Delray Beach, a Vibrant Coastal Escape

The Wakodahatchee Wetlands flourish with wildlife, and visitors can observe over 150 species of birds alone in this park. Black- bellied whistling ducks paddle in the ponds. Snow egrets grace the skies. A pied-billed grebe may swim along the marshes. Turtles might pop their heads out of the water. The wetlands park consists of 50 acres of former utility land transformed into a recreation area. Guests can admire the flora and fauna while strolling along a three-quarter mile boardwalk spanning the wetlands. Gazebos and park benches invite visitors to gaze into the wilderness to spot all sorts of other creatures like alligators, birds, rabbits, frogs, and raccoons.

13026 Jog Road, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-493-6000

Visitors need not travel all the way to the Far East to enjoy the beauty of Japanese gardens. The Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens consist of a 188.5-acre park. A traditional Japanese villa houses the museum and includes three hands-on exhibits, a collection of over 7,000 artifacts, a tea room, classrooms, and a gift shop. Visitors can head outside to admire gorgeous flora that captures the history of gardening styles in Japan. Throughout the manicured flowers, trees, and plants sit Buddha statues and other sculptures. The park received its name after George Morikami, a Japanese native who donated the park to Palm Beach County.

4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-495-0233

Downtown Delray provides the perfect way to spend the afternoon. Atlantic Avenue, affectionately referred to as “The Ave” by locals, represents the hub for shopping and cultural life. USA Today listed it as one of the top ten urban shopping areas. The Ave strikes a balance between high-end boutiques and affordable, down-to-earth shops. Galleries showcase local art. At the same time, the nearby beach gives the area a more laid-back, friendly vibe. Atlantic Avenue houses all kinds of award-winning eateries and restaurants. In between exploring the stores, visitors can take their pick of places to eat. Artisanal sandwich joints serve up cheap, delicious bites.

4723 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-637-8248

No visit to Florida would be complete without a bit of salt and sand at one of the state’s many beaches. Downtown Delray Municipal Beach stands out as a festive and fun gathering on the shore. Downtown Delray has earned plenty of awards for its convivial atmosphere, and the Travel Channel listed Delray as one of Florida’s top 10 beaches. Delray also earned the distinction of placing third as the Top 10 Happiest Seaside Towns in America. Visitors can go for a day of sunbathing and shopping. Things come to life at night with a plethora of bustling bars, music venues, restaurants, and outdoor festivals.

340 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-243-7250

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Friends and family can spend the afternoon and evenings playing a little “putt-putt” during a visit to Delray, Florida at Putt’n Around . This family-operated business offers a special atmosphere for mini-golf. The well-maintained grounds blossom with botanical gardens, tropical flowers, lemongrass, and other native plants. Putt’n Around contains two courses themed after plant categories: the Ocean Course and the Everglades. Those with disabilities can also enjoy the facilities as Putt’n Around is ADA accessible. Prices are affordable, with discounts for kids and seniors.

350 North East 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-450-6162

Situated just one block north of Linton Boulevard on THE AIA, the Atlantic Dunes Park offers a peaceful beach destination away from the hustle and bustle. The park provides a place for families and friends to spend the day swimming and picnicking. Guests can spend the day enjoying the salt and sand in a park nestled in a wooded beach area. A 300-foot trail gives a chance to stroll through nature along the dunes. The parking lot accommodates over 120 cars with parking meters.

1605 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-243-7000

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Visitors can access Gulfstream Park along the A1A just near . Kids can frolic and have fun on the playground equipment (recommended for ages 5-12). Then guests can head over to the picnic area for a chance to enjoy an afternoon lunch outdoors. The guarded beach provides a place to go for a swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy a good read. Bird watching opportunities abound, and native species appear in the skies. During peak months between November to February, Gulfstream can get crowded and run out parking. This park does not allow pets.

4489 North Ocean Beach, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-966-6600

The Sandoway House Nature Center strives to preserve the local ecosystem and marine life. Founded in 1998, the center consists of teachers, naturalists, and community leaders with a passion for protecting the region’s fragile marine and freshwater environments. Inside the center, students and other visitors can learn about Florida’s environment through classes, exhibits, and programs. Hands-on education programs raise awareness ensuring the conversation of the local ecosystem. Exhibits bring visitors up close to native species like sharks, reptiles, fish, and coral. A shell collection, observation deck, and plant and butterfly garden display the region’s lush coastal environment.

142 South Ocean Boulevard, Delray Beach, FL, Phone: 561-274-7263