City Escape: West Palm Beach, Florida

Text: Jim Park • Photography: Jim Park

South Florida riding is always at its best in the wintertime. While roads are usually not technically challenging, they can offer great scenery in gorgeous weather. This loop takes you along the ocean, past multimillion-dollar homes of the rich and famous, down rural canopy roads, and through sugar cane farms. Alligators and celebrities are not uncommon sights. For those who don’t want to ride or trailer their bike to Florida, check out Rent My Motorcycle, convenient to Palm Beach International Airport.

Length

Approximately 142 miles

Meet-up Spot

Hilton Palm Beach Airport Hotel, 150 Australian Ave, West Palm Beach, FL

Lunch Stop

Harry and the Natives (closed Mondays) is a fun stop where you can eat indoors or outside under a thatched palm roof. Find it at 11910 SE Federal Hwy, Hobe Sound, FL, (772) 546-3061.

Scenery (4 out of 5)

You will cruise along the Atlantic Ocean surrounded by palm trees and mansions, as well as down country roads with sights overlooking Lake Okeechobee.

Traffic (3 out of 5)

Part of this loop is in a populated area, and traffic can be heavy at peak times. The ride would be best enjoyed on the weekend.

Difficulty (1 out of 5)

South Florida roads are flat and straight for the most part, but an occasional critter on the highway is not uncommon, so maintain a watchful eye.

Road Conditions (5 out of 5)

Roads are well maintained and speed limits range from 25 to 65 mph. Note that speed limits are closely monitored along the Jupiter Island portion of the loop.

Points of Interest

The Flagler Museum (aka Whitehall). Once the home of railroad tycoon Henry Flagler, the beautiful Gilded Age estate is located on the Intracoastal in downtown Palm Beach. Admission is $ 18. flaglermuseum.us
Port Mayaca Lock and Dam. Located on U.S. 441/98, Port Mayaca is the cross-state route for boat traffic. It is a popular weekend stop for both motorcyclists and powered parasailers alike. www.saj.usace.army.mil
Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum. The waterfront museum, lighthouse, and grounds boast 5,000 years of local history. Explore the exhibits, climb the lighthouse, or walk the historic hiking trail. Admission is $ 12; active U.S. military and their immediate families get in free. www.jupiterlighthouse.org