One of the best parts about living in Boca Raton isn’t just our gorgeous beaches — it’s how easy it is to access so many different beach experiences within a short drive. As a local realtor who loves any excuse to swap sandals for bare feet in the sand, I’m sharing a few of my favorite beach day getaways you can reach in 30–45 minutes or less.
Whether you’re looking for wide-open stretches of sand, lively boardwalks, or hidden gems to escape the crowds — here’s your quick-hit guide to the best beach options near Boca Raton.
South Beach Park, Boca Raton
Distance: 0 miles
This is Boca’s hometown beach and one of my personal favorites. Wide shoreline, clean facilities, and a relaxed local vibe. Perfect for sunrise walks, quick dips, or impromptu beach picnics after work.
Why Go:
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Easy access with metered parking
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Natural dunes and clear waters
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Ideal for morning coffee walks
Deerfield Beach
Distance: 10 minutes
Known for its iconic fishing pier and lively boardwalk, Deerfield Beach is where you go for a little action. Think casual restaurants, volleyball courts, and laid-back beach bars — all with easy parking options.
Why Go:
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Bustling boardwalk scene
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Great for families and groups
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Awesome beachfront dining at places like JB’s on the Beach
Delray Beach
Distance: 15 minutes
Delray Beach strikes that perfect balance of trendy and relaxing. Atlantic Avenue runs straight to the beach, offering shops, cafés, and happy hour spots steps from the sand.
Why Go:
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Lively beach town energy
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Beach chair and umbrella rentals
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Pop into town for lunch and shopping
Highland Beach
Distance: 10 minutes
For a quieter, more local experience, Highland Beach is a little slice of residential beachfront heaven. Limited public access keeps it peaceful, perfect for a quiet morning swim or sunset watch.
Why Go:
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Less crowded
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Serene, no-frills natural beauty
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Ideal for sunrise jogs
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
Distance: 25 minutes
A charming, walkable beach village known for its snorkeling reefs right offshore and colorful retro vibe. You’ll find beachside cafés, ice cream shops, and live music on weekends.
Why Go:
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Snorkel straight from shore
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Casual beach town atmosphere
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Perfect for a Sunday funday
Hillsboro Inlet Park
Distance: 20 minutes
A scenic hidden gem with beautiful views of the Hillsboro Lighthouse. It’s a smaller, peaceful beach park with postcard-perfect scenery, great for reading a book or catching a quiet sunset.
Why Go:
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Lighthouse views
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Peaceful, less crowded
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Great spot for photographers
Final Thoughts
Living in Boca Raton means you’re never more than a few minutes from sand between your toes — whether it’s your neighborhood beach or a quick day trip to a nearby coastal gem. That’s one of the many reasons I love calling this place home.
If you’re considering making Boca your home base (or upgrading to a place closer to these incredible beaches), I’d be happy to show you what’s possible.
Let’s chat — I’ll even share my favorite beach picnic spots.