Boca Raton Boating Guide
Last Updated on September 17, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
Tucked between the bustling cities of West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton offers a peaceful and luxurious retreat for boaters. Unlike Florida’s more crowded hotspots, Boca Raton boasts pristine beaches, upscale waterfront dining, and local culture—all within a serene, uncrowded environment.
With easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, this resort town is a haven for those looking to explore by boat. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best of what Boca Raton has to offer, both on the water and ashore.
Explore boat rentals in Boca Raton
Best beaches in Boca Raton
Red Reef Park
Red Reef Park is a must-visit for boaters looking to combine a day on the water with snorkeling and relaxation. This 67-acre oceanfront park offers an underwater snorkeling trail teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. On-site facilities include picnic areas and restrooms, making it a convenient spot to take a break from your boating adventures.
Spanish River Park
Stretching over 95 acres, Spanish River Park is another popular beach in Boca Raton, Florida. The east side of the park can be accessed from the Atlantic Ocean and features pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. The west side of the park can be accessed from the Intracoastal Waterway and features a kayak launch and shaded walking trails. The trails are a well-known birding spot, offering the perfect vantage point to witness migratory songbirds in the fall.
South Beach Park, Boca Raton
Just south of Red Reef Park is South Beach Park, a less-crowded laid-back beach in Boca Raton. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surf fishing, and beachcombing against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. A nearshore sandbar creates an extended shallow area perfect for little ones. There are also on-site amenities, including bathrooms and outdoor showers.
Restaurants on the water in & around Boca Raton
SeaSpray Inlet Grill
Located at the Waterstone Resort & Marina, the SeaSpray Inlet Grill is a chic waterfront restaurant overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and Lake Boca Raton. The al fresco setting complements a menu of local seafood, global cuisine, and signature cocktails. For a crisp and light refresher, we recommend trying the Pear Martini or Seaspritz.
The Cove Waterfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar
A short cruise away in Deerfield Beach, The Cove is a lively waterfront restaurant near Boca Raton. Kick back with beautiful views of the Intracoastal Waterway and sample from a menu of American seafood classics. Locals love to kick off their visit with the Conch Fritters or Coconut Shrimp. For a quick bite, we recommend the Mahi-Mahi Sandwich or New England Lobster Roll. If you want to fill up after a fun day on the water, try the Fish & Chips, made with North Atlantic Haddock, or savor the comfort of a seafood pasta dish.
Beachfront restaurants at Deerfield Beach
The beachfront restaurants at Deerfield Beach offer a number of dining options right on the sand. Places like Oceans 234 and JB’s on the Beach provide stunning ocean views and laid-back atmospheres, perfect for a post-boating meal.
Things to do in Boca Raton
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center
For those interested in marine life and conservation, the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center offers an educational and interactive experience. Located on Boca Raton’s barrier island, the center features an aquarium, sea turtle rehabilitation facility, and a butterfly garden. You can also walk through coastal forest via a boardwalk and climb Jacob’s Outlook, an observation tower with panoramic views of the island.
Mizner Park
Mizner Park captures the essence of Boca Raton’s sophisticated yet relaxed vibe and is considered a social and cultural hub for the area. The open-air atmosphere seamlessly brings together upscale boutiques, restaurants, the Boca Raton Museum of Art, and the Mizner Park Amphitheater to create a prime destination for a day out in the heart of Boca Raton.
Go Fishing
Boca Raton offers a variety of fishing options. You can enjoy the calm Intracoastal Waterway or experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing. In the Intracoastal Waterway, you can catch snook, tarpon, and snapper. Renting a boat provides access to more secluded spots. For offshore anglers, Boca’s proximity to the Gulf Stream makes it perfect for deep-sea fishing. Charters are available for catching sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna.
Find fishing boat rentals in Boca Raton
Local Events
Depending on the time of year you decide to visit Boca Raton, you can attend local events.
Lake Boca is the site of the famous Boca Bash, an annual boating party that attracts hundreds each spring. During the event, boaters anchor in the lake, creating a floating party scene with music, drinks, and socializing.
Festival of the Arts BOCA is a multi-day celebration of the arts that includes performances by musicians, dancers, and actors, as well as literary events and film screenings. The events take place across multiple venues in the city, making it a great way to immerse yourself in Boca Raton’s unique culture.
For foodies, we recommend planning your trip around the Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival. Enjoy delicious food, fine wines, and fun events like the Grand Tasting and the Annual Craft Brew Battle. For more information and the festival schedule, visit the Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival website’.
A boater’s guide to Boca Raton
Boca Raton is a boater’s paradise on Florida’s east coast. From pristine beaches and luxurious waterfront dining to vibrant cultural attractions and exciting events, there’s much to do in Boca Raton.
Whether you’re embarking on an Atlantic fishing adventure or want to laze about the Intracoastal Waterway, Boatsetter has the perfect boat rental for your trip. With a wide selection, from luxury yachts to leisurely pontoons, we make it easy to make the most of your time on the water in Boca Raton.
Rhiannon Richardson is a novelist and blog writer who is passionate about immersive storytelling. She joined the Boatsetter team in 2022 and loves crafting content that transports her readers to the destinations she writes about; from waterfront restaurants and popular beaches to the best snorkeling spots. Her attention to detail and description brings depth and engagement to the Boatsetter Blog. In her free time, Rhiannon enjoys sipping iced coffee on the beach and admiring big bodies of water, her favorite element of nature.
