The Best Things to Do in Delray Beach: Where to Eat, Play, and Stay
Welcome to Delray Beach, Florida, a trendy and vibrant city nestled along the beautiful Atlantic shoreline of Palm Beach County. Delray Beach is more than just a beach town – it’s a laid-back and artsy community that perfectly combines coastal charm with a thriving downtown scene. Are you ready to discover the top things to do in Delray Beach, Florida? Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Delray Beach, including where to eat, stay, and play.
Delray’s Beaches
Without a doubt, the most popular attraction in Delray Beach is its eponymous public beach, a little slice of heaven. The soft white sands, the turquoise waters, and the excellent amenities make this stretch of the coastline a haven for beachgoers. Visitors can take a dip in the sea, sunbathe, picnic, or engage in various water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
Lifeguards are on duty, ensuring everyone’s safety, but it is up to you to remember plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense Florida sunshine. Many parts of Delray Beach are pet-friendly but require your pet to be on a leash.
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is a serene oasis enclosed by sixteen acres of Japanese gardens. The museum’s exhibits showcase the history and culture of Japan while the gardens feature tranquil waterfalls, bonsai trees, and a bamboo grove.
Guided tours are available, or visitors can explore the grounds at their leisure, which I did. Tickets are $15 for adults and $9 for children ages 6 to 17. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Are you in town for the holidays? If so, check out the amazing Sandi-Land sand castle creation in nearby West Palm Beach.
Wakedahatchee Wetlands
Surrounded by urban sprawl on all sides, the Wakodahatchee Wetlands are a nature lover’s paradise. The wetlands contain a boardwalk that weaves and winds around multiple ponds, where visitors can spot an array of exotic bird species, turtles, and alligators.
The mile-long boardwalk’s various viewing platforms offer excellent vantage points for the wetlands’ breathtaking beauty. Please note that pets are not allowed on the boardwalk .
Pineapple Grove Arts District
The Pineapple Grove Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood in the heart of downtown Delray Beach. You’ll know you are there when you reach the picturesque arch and see Old School Square.
Pineapple Grove is renowned for its charming architecture, eclectic art galleries, microbreweries, and cafes. Visitors can wander the streets and admire the colorful murals adorning the walls, browse through vintage shops, or enjoy an evening of live music.
Delray Green Market
Shopping enthusiasts will love Delray’s one-of-a-kind boutiques with the latest fashions, home decor, artwork, and accessories. Check out Delray Beach’s Green Market every Saturday at Old School Square Park from 9 AM to 2 PM for a large variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other food vendors.
The market even has live music, flowers, and plants, offering fun for the entire family. Try the product and food samples you want to become more familiar with. This is where I learned to love plant-based foods.
Atlantic Avenue
If you are looking for a lively and bustling place to hang out, then Atlantic Avenue is the spot. This palm-tree-lined strip covers several blocks and is lined with gourmet restaurants, cafes, chic bars, and boutique shops. Whether you are in the mood for a romantic candlelit dinner or a fun night out with friends, check out the Avenue’s vibrant culture.
Nearby, Artists Alley is a great place to take Instagram-worthy photos.
Silverball Pinball Museum
I’d be lying if I didn’t tell you that the Silverball Retro Arcade is one of my favorite spots in South Florida. This fantastic museum has a collection of retro 1930s to 1980s collectible pinball games. The thrilling game room is home to flashy video games from times past, pool tables, classic arcade games, and a full-service restaurant.
There is a separate bar area at Silverball Retro Arcade for unwinding after a hard day at work. This arcade screams Baby Boomer, Generation X’er, and Millennials surprisingly in the same manner—game lovers unite!
Dining in Delray Beach
Delray Beach has many fabulous restaurants, ranging from fresh seafood and sushi to great Italian food, international eats, and the best ice cream in the state.
The Office
The Office, my preferred Delray Beach restaurant, is a charming eatery with indoor and outdoor seating. It boasts a delightful ambiance with exquisite decor, complemented by an enticing menu featuring tantalizing comfort food favorites.
The Huckleberry BBQ Short Rib Grilled Cheese is a heavenly adult grilled cheese sandwich meticulously crafted with a blend of mozzarella, white cheddar, gouda, and provolone.
Try the sweet potato fries with marshmallow dipping sauce as your side. They are incredible!
Boston’s on the Beach
Boston’s on the Beach in Delray Beach is a must-visit destination. Begin your culinary journey with the delectable Onion Dip, served alongside homemade chips lightly dusted with flavorful onion powder. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable dinner experience with options like the Peel and Eat Shrimp or the mouthwatering Lobster Pot.
Indulge in perfectly steamed seafood, accompanied by delectable red bliss buttered potatoes and yummy corn-on-the-cob.
Latitudes
Situated at the Delray Sands Resort in Highland Beach, Latitudes offers a captivating oceanfront ambiance complemented by exquisite cuisine and delightful cocktails. A visit to this establishment is justified by the complimentary bread alone.
Indulging in the Crab and Lobster Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp, served over a bed of white corn polenta and sautéed garlic spinach, is a gratifying experience. Leave space for the creme brûlée, topped with an abundance of fresh berries.
Vic and Angelo’s
Vic and Angelo’s is an enchanting venue, with impeccable service and delectable Italian fare. From traditional favorites to innovative creations, this renowned Delray Beach restaurant offers a culinary experience nothing short of extraordinary.
Indulge in the Orecchiette, featuring fresh broccoli rabe and fennel sausage, or savor the Spaghetti & Nonna’s Gigante Meatball, accompanied by a decadent San Marzano tomato sauce. Check out the impressive wine menu, too.
Bamboo Fire Cafe
During a delightful Taste History Food Tour, I was introduced to Bamboo Fire Cafe, which proved to be a true culinary delight with its exceptional flavors. The owners, exuding warmth and expertise, showcased their remarkable talent in crafting Caribbean delicacies. Our sampling included lamb chops, savory meatballs, really flavorful jerk chicken, and mouthwatering curry goat with fragrant roti.
Furthermore, the team at Bamboo Fire Cafe graciously caters to individual preferences, as they are more than willing to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Two other places I always enjoy are Rocco’s Tacos, for the Austin Queso and sizzling Carene molcajetes, and Taverna Spa for the eggplant layered Moussaka.
Sloan’s Ice Cream
Remember the best ice cream in Florida I was talking about in the beginning? Well, here it is.
Sloan’s Ice Cream has become a beloved establishment in South Florida, specifically in Delray Beach, known for its sparkling decor featuring exquisite chandeliers that create a regal ambiance upon entering. In addition to an impressive range of ice cream treats such as shakes, malts, and sundaes, Sloan’s offers an extensive assortment of confectionery and freshly-baked cookies.
Other honorable mentions are Two Fat Cookies bakery and custom treats and The Original Popcorn House for, well, you know, gourmet sweet or savory popcorn.
Where to Stay in Delray Beach: Delray Sands
Experience the ultimate beach getaway at Delray Sands Resort in Delray Beach. With 115 stunning rooms, a tropical outdoor pool, and an onsite restaurant, this Opal Collection property has everything you need for a perfect vacation.
Relax by the pool with a refreshing drink from the full pool bar, soak in the whirlpool, or enjoy a delicious meal at Latitudes (mentioned above). Full beach access includes all the essentials – chairs, umbrellas, cabanas, and food & beverage service. While valet parking is mandatory, the affordable fee ensures a hassle-free stay.
Step into your balcony room at Delray Sands and discover a cozy retreat. Equipped with a spacious desk area, a luxurious bed dressed in high-end linens, and a convenient mini-fridge, your overnight stay is guaranteed to be comfortable.
One of the delightful features of the Opal Collection is the bagged ice – no more noisy ice machines! And don’t forget the oversized corner chair, always upholstered in beautiful fabrics. Whether you want to read, work, or simply relax, this chair is the perfect spot.
And even for beach residents, an ocean view never fails to excite.
Colony Hotel & Cabana Club: A Delray Classic
Experience true historic charm at the Colony Hotel & Cabana Club. This 70-room hotel, located on Atlantic Avenue, offers a unique stay with its National Historic Register status. With original furniture adorned with tropical fabrics and a warm and inviting hotel lobby, you’ll feel transported to another time. Plus, enjoy access to a private oceanfront beach club just two miles away.
Start your day right with a complimentary breakfast served in the hotel’s stunning Sky Light Lobby, steps away from the well-stocked gift shop. Colony Hotel welcomes pets, just like many other businesses in Delray Beach.
A Southeast Florida Gem
In conclusion, Delray Beach, Florida, offers visitors an immense selection of things to see and do. With its pristine stretches of beach, cultural institutions, outdoor pursuits, and bustling city streets, this city is bumping.
Read our other Florida posts:
- Clearwater: A Perfect Family-Friendly Vacation Destination
- 41 Fun Things to Do in the Palm Beaches
- Guide to Visiting Melbourne
You had me at the Burrata photo! Great post. I haven’t been to Delray Beach yet. On my list now.
Awesome! Oh girl, I’m a sucker for a good burrata. 🙂
You’ve done a great job outlining all the things to do (love the name of that Pineapple Grove arts district by the way) but let’s be honest…I’d totally go here just for the beach. That water!!
It is beautiful. Florida has several lovely beach views. I’m lucky to live here. 🙂
I have never been to Delray Beach but I love Florida Beaches in General. But I am definitely going to have to make it down there cause Delray Beach looks like a great spot. Love all the outdoor shops & restaurants in Pineapple Grove. Love all that food you found but most of all I want to go to the Pinball Museum. What a cool and fun place that has to be!
Haha. You think like I do. The pinball museum was my fave. 😉
I really want to go to Florida. Have been trying to set it up through Homeexchange a couple of times but have not been lucky enough to find a match yet. I went to Florida – The Keys – about 20 years ago and loved it. The sun, beach, food, nature – what´s not to like!
Oh, I wish you luck working it out. There are definitely some towns that are much cheaper to visit than the biggies, say Miami, Orlando, or Naples. Anywhere, in particular, you are looking?
I have never been. I absolutely want to go now though. Pineapple Grove looks pretty cool. I like all the palm trees around. Sloans is definitely gaudy looking and too overly pink for me, but I would love to try some ice cream from there. All the food in Delray looks delicious.
Haha. Sloan’s reminds me of my Barbie collecting days. 😉 Holly, a place you haven’t been. I can’t believe it. Stop and say hello to me in Vero Beach, too.
The Silverball Pinball Museum sounds like my kind of place to hang out. We love the beaches of Florida and are always on the look out for a less crowded one. Delray looks like a great place to spend some time.
Awesome! I hope you get to check it out. I thought about 5 years ago that it would take off and be another Fort Lauderdale or something, but so far it is still a bit undiscovered. 😉
I really like the iguana shots. Florida is such a surprising place with a variety of offerings even though it is somehow always associated with the concept of beach time undermining its other natural wonders.
You are so correct. I’ve found so many places of interest in the state outside of Disney and beaches, though I still love both. We have amazing state parks and lots of unique attractions that never get the recognition they deserve. 😉
I have never been to Delray Beach. One to add to my Florida list. I would definitely eat at Vic and Angelo’s Delray. Italian is my favourite food to eat out. But then I saw your seafood pics. That is always a close second. I like the fact that you can rent e-bikes. We have them at home and find it hard to get them when we travel. Certainly increases our range to visit this beach town!
Oh yeah! Another e-bike fan. I’m so addicted to them. I hope you get to visit. Do you like Segways, too?
There really is so much more going on than just the beach (although, for me, the beach takes the cake). The food looks incredible as well. I always like going for quiet walks, so I’m enchanted by the Japanese garden (with iguanas even!).
Love to have this option as an alternative to some of the larger beaches in South Florida. The Silverball Pinball Museum looks too fun, and the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens looks like such a relaxing place to visit. Boston’s on the Beach and Rocco’s Tacos have my mouth watering. So much to do and see in Delray Beach.
I’m glad you liked it. I was all about that pinball museum. 😉
DelRay sounds like a lot of fun and Vic and Angelo’s looks delish! My favorite place in Florida is Destin, on the Gulf side, but I may have to venture south. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for reading. 😉 I love the Gulf Coast, too.
Delray beach seems like a perfect holiday destination for me. I too love the Italian food -pasta, pizza – like crazy! When there is choice of food I just love the place. The beach waves seemed gentle to me. I would love to soak my feet there.
Delray Beach looks like a lovely hidden gem. I love historic accommodations. The story behind them are so interesting. I would want to visit Delray just for the food. Greek food is my favourite! Your pictures are making my mouth water.
Oh nice! I hope you get to visit. If you like Greek food, you should check out Tarpon Springs across the state. Second largest Greek population outside of Greece and amazing restaurants!
I really like the look of the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. I would love to check that out as well as the Pineapple Grove District. I feel like those are two places you could really take your time and enjoy, finding lots of interesting things by just slowing down and taking it all in.
I used to go to Daytona Beach, Florida every year but I have never been to Delray! I have to visit!
Awesome! Always nice to have new places to check out. 😉
Hmmm…looking at all the food, I am convinced Delray Beach must be a very popular destination! Along with nature and those lovely beaches…I too would love to spend a weekend there. It’s a bit sad that I haven’t had the chance to visit Florida yet…hopefully that will change soon 🙂
No way, say it isn’t so! I hope you will remedy that real soon. So many awesome places to visit, including plenty with no beaches or theme parks. 😉
Nice pick for a laid-back weekend doing nothing but enjoying the beach and good food. Loving the look of the Moussaka and the Tex-Mex dishes. The accommodation seems great too. My cousin stays in Florida and I will ask her if she’s been here ever.
Awesome! I hope she ends up visiting. 😉
Sounds like Delray Beach is a great place to visit and has lots of things I’d enjoy doing with lots of great restaurants. I love that they have a historic hotel and that it is pet-friendly too.
Yes, that is always important for me and Hazel. 😉
It’s nice that it’s close to the beach and downtown. The Morikami museum and Japanese gardens would definitely be a draw for me. Something unique in Florida
You’ve got that right. 😉 Thanks for reading.