Boating in Delray Beach, FL

Nestled between West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale along Florida’s eastern seaboard lies Delray Beach, a sweet getaway spot with a charming vibe that has earned the nickname of the “Village by the Sea.”

In 1911, when the coastal town was incorporated, its population only numbered 250, and pineapples were grown nearby for canning at the factory in town. It was located along the Florida East Coast Railroad, and by 1927, the town stretched east across the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean.

Today, Delray Beach has grown to more than 67,000 residents, and its two distinct communities are divided by the ICW — downtown and the beach. In fact, Delray Beach is governed by the rhythms of the ICW drawbridge. Traffic stops along the main thoroughfare 15 minutes before and after every hour to let the bridge lift.

The well-groomed, two-mile beach is dotted with umbrellas and wood chaises, backed by low sand dunes covered in native vegetation. While relaxing on the beach is a favorite local pastime, the downtown area has put Delray Beach on the map. The main drag, Atlantic Avenue, is lined with palm trees, eclectic shops, lively bars and good restaurants. At night, the area comes alive with music and beachy entertainment.

In the 1920s, when an artist and writers’ colony was established here, the groundwork was laid for a vibrant cultural scene. The Pineapple Grove Arts District is home to Artists Alley, where painters and sculptors maintain studios and galleries. Adding to the creative environment are Old School Square Center for the Arts, Cornell Art Museum and Crest Theatre. Local parks, gardens, athletic fields, tennis courts and more round out the options for a unique and fun Atlantic vacation.

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WHERE TO DOCK

City Marina

561-243-7250

Also known as the City of Delray Beach Municipal Marina, this facility along the ICW provides 24 rental slips for boats up to 55 feet. Amenities include showers, laundry, coin- operated pumpout and liveaboard accommodations.

The Seagate Yacht Club

561-665-4800

This hotel and full-service marina offers 44 slips accommodating boats up to 120 feet for daily, monthly or annual rentals. Upscale amenities include a sun pool, lounge and ship store, plus the hotel operates a spa, restaurants and golf club.

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WHERE TO DINE

Caffe Luna Rosa

561-274-9404

Enjoy oceanfront, alfresco dining at this local dining staple that blends fresh Italian flavors with meat and seafood dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Deck 84

561-665-8484

Stop by this casual and dog-friendly dock and dine to watch boats cruise by on the ICW while you take a fork to classic American cuisine meals and daily seafood specials.

Dada

561-330-3232

Revolving artwork matches the creative cooking at a 1924 historic house flanked by a tree-filled patio. Live music plays while patrons peruse an eclectic menu of fresh fish, sandwiches, meatloaf and vegetarian dishes.

Brulé Bistro

561-274-2046

This casual chic café in the Pineapple Grove neighborhood mixes local beer and craft cocktails with sustainable foods ranging from shrimp tacos and jumbo lump crab cakes to grilled lamb chops and chicken meatballs.