Swim with the Big Fish
There are shark sightings, and then there’s deliberately jumping into the Atlantic with them. Jupiter-based Tanner Underwater leads professionally guided open-water encounters with sharks including bulls, sandbars, lemons, hammerheads, and the occasional tiger (depending on the season). The experience is designed for everyone from nervous first-timers to seasoned divers, with safety divers in the water and professional photography and video available to capture the proof. Tanner’s crews have worked with productions including National Geographic, the BBC, and Shark Week, so rest assured: they know where to point the camera.
Get Wild
Consider this your under-the-radar alternative to a traditional aquarium. Located at the headquarters of the Nathaniel P. Reed Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, the Hobe Sound Nature Center introduces visitors to local ecosystems through live animal ambassadors, interactive exhibits, fish feedings, alligator encounters, and other hands-on programs. Then take the lesson outside: trails wind through coastal habitats to a quiet stretch of the Indian River Lagoon, making it easy to pair indoor exploring with a little fresh air. Best of all, admission is donation-based.
Rise to the Occasion
Jupiter’s Spot for E-Foils & Paddleboards
Surfing is one thing. Flying above the water is another. Electric hydrofoil boards—or e-foils—use a submerged wing and an electric motor to lift riders above the surface once they pick up speed, creating the surreal sensation of hovering over the Intracoastal. Jupiter’s Spot offers private and group lessons for beginners, with instruction designed to get first-timers from kneeling to standing—and, eventually, flying. Once you get the hang of it, the Jupiter Lighthouse and surrounding waterways make a pretty spectacular backdrop for your new superpower.
Float Your Boat
Not every water adventure requires a wetsuit—or athletic ability of any kind. PonTiki turns local waterways into a floating social hour, with cruises along the Intracoastal and Jupiter Inlet ranging from afternoon and evening outings to private charters. My pick for families and friend groups: the Family + Friends Cruise, which stops at a local sandbar for 45 minutes to an hour and comes stocked with a giant floating lily pad made for swimming, lounging (and inevitably snapping way too many photos). Bring the sunscreen; PonTiki supplies the scenery.
Catch the Wind
Trade your beach towel for a harness and let the wind do the work. Jupiter Watersports offers kiteboarding lessons that teach beginners how to harness South Florida’s breezes and soar across the water. The learning curve includes kite control, safety systems, body dragging, board skills, and plenty of splashing before everything finally clicks. Fall’s breezier days make October a particularly tempting time to give it a shot.
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