December 15th, 2019
Flying into or out of Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)? You’re in luck! Three of the travel industry’s leading publications just recognized PBI as one of the best airports in the country. This easy-to-navigate facility was named the 8th Best Airport in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler’s 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards, the 5th Best Medium Airport in the J.D. Power North America Airport Satisfaction Study, and the 8th Best Domestic Airport by Travel + Leisure.
Located just 2.5 miles west of downtown West Palm Beach and just a few minutes from I-95, the medium-sized airport is easily accessible from all of South Florida. Unlike larger, busier transportation hubs nearby, it takes roughly five minutes to walk from ticketing to security and no longer than 15 minutes to get from security to your gate.
But PBI’s appeal extends much further than its manageable size. No matter what type of traveler you are, this user-friendly airport is packed with amenities to make your trip to The Palm Beaches fun and memorable from the moment you land until it’s time to depart.
Great for Golfers
With more than 160 courses, plenty of sunshine and year-round warm temperatures, The Palm Beaches are a golfer’s dream come true – even at the airport. Practice your short game at the eight-hole putting green located just outside of the security checkpoint. Three dollars buys you a ball and a putter; you’ll have to return the club, but the ball is yours to keep. After sinking your shots, you can grab a bite at Sam Snead’s Tavern, a golf-themed eatery adorned with memorabilia collected by the legend himself.
Be sure to make a stop at the PGA Tour Shop, where you can stock up on exclusive merchandise from PGA National, along with clothing and accessories to use on the course.
Family-Friendly Features
Being a new mom is hard work, but PBI makes it a little easier. Mamava lactation suites near gates B1 and C1 create a private, peaceful environment where mothers can breastfeed and pump. These spacious pods are wheelchair accessible and feature helpful touches like mirrors, electrical outlets and coat hooks.
When you travel with your furry family member, you’ll love the two luxury pet relief areas set outside of baggage claim. In these shaded, fenced-in spaces, your pet can safely run around and comfortably conduct business on grass and wood chips before and after your flight. An indoor, post-security pet relief area is in the works, too.
Luxurious Layovers
Flying can be a stressful affair, so melt away any travel-related tension with a bit of pampering at All Earth Elements Spa in the main terminal. Indulge in a massage, manicure, pedicure or haircut while you wait for your next flight. Or if you’re feeling sore after a long journey, stop in for some TLC before heading on your way.
Soon you won’t have to be an airline elite member to receive the royal treatment at PBI. The brand-new Primeclass premium lounge, which is set to debut by the end of 2019, will be open to all ticketed passengers for a fee. Once inside, you’ll enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, complimentary snacks and beverages, and incredible views of the planes taking off and landing on the airfield.
Down to Business
If you’re in town for business, PBI has you covered with amenities designed to make your trip as seamless as possible. Concourse B was recently outfitted with new seating, including community tables that make working on your laptop easy and convenient. High-speed WiFi access is free for everyone, and you don’t have to hug the wall or sit on the floor to charge your devices; there is a charging station for every three seats in the terminal.
Need to complete your TSA Pre certification? PBI is one of only a handful of airports across the country with an on-site TSA Precheck enrollment office. Once you’ve applied online, you can finish your paperwork (pending approval) at the airport in just 5-10 minutes.
Local Flavor
Part of the fun of travel is sampling the local culinary scene, and in The Palm Beaches, that experience starts as soon as you touch down. Flagler Gourmet Market in Concourse B offers freshly prepared fare with a local focus. Pick up snacks, sandwiches and salads from Paneterie, one of the most popular bakeries in West Palm Beach. The market also stocks bulk items like nuts, pretzels and candy, along with beverages, chips, fruit and other bites. This welcome change from standard airport food is one of the most popular spots in the airport, and the perfect place to buy something delicious to eat on the plane.
Source: The Palm Beaches
