Top 10 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Palm Beach Gardens

Palm Beach Gardens, nestled in the heart of Florida’s Gold Coast, is a place known for its picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches, and an abundance of natural beauty. One of the most magical experiences here is witnessing the sunset. The sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple – it’s something that leaves you in awe every time. If you’re like me and enjoy ending the day with a beautiful sunset, I’ve compiled a list of the best places in Palm Beach Gardens where you can catch the most breathtaking views.

1. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

If you’re looking for a historical yet stunning view of the sunset, look no further than the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum. The lighthouse itself is an iconic structure that offers one of the best vantage points in the area. Although the lighthouse is a bit of a hike to get to the top, the view of the sun setting over the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean is completely worth it. The historical charm of the lighthouse adds to the allure, making it a great place to enjoy the sunset while learning a little about the area’s past.

I love coming here with friends or family for a sunset picnic in the surrounding park area, as it provides a relaxing atmosphere where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon. The beach below the lighthouse is also a fantastic place to sit and enjoy the view.

2. Riverside Park

For those looking for a peaceful, less crowded spot to watch the sunset, Riverside Park in Palm Beach Gardens is a hidden gem. Located along the scenic waterways of the city, this park offers a serene setting to relax as the sun sets over the water. The park features picnic areas, walking paths, and benches right by the river, making it the perfect spot for both quiet reflection and socializing with friends.

What makes Riverside Park particularly special is its accessibility. It’s close enough to the city but feels like a quiet retreat. Grab a blanket, a bottle of wine, and head to the park for an evening of watching the sky light up with brilliant colors. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll also enjoy the lush greenery that surrounds the park, making it an ideal place for both sunsets and wildlife spotting.

3. The Gardens Mall Rooftop

For a unique experience in Palm Beach Gardens, the Gardens Mall offers a rooftop that provides some of the most amazing sunset views. It’s a bit unconventional, considering it’s a mall, but the elevated position of the rooftop gives you a sweeping panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the Florida coastline.

You can grab a seat at one of the nearby restaurants with outdoor seating, such as The Cheesecake Factory or Searsucker, and enjoy your meal as the sun sets over the horizon. The combination of shopping, dining, and watching the sunset from above makes it an experience that’s as stylish as it is beautiful.

4. MacArthur Beach State Park

If you’re looking for a more natural environment to enjoy your sunset, MacArthur Beach State Park is one of the best places to go. With miles of pristine coastline, it’s easy to find a quiet spot to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you’re walking along the shoreline or sitting on the beach, the views are exceptional. The park offers plenty of shaded areas and nature trails that let you explore the beauty of the park during the day, making it an ideal spot to spend the afternoon before catching the sunset.

What I love most about MacArthur Beach is its quiet, peaceful atmosphere. It’s never overcrowded, even during peak seasons, which means you can enjoy a more private and tranquil sunset experience. Plus, the park has some great amenities like picnic areas, so it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sunset with loved ones.

5. Ocean Reef Park

Another stunning beachside spot for sunset lovers is Ocean Reef Park. This park offers direct access to the ocean and has a lovely beach where you can watch the sun dip into the horizon. The park’s grassy areas are perfect for a picnic, or you can walk down to the beach to enjoy the view up close. The tranquil environment and clear skies provide an unobstructed view of the sunset, making it an ideal spot for both locals and visitors.

One of the perks of Ocean Reef Park is that it’s less touristy than other beach spots in Palm Beach Gardens, which means it’s a great place to enjoy a quieter, more intimate sunset experience. The park is also a great place for a stroll before the sun sets, with its clean, well-maintained walking paths.

6. PGA National Resort & Spa

For those seeking a more luxurious sunset experience, the PGA National Resort & Spa provides stunning views that you can enjoy from the comfort of its beautiful grounds. The resort is set on 2,340 acres of lush landscape, and its many dining options and outdoor spaces offer some of the most breathtaking views in the area. Whether you’re at the resort’s signature restaurant, sitting by the golf course, or enjoying the poolside, you’ll have a front-row seat to the stunning sunsets that are part of the resort’s charm.

The combination of manicured gardens, lakes, and fairways creates a magical setting where the golden hues of sunset reflect off the waters, giving you a spectacular show. It’s a perfect spot to relax with a cocktail in hand and experience a more upscale side of sunset viewing.

7. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park – Beach Access

John D. MacArthur Beach State Park is not only one of the best places for daytime activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or hiking but also offers one of the most beautiful sunset views in Palm Beach Gardens. The beach access points throughout the park offer unobstructed views of the ocean, making it an ideal location to watch the sunset. The beach here is relatively quiet compared to others, so you can have the perfect space to enjoy the natural beauty around you.

I highly recommend bringing a beach chair and a towel to sit back and relax. Watching the sky change colors as the sun sets behind the waves is a peaceful way to end the day.

8. Guanabanas

For a sunset experience that combines tropical vibes with fantastic food, head to Guanabanas in Jupiter. This outdoor restaurant and bar is right on the water and offers a great view of the sunset over the river. Guanabanas is known for its relaxed atmosphere, with tiki huts, palm trees, and plenty of seating options to enjoy the view while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.

What makes this spot even better is that you can grab a bite to eat while watching the sunset. Whether it’s seafood, tacos, or a frozen drink, Guanabanas makes the sunset experience even more enjoyable. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some live music as the sun goes down.

9. Blowing Rocks Preserve

Blowing Rocks Preserve, located in nearby Hobe Sound, is a stunning spot that offers both natural beauty and a view of one of the most dramatic sunsets in the area. The preserve is home to rugged limestone outcroppings that make the setting even more spectacular. Watching the sun set over the rocks and the ocean is an awe-inspiring sight.

What I love about Blowing Rocks Preserve is how secluded it feels. It’s a great option if you want to escape the more crowded tourist spots and experience a more peaceful sunset, surrounded by nature. It’s definitely a photographer’s dream, and you’ll want to capture the vibrant sky as the sun dips below the horizon.

10. West Palm Beach Waterfront

If you don’t mind driving a little farther out, the West Palm Beach Waterfront offers some of the best sunset views near Palm Beach Gardens. This area is a vibrant hub with a mix of great restaurants, bars, and shops, all offering stunning views of the water and the sunset. The waterfront area has plenty of outdoor seating where you can relax and watch the sky turn into a canvas of colors.

Whether you’re grabbing dinner at a waterfront restaurant or just walking along the promenade, the view of the sunset is incredible. The combination of city lights and natural beauty makes it a fantastic place for sunset watchers.

Final Thoughts

Watching the sunset in Palm Beach Gardens is an experience that never gets old. Whether you prefer a secluded beach, a high-rise rooftop, or a serene park, there are so many places to enjoy the evening sky’s stunning transformation. Personally, I think the best part about watching the sunset here is how each view is unique and offers something different – whether it’s the peaceful waters, dramatic landscapes, or vibrant cityscapes. So next time you find yourself in Palm Beach Gardens, make sure to catch the sunset at one of these beautiful spots. It’s an experience you won’t forget!