Taxi, Sedan, SUV and Van Services

Metered cabs line up outside Main Terminal baggage claim

Taxi, Sedan, SUV and Van Services at Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) operate from the ground transportation area directly outside the Main Terminal baggage claim level. Vehicles queue in a dedicated lane, so you walk less than 200–300 feet from carousels to the first taxi stand. Service runs 24/7, matching early 5:30 a.m. departures and arrivals after midnight.

Fares from PBI into downtown West Palm Beach usually fall in the $20–$30 range, with the meter starting around $2.50 and per‑mile rates in the $2–$3 band depending on the company. A typical ride to Palm Beach island over the Royal Park or Flagler Memorial Bridge takes about 15–20 minutes in light traffic. Drivers accept cash and most accept major credit cards; ask before you load bags if you plan to pay by card.

For longer trips, like to Boca Raton (roughly 30–40 minutes south) or Jupiter (about 25–35 minutes north), some operators switch from strict metering to zone or flat pricing. You may see posted sample fares on signs near the Main Terminal curb for common routes such as Palm Beach Gardens, Wellington, or Delray Beach. If no sign lists your destination, ask the starter or driver for an estimate before leaving the airport.

Sedans typically handle up to 3 passengers with 2–3 checked bags, while larger SUVs and vans can fit 4–7 passengers plus golf bags or cruise luggage. Families heading to the Port of Palm Beach, about 5 miles away, often grab a van so everyone and every suitcase rides in one vehicle. If you need a child seat, call a local cab company 20–30 minutes before arrival; most curbside vehicles do not carry car seats by default.

Expect a short wait at peak times like 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. on Saturdays in high season, when multiple flights land close together. At quieter times, you usually step into a car within 5 minutes of exiting baggage claim. Tipping follows standard U.S. practice: 15–20% on top of the metered fare, plus a couple of dollars for heavy or multiple bags.

One tip: before the driver pulls off from the Main Terminal curb, confirm that the meter is on and set to the correct rate, and snap a quick photo of the cab number on the rear door in case you need a receipt later.