This beach is so different than any other in Florida. The sandy beach turns into a rocky shoreline, where waves geyser through the porous stone. You stand in awe of the sight and power of the ocean as it rains down on you. Also located here is a grape leaf trail that will make you feel like an ingenue in an enchanted forest. So come on down to Jupiter and its natural wonderland.
When you arrive at the Blowing Rocks Preserve, there will be a little parking lot on your right. It is the lot closest to the beach. The parking lot to the left is near the education center and slightly bigger. The education center was not open when we were there, neither were the bathrooms. There were porta-potties next to the center, with a hand washing station.
Both parking lots are not very big, so I suggest getting there sooner rather than later to make sure you can get a spot. The road is only two lanes with not any shoulder to park on.
We parked on the side closest to the beach and walked a briefly covered trail to get to the beach.
There is a sign that will let you know the tide times. Normally, there is a fee of two dollars but waived due to circumstances. You will see the path for the grape leaf trail before stepping onto the beach. We decided to come back and do that later.
When stepping onto the beach, it is obvious where the rocks are. Journeying to the right, the rocky edge will get steeper, and the waves crash as they hit them stronger.
Our favorite section was towards the very end of the rocky edge. You could hear the big "thud" as the water shot through the holes in the rocks. You also could hear the serene sound of the mini waterfalls as they trickled down through the rocks.
We ran into a local photographer who was there taking pictures. He said that this day was the most active day the ocean had been in two months. We got lucky, but maybe do some research into what is going on with the tides and storms so you can see this majestic natural phenomenon in all its glory. (Hint: it was the beginning of September when we went)
Another thing...don't get too close to the edge during peak tide time. The edges are very rocky, so it is harder to have solid footing. I was a little too close and couldn't move away in time before a wave knocked me on my butt. I was able to control the fall a bit but still got scraped up a smidge. So learn from my silliness!
After we had felt we had fully enjoyed the magnificent spectacle and got so many pictures and videos, we headed to the grape leaf trail. This trail is quite long and follows the beach in the opposite direction from the blowing rocks. You will feel like you are actually in an enchanted forest.
You know there is always something terrifying in an enchanted forest. In this one, you will need to be wary of spiders and their webs. Now, most that we encountered us far above us. Still, keep your eyes peeled.
Next, we headed to Jupiter Beach. The waves were still strong. It was nice for the blowing rocks preserve, but not so easy to play or float in. We still enjoyed ourselves and the warmth of the sun. I always find time at the beach helps me find inner peace and reset.
For food, we drove into downtown Jupiter to a Cuban restaurant called Copacabana. I was slightly skeptical at first. It was in an outdoor shopping center that seemed very touristy. But the restaurant itself had the same quaint, homey vibe of the places I visited in Little Havana in Miami. The staff was so nice, and the food was incredible. We had ceviche, heavily recommended by our waitress. It was so fresh and chunky! It was made with white fish and served with plantain chips. For our entree, I had the Lechon Asado con Cebolla, which was a pulled pork and absolutely delicious. My friend got the Ropa Vieja, which she enjoyed greatly. And while we were eating, a musician played Cuban music. What a perfect way to end a magical day!
Comments