University — Science Learning Summer Camps STEM Camp
📅When: Multiple weeks, Summer 2026
🏠Where: 901 S Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach (PBA campus)
👧Ages: Grades 1–12
💰Cost: Weekly tuition
⭐ Why We Love It: College-level science exploration led by real PBA professors using unconventional, multi-disciplinary approaches. Unlike any other camp — kids come out thinking like scientists. Available for grades 1–12, making it one of the widest age-range programs in the county.
PBG-Jupiter Camp Guide🧪 Club SciKidz Summer Camp STEAM + Tech
📅When: Weekly sessions, Summer 2026; themes change weekly
🏠Where: 4601 S Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach (near PBG)
👧Ages: 4–14
💰Cost: Weekly tuition; register at treasurecoast.clubscikidz.com
⭐ Why We Love It: AI, Robotics, Minecraft, Pokemon Professors, CSI Forensics, Marvel MovieMaker, Little Chemist, and more — Club SciKidz themes are genuinely exciting. Fantastic for tech-curious kids who want something more stimulating than a typical day camp.
Club SciKidz🏊 Palm Beach Gardens Aquatic Complex Pools & Lessons
📅Hours: Daily; summer hours extended
🏠Where: 4404 Burns Rd, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Affordable daily/monthly rates
⭐ Why We Love It: One of the premier public aquatic complexes in South Florida with multiple pools, diving boards, swim lessons, and recreational swimming. A staple of summer for PBG families — and a great place for kids to become confident swimmers.
PBG Aquatic Complex🐠 Eco Snorkel Camp at Blue Heron Bridge Ocean Exploration
📅When: Summer 2026 weekly sessions
🏠Where: Blue Heron Bridge / Phil Foster Park, Riviera Beach (near PBG)
👧Ages: 8–17
💰Cost: Weekly tuition
⭐ Why We Love It: Blue Heron Bridge is world-famous among divers as one of the best shore dives on the planet. This camp gives kids ages 8–17 a guided, expert introduction to snorkeling the incredible marine life there. Life-changing for ocean-loving kids!
WPB Area Camp Guide🌴 What's Your Palm Beach County Home Worth?
The summer market is active and home values across Palm Beach County are strong. Find out what your home is worth right now — free, fast, and with zero obligation.
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Riviera Beach & Singer Island
3 Activities💧 Rapids Water Park Full Day Adventure
📅Hours: Daily 10 AM–5 PM (select days to 7 PM)
🏠Where: 6566 N Military Trail, Riviera Beach, FL 33407
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid; buy online to save; cabana rentals available
⭐ Why We Love It: Over 40 water attractions — Florida's first Dueling Water Coaster (Mega Mayhem!), a FlowRider wave machine, lazy river, wave pool, slides for every age, and picnic areas. Rapids is a Palm Beach County summer institution that kids look forward to all year. Go early for shorter lines and stay for the afternoon!
Rapids Water Park🤿 Phil Foster Park — Blue Heron Bridge Snorkeling World Class Snorkeling
📅Hours: Daily; best at high slack tide (check tide charts)
🏠Where: Phil Foster Park, 900 Blue Heron Blvd, Riviera Beach, FL
👧Ages: 6+ (with life jackets)
💰Cost: Free; bring your own snorkel gear
⭐ Why We Love It: Scuba divers travel from around the world for Blue Heron Bridge — the marine life density here is extraordinary. Even snorkelers can spot sea horses, frogfish, flounder, octopus, rays, and hundreds of fish species. A totally free, utterly magical family experience. Go at high slack tide for the calmest, clearest water.
Phil Foster Park🏖️ Singer Island & Ocean Reef Park Beach Best Beach Spot
📅Hours: Daily; dawn to dusk
🏠Where: 3860 N Ocean Dr, Riviera Beach, FL 33404
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free; metered parking
⭐ Why We Love It: Singer Island is one of the least crowded, most beautiful beach stretches in Palm Beach County. Ocean Reef Park has calm, clear waters perfect for kids, plus restrooms and a playground. A paradise that feels a world away from the crowds.
Ocean Reef Park
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Royal Palm Beach
2 Activities🌿 Royal Palm Beach Commons Park & Splash Pad Family Park
📅Hours: Daily; splash pad seasonal hours
🏠Where: 11600 Poinciana Blvd, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free
⭐ Why We Love It: A gorgeous 72-acre commons with a splash pad, playgrounds, nature trails, fishing lake, and an amphitheater for outdoor events. One of the best free family parks in western Palm Beach County — a local hidden gem.
Royal Palm Beach Parks🦋 Busch Wildlife Sanctuary Wildlife Rehab
📅Hours: Daily 8 AM–4:30 PM (donation-based visits)
🏠Where: 2500 Jupiter Park Dr, Jupiter, FL 33458 (near RPB)
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free; donations welcome
⭐ Why We Love It: A working wildlife rehabilitation center where you can see over 170 animals — Florida panthers, black bears, alligators, eagles, owls, and more — up close in a natural, educational setting. A meaningful visit that teaches kids about wildlife conservation in a powerful way.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
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Tequesta
2 Activities🖼️ Lighthouse ArtCenter — ArtCamp Summer 2026 Art Camp
📅Dates: June 1 – July 31, 2026 (8 weeks); teen workshops additional dates
🏠Where: 373 Tequesta Dr, Tequesta, FL 33469
👧Ages: 5–11 (ArtCamp); 12–16 (teen workshops)
💰Cost: Weekly tuition; visit lighthousearts.org
⭐ Why We Love It: Eight weeks of drawing, painting, clay, sculpture, animation, and more led by professional teaching artists. The Lighthouse ArtCenter is a beloved nonprofit arts institution and ArtCamp is genuinely special — small groups, real art education, and kids who leave beaming with pride over what they created.
Lighthouse ArtCenter🌊 Loxahatchee River Kayaking & Nature Tours Outdoor Adventure
📅When: Year-round; mornings recommended in summer
🏠Where: Jonathan Dickinson State Park / local outfitters, Tequesta area
👧Ages: 5+ (with adult)
💰Cost: Kayak rental rates; tours available
⭐ Why We Love It: Florida's only federally designated Wild & Scenic River runs right through here. Paddle through cypress tunnels, spot alligators, manatees, river otters, and exotic birds. A true Florida wilderness experience just minutes from the Jupiter/Tequesta coast.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
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Wellington
3 Activities🏇 Wellington Equestrian & Riding Camps Unique to Wellington
📅When: Summer 2026; multiple stables offer programs
🏠Where: Wellington, FL (Equestrian Capital of the World)
👧Ages: 5+
💰Cost: Varies by stable; half-day and full-day options
⭐ Why We Love It: Wellington is the equestrian capital of the world — there is literally no better place in the country to introduce your child to horses. Summer riding camps here range from beginner trail rides to serious riding instruction. A magical, confidence-building experience unlike anything else.
Wellington Parks & Rec🦁 McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary Animal Encounters
📅Hours: Tours available; check mccartyswildlife.com for schedule
🏠Where: Western Palm Beach County / Wellington area
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid tour; reservations required
⭐ Why We Love It: Over 170 animals — tigers, lions, bears, primates, and exotic birds in a sanctuary-style setting. Guided tours get you remarkably close to animals you'd normally only see on safari. A truly unforgettable Palm Beach County experience for animal lovers of all ages.
McCarthy's Wildlife🏊 Wellington Aquatics Complex & Summer Camps Rec Center
📅Hours: Daily summer hours; camp sessions available
🏠Where: 12150 Forest Hill Blvd, Wellington, FL 33414
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Resident/non-resident rates
⭐ Why We Love It: Wellington has one of the best community recreation programs in South Florida with multiple summer camps, aquatics, sports leagues, and arts programs. The community center is a fantastic air-conditioned hub for kids all summer long.
Wellington Parks & Rec
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West Palm Beach
7 ActivitiesWest Palm Beach is the cultural and entertainment heart of Palm Beach County — and for summer family fun, it truly delivers at every price point.
🦏 Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society Classic Favorite
📅Hours: Daily 9 AM–5 PM; Safari Camp: weekly summer sessions
🏠Where: 1301 Summit Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
👧Ages: All ages (Safari Camp: 5–13)
💰Cost: Paid admission; Summer Savings Pass available
⭐ Why We Love It: Tigers, koalas, capybaras, sloths, Aldabra tortoises, lorikeet feeding, and a splash pad for little ones — the Palm Beach Zoo packs incredible variety into a beautifully shaded campus. The Safari Camp (9 AM–4 PM weekly) adds zookeeper talks and hands-on animal encounters for a fully immersive experience.
Palm Beach Zoo🔭 Cox Science Center & Aquarium STEM + Fun
📅Hours: Daily 9 AM–5 PM
🏠Where: 4801 Dreher Trail N, West Palm Beach, FL 33405
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Paid; free with Bank of America card (select weekends); Summer Savings Pass
⭐ Why We Love It: Hurricane wind tunnel, ball physics exhibits, a full aquarium, a planetarium, and rotating mega-exhibits (Dinosaurs, Space, etc.) — kids race from exhibit to exhibit and don't want to leave. Right next to the Palm Beach Zoo so you can do both in one epic day!
Cox Science Center🐟 Manatee Lagoon — FPL Eco-Discovery Center Free & Educational
📅Hours: Mon–Sun 9 AM–4 PM (enhanced facility recently reopened!)
🏠Where: 6000 N Flagler Dr, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free; donations optional
⭐ Why We Love It: Free interactive exhibits, a waterfront deck with manatee viewing, an augmented reality 3D solar tree, picnic area, and gift shop — Manatee Lagoon just reopened with a completely enhanced facility. A wonderful, totally free educational experience dedicated to Florida's beloved sea cows.
Manatee Lagoon🧱 Sean Kenney's "Brick Planet" at Norton Museum of Art Special Exhibit 2026
📅Dates: May 17 – September 27, 2026
🏠Where: Norton Museum of Art, 1450 S Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
👧Ages: All ages (especially LEGO fans!)
💰Cost: Museum admission applies
⭐ Why We Love It: A magical journey made entirely of LEGO bricks! Multiple galleries showcasing world ecosystems AND interactive building stations — this is the summer 2026 must-see exhibit. Perfect for the whole family and running all summer through late September. Don't miss it!
Norton Museum of Art🌱 Mounts Botanical Garden Nature Walk
📅Hours: Mon–Sat 9 AM–4 PM; Sun 12–4 PM
🏠Where: 531 N Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33415
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Affordable admission; free on select days
⭐ Why We Love It: 14 acres of tropical plants, butterfly gardens, a children's garden, and peaceful walking paths. Mounts is a sensory wonderland for curious kids and a calming nature escape for parents. Bring a butterfly net kit and turn it into a science adventure.
Mounts Botanical Garden🎵 Clematis by Night — Free Thursday Summer Concerts Free Live Music
📅When: Every Thursday evening, year-round
🏠Where: Centennial Square, Clematis St, West Palm Beach, FL
👧Ages: All ages
💰Cost: Free
⭐ Why We Love It: Grab a lawn chair or blanket and bring the whole family to one of South Florida's best free weekly events. Live music from varying genres every Thursday evening on beautiful Clematis Street. A perfect, low-key summer tradition for the whole family.
Clematis by Night📚 Palm Beach County Libraries — 300+ Summer Programs Free Programs
📅When: All summer; times vary by branch
🏠Where: All branches countywide
👧Ages: All ages (including teen volunteer opportunities)
💰Cost: Free
⭐ Why We Love It: 300+ kids activities, summer reading programs, story times, crafts, STEM workshops, and teen volunteer positions across every branch in the county. A completely free, air-conditioned summer lifeline for families. Check the county library calendar weekly for new events!
PBC Library Events📈 The Market Is Moving — Are You Ready?
Families are buying and selling across Palm Beach County this summer. If you've been thinking about upsizing, downsizing, or relocating within the county, there's no better time to have a conversation with the Martin Group.
Schedule a Free ConsultationJason & Doug Martin · Premier Brokers International · (561) 339-1779
🏖️ Best Palm Beach County Beaches for Families
All of these public beaches are free to access (parking fees may apply)
🌴 Juno Beach Park
Clean, calm waves, sea turtle nesting June–August, boardwalk, and a great pier for fishing. Perfect for young kids.
🌊 Delray Municipal Beach
Wide sand, clear water, boardwalk, and the vibrant Atlantic Ave just steps away. One of the prettiest beaches in Florida.
🐠 Singer Island / Ocean Reef Park
Calm, uncrowded, crystal-clear water with a playground and restrooms. Great for snorkeling and building sandcastles.
🤿 Phil Foster Park (Blue Heron Bridge)
World-famous snorkeling — best at high slack tide. Seahorses, octopus, rays, and hundreds of fish species. Free.
🏄 Carlin Park, Jupiter
Large park with beach, picnic areas, tennis, baseball, and a playground. A classic Jupiter family day-out spot.
🌿 Spanish River Park, Boca Raton
Tunnels under A1A connect this wooded park to the beach. Picnic pavilions, nature trails, and a beautiful natural setting.
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Shell Collector's Tip: The best shelling in Palm Beach County happens at low tide in the early morning. Bring a shell identification book and a mesh bag — kids love turning it into a game! Shell ID Guide →
🏠 At-Home & Rainy Day Summer Fun
Because some days it rains, or it's just too hot — and that's perfectly okay!
Florida summers bring afternoon thunderstorms, and some of the best memories are made right at home. Here are our favorite at-home activities to keep kids entertained, creative, and learning all season long.
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Backyard Obstacle Course
Hula hoops, cones, and pool noodles transform any backyard into an epic challenge course.
🔬
DIY Science Experiments
Volcano kits, crystal growing, and slime making — hands-on science that sparks real curiosity.
🎨
Creative Art Days
Set up an art station with washable paints, canvas boards, and a wood easel — let creativity run wild.
🎬
Outdoor Movie Night
A portable projector + a bed sheet + a bag of popcorn = summer magic in your own backyard.
💦
Water Balloon Fun
Water balloon dodgeball, sponge relay races, and sprinkler slides beat the heat for under $20.
🪁
Kite Flying
Breezy mornings on Delray Beach or MacArthur Park — a timeless, phone-free family activity.
✨ Make This Your Best Summer Yet
From the sea turtle hospitals of Juno Beach to the LEGO worlds of West Palm Beach's Norton Museum, from Lion Country Safari to Peanut Island snorkeling — Palm Beach County truly is one of the most extraordinary places in the world to raise a family.
We hope this guide helps you fill your calendar with incredible memories this summer. Bookmark it, share it with other parents, and check back — we update it throughout the season!
Have a favorite spot we missed? Drop us a note — we love hearing from local families! 📬
🙌 Share This Guide! Know a parent who needs summer ideas? Send them this page! The more families we can help, the better. And if you're thinking about making Palm Beach County your permanent home, the Martin Group is here to help with that too. 🏡
