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West Palm Beach is known to be one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Palm Beach County. It is a virtual melting pot of cultures with people from all over the world coming here to enjoy the endless sunny weather, the exciting retail dining, nightlife, and entertainment scene, and water-based fun. A good number of them fall in love with the place and make their bid to own a parcel of West Palm Beach property, and this is why the city’s various neighborhoods are culturally diverse and as colorful as its residents.
If you’re planning to join the roster of West Palm Beach citizens, you’ll want to learn about the gorgeous palm tree-lined neighborhoods that make up the city. This guide features the neighborhoods in West Palm Beach and the wonderful qualities that make them distinct from one another.
NORTHWOOD
This neighborhood found on the northern portion of West Palm Beach is further divided into several sections (e.g., Northwood Hills, Northwood Shores, Northwood Village) – each, with their own story to tell. Some of the loveliest and more established residences in the city are found in Northwood Hills, a neighborhood with roads making a figure 8 around two of South Florida’s highest mountains. Meanwhile, Northwood Village gives a hip vibe by combining some of the area’s long-time establishments with modern shopping and dining options in its historic district. Sleek high-rises with fantastic views of the Intracoastal Waterway line the stretch from north to south of Flagler Drive.
What makes Northwood unique
Northwood is home to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, museums, and public art installations found all around the area. Every last Friday of each month, the Village comes alive with Art Night Out, where local artists can sell their works in a fun and family-friendly outdoor environment, complete with live music and great food from participating local establishments.
Looking for the perfect vintage items? Check out the antique shops in and around Northwood Village for the finest trinkets, home decor, and other baubles that you’ll want to take home.
Buildings and residences in the neighborhood’s historic district are great studies in a variety of architectural influences, the most dominant of which are Mediterranean Revival and the distinctly Floridian Art Deco styles.
Notable places in Northwood
STONE BUTTON STUDIO. Care for some farmhouse decor, vintage items, and other curiosities like yoga rocks and stone buttons? This local shop on Northwood Road is where you’ll find all these and more.
THE GRILLED CHEESE GALLERY. Craving sandwiches oozing with cheese and even more cheese? This food stop that’s also along Northwood Road will not disappoint. Pair their crowd favorite, the Grilled Cheese Deluxe, with their signature tomato soup.
SKUNKWORTS BREWING CONCERN. If you’re wondering how this mainstay in the city’s craft beer scene got its name, just come and see its uber-unique taproom. Skunkworts prides itself in its handmade, all-natural, small-batch brews.
DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH
The busy downtown area is always on the list of neighborhoods in West Palm Beach. It never fails to captivate residents and visitors alike with its cultural richness, diverse entertainment options, and fantastic coastal vistas.
Downtown West Palm Beach has towering high-rise buildings interspersed with historic establishments, embodying both old and new in a vibrant urban center. You’ll be amazed by the slew of housing options available for those who want to be in the middle of the action. From sleek condominiums jutting proudly above the skyline to modern townhomes scattered throughout the area, there’s something here for everyone.
What makes Downtown West Palm Beach unique
Like its surrounding neighborhoods, the downtown area also boasts world-class museums and galleries like the Norton Museum of Art, the largest art museum in Florida. But its main draw is Clematis Street, a mile-long strip brimming with an impressive collection of upscale boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants, bars, and more.
Notable places in Downtown West Palm Beach
NORTON MUSEUM OF ART. Immerse yourself in the colorful world of fine arts and design in the city’s second-largest museum. It mostly features American, European, and Chinese artworks, including pieces from Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh.
THE SQUARE. One of the most popular hangout spots in the city, The Square puts together a bevy of restaurants, upscale shopping, art galleries, parks, and more in 72 acres of mixed-use space.
PISTACHE. This restaurant is famous for its traditional French dishes which are made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. You’ll love its chic interiors − perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.
RISTORANTE SANTUCCI. Established in 1988, this upscale spot has since become one of the most popular Italian restaurants in the city.
THE BLIND MONK. Named one of the top 25 wine bars in the country by Travel & Leisure, this well-appointed venue has the perfect drink for you. Choose from a wide selection of wines, craft beers, and artisanal cheeses.
SOUTH OF SOUTHERN (SOSO)
Wake up to panoramic waterfront vistas every day at SoSo. Located south of Downtown’s Southern Boulevard (hence, the name), SoSo offers modern conveniences in a relatively secluded location. While it sits close to the downtown district, its serene atmosphere affords you the chance to collect your thoughts and enjoy the time away from the urban hustle and bustle.
What makes SoSo unique
Miles of pristine sandy beaches are just a couple of steps away from SoSo, making it one of the neighborhoods in West Palm Beach, FL. Its proximity to the water provides unlimited opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and other aquatic adventures. Meanwhile, nearby public spaces like Summa Beach Park provide residents with a great venue to either engage in an active lifestyle or simply unwind amid the tranquil nature setting.
SoSo has a diverse selection of real estate options including single-family homes, apartments, and condominiums. Most of the properties here were built between 1940 and 1950, featuring a variety of styles such as Ranch, Craftsman, and Art Deco. They typically come with large yards, swimming pools, and balconies.
Notable places in SoSo
PALM BEACH ZOO. Home to over 2,000 animals from all over the world, Palm Beach Zoo presents the perfect opportunity for the family to be entertained and educated about the wildlife that share the world with us.
SUMMA BEACH PARK. Beach Park is a popular weekend destination for families, pet owners, and avid anglers. The beautiful beach here is a favorite among locals for water and shore-based fun.
AIOLI. A good sandwich is a great meal for any part of the day, especially when it’s from Aioli. A counter-serve café, it specializes in sandwiches, salads, and other grab-and-go fare.
DARBSTER. This vegetarian bistro serves fresh, delicious, and affordable plant-based cuisine. It also has a full bar for your favorite brews and spirits.
EL CID
EL CID
El Cid’s location between Northwood and South Dixie Highway provides its residents with easy access to the best venues the city can offer − whether you’re longing for a relaxing day at the beach or raring to go with friends on a food crawl. Several excellent schools are also close by, making it an ideal place for families with school-age children.
What makes El Cid unique
El Cid has an impressive array of architectural gems since it’s one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. From ornately detailed Mediterranean mansions to stately Spanish Colonial Revival homes, each street corner offers a visual feast. Although the neighborhood is dominated by detached single-family homes, condominiums are also available – usually in the form of converted historic buildings.
Notable places in El Cid
ANN NORTON SCULPTURE GARDENS. Immerse yourself in art, history, and nature all at once in this lovely nook. The park features 100 sculptures, more than half of which are the creations of famed American sculptor, Ann Norton.
ANTIQUE ROW. Discover unique and unusual items for your home or as gifts in Antique Row, El Cid’s charming collection of antique stores.
COMPOSITION COFFEE HOUSE. This is not your ordinary cuppa Joe – coffee here has been elevated into a fine craft, thanks to its team of expert baristas. You don’t simply come here for the caffeine kick; you come here for the experience.
PIG BEACH BBQ. Have your fill of tender grilled meats while enjoying stunning views of the Intercoastal Waterway. Salads are also available for vegetarian customers. Kids are welcome here, as well.
KITCHEN RESTAURANT. The West Palm Beach branch of this contemporary American brasserie delights patrons with a dinner menu from appetizers to main dishes with your choice of sidings.
BREAKERS WEST COUNTRY CLUB
Set in a 670-acre wildlife sanctuary south of the city, this upscale community stands as an exclusive haven of luxury and leisure.
Breakers West’s housing stock is dominated by expansive single-family homes and lavish estates. Each residence exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship, emphasizing detail and superior construction. From open floor plans that encourage a seamless flow from the indoors to the outdoors to gourmet kitchens that inspire culinary creativity, these homes are designed to exceed expectations.
What makes Breakers West Country Club unique
At the heart of Breakers West lies a championship golf course designed by renowned golf course architect, Rees Jones. It has impeccably manicured fairways that wind their way through picturesque landscapes, offering an unparalleled golfing experience.
For those who want to improve their game, the country club has the John Webster Golf Academy. It offers private lessons and group classes designed for every skill level. All programs are handled by PGA-certified instructors, making sure that each student will be in highly capable hands.
Facilities in Breakers West Country Club
REES JONES COURSE. This beautiful 18-hole championship course features a variety of challenges, including water hazards, sand traps, and long narrow fairways. The greens are large and undulating, which can make for tricky puts.
CYPRESS GRILLE ROOM. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this upscale restaurant is the go-to place for club members. It’s adjacent to the golf course, providing convenience and a relaxing dining experience after a day in the fairways, with stunning views of the surrounding area.
THE CLUB AT IBIS
The Club at Ibis provides luxury and sophistication in a relaxed atmosphere, right next to the Grassy Waters Preserve. Founded in 1966, this private golf community has established a reputation among the city’s elite for its engaging lifestyle, well-manicured green spaces, and incomparable sports programs.
What makes The Club at Ibis unique
The golfing experience here is second to none. Boasting three championship courses designed by members of the famed Nicklaus Family, The Club is where you need to be to hone your game. Each course is unique with varying difficulties to ensure that anyone from beginners to pros could enjoy and challenge themselves at the same time. Other amenities include tennis courts, fitness centers, and swimming pools.
The Club at Ibis keeps itself exclusive by offering only a limited number of homes. It has a mix of property types, but the single-family homes are the largest and most luxurious. They range in size from 1,500 – 4,000 square feet, with top-of-the-line features such as modern kitchens, private patios, and balconies that open to gorgeous views of the golf course and lake.
Facilities in The Club at Ibis
THE LEGEND. Pegged as The Club’s flagship course, it has hosted several professional tournaments, including the Senior PGA Tour’s National Senior Club Professional Championship and the LPGA’s Office Depot Tournament.
THE HERITAGE. Smaller yet more challenging, this course is known for water hazards and doglegs that make it difficult to score.
THE TRADITION. The newest and shortest course in the club’s lineup, this course covers 7,130 yards of open space.
PANACHE. The Club’s fine dining restaurant offers a rotating seasonal menu that showcases classic American fare with a modern spin.
FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN WEST PALM BEACH
Learn more about the neighborhoods of West Palm Beach, FL by working with one of the city’s top-notch Realtors who can not only help you cement your home-buying plans but also guide you toward making a successful bid in purchasing the home you deserve in the city.
I’m Suzanne Frisbie, a seasoned Realtor specializing in West Palm Beach’s most sought-after luxury properties. As a long-time South Florida resident and real estate professional, I know the city like the palm of my hand and the real estate opportunities to be had here. Together with the rest of the Frisbie Palm Beach Team, we can help you with all your real estate needs. Call us at 561.373.0941 or send me an email here.