Grow your own produce

Living in a sub-tropical climate allows the opportunity to grow over 100 fruits and vegetables right in your backyard.  Some of the more common and easier things to grow from my experience are bananas, mangos, tomatoes, longan, mysore raspberries, and starfruit. You don't need a big yard or a lot of space because there are many varieties that can be grown in pots or even hydroponically.  If you are looking for a place that carries every possible plant that can be grown here, you need to check out Excalibur nursery in Lake Worth. With acres of trees you will be sure to find the perfect plant.  They also sell fresh fruit from the mature trees that encompass the property.  Remember that it takes time for trees to become established and produce, so what are you waiting for, put it on your list and start growing your own fresh food that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Tropical eats

Here are some unique spots to eat:

Sailfish Marina:  You will feel like you are on vacation at this island restaurant where you can watch the sun go down over the water.   Visit on Thursday nights and there is live music and craft vendors selling different items with coastal themes.  The numerous fish surrounding the marina are a hit with people of all ages and food is available to feed the fish.

The Seafood Bar: Upscale dining at the The Breakers Hotel on Palm Beach.  The bars are aquariums, top notch food presentation, and windows overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this one is a must do!

Food shack or Leftovers: Funky surf vibe and the best prepared seafood around with a nice selection of craft beers.

Guanabanas: About as tropical as you can get! This restaurant and bar is completely outside and feels like a lush Costa Rican jungle. It also borders a waterway protected by mangroves where kayaker's. paddle boarders, and boaters cruise by and stop in.

Old Key Lime House:  Not only the largest Tiki Bar in Palm Beach County but the oldest waterfront restaurant in the state.  Laid back Florida keys atmosphere with live bands, great crab cakes, and of course, key lime pie.

When you are running short on time after a long day:

CR Chicks: Get a home cooked meal fast, and at a reasonable price.  With 7 locations across Palm Beach County this local chain cooks their chicken over Brazilian oak logs and serves up delicious sides to go with it.

Manatee encounter

If you are on or near the water it's common to see manatees in the area..

In February 2016, a new center will help visitors view these gentle giants.

Manatee Lagoon – an FPL Eco-Discovery Center, will welcome visitors with engaging opportunities to learn about these endangered & unique creatures. Dynamic exhibits will offer insight into South Florida’s coastal ecosystem and its flora & fauna. On cold winter days, the 16,000-square-foot center will be the ideal spot to view manatee herds basking in the warm-water outflows from Florida Power & Light Company’s adjacent Riviera Beach Next Generation Clean Energy Center. Amenities include: » Free admission » Multi-functional Education Center » Two levels of exhibit & meeting space » Boardwalk » Picnic area and pavilion » Gift shop and cafe » Free parking » Manatee webcam Phone: (866) 252-6049; visit: FPL.com/Riviera