Hobe Mountain Observation Tower
Ascend Florida's highest natural point south of Lake Okeechobee for stunning ocean and waterway views from an observation tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Unforgettable golden hour views
Hobe Mountain Observation Tower
Best Time
Unforgettable golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Florida's highest natural point south of Lake Okeechobee for stunning ocean and waterway views from an observation tower.
"One of the best views in South Florida. Hobe Mountain rises to 86 ft."
Check Tower Status
The observation tower may close for maintenance; confirm hours before your visit .
Sunset Spectacle
Plan your visit for sunset for truly stunning, unforgettable views .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hobe Mountain Observation Tower
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Ascend to the highest natural point south of Lake Okeechobee for breathtaking panoramic views.
Panoramic South Florida Vistas
From the Observation Tower
Gaze upon the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and Jupiter Island from this unique vantage point.
Unique Sand Dune Hike
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Hike the only ancient sand dune in South Florida, a unique geological marvel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Understanding the 'Mountain' Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tower Status
The observation tower may close for maintenance; confirm hours before your visit.
Sunset Spectacle
Plan your visit for sunset for truly stunning, unforgettable views.
Worth the Walk
Even if the tower is closed, the scenic walk up is beautiful and rewarding.
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for scrub jays and gopher tortoises in their natural habitat.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tower Status
The observation tower may close for maintenance; confirm hours before your visit.
Sunset Spectacle
Plan your visit for sunset for truly stunning, unforgettable views.
Worth the Walk
Even if the tower is closed, the scenic walk up is beautiful and rewarding.
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for scrub jays and gopher tortoises in their natural habitat.
Photography Hotspot
Excellent spot for photos, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from Hobe Mountain Observation Tower, calling it one of the best in South Florida. The unique geological feature of the ancient sand dune and the scenic walk up are highly praised, even when the tower itself is closed. Sunsets are particularly highlighted as spectacular.
"Even though the top of the tower is closed, the walk up is still worth it. The scenery along the way is gorgeous, giving you a different appreciation for Florida's beauty. Plus, the sunsets from here are absolutely stunning!"
Kat B.
"One of the best views in South Florida. Hobe Mountain rises to 86 ft. Above sea level and is the highest natural elevation south of Lake Okeechobee. Only a 10 minute round trip walk. Great photo spot. One can see the ocean and intercoastal waterway."
Capt. Norm
"Nice short walk. The observation desk is closed April 4th."
Simona. Pale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tower is located within Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound, Florida. You'll need to enter the park and follow signs for Hobe Mountain. The park is accessible by car, and parking is available.
Public transportation options to the park are limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or use a ride-sharing service to reach the park entrance.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park has an entrance fee per vehicle. Check the official Florida State Parks website for the most current pricing information.
Yes, Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers excellent mountain biking trails, and you can certainly bike to Hobe Mountain as part of your exploration.
Parking is available within Jonathan Dickinson State Park. You'll typically find designated parking areas near the trailheads for Hobe Mountain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need to pay the entrance fee for Jonathan Dickinson State Park to access Hobe Mountain and its observation tower. There isn't a separate ticket for the tower itself.
The operating hours for the observation tower can vary and it may be closed for maintenance. It's best to check the official Jonathan Dickinson State Park website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
No, the observation tower is not always open. Visitors have noted it can be closed for maintenance or other reasons, so it's wise to confirm its status.
Absolutely! Even if the tower is closed, the walk up Hobe Mountain is still highly recommended for its scenic beauty and the unique geological experience.
Discounts may be available for Florida residents, seniors, or military personnel. Inquire at the park entrance or check the Florida State Parks website for details.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is a prime time for photography, offering stunning golden hour light and dramatic skies. Early mornings can also provide beautiful light with fewer crowds.
You can capture panoramic shots of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, Jupiter Island, and the expansive park landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Florida State Parks. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant landmarks or wildlife.
Yes, the park is home to scrub jays and gopher tortoises, making it a fantastic location for wildlife photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
🎫 🌿 Nature & Wildlife
Hobe Mountain is known for being a habitat for the Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise, along with many other bird species.
Hobe Mountain is the highest natural elevation south of Lake Okeechobee and is an ancient sand dune, making it a unique geological feature in South Florida.
Yes, Jonathan Dickinson State Park has numerous hiking trails, including the path leading up to Hobe Mountain. The park also offers trails for mountain biking.
The Florida scrub jay is a threatened species, and areas like Hobe Mountain are crucial for its conservation. Protecting these habitats is vital.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers opportunities for kayaking and camping, providing a full outdoor experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the tower itself might have age or height restrictions, the park offers other family-friendly activities like camping and kayaking.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Beyond the Hobe Mountain trail, explore the park's various ecosystems, from pine flatwoods to mangrove swamps. The opportunity to volunteer and contribute to conservation efforts is also a significant draw for many nature lovers.
📸 Photographers
The unique geological formation of the sand dune also provides interesting foreground elements for your shots.Golden hour, particularly sunset, transforms the landscape with warm, dramatic lighting, making it the ideal time for breathtaking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Hobe Mountain
This 'mountain' is actually an ancient sand dune, a testament to the region's dynamic geological past. Its formation is tied to ancient shorelines and wind patterns, creating a distinct landscape that contrasts with the typically flat terrain of the area.The presence of this elevated sand dune supports a specific ecosystem, including the habitat for the endangered Florida scrub jay and the gopher tortoise.
+1 The unique soil composition and elevation provide the necessary conditions for the scrub habitat to thrive, making Hobe Mountain a critical conservation area within Jonathan Dickinson State Park.Visitors can experience this unique geology firsthand by hiking the trail to the observation tower. The walk itself offers a glimpse into the sandy terrain and the surrounding natural beauty, providing an appreciation for this rare South Florida landmark.
The Hobe Mountain Observation Tower Experience
From this vantage point, you can see the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, the winding Intracoastal Waterway, and the distant skyline of Jupiter Island and even West Palm Beach. It's a breathtaking perspective that offers a different appreciation for the South Florida coastline.While the tower itself is a draw, it's important to note that its access can sometimes be restricted due to maintenance.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, the tower and its surroundings are a dream. The panoramic vistas are ideal for capturing stunning landscape shots, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Conservation Efforts and Community Involvement
+1 Protecting these natural spaces is paramount to the survival of such unique wildlife.Community involvement plays a crucial role in these conservation efforts. Many visitors express a desire to 'save our parks' and actively participate in volunteer opportunities within Jonathan Dickinson State Park.
These efforts can range from trail maintenance to habitat restoration, all contributing to the preservation of this valuable natural resource.There have been discussions and proposals regarding changes to the park's management plan, including potential developments like golf courses.
This has sparked advocacy from groups and individuals dedicated to protecting the park's natural integrity. Visitors who are passionate about conservation are encouraged to stay informed and voice their support for preserving these precious natural areas.
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