7 Best Parks in Delray Beach for Families & Wildlife Lovers

Looking for the best parks in Delray Beach for a family day, a peaceful nature walk, or a place to enjoy the outdoors? There are plenty of options with walking trails, picnic areas, wildlife viewing, and waterfront views.

From the well-known Wakodahatchee Wetlands to quiet spots for a picnic, this guide covers the best parks in Delray Beach for family outings, hiking, and more.

1. Best Parks for Families and Kids

If you need a kid-friendly park with space to run around, shaded seating, and plenty to do, here are some favorites:

Delray Beach Children's Garden

A hands-on outdoor space designed for kids to explore nature. It features:

Gardening activities where children can plant and learn.
A butterfly garden and small pond.
Storytelling events and workshops throughout the year.

It's a great place for kids to get outside and try something different.

Pompey Park

This park has a playground, splash pad, basketball courts, and a large picnic area. There’s plenty of space for kids to play while parents relax in shaded seating areas.

Barwick Park

A quiet spot with walking trails, picnic tables, and open fields. It’s also pet-friendly, making it a good choice for families with dogs.

Lake Ida West Park

This is the second largest lake in Palm Beach County. If you need a park with picnic tables and covered shelters, Lake Ida West Park is a top pick. It also has playgrounds, a dog park, and a fishing dock.

➡️ Why visit? These parks offer safe play areas, picnic spots, and wide-open spaces for families to enjoy.

2. Wakodahatchee Wetlands: Birdwatching and Wildlife Encounters

For nature lovers, Wakodahatchee Wetlands is one of the best places in Delray Beach to see wildlife up close.

What You’ll See

More than 150 bird species, including herons, egrets, and roseate spoonbills.
Turtles, otters, and alligators in their natural habitat.
A three-quarter-mile boardwalk with several viewing platforms.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning and late afternoon have the most wildlife activity.

Entry is free, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors. However, pets are not allowed on the boardwalk, and drone use is restricted in the park.

➡️ Why visit? A good choice for birdwatching, quiet walks, and getting outdoors.

3. Waterfront Parks in Delray Beach

If you enjoy spending time by the water, these parks in Delray Beach have the best spots to sit back and take it all in.

Veterans Park

Located along the Intracoastal Waterway, this park has benches, picnic tables, and plenty of shade. It's a great spot to watch boats pass by.

Anchor Park

This small park has beach access, picnic areas, and shaded benches. It’s a quiet place to take a break before heading to the sand.

Lakeview Park

Right on Lake Ida, this park has walking paths, a fishing dock, and open space for kayaking or paddleboarding.

➡️ Why visit? These parks offer great views, peaceful surroundings, and easy access to the water.

4. Where to Watch the Sunrise in Delray Beach

Delray Beach has some of the best sunrise views in South Florida. If you’re up early, these spots are worth checking out:

Delray Municipal Beach

A classic sunrise spot, right along the ocean. Bring a coffee and enjoy the colors reflecting on the water.

Atlantic Dunes Park

A quieter option with natural dunes framing the sunrise.

Gulfstream Park

A small beachfront park with free parking and plenty of space for a morning walk.

➡️ Pro tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for the best colors.

5. Best Walking Trails in Delray Beach

If you like walking or light hiking, Delray Beach has several trails surrounded by nature.

Delray Oaks Natural Area

Shady trails with tall trees and native plants.
A good spot for wildlife watching and quiet walks.

Morikami Park Trail

A hidden walking path near the Morikami Museum with a Japanese garden feel.

➡️ Why visit? These parks are ideal for fresh air, light exercise, and a break from the city.