Discover 25 amazing destinations, from hidden anchorages to lively sandbars.
Atlantic coastal boating influenced by the nearby Gulf Stream. Inlets offer crystal-clear azure waters on rising tides, sheltered ICW cruising, and famous sandbar gatherings. Boaters generally favor the November to May window for the most stable cruising conditions.
seasonal · Month 3
Florida's sea turtle nesting season. Beaches along the Atlantic coast become nesting grounds for loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles.
Last Sunday of April
A massive, unsanctioned, and hugely popular seasonal raft-up party in Lake Boca Raton. Thousands of boaters gather at Lake Wyman and the Lake Boca sandbar to party with live music blasting from floating stages. Roughly 6,000–10,000 revelers on boats and floaties with no tickets, you just show up. Expect a heavy law-enforcement presence.
annual · Month 7
The biggest boating day of the year. Every sandbar, anchorage, and waterfront spot is packed. Fireworks displays visible from the water across Florida.
annual · Month 9
The last big boating weekend of summer. A favorite for multi-day Keys trips and sandbar sendoffs before the fall.
annual · Month 12
A traveling fireworks display leads boats up the Intracoastal from North Palm Beach to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, starting at 6 p.m. Doubles as a Toys for Tots drive. December 5, 2026.
Full moon weekends
A monthly raft-up tradition at Peanut Island during the full moon. Boaters tie up together, share drinks, and enjoy the moonrise over the inlet.
Experience the best of Delray Beach boating. Depart from Lake View Park Boat Ramp, explore Delray Beach Pavilion, and enjoy waterfront leisure at Deck 84.
Gulfstream Park is a serene beachfront oasis perfect for families and couples seeking a peaceful day by the ocean. With its soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and shaded picnic areas equipped with grills, it offers an ideal setting for a relaxing beach day. The park features clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and a playground, making it a family-friendly destination. Free parking is available, but it's limited, so early arrival is recommended to secure a spot.
A small ramp suitable for jonboats. Lake Ida West is better suited for bass boats. Motorboaters should be aware of the Idle Speed No Wake zone along the shoreline.
258' X45' X 37' Coastal Freighter, the "M/V Castor". Customs Seizure Deployed on 12/15/2001. Total material weight: 1415 tons.
70' Vessel, the "Swordfish" Deployed on 04/30/1992.
2,300 Tons Culverts and Catch Basins. 300' From "Swordfish." Deployed on 09/21/1989. Total material weight: 2300 tons.
150' Freighter, the "Bud Bar" Deployed on 00/00/1985.
13 concrete dome-shaped modules (8' tall goliath balls) Deployed on 01/09/2021. Total material weight: 65 tons.
400 tons of limestone rock Deployed on 09/16/2022. Total material weight: 400 tons.
400 tons of limstone deployed as part of FWC 21030 Deployed on 10/27/2022. Total material weight: 400 tons.
Limestone boulders (500 tons) Deployed on 06/01/2023. Total material weight: 500 tons.
2 Prefabricated modules (8' X 8' X 8' sculpture, 6' X 6' x5' module) and secondary use concrete (4 pieces) Deployed on 07/10/2023. Total material weight: 21 tons.
Delray Beach Pavilion is a beloved beachfront landmark at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and A1A. Its open-air design offers shaded seating with stunning ocean views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. The pavilion is a vibrant hub for community activities, including yoga, art showcases, and live music, while providing direct access to the pristine public beach for sunbathing and swimming. With Atlantic Avenue's dining and shopping options nearby, it encapsulates the welcoming spirit and coastal lifestyle of Delray Beach.
Atlantic Dunes Park in Delray Beach, Florida, offers a serene escape with its soft sand dunes and lush vegetation. This tranquil beach park is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere compared to busier nearby beaches. With amenities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, it caters well to families and visitors. Lifeguards ensure a safe swimming environment, and the natural habitat provides opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Public boat ramp managed by Palm Beach County. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.
Public boat ramp managed by City of Delray Beach. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.
Knowles Park is a charming and convenient spot for boating enthusiasts looking to launch their vessels into the intercoastal waters. The park features a well-maintained boat ramp, making it an ideal starting point for aquatic adventures. While the park itself offers grassy areas for picnicking and a small playground, its primary allure is the ease of boat access and the serene atmosphere it provides for quiet reflection or a casual stroll.
Public boat ramp managed by City of Delray Beach. Access type: Government Owned for General Public Use.
Deck 84 offers a vibrant dining experience right on the Intracoastal Waterway, making it a prime spot for boaters looking to dock and dine. With its stylish American menu, the restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and flavorful cocktails, all enjoyed with stunning waterfront views. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with outdoor seating and live music enhancing the experience. It's a popular choice for brunch, lunch, or a sunset dinner, so arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot.
Marina Delray Inc is a well-equipped marina offering a variety of services for boaters. With a swimming pool, free parking, and a secure area for boat servicing, it caters to both recreational and maintenance needs. While the marina provides easy access to boat rentals and a small retail area, some services may require advance planning due to availability constraints. The family-owned operation ensures a personal touch, with the owner often on site.
City Marina is a modern and well-equipped marina located right on the Intracoastal Waterway, offering easy access to downtown Delray Beach. The marina features new floating docks with pumpout facilities at every slip, a clean bathhouse, and free laundry services. It's a short walk to the beach and town, making it a convenient stop for transient boaters looking to explore the local area. The marina is also known for its sightings of manatees cruising by, adding a touch of wildlife charm to your stay.
Delray Public Beach is a pristine stretch of white sand and crystal-clear Atlantic waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is well-maintained with lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful morning with stunning sunrise views, while the surrounding area offers a vibrant mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a lively destination throughout the day.
The Seagate Yacht Club offers an exclusive marina experience with a refined atmosphere, perfect for yacht enthusiasts seeking a private and upscale docking location. With its high rating, this club is known for its excellent facilities and serene environment, making it a top choice for those who appreciate a touch of luxury on the water.
Anchor Park is a charming coastal retreat offering a delightful mix of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. With its quaint playground, picnic areas, and easy beach access, it's a perfect spot for a leisurely day by the ocean. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the serene morning atmosphere before the area becomes busier.
Delray Harbor Club Marina is a well-regarded stop for boaters, known for its friendly and accommodating staff. The marina offers a convenient location with easy access to fuel and nearby amenities, including a Publix and local restaurants. Visitors appreciate the clean facilities and the marina's commitment to improving services under new management.
Delray Ledge is a stunning natural reef formation located off the coast of Delray Beach, offering scuba divers an exhilarating underwater experience. This site is renowned for its dramatic gully structures, particularly the famous 'Snapper Hole', which features deep overhangs and is a haven for marine life. Divers can expect to encounter large schools of yellowtail snapper, graceful nurse sharks, and the occasional sea turtle gliding through the waters. The ledge sits in 45-60 feet of water, making it accessible for divers of various skill levels, while still offering the thrill of exploring a vibrant and dynamic underwater ecosystem.