Things to Do in North Palm Beach

Nestled above a wildlife refuge, Lazy Acres Farms spreads its dirt-and-grass paddocks out over 5 scenic Floridian acres. At the heart of the boarding and training facility, a 12-stall, center-aisle barn flanks a large, lighted arena filled with all-weather footing. There, head instructor Shannon Reilly, who has ridden since age 4 and has taught for more than 15 years, coaches pupils in English and Western riding styles, whether they’re learning for pleasure or to prepare for Lady Godiva costume competitions. Certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association, Reilly treats special-needs children and adults to therapeutic lessons, and Lazy Acres is also home to Reilly Hyland Animal Sanctuary, a nonprofit haven for abused and neglected creatures. Outside the ranch, trail rides wind through paths of western Palm Beach County, where equestrians bask in the fresh air while looking out for A-list gators hiding from the paparazzi.

Sailors navigate the glittering waters of Palm Beach in one of The Boat Fleet's many vessels, which include center consoles, walkarounds, deck boats, cabin cruisers, and bowriders. Seafaring parties may adventure to nearby Peanut Island, cruise up and down the coast to spot sprawling waterfront mansions, or relax while floating in their private patches of ocean. The 21- to 33-foot boats include rigs equipped for fishing trips—including stainless-steel rod holders, game-spotting GPS, and lures that look like Bugs Bunny in a wig—and all ships stow Coast Guard safety gear and lifeboats aboard.

With the Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop for inimitable aquatic adventures, Captain Steve Cienkowski steers participants along crystalline waters for laid-back expeditions or longer jaunts to either the Keys or Bahamas. Participants can glean pertinent sailing or snorkeling tips during lessons or revel in up-close glimpses of manatees swimming and filing taxes in their natural habitat.

A Latte Fun Indoor Playground and Café brims with happy chatter, which drifts from regular classes, special events, and open playtime seven days a week.

Children frolic across multicolored carpeted floors in a 6,000-square-foot playroom, exploring climbing structures, foam pits, and a floor-level trampoline that is kept safe by rounded edges, extensive padding, and declawed teddy bears. The playground eschews video games, prize games, and violent toys, instead letting older children don animal costumes in the dress-up area, while toddlers younger than 2 romp in their own play pit and toy bins. Cool zephyrs of air conditioning sweep contented sighs away from zebra-print sofas or onyx-hued wooden tables, where adults peruse a gourmet café menu. A boutique toy store extends the center's positive attitude toward play into homes with a slew of unique gifts and rare and eclectic toys.

A private room reverberates with the youthful energy of A Latte Fun Indoor Playground and Café's classes, formal functions, and parties, which staff members provide with refreshments, cake, and decorations. At least two assistants remain on hand at kids’ events to provide full setup, cleanup, and supervision to ward off squabbles that arise when imaginary friends show up wearing the same outfits.

A lifelong resident of West Palm Beach, Marissa first spotted a paddleboard while thumbing through the glossy pages of a magazine. Intrigued, she scouted her hometown to sign up for a lesson and enjoyed her first experience with the sport so much that she bought her first board the next day. Not long after, Marissa launched South Florida Paddle LLC, a mobile standup paddleboard rental and tour company. Meeting up with clients at designated spots between Lake Worth Beach and Jupiter Island, Marissa leads excursions that range from shoreline ventures through ocean waves to calm glides along intracoastal waterways. Depending on the time of year, eco tours bring paddlers up close to an array of wildlife, such as manatees, spotted eagle rays, or starfish. For independent explorers, Marissa rents Cruiser ACS standup paddleboards for daytime adventures, as well as sunrise, sunset, and full-moon paddles for renters looking to hide their werewolf paws from family and friends.