Reasons to study at a Beachfront College
When choosing a college, academics isn’t the only factor to consider, but also the environment that shapes your everyday experience. Beachfront universities like Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) offer the best of both worlds: world-class education paired with the peace, inspiration, and adventure of coastal living. From morning walks by the water to internships in a thriving city, here are seven reasons why studying at a beachfront college or university could be one of the best decisions for you and your future career.
1. Campus is a Year-Round Paradise
Imagine starting your day with a sunrise over the Intracoastal Waterway or unwinding after class with dinner by the ocean. At PBA, our location means that’s your everyday reality. Less than a mile walk from the beach, the University’s West Palm Beach campus sits just steps from the water, offering a naturally inspiring environment that enhances both focus and well-being.
Students love to walk or bike along the Palm Beach Lake Trail, grab coffee downtown, or spend weekends exploring nearby beaches. With so many local attractions and year-round sunshine, it’s easy to see why PBA students call this slice of paradise home.
2. The Ocean Inspires Creative and Spiritual Growth
At PBA, the beach is an ideal place to reflect and renew. Many students enjoy praying, journaling, and studying at the beach, just a short walk from campus. PBA’s tight knit community encourages students to integrate faith into every part of their lives, including time spent by the nearby water.
From creative writing sessions by the shore, photography sessions backdropped by sunrises, study sessions set to the sound of the waves, and more, going to school on the ocean can deepen your learning and faith.
3. Outdoor Living Supports Wellness
Beachfront colleges promote an active, healthy lifestyle. The ocean air, sunshine, and walkable city make wellness an easy habit to maintain. Students at PBA often jog along the West Palm Beach Waterfront, kayak the Intracoastal, or play sports together between classes.
The University’s campus life programs and wellness initiatives provide countless ways to nurture physical, emotional, and spiritual health. With the ocean just steps away, students have an instant outlet for stress relief and renewal.
4. A Coastal City Means Endless Opportunities
West Palm Beach isn’t just beautiful—it’s booming. Wall Street South’s thriving business and cultural scene provides endless opportunities for professional growth. Attending college in such a desirable location means students have access to meaningful internships in industries like healthcare, marketing, ministry, the arts, and more—all within walking distance of campus.
When class is done, there’s plenty to explore nearby: enjoy dinner at local favorites listed on PBA’s restaurants guide, attend a show at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, or meet friends at The Square for an evening out.
Living by the beach means every day brings new possibilities—both professionally and personally.
5. Beachfront Universities Foster a Tight-Knit Community
Often coastal living encourages connection and hospitality. At PBA, that sense of belonging is part of what makes the University so special. Whether you’re attending chapel, studying on Rinker Green, or grabbing lunch between classes, there’s a strong sense of community throughout every area of campus life.
Students also find family beyond campus through local churches, many of which partner with PBA for worship nights, outreach, and service opportunities. The result is a community that supports you spiritually, academically, and personally.
6. Learning Extends Beyond the Classroom
At a beachfront university, learning doesn’t stop when you leave the lecture hall, but continues when you step outside. Marine biology students study ocean ecosystems up close, while business students gain insights from West Palm Beach’s thriving entrepreneurial scene.
Through programs like Workship and community engagement, PBA students turn education into action—serving local organizations and making a difference where it matters most. The city and coastline become living classrooms that prepare students for life and leadership.
7. You’ll Never Run Out of Things to Do
Whether you’re watching the sunrise on the beach or exploring the art galleries and gardens downtown, West Palm Beach offers an endless list of ways to recharge. Spend the weekend at the Norton Museum of Art, volunteer with marine conservation at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, or explore PBA’s favorite nearby beaches.
Life by the water fosters gratitude and wonder—a reminder that education isn’t just about what you learn, but where you learn it.
Studying at a beachfront university offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends learning, community, and creation—and Palm Beach Atlantic University embodies all three. With ocean views, Christ-first values, and limitless opportunities for growth, PBA is more than a university by the sea—it’s a place where you can answer your calling.
Ready to begin your beachfront university story?
Apply now to join the PBA community and start your journey where the shore meets your calling.
