Loxahatchee River Wild and Scenic
Explore 'Old Florida' on the Loxahatchee River, a Wild & Scenic waterway teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for wildlife & fewer crowds
Loxahatchee River Wild and Scenic
Best Time
Best light for wildlife & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 'Old Florida' on the Loxahatchee River, a Wild & Scenic waterway teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.
"This is an awesome place to go kayaking in Jupiter. I highly recommend."
🎯 Kayak/Paddleboard Rentals
Rentals available at Riverbend Park from @jupiteroutdoorcenter for easy river access.
🐊 Wildlife Spotting
Look for gators, turtles, otters, deer, eagles, and herons along the riverbanks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wild & Scenic River Paddle
Loxahatchee River
Glide through one of Florida's only federally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers, teeming with wildlife.
Cypress Swamp Exploration
Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
Wander boardwalks through a magical wetland, spotting gators, birds, and other native Florida creatures.
Riverbend Park Access
Riverbend Park, Jupiter
Your gateway to the Loxahatchee River, offering rentals and easy access for paddling adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Kayaking & Wildlife
Best Access Points & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Kayak/Paddleboard Rentals
Rentals available at Riverbend Park from @jupiteroutdoorcenter for easy river access.
🐊 Wildlife Spotting
Look for gators, turtles, otters, deer, eagles, and herons along the riverbanks.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear appropriate shoes for walking trails and potentially getting wet.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Kayak/Paddleboard Rentals
Rentals available at Riverbend Park from @jupiteroutdoorcenter for easy river access.
🐊 Wildlife Spotting
Look for gators, turtles, otters, deer, eagles, and herons along the riverbanks.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit in the morning for cooler temperatures and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear appropriate shoes for walking trails and potentially getting wet.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer paddles or hikes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Loxahatchee River's natural beauty and abundant wildlife, calling it a wonderful experience for kayaking and family outings. While many enjoy the fishing and serene atmosphere, some wish for stricter enforcement of boating regulations in no-wake zones.
"The intercostal and river are wonderful! I wish boating violations were enforced more. There were people ripping around in no-wake zones and around paddleboarders. It was fun watching some of our crew catch some fish. There were a lot of people beaching their boats to hang out on sand bars and beaches. Dogs were playing in the water by the sand bars. This is an all-around wonderful experience. I just need more water cops."
Christina Holtz
"Great trip for MS students. Staff are well-informed and personable. Students and the general public will leave the Loxahatchee River Center with a great deal of understanding and knowledge."
Vin Man
"This is an awesome place to go kayaking in Jupiter. It’s not far from the Inlet and at high tide you get crystal-clear beautiful water and it’s great for swimming. If you like to fish the fishing is good around the mangroves too. I highly recommend."
Stuart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular access point is Riverbend Park in Jupiter, Florida. You can launch your own kayak or paddleboard, or rent them from Jupiter Outdoor Center located within the park.
Yes, Riverbend Park offers ample parking for visitors. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Yes, the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge offers boardwalks and canoe trails for exploration, though it's a different experience than the river paddle.
From West Palm Beach, you can drive north to Jupiter. Riverbend Park is easily accessible via local roads.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, some local outfitters like Jupiter Outdoor Center may offer guided tours or group paddles. It's best to check their website directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Riverbend Park generally has no entry fee for parking or general access. Kayak and paddleboard rentals will incur costs.
Operating hours can vary, but parks are typically open from sunrise to sunset. It's advisable to check the Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation website for the most current hours.
Launching a personal kayak or paddleboard at Riverbend Park is usually free, but always confirm with park staff or their official website.
Yes, the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge typically has an entrance fee per vehicle.
It's highly recommended to book kayak and paddleboard rentals in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends, to ensure availability.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife including alligators, turtles, river otters, deer, bald eagles, herons, egrets, and various fish species.
Kayaking or paddleboarding are the most popular and immersive ways to experience the river's natural beauty and wildlife.
Yes, the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge features boardwalks and walking trails. Riverbend Park also has trails.
At high tide, the water near the inlet can be crystal-clear and suitable for swimming. However, always be aware of currents and wildlife.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, plenty of water, snacks, a hat, and waterproof protection for your phone or camera.
🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining
There are dining options in nearby Jupiter and Tequesta. Many visitors pack a picnic to enjoy at Riverbend Park or on a sandbar.
Yes, fishing is permitted in the Loxahatchee River, particularly around the mangroves.
Riverbend Park does not have on-site restaurants, but picnic areas are available.
The Jupiter area offers a variety of seafood restaurants, casual cafes, and waterfront dining experiences.
Yes, picnic areas are available within the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, enhancing the colors and wildlife sightings.
The river is rich with opportunities to photograph birds, reptiles, mammals, and aquatic life in their natural habitat.
The cypress trees, the winding river bends, and the diverse wildlife are all picturesque. The Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse nearby also offers great photo ops.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance without disturbing them. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes.
Yes, the boardwalks provide excellent vantage points for photographing the wetland scenery and its inhabitants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to spot alligators, turtles, and numerous bird species is a huge draw for children, turning the trip into a real-life nature documentary. Consider visiting the Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge for its accessible boardwalks, which provide a safe way for kids to explore the wetland environment and observe wildlife without needing to paddle.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Lovers
+1 Kayaking or paddleboarding allows for intimate encounters with the diverse flora and fauna, from towering cypress trees to the smallest aquatic creatures. Early morning excursions are particularly rewarding for spotting elusive wildlife like otters, deer, and a vast array of bird species in their most active periods.
The Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge also offers dedicated trails and observation points for a deeper dive into the wetland ecosystem. 🛶 Paddlers & Outdoor Adventurers
+1 The river's varied landscape, from calm stretches to areas closer to the inlet, offers diverse paddling conditions. Explore the 9 miles of natural beauty, navigating through cypress swamps and coastal dunes, and enjoy the thrill of discovering wildlife.
The river's designation as Wild and Scenic ensures a relatively undeveloped and natural environment, perfect for those seeking an authentic outdoor escape. +1 Remember to check weather conditions and tide charts before heading out for a safe and enjoyable adventure. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of a Wild & Scenic River
+2 The protected stretch, primarily the first 5 miles from Riverbend Park, showcases a remarkable diversity of plant life, blending tropical and temperate vegetation. This pristine environment is crucial for the survival of numerous species, making it a vital sanctuary. +1This designation means the river's natural scenic beauty, fish and wildlife, and recreational opportunities are preserved. It discourages development that could negatively impact these qualities. Paddling this river offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience 'Old Florida' as it once was, a stark contrast to more developed coastal areas.
Visitors can access the Wild and Scenic portion via Riverbend Park, where rentals are available, or from other points like Trapper Nelson's. The experience is often described as magical and serene, with the sounds of nature and the sight of abundant wildlife creating an unforgettable adventure.
+1Wildlife Encounters on the Loxahatchee
+1Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of majestic bald eagles, great blue herons, egrets, and many other avian species that inhabit the river's ecosystem. Keep an eye on the water's surface for jumping fish, and on the shorelines for deer grazing peacefully.
The clear waters, especially at high tide near the inlet, can also reveal a vibrant underwater world. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets. The thrill of spotting these creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight of any visit to the Loxahatchee River.
Paddling Adventures: Rentals & Tips
+2 It's wise to book your kayak or paddleboard in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure availability. When planning your paddle, consider the tides. High tide can bring clearer waters near the coast, making it pleasant for swimming and offering different views.
The river offers a variety of scenery, from dense cypress swamps to more open coastal areas, providing a dynamic paddling route. Essential items to bring include sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, plenty of water, and waterproof protection for your electronics. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear that can get wet.
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