Top 10 Destinations in Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a beautiful city on the eastern coast of South Florida, perched right on the southern tip of Palm Beach County. Known to locals as "Boca" and to visitors as the site of some of the greatest beaches and attractions in Florida, this city is chock full of fun and exciting things to do and see. Here are the top 10 destinations in Boca Raton.

A large part of the city’s allure is due to the care that has been taken to keep it genuine. Many large-scale chains and abrasive forms of advertising are simply not permitted in Boca Raton, preserving its unique charm. Boca Raton is perfectly balanced with the natural beauty of wooded parks and the ocean, as well as gorgeous architecture. The city is abuzz with places to explore and memorable sites, featuring fantastic coastline, upscale shopping, and a bustling culinary scene. There is absolutely something for everyone in Boca Raton, as you’ll see here in this top 10 things to do. No matter your interests, we can tell you where to experience the best the city has to offer.

Where to Explore

Boca Raton Beaches

You simply cannot visit Boca Raton without exploring the gorgeous coastline. Many proclaim that the true treasure of this city is the 2 mile stretch of beaches that extend through three of Boca Raton’s main parks. This beach area is almost entirely natural, pristine and undeveloped, making it some of the most natural shoreland in Florida. You won’t see the same kind of heavy oceanfront condos, hotels, and sprawling resorts disrupting the scene in Boca Raton. Enjoy serene views, swimming, surfing, and even snorkeling. Red Reef Park is one of the best options to catch a glimpse of local undersea life, with a man made reef just 10 feet off shore. Grab your snorkeling gear and peek into the little dips and crevices to find colorful tropical fish, eels, turtles and even stingrays. The southern portion of Red Reef Park is very popular for surfing enthusiasts. Closer to shops and restaurants lies Deerfield Beach, featuring a scenic pier. Most of these beaches conveniently have bathroom facilities with showers, a huge plus after a salty day in the sun. Whether you prefer to bask in the sunlight with your feet in the sand or splash in the gentle surf, Boca Raton beaches are the perfect destination.

Spanish River Park

Known as “Boca Raton’s Lagoon,” Spanish River Park is one of gems connecting the city’s expansive beaches. In addition to offering access to the tranquil soft sand beach, this park hosts in own beautiful hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. Ample barbeques for visitors allow for a fun lunchtime under the sun. Lifeguards keep beachgoers safe, and there are umbrella and chair rentals if you don’t want to bring your own. If you happen to have your four-legged family along for your visit, Spanish River Park has a dog-friendly waterfront area for pooches to frolic in the surf. This is one of the larger parks in Boca Raton so there is plenty of room to spread out. Overall, there tend to be less crowds, especially if you can make it here in the early morning hours. This makes it one of the more secluded and peaceful parks where you can thoroughly enjoy the natural beauty that abounds. Pack a lunch and plan a day lounging on the beach or walking the scenic trails.  

Where to Shop

Diamonds by Raymond Lee

Just blocks from Spanish River Park and Boca Raton’s beaches lies another true gem of the city. Diamonds by Raymond Lee is one of the most exclusive diamond retailers and one of South Florida’s largest buyers and sellers of luxury jewelry. They offer timepieces and jewelry from premiere designers as well as sales of loose diamonds in a full range of cuts, colors, and sizes. Located in East Boca Raton on North Federal Highway, Diamonds by Raymond Lee is a family owned and operated endeavor that has evolved around a passion for true beauty and the finest in both classic and contemporary adornments. Diamonds by Raymond Lee has an unmistakable ambience that sets this store apart. The dazzling displays and opulent ambience elevates your shopping experience to a new level of luxury. Leisurely enjoy a drink while perusing some of the most exquisite diamonds, diamond jewelry, and watches on the market. Speak with their warm and knowledgeable specialists about crafting a custom designed piece that captures the essence of your love. Diamonds by Raymond Lee hosts events like Rosé All Day, where customers can sip on complementary wine and enjoy light refreshments while taking in a gorgeous display of the latest diamond pieces and chatting with top jewelry specialists. A highlight of this event is often the raffles where beautiful jewelry is given away. Another great event put on by the store is Diamonds and Donuts, where beautiful luxury cars and diamonds come together for an event everyone can enjoy. As an additional benefit, proceeds from the food sales at the Diamonds and Donuts event go to local charities. Check ahead to see about catching one of their exciting in-store events by calling the store at 561-750-6744.

Mizner Park

Another upscale shopping experience awaits at Mizner Park, an outdoor architectural masterpiece dripping with Mediterranean style. Named for the founder of Boca Raton, Mizner Park is an elegant center that boasts plenty of chic stores, enticing eateries, a full art museum, and an amphitheater. Take a break from your retail therapy and visit the Boca Raton Museum of Art. Here, you'll find cultural treasures from established masters and emerging talents. Feel free to indulge your creative side, the museum offers sketch pads and pencils for the artistically-inspired visitor. There is a myriad of dining options at Mizner Park, whether you are looking for a light snack, a relaxing cocktail, or a gourmet meal. You and your family could easily spend a day at Mizner Park satisfying your shopping fix with enough food and drink options to keep everyone fueled and happy. Enjoy the lovely design elements and fresh Florida breeze at this little town within a town.

Where to Eat

Savor Our City Tours

Boca Raton has a truly tantalizing food scene. There is a true melting pot of different cultural influences, including Latin, French, and Italian. As the city evolved into the trendy hotspot it is today, chefs were challenged to put fresh contemporary spins on old favorites and blend in some of American gastropub culture. It has all culminated in a foodie’s dream destination. One of the best ways to experience a bit of everything is on a food tour, like Savor Our City Culinary Tours. This is so much more than just a trip of tastes. Culinary tours offer a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of Boca Raton’s beautiful neighborhoods, learning more about the history, culture, and heartbeat of the city. All while indulging in quality offerings from top chefs, artisans, winemakers, brew masters and farmers. The tours last around three hours, with ample time to also browse and shop as you please. It’s a great opportunity to also familiarize yourself with different areas of Boca Raton, and sample new gourmet food selections that you may not have tried. Choose one of many themed tours that explore everything from the tastes of Mizner Park to local wine and beer samplings. If you are a fan of yoga, try their yoga and healthy food tour which features a rooftop yoga session and the best in raw, organic, and vegan food selections.

Truluck’s

It is hard to go wrong with Boca Raton’s dining scene, but if we had to pick one must-try it would be Truluck’s. This fine culinary experience features both delectable cuts from the chophouse as well as some of the freshest seafood to please even the most discerning enthusiast of ocean fare. Truluck’s sources its seafood from its very own fisheries, caught and delivered daily. Enjoy sumptuous dishes like fresh Florida stone crab claws, or steak with caviar. Be sure to ask your server for the positively perfect wine pairing for each course. Check ahead to see who’s on their schedule for live musical entertainment to make your evening even more magical. Weather permitting, enjoy the soft Florida breeze while you enjoy your delicious meal in their outdoor seating area. Truluck’s restaurant is all about offering first-class cuisine and in a first-class atmosphere. When visiting, be mindful to reserve your finest attire before booking a table.

Where to Learn

Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

One of the premier destinations for nature lovers from all over, the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is a stunning, 20 acre preserve filled with a breathtaking array of local flora and fauna. Investigate the secrets of this tropical coastal forest and take a stroll on the lovely new boardwalk. Be thoroughly delighted by the year-round butterfly garden, which is home to many stunning species including monarchs and Florida’s state butterfly, the zebra longwing. Don’t forget to visit the onsite sea turtle rehabilitation facility, where you can learn about the center’s important work in safeguarding these mesmerizing sea creatures. Discover an authentic Seminole Chiki made of cabbage palm fronds and stay for an educational lecture or workshop. Always keep your eyes open for manatees frolicking in the waterways. Birdwatchers can marvel at a vast array of species such as beautiful brown pelicans and herons. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center is a wonderful place to learn more about the local ecosystem and investigate active research ventures at the Florida Atlantic University’s marine biology laboratory.

Children’s Science Explorium

Despite the name, this is a fun-filled destination for children and adults alike. This is a hands-on, interactive science museum sure to amaze, educate, and entertain. Saturdays are sensory-friendly with both sound and lighting adjustments. The museum allows visitors to be directly involved in scientific experiments and exhibits. It ties science to the real world in practical, enjoyable new ways. The Science Explorium is located in Sugar Sand Park, 132 acres of nature and fun activities including a water spray park, outdoor exhibits, a library, a playground, a carousel, and a theater. Children can be awed by magic shows and live musicals at the Willow Theater or relax with a kid-friendly feature film. Special events are held throughout the year, including holiday-themed experiences like their popular Halloween Spooktacular. August brings a host of exciting art and music events to Sugar Sand Park all month long in celebration of Boca Festival Days. In addition to permanent exhibits, check in to see about upcoming traveling exhibitions from museums all over the world.

Where to Adventure

Helicopter Tours

Boca Raton is a dream for those with adventure at heart. Get a healthy adrenaline rush while taking in some of the best views of the gorgeous coastline in one of Boca Raton’s helicopter tours. You can choose your pace with any one of their custom tours including an adventure ride, sightseeing tours that include any number of popular Boca Raton sport, and stunning sunset flights. If romance is on your mind, choose one of their romantic flights just for two that includes a complimentary bottle of champagne, dinner for two, VIP seating at palace movie theater, and valet service. Create an absolutely luxurious moment in your Boca Raton visit, side-by-side with your beloved sipping champagne in the sky above this beautiful city. There are even plenty of family-friendly options and one child under 12 can ride for free. If you crave even more that Boca Raton’s amazing city and seascapes, choose the ultimate package that lets you even explore the Florida everglades in search of elusive alligators, safe high above. Helicopter tours above Boca Raton are a once in a lifetime experience that will surely make your visit even more memorable. If you want the best in photo opportunities, this is definitely a great choice.

Boca Raton's Hydroflight

Looking for even more of a thrill? Ever wonder what it would be like to fly like a superhero? Try Palm Beach Hydroflight in Boca Raton for a genuinely unique and exciting ride. You can cruise like a torpedo under the waves and soar through the air with a sense of freedom unlike any other with the help of one of their state-of-the-art flyboards. Choose from several different options including individual, group, and VIP lessons. Work with their experienced instructors to learn the basics of operating a water jetpack, propelling you high above the crystal waters of Boca Raton. Awesome action shots of you mastering the art of flyboarding are complimentary with your lesson so you can show off to your friends back home. The exhilaration of flying through the air on your own propulsion is really incomparable to other watersports, so this is a rare golden opportunity to something truly different. If you absolutely fall in love with it, equipment sales are available.