Delray Beach, Florida: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Why It’s a Gem
Delray Beach, located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, is a vibrant and charming seaside town known for its pristine beaches, rich cultural scene, and bustling downtown area. Often referred to as the “Village by the Sea,” Delray Beach combines the laid-back atmosphere of a beach town with the energy of a thriving arts and dining scene. From its award-winning beaches to its historic districts and year-round festivals, Delray Beach offers something for everyone—whether you’re looking for relaxation, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences.
How to Get There
- By Air: The nearest airport is Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), located about 20 miles north of Delray Beach. Alternatively, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is about 33 miles south and offers more extensive flight options.
- Transportation Options: Visitors can rent a car at the airport, take a shuttle, or use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to reach Delray Beach. There are also local bus services provided by Palm Tran that connect the airport to Delray Beach.
- By Train: The Tri-Rail commuter train runs between West Palm Beach and Miami, with a stop in Delray Beach. It’s a convenient option for those traveling from other parts of South Florida.
- By Car: Delray Beach is easily accessible by car via I-95, which runs north-south along Florida’s east coast. It’s about an hour’s drive from Miami, 30 minutes from Fort Lauderdale, and 20 minutes from West Palm Beach.
When to Visit
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Delray Beach is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is warm and pleasant, with fewer crowds than in the peak winter months.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is the high season in Delray Beach, with visitors flocking to escape the cold northern climates. Expect higher hotel rates, more crowded beaches, and bustling events, but also ideal weather for beach days and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s°F. It’s also hurricane season, but if you can handle the heat, it’s a quieter time to visit with lower hotel rates and fewer tourists.
Things to Do in Delray Beach
- Relax at Delray Municipal Beach
- Overview: Delray Beach’s main attraction is its pristine, two-mile-long municipal beach. The beach is consistently ranked among the best in Florida, thanks to its soft sand, clear waters, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply stroll along the shore, Delray’s beach has it all.
- Tip: The beach is accessible from Atlantic Avenue, and there are plenty of places to rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment, such as paddleboards and kayaks.
- Stroll Along Atlantic Avenue
- Overview: Atlantic Avenue is the heart of downtown Delray Beach, known for its lively atmosphere, diverse dining options, boutique shops, and art galleries. It’s the perfect spot for a casual stroll, people-watching, or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many outdoor cafes.
- Tip: Visit in the evening when the avenue comes alive with live music, vibrant nightlife, and street performers. You can also catch a live show at the Arts Garage, a popular venue for jazz and theater performances.
- Explore Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
- Overview: Just a short drive from downtown, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens offers a serene escape with its beautiful bonsai trees, koi ponds, and traditional Japanese architecture. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and cultural events that celebrate Japanese art and history.
- Tip: Time your visit to coincide with one of the museum’s cultural festivals, such as the Hatsume Fair or Bon Festival, which feature traditional performances, food, and crafts.
- Visit the Wakodahatchee Wetlands
- Overview: Nature lovers will appreciate the Wakodahatchee Wetlands, a wildlife sanctuary where visitors can observe native birds, alligators, turtles, and other wildlife. The 3/4-mile boardwalk winds through the wetlands, offering up-close views of the animals in their natural habitat.
- Tip: Bring binoculars and visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife, especially during bird migration seasons.
- Old School Square
- Overview: Old School Square is the cultural heart of Delray Beach, home to the Cornell Art Museum, Crest Theatre, and the Old School Square Pavilion, which hosts live music and community events. The historic campus often features art exhibitions, theater performances, and outdoor concerts.
- Tip: Check the event calendar for upcoming performances, including the popular Delray Beach Fashion Week and Old School Square concerts.
- Snorkel or Dive at the Delray Wreck
- Overview: For underwater enthusiasts, the SS Inchulva, also known as the Delray Wreck, is a popular snorkeling and diving spot just offshore from the main beach. The wreck lies in shallow water, making it accessible for snorkelers and beginner divers to explore its marine life.
- Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear or book a guided dive with a local dive shop to explore the wreck and its surrounding coral reefs.
- Art Walks and Galleries
- Overview: Delray Beach has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries located along Atlantic Avenue and the nearby Pineapple Grove Arts District. The First Friday Art Walk, held monthly, is a popular event where galleries open their doors for free, offering visitors a chance to view local and international art.
- Tip: Don’t miss a visit to the Cornell Art Museum at Old School Square, which features contemporary art exhibitions in a historic setting.
Where to Eat: Local Favorites
- The Grove
- Why It’s a Favorite: The Grove offers a fine dining experience in the heart of Delray Beach. Known for its seasonal, farm-to-table menu, this intimate restaurant serves creative dishes with Mediterranean and American influences.
- What to Try: The duck breast and ricotta gnocchi are local favorites, and the wine list is impressive.
- Deck 84
- Why It’s a Favorite: Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, Deck 84 offers a laid-back atmosphere with scenic views of passing boats. The menu features a mix of fresh seafood, burgers, and tropical cocktails.
- What to Try: The fish tacos and lobster mac and cheese are popular, and don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails, like the Deck Punch.
- El Camino
- Why It’s a Favorite: This vibrant Mexican restaurant in the heart of Atlantic Avenue is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and extensive tequila selection. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
- What to Try: The braised short rib tacos and grilled street corn are must-tries, and the house-made margaritas are some of the best in town.
- Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine
- Why It’s a Favorite: Lionfish is a trendy seafood restaurant that emphasizes sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The stylish setting and innovative menu make it a great spot for a night out.
- What to Try: The sustainable sushi and whole fried lionfish are standout dishes, and the craft cocktails are also worth sampling.
- Dada
- Why It’s a Favorite: Located in a historic 1920s home, Dada is a quirky and eclectic restaurant offering an imaginative menu with a creative twist. The outdoor garden seating adds to its charming ambiance.
- What to Try: The meatloaf and brie and pear sandwich are favorites, and the dessert menu features their famous Dada bread pudding.
Where to Stay: Accommodations in Delray Beach
- The Seagate Hotel & Spa
- Why Stay Here: This luxury boutique hotel offers an upscale beach experience with modern amenities, a private beach club, a spa, and two outdoor pools. It’s located within walking distance of Atlantic Avenue.
- Highlights: Private beach access, luxury spa, and fine dining at the on-site Atlantic Grille.
- Delray Sands Resort
- Why Stay Here: Located just north of Delray Beach, Delray Sands Resort offers a quieter beachfront retreat with direct access to the sand. The resort features ocean-view rooms, a pool, and dining at Latitudes Restaurant.
- Highlights: Beachfront location, ocean-view rooms, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Aloft Delray Beach
- Why Stay Here: A trendy and modern hotel in the heart of Delray Beach’s SofA District, Aloft Delray Beach offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and easy access to downtown restaurants and nightlife.
- Highlights: Rooftop pool, lively social atmosphere, and pet-friendly accommodations.
- Colony Hotel & Cabana Club
- Why Stay Here: This historic hotel offers a boutique experience with its charming vintage décor and private Cabana Club beachfront. The hotel is located on Atlantic Avenue, perfect for those who want to stay close to the action.
- Highlights: Historic charm, private beach club, and central location.
- Hyatt Place Delray Beach
- Why Stay Here: Located in the heart of downtown Delray Beach, Hyatt Place offers modern, spacious rooms with easy access to all the attractions on Atlantic Avenue. The hotel also features a rooftop pool and bar.
- Highlights: Rooftop pool, central location, and complimentary breakfast.
Events in Delray Beach
- Delray Affair (April)
- Overview: The Delray Affair is one of the largest arts and crafts festivals in the Southeast, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Held in April, the festival spans 12 city blocks along Atlantic Avenue, showcasing works from local artists, artisans, and craftsmen.
- Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and find parking. Don’t miss the food vendors offering everything from seafood to Southern BBQ.
- Delray Beach Garlic Fest (February)
- Overview: Known as the “Best Stinkin’ Party in South Florida,” the Delray Beach Garlic Fest is a quirky food festival that celebrates garlic in all its forms. The event features live music, garlic-themed food stalls, cooking competitions, and a kids’ zone.
- Tip: Be sure to try the garlic ice cream for a unique (and surprisingly tasty) treat!
- Delray Beach Open (February)
- Overview: The Delray Beach Open is an annual men’s ATP tennis tournament held at the Delray Beach Tennis Center. The event attracts top international players and tennis fans from around the world.
- Tip: Get tickets early, as the matches are popular, especially on the final weekend. Look out for special events and player meet-and-greets during the tournament.
- First Friday Art Walk
- Overview: On the first Friday of every month, Delray Beach’s downtown galleries and studios open their doors to the public for the First Friday Art Walk. This free event offers a chance to meet local artists, view new exhibitions, and enjoy live music.
- Tip: Pick up a map at one of the participating galleries to guide your walk, and take advantage of special discounts at local restaurants during the event.
- Delray Beach Fashion Week (January)
- Overview: Each January, Delray Beach Fashion Week celebrates local fashion designers and retailers with runway shows, pop-up boutiques, and fashion-related events. The weeklong event showcases the latest trends in clothing, accessories, and swimwear, with plenty of opportunities for shopping and giveaways.
- Tip: Check the schedule for VIP ticket options, which include front-row seats at the runway shows and access to exclusive after-parties.
Historical and Fun Facts about Delray Beach
- Pineapple Farming History: Delray Beach was once a major producer of pineapples in the early 1900s, which is why you’ll notice the pineapple symbol featured prominently around town. The Pineapple Grove Arts District was named to honor this agricultural history.
- Named an “All-America City”: Delray Beach has been awarded the title of All-America City twice, in 1993 and 2001, for its strong sense of community and cultural vitality.
- Arts and Culture Hub: Delray Beach has a thriving arts scene and is home to more than 20 galleries, studios, and cultural venues, making it one of South Florida’s top arts destinations.
Final Tips
- Parking: Downtown Delray Beach can get crowded, especially during peak season and events. Use the city’s parking garages or valet services on Atlantic Avenue, or opt for the Downtowner golf cart shuttle service for a free ride around town.
- Bike-Friendly: Delray Beach is a bike-friendly town, with plenty of places to rent bicycles for exploring the beach and downtown. There are also several bike racks and designated lanes throughout the city.
- Water Sports: If you’re into water sports, many hotels and beach clubs offer equipment rentals for paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. You can also find local outfitters offering lessons and guided tours.
Delray Beach combines the charm of a laid-back beach town with the energy of a vibrant arts and culture scene. Whether you’re strolling along Atlantic Avenue, lounging on the beach, or enjoying one of the town’s many events, Delray Beach offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of South Florida.
