West Palm Beach (WPB) is the vibrant, culturally rich heart of the Palm Beaches—a destination known for its stunning coastline, world-class dining, and thriving arts scene. Getting to and around WPB is surprisingly efficient, thanks to two stellar transportation hubs: the Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) and the historic Amtrak WPB station.
Whether you are arriving by air for a quick getaway or traveling down the East Coast by rail, this complete guide covers the essentials of navigating West Palm Beach’s major transit operations.
Part 1: Flying High — Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) consistently ranks as one of the best domestic airports in the United States, lauded for its cleanliness, efficiency, and stress-free environment. Located just minutes from downtown West Palm Beach, PBI is the primary gateway to the region.
The PBI Experience
- Airport Code: PBI
- Location: 1000 PBI Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33406
- Airlines & Routes: PBI serves major domestic carriers like Delta, American, Southwest, JetBlue, and Spirit, offering direct routes to key cities across the Northeast, Midwest, and Southern U.S.
Ground Transportation from PBI
One of PBI’s greatest assets is its proximity to everything. Once you land, you have multiple ways to reach your final destination, whether that’s a beachfront hotel, downtown condo, or the Amtrak station.
Table 1: PBI Ground Transportation Options
| Option | Description | Estimated Time to Downtown WPB | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | Dedicated pickup area outside of Baggage Claim. Quickest non-taxi option. | 10–15 minutes | $15 – $25 |
| Taxi | Taxi stands are conveniently located near baggage claim exits. | 10–15 minutes | $20 – $30 |
| Rental Cars | Major agencies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise) are located on-site in the attached garage structure. | N/A (Self-drive) | Varies by agency/season |
| Palm Tran (Bus) | Palm Beach County’s public bus service. Routes 44 and 45 service the airport. | 20–30 minutes | Low cost (~ $2.00) |
| Hotel Shuttles | Many local hotels offer complimentary shuttle service. Check with your accommodation prior to arrival. | Varies | Usually Free |
Travel Tip: PBI is exceptionally close to the Brightline high-speed rail station (which connects Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando). If your final destination is South of WPB, taking a quick rideshare to the Brightline station can be faster than driving.
Part 2: Riding the Rails — West Palm Beach Amtrak Station (WPB)
For those who prefer the scenic route and the classic comfort of train travel, the West Palm Beach Amtrak station is a critical stop on the famous East Coast rail corridor.
The Amtrak WPB Station
The WPB Amtrak station is situated near the heart of downtown, offering easy access to the city center, Clematis Street, and the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Station Code: WPB
- Location: 201 S Tamarind Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
- Facility Details: The station is smaller than major city hubs but offers essential amenities, including an enclosed waiting area and ticketing services (though staff hours may be limited).
The Routes: The Silver Service
Amtrak trains serving West Palm Beach are part of the “Silver Service,” which provides daily, long-distance routes connecting the Northeast to Florida.
| Amtrak Route Name | Service Details | Key Stops Northbound | Key Stops Southbound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Star | Daily Service | Raleigh, Richmond, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York City | Fort Lauderdale, Miami |
| Silver Meteor | Daily Service | Savannah, Charleston, Richmond, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York City | Fort Lauderdale, Miami |
Note on Connectivity: The WPB Amtrak station is conveniently located adjacent to the Brightline train station. While Brightline is a separate, private high-speed service (connecting the major cities of South and Central Florida), its proximity makes for excellent intermodal travel opportunities.
Part 3: Connecting the Dots — WPB Airport and Amtrak Transfers
Travelers often arrive by train but depart by plane (or vice versa). Fortunately, transferring between the two WPB hubs is quick and straightforward.
Transfer Distance and Time
The West Palm Beach Amtrak Station and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) are located approximately 4 to 5 miles apart. There is no direct walking route, and you cannot easily use public transit for this specific connection without transfers.
| Transfer Method | Estimated Travel Time | Best For | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 10–15 minutes | Speed and convenience; travel with luggage. | $15 – $20 |
| Taxi | 10–15 minutes | Travelers without a rideshare app; reliable door-to-door service. | $20 – $25 |
| Personal Vehicle / Rental Car | 10–15 minutes | Travelers parking long-term at the airport. | Parking fees apply |
Pro Tip for Rail Travelers: If you are arriving by Amtrak and flying out of PBI, allow a minimum of 60 minutes for the transfer, factoring in potential train delays and PBI’s recommended airport arrival time (90 minutes minimum for domestic flights).
Final Travel Tips for West Palm Beach
- Check In-Season Traffic: During the winter high season (November through April), traffic on Southern Boulevard leading to the airport can become heavy. Always allow extra time for airport transfers during these months.
- Utilize Brightline: While Amtrak is excellent for long-haul travel, if you plan to travel quickly between WPB and Miami or Orlando, the Brightline service is often the fastest choice.
- Parking: PBI offers multiple parking options, from short-term garages to long-term surface lots. The Amtrak station parking is generally limited, so having someone drop you off is often recommended for multi-day rail trips.
West Palm Beach offers a seamless travel experience, whether you arrive via the smooth efficiency of PBI or the classic journey of Amtrak. With these guides in hand, you are ready to explore everything the beautiful Palm Beaches have to offer!
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