Top Lakes and Rivers to Visit in the Palm Beach Area

Loxahatchee River | Chase Baker

Although the Palm Beach area is best known for its gorgeous sandy shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean, this area also has some of the most incredible lakes and rivers in Florida. These freshwater settings are idyllic destinations for boating, fishing, swimming, and waterfront fun. Let’s look at the top lakes and rivers to explore in the Palm Beach area this summer.

Lake Mangonia

Lake Mangonia is an inland lake in the heart of West Palm Beach. Surrounded by a park and residential communities, Lake Mangonia is a beautiful slice of nature in the southern part of the city. The lake, with a boat ramp, covers 540 acres upon which visitors can enjoy activities such as boating or fishing for the lake’s bass and catfish.

Blue Cypress Lake

Blue Cypress Lake, the largest lake in the Treasure Coast region, is a popular retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Blue Cypress stretches for 6,500 acres and is surrounded by marshland and forests. Anglers can catch bass, crappie, catfish, and more at this lake, framed by cypress trees that create a beautiful atmosphere. Tours of the lake are available for those who want to explore it on the water.

Saint Johns River

The Saint Johns River, the largest river in Florida, runs through much of the eastern part of the state, from Blue Cypress Lake to the Atlantic Ocean in Duval County. The Saint Johns River is a beautiful, narrow river that passes by plenty of gorgeous natural sites and public parks. Anglers will find flounder, sea trout, and crappie in this winding waterway. 

Lake Osborne

Lake Osborne is a pleasant freshwater lake in Palm Beach County near the Intracoastal Waterway. Anglers have caught massive fish from this 356-acre lake. Visitors can either go to the lake themselves or hire a fishing charter. Lake Osborne is also a hub for boaters, with boat ramps that make the calm water easily accessible.

Lake Ida

Lake Ida is a lovely lake in Delray Beach that stretches for approximately 190 acres. Like Lake Osborne, it is an angler’s paradise that offers local charter boats to ensure the best possible catches. Jet skiing and wakeboarding are allowed on Lake Ida’s calm water, and several popular parks are situated along the shore, including a dog-friendly off-leash park.

Loxahatchee River

The Loxahatchee River stretches for 7.6 miles and has been designated as a Wild and Scenic River by the government. The river has a fascinating history, having played an important role during the Seminole Wars. Exploring the river by kayak is a popular pastime and makes for a tranquil voyage through the slow and winding water of one of Florida’s most famous rivers.