Palm Beach Island is known for its luxury and prestige, but amongst all of that also lies an outdoor gem: the Lake Trail. This 5.5-mile path winds along the island's western edge, offering stunning views of the Lake Worth Lagoon and West Palm Beach.
The trail is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It is a peaceful and relaxing place to walk, jog, or bike. You will also get to see some of the most beautiful homes in Palm Beach, as well as a few historical landmarks along the way.
Starting Your Adventure
The trail starts at the southern end of Palm Beach, near South Lake Drive and Peruvian Avenue. There's public parking available here, so it is easy to get started.
As you walk north, you will pass the Palm Beach Town Docks, a marina that has harbored yachts since the 1940s. This a fantastic place to enjoy the sunset over the skyline of downtown West Palm Beach.
Once you are near Royal Palm Way, you will come to a pedestrian crossing that leads to The Society of the Four Arts and The O'Keeffe Gallery. These cultural gems showcase the island's love for artistry and is a great place to take pictures.
Continuing north, you will also pass under the sheltering branches of the giant kapok tree, whose roots extend towards the iconic Flagler Museum. This mansion, known as "Whitehall," was built by Henry Morrison Flagler, a visionary whose influence shaped the region's development.
Next to Whitehall is the Sea Gull Cottage, a historically significant home that reflects the island's evolution. Its story intertwines with Flagler’s and is a reminder of the island's origins and the legacy of its pioneers.
As you go further, the trail transitions from modern condominiums to extravagant homes. Each home unique from the next, the trail offers a look into the life of some of Palm Beaches most exquisite waterfront homes.
Along the way, you will also see some surprises, like Country Club Road, which is flanked by coral rock cliffs. This area is a hotspot around Halloween due to the spooky folk tales of the cliffs which include stories of witches and dungeons.
The trail ultimately ends at the Sailfish Club. At this point you have walked over five miles and now the fun part starts; the walk back.
The Lake Trail is a great way to experience the best of what Palm Beach Island has to offer while getting some sun and exercise. It is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing place to spend a day. So put on your walking shoes and explore!