Boca Raton

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Boca Raton's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a guided stroll along the boardwalk to spot sea turtles and local wildlife. Visit the interactive aquariums to learn about native fish, seahorses, and the coastal ecosystem. You can watch the turtle rehabilitation team in action and ask questions about their conservation efforts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic under the shaded palms at the park's scenic pavilion surrounded by vibrant greenery. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to glide along the Intracoastal Waterway and observe herons and pelicans up close. Take a break at the gift shop for locally made souvenirs and educational books.

evening
:

Drive to downtown Boca Raton for sunset cocktails on the terrace of a waterfront restaurant overlooking the ocean. Sample fresh seafood while listening to live acoustic music from local artists. End your night with a stroll along the illuminated South Beach Park pier under the stars.

day 2
Sugar Sand Park Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your morning at Sugar Sand Park with a ride on the carousel and an exploration of the playground. The Children's Science Explorium offers hands-on exhibits where you can conduct simple experiments and enjoy interactive learning. Relax under shady oaks and fuel up with a fresh coffee from the onsite cafe.

afternoon
:

Map out a scavenger hunt in the park's extensive nature trails to spot native birds and butterflies. Visit the art studio for a guided workshop and express your creativity on canvas or pottery. Pause by the butterfly garden to observe colorful species fluttering among tropical blooms.

evening
:

Join a family-friendly outdoor movie night under the stars on the park lawn. Pack a picnic basket with local snacks and cozy blankets for a comfortable viewing experience. When the film ends, take a stroll back through the illuminated pathways and savor the warm evening breeze.

day 3
Art and Culture at Boca Raton Museum and Mizner Park
morning
:

Discover contemporary exhibits and world-class art at the Boca Raton Museum of Art. Engage with curators during a guided tour to learn about regional artists and hidden masterpieces. Then wander the sculpture garden outside to admire installations set against lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Head to Mizner Park for lunch at a chic bistro on the plaza, sampling Florida-inspired cuisine. Spend time browsing upscale boutiques and artisanal shops for unique fashion and handcrafted goods. Rest your feet with a gelato at the central fountain while enjoying street performances.

evening
:

Reserve tickets for an outdoor concert at the Mizner Amphitheater featuring local musicians and cultural events. Arrive early to grab premium seats and enjoy pre-show cocktails at a nearby lounge. Let the music fill the night as you immerse yourself in Boca Raton's vibrant arts scene.

day 4
Underwater Discovery at Red Reef Park
morning
:

Begin with a snorkeling session in the crystal-clear waters of Red Reef Park to explore natural coral formations and colorful fish. Check in with the dive shop for guided tours and equipment rental to safely navigate underwater trails. Keep an eye out for rays gliding along the sandy seabed.

afternoon
:

Relax on the pristine beach, soaking up the Florida sun and savoring a fresh beachside lunch from a food truck. Rent a kayak for a peaceful paddle off the coast to discover hidden coves and observe marine life at the shoreline. Capture stunning ocean views and photo-worthy moments along the rocky jetty.

evening
:

Head back to the park for a scenic sunset walk along the shore, letting the vibrant sky colors reflect on the water. Share a casual dinner at a nearby waterfront grill featuring fresh catch specials. Wrap up the evening with stargazing from the sand as the waves gently lap the beach.

day 5
Kayaking and Picnic at Spanish River Park
morning
:

Launch into a morning of sea kayaking through the winding lagoons and mangrove channels at Spanish River Park. Enjoy serene wildlife sightings, including herons, egrets, and sometimes manatees during low tide. Stop at a secluded sandbar for a brief stretch and some peaceful reflection.

afternoon
:

Spread out a picnic blanket under a canopy of tropical palms and indulge in a gourmet takeout lunch. Explore the park's elevated boardwalks, immersing yourself in the coastal hammock ecosystem. Photograph unique flora and keep an eye out for playful squirrels among the branches.

evening
:

Take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic trails before dusk sets in, watching fiery sunsets over the Intracoastal Waterway. Return your rental and head to a nearby casual eatery for a cold craft beer and live sports on big screen TVs. Wind down on the patio surrounded by locals sharing friendly conversation.

day 6
Tranquility at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
morning
:

Drive north to Delray Beach for a morning of Zen at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Wander through tea houses, koi ponds, and manicured landscapes while learning about Japanese culture and art. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to experience centuries-old customs firsthand.

afternoon
:

Meander the garden trail and admire seasonal blooms like cherry blossoms or azaleas depending on the time of year. Visit the museum gallery for rotating exhibitions featuring Asian art and contemporary installations. Enjoy a peaceful moment by the Bamboo Garden, listening to bird calls and rustling leaves.

evening
:

Dine at the on-site Cornell Cafe, savoring Japanese-inspired fusion cuisine and matcha desserts. If available, attend a special cultural performance or lecture in the museum auditorium. Return to Boca Raton feeling refreshed and mindful from your serene afternoon retreat.

day 7
Beach Club Fun at Boca Beach Club
morning
:

Arrive early at the Boca Beach Club to secure a front-row chaise lounge under a thatched umbrella. Sip a tropical smoothie while watching the sunrise over the Atlantic and feel the soft sand between your toes. For a boost, join a beachside yoga or Pilates session led by a certified instructor.

afternoon
:

Tackle water sports like stand-up paddleboarding or jet skiing with rentals available on the beach. Reward yourself with a light lunch at the poolside cafe, sampling fresh salads and cold-pressed juices. Alternate between pool swims and ocean dips to make the most of the club's dual experiences.

evening
:

Watch the sun melt into the horizon from the club's oceanfront tiki bar, enjoying signature cocktails and small plates. Dance to upbeat tunes spun by a resident DJ or live band if scheduled. Cap off the night with s'mores around a cozy fire pit just steps away from the sand.

day 8
Shopping and Dining in Mizner Park
morning
:

Wake up in downtown Boca and start your day at a trendy cafe, fueling up for a shopping spree. Browse high-end boutiques at Mizner Park for fashionable apparel, jewelry, and home decor. Don't miss the local art galleries tucked between retail storefronts.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch al fresco at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Continue your retail therapy by exploring the outdoor plaza and designer outlets. Take breaks at pop-up artisan kiosks for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Reserve a table at an award-winning steakhouse or seafood restaurant in the park's courtyard. Toast to the day with a glass of fine wine or craft cocktail beneath twinkling lights. End the evening with a decadent dessert from a gourmet pastry shop before strolling back to your hotel.

day 9
Spa and Golf at Boca Raton Resort
morning
:

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment at the world-renowned Boca Raton Resort and Club. Choose from massages, facials, and body wraps using tropical botanicals and aromatic oils. Relax by the private pool area afterward, sipping herbal tea in a serene cabana.

afternoon
:

Book a tee time on one of the resort's championship golf courses surrounded by lush landscaping and Spanish architecture. After your round, enjoy a light lunch at the clubhouse grill with panoramic fairway views. Work on your swing with a private golf lesson or visit the practice range for some chipping and putting drills.

evening
:

Freshen up for a glamorous night at the resort's signature fine dining venue, sampling multi-course tasting menus. Take a romantic stroll through the illuminated gardens and fountains outside the restaurant. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at the elegant lobby bar while live piano music plays softly.

day 10
Sunset Dinner Cruise and Live Music
morning
:

Spend your final morning exploring Boca's quaint neighborhoods by bicycle or on foot. Stop by a local bakery for freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee to start the day. Browse a weekend farmers market for local produce and handmade crafts if available.

afternoon
:

Relax at South Beach Park with a final swim in clear turquoise waters and soak up the last rays of Florida sunshine. Grab lunch at a beachfront shack serving fish tacos and cold beers. Capture a few final photos of palm-lined shores before preparing for your evening adventure.

evening
:

Embark on a sunset dinner cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, enjoying panoramic skyline views and briny sea air. Savor a gourmet plated dinner paired with wine as the sun dips below the horizon. Arrive back at the marina in time for live music at a nearby waterfront venue, celebrating the end of an unforgettable Boca Raton getaway.

Discover Boca Raton

Read more in our Boca Raton 2025 Travel Guide.

Boca Raton Travel Guide