If you planning a vacation to South Florida, most people usually tend to flock to Miami or Fort Lauderdale for a beach vacation. Although these are both popular for the right reason, they also attract a lot of crowds which leaves little space for some quiet and relaxing vacation on the beach.
So, now that you have set your eyes on Delray Beach for a vacation, it is natural to ask whether “Is Delray Beach Worth Visiting?”.
Located along the Atlantic Coast in South Florida, Delray Beach is a small town with a big personality. Known for its charming and tranquil white sand beaches, restaurants, shops, and eclectic charm, Delray Beach is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking to enjoy the best of both worlds, a bit of relaxation with a lot of fun.
Here are a few reasons why we think Delray Beach should definitely be on your bucket list!
Is Delray Beach Worth Visting?
The Beaches
It goes without saying that the main attraction why people choose to visit Delray Beach is the beaches themselves, and Delray Beach is home to some of the most underrated beaches in Florida.
The beaches in Delray Beach have an idyllic and tranquil charm with soft white sand and turquoise blue waters of the Atlantic lined with swaying palm trees which provide a perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation.
Whether you’re looking to brave the waves or simply looking to relax and immerse yourself in a good book, Delray Beach is sure to please you.
Apart from the gorgeous beaches, the beach town is also home to a range of shops, restaurants, and bars where you can treat yourself to some delicious food and indulge in some retail therapy after your day on the beach.
Some of the best beaches in Delray Beach include the Atlantic Dunes Park, a secluded beach perfect for couples looking to escape from crowds, Pineapple Grove Beach for families who want to have great fun, and Ocean Ridge Hammock Park Beach with great amenities and serene vibe which is great for everyone.
🏖 Related post: Is Anna Maria Island Worth Visiting? Pros & Cons to Help You Decide
Atlantic Avenue
If you want to rejuvenate yourself after a fun but exhausting day on the beach head to Atlantic Avenue to treat yourself to some retail therapy.
Atlantic Avenue is a vibrant street in Delray and is home to many shops, restaurants, and art galleries, and offers a glimpse into the unique culture of the eclectic beach town.
Whether you’re looking to buy yourself souvenirs as a memory of your trip, need beachwear for your adventures on the beach, or treat yourself to freshly cooked southern seafood cuisines, Atlantic Avenue has plenty to make sure you’re having fun all the time.
As the sun goes down, the street lights up with amazing pubs and nightclubs where you can enjoy your favorite drinks and dance to the tunes of EDM music till the wee hours of the morning.
🏖 Related post: West Palm Beach vs Fort Lauderdale: Which is better for a Vacation?
Silverball Museum
If you are looking for some unique fun thing to do with your family then head to the Silverball Museum. Especially if you’re a “Pinhead”.
Silverball Museum is a unique museum that is devoted to the history and preservation of over 200 pinball machines, ranging from the early 1900s to the present day.
In addition to the many classic pinball machines on display, the museum also features a wide array of memorabilia, from vintage arcade cabinets to a rotating selection of special exhibits.
The museum is a haven for pinball aficionados to learn about some of the rare and iconic pinball machines ever made and as for others, it is a great place for a fun day out away from the beach.
🏖 Related post: West Palm Beach vs Boca Raton: Which is better for a Vacation?
Saltwater Brewery
In 2013 three friends had a wild idea to start a brewery in Delray Beach, and today that brewery has become one of the most popular craft breweries in Florida known for its delicious beers and commitment to sustainability.
Their commitment towards sustainability can be seen in their packaging which is made from renewable materials, and they even have a “recycled submarine” that picks up trash from local waterways.
But at the end of the day, their delicious Beer is the real deal why people love to come again to taste their handcrafted beer made using pure and natural ingredients.
From their core lineup of IPA, pale ale, and wheat beer to seasonal specialties like imperial stout and pumpkin ale, there’s sure to be a Saltwater beer that you’ll love.
If you are a beer lover then it goes without saying that you must visit the Saltwater Brewery but if you are not, you’ll become one after you sample one of their handcrafted beers.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is one of its kind Garden and Museum and is one of the main highlights in Delray Beach.
If you are looking for a perfect day relaxing in a beautiful and serene atmosphere then this is the place to be. The museum boasts a rich collection of Japanese art and artifacts, and a wonderful garden that is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The well-manicured garden and the tranquil vibe transport you to a completely fairytale-like world. We highly recommend taking one of their guided tours to explore in detail the Japanese culture and the importance of gardening tradition in Japan from incredibly knowledgeable and passionate tour guides.
Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Do you love to see alligators? If yes, then Wakodahatchee Wetlands is the perfect place to spot not just alligators but also turtles, a variety of wading birds, and other wildlife.
The Wetlands encompass 50 acres of total land area which was established on unused utility land and later turned into recreation wetlands.
The park also features a 3 miles boardwalk that crosses between open water pond areas, marsh areas, and shallow shelves providing spectacular views of the wildlife and bird species.
For outdoor enthusiasts there are a number of walking trails that wind through the wetlands, providing an up-close look at the plant life and wildlife in their natural habitat.
Old School Square
Formerly a site of an elementary school, the Old School Square was later transformed into a vibrant and well-maintained cultural grounds that feature fantastic art galleries, performance venues, and restaurants.
The Square host’s several events, concerts, and art festivals every year that you can enjoy with your family. There’s also a weekly farmer’s market where you buy local vegetables fresh from the farm.
Whether you are looking forward to enjoying one of the many events or simply enjoying some people-watching, the charming atmosphere and central location of the Old School Square make it a must-visit place in Delray Beach.
Cornell Art Museum
If you are an avid art enthusiast then there’s one more reason why Delray Beach is worth visiting. The Cornell Art Museum exhibits Delray’s rich art culture and the tradition of art to portray the town’s story through vivid images.
The Cornell Art Museum is one of the main attractions in Delray Beach. The museum is located in an old church and the first thing that will strike you is the magnificent architecture.
The light streamed in through the stained glass windows, creating a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere.
The museum features hundreds of exhibits from the pre-independence era to modern times. The sculptures by Jose de Creeft are especially impressive and a sight to behold.
If you are looking forward to completely immersing yourself in the cultural experience in Delray Beach then Cornell Art Museum is a must-visit for you.
Delray Beach Market
Every Saturday of the week the Delray Beach Market opens up with stalls full of fresh fruits and vegetables right from the local farms.
The market features a wide variety of products to choose from, the prices are some of the most reasonable in Florida. It’s a great place to stock up on healthy organic food and at the same time contribute towards the local economy and the farmers.
If you are tired after a long stroll shopping for fresh food then there are several restaurants and cafes where you can treat yourself to the delicious food on offer.
