Whether you’re craving a breezy walk through wetlands, a sandy stroll along the shore, or a shady retreat under grand oaks, Delray Beach offers a refreshing mix of trails for every pace. From accessible boardwalks to peaceful park loops, there’s a path waiting to transform your next outdoor hour.
Let’s get to it.
Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Wakodahatchee Wetlands offers a lush 0.75-mile elevated boardwalk trail that loops over ponds and marsh islands. Sawgrass and tall cattails line the route, reminding visitors why Florida ranks high for wildlife viewing. The entirely level boardwalk makes it accessible for every visitor, no steep climbs required. Benches and shaded gazebos appear at intervals, perfect for a rest when the South Florida sun is at its peak.
In winter and spring, birdlife takes center stage. Wood storks, herons, egrets, and other wading birds gather in large, colorful flocks. You might also spot alligators sunning on the banks, turtles gliding through water, or the occasional raccoon sneaking along the edge.
Clear signage marks viewpoints and walking loops. There are water bottle refill stations near the entrance and free parking on site. The path is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly from start to finish. No pets are allowed unless they serve a specific purpose.
Visiting early or on a weekday often means fewer crowds and a quieter walk. Facility upkeep is consistent and reliable. Overall, it’s a free, easy outing showcasing some of Florida’s best wildlife highlights.
Lake Ida West Park
Lake Ida West Park combines a 2.2-mile loop path paved in asphalt and concrete. The route stays nearly level with only 22 feet of total elevation gain, so strollers, wheelchairs, and marbles would roll without issue. The trail runs beside the lake shoreline, offering uninterrupted water views and frequent shorebird sightings.
Daily traffic tends to remain light, so you can walk in relative peace most days. A fenced dog park section allows off-leash play, and leashed dogs are also welcome along the main path. Scattered picnic spots and fishing piers dot the waterfront, along with playground equipment for children.
Boat ramps provide lake access, and restrooms stand ready when needed. County-run maintenance keeps the grounds and facilities in good shape year-round. Wide parking areas and bicycle racks are available near the entrance. Visiting between December and May brings cooler temperatures and higher bird activity. Overall, Lake Ida West Park meets a range of needs with a well-maintained, accessible trail and lakeside amenities.
Barwick Park
Barwick Park proves that city parks can offer both simplicity and variety. A paved trail creates two loops totaling 1.25 miles, so you can choose either the shorter one-mile circuit or the full loop. Terrain remains flat throughout and winds through open grassy areas with a few shaded spots for relief.
Park amenities include well-maintained restrooms, picnic tables, and barbecue grills. A playground provides activity for children under twelve. Fitness stations and pollinator gardens add variety to the landscape, while benches offer places to rest or watch other visitors. Bicycle racks stand near the entrance, and parking is easily accessible.
City crews handle routine maintenance, so the paved paths stay free of roots and puddles. Weekdays and early morning hours tend to be quieter, while weekends see more families arriving for outdoor recreation. The flat, paved layout accommodates strollers and wheelchairs without issue. Visiting in spring or fall keeps you away from peak summer heat. Overall, Barwick Park balances practical facilities with open green space to suit a range of outdoor activities.
Atlantic Dunes Park
Locals favor Atlantic Dunes Park for a tranquil beach walk with minimal crowds. The site maintains a 300-foot stretch of hard-packed sand and wooden boardwalk through coastal dune plants and wildflowers, a short but scenic route. Elevation rises gently, giving just enough height to frame ocean views.
Birders will appreciate shorebirds and waders that gather along the dunes. City maintenance keeps the boardwalk clear of seaweed and litter. Restrooms, rinse-off showers, and a covered pavilion stand near the entrance. Dogs are not permitted, but mobility remains accessible via an ADA boardwalk and rentable surf chairs.
Handicapped parking sits close to the path. Picnic tables and benches offer spots to pause. The park opens at 8 am daily and closes at dusk. Lifeguards patrol during normal daylight hours for added safety. Early mornings and off-season visits usually guarantee more space and less foot traffic. Atlantic Dunes Park keeps amenities simple and the environment well cared for, making it a reliable option for a leisurely beach day.
Governor Lawton Chiles Memorial Park
Governor Lawton Chiles Memorial Park delivers classic Florida park features in a compact 19-acre setting. A paved loop trail runs just under a mile, making it easy for strollers and wheelchairs. The terrain is entirely flat, meaning no hills to navigate. Open lawns line the path and provide room for casual play or relaxation.
The park includes bocce and horseshoe pits that see regular local use. A shaded picnic pavilion and tables stand ready for lunches or small gatherings. Restrooms are available near the parking area, which also serves a softball field. Lighting and benches along the loop add to the convenience.
Across the street, Morikami Gardens peek from behind trees, and visitors often spot herons near the water. Palm Beach County keeps the grounds neat, with freshly mown grass and clean facilities. This spot attracts neighborhood groups and family outings, especially from December through February when the weather is mild. In short, Governor Lawton Chiles Memorial Park blends accessibility, varied amenities, and well-kept grounds into a straightforward local destination.
Delray Oaks Natural Area
Delray Oaks Natural Area offers a compact trail network that visitors can complete in under 30 minutes. The Live Oak Trail is paved, wide, and fully accessible. It winds under a canopy of mature oaks and meets all ADA requirements. Strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone seeking a gentle walk will find the path effortless.
For a slight change of surface, the Beautyberry Trail branches off onto flat, sandy dirt. This short loop adds texture underfoot, though it may leave your shoes dusty. Wild coffee plants and ferns line the trail, and birds such as warblers or hawks often perch overhead. An observation platform overlooks a small swamp, offering a quiet spot to pause.
Parking is available in a small lot that rarely fills. Directional arrows and clear signage guide each turn, and an information kiosk provides trail maps. Benches are placed along the path for rest breaks, and the area feels well maintained without heavy traffic. Note that dogs are not permitted. Overall, Delray Oaks Natural Area delivers a peaceful, shaded walk that suits all ages and abilities.
Veterans Park
Veterans Park provides a straightforward waterfront experience along the Intracoastal Waterway. A flat paved path loops between one and 1.5 miles, letting walkers choose their distance. The route runs past a marina and a drawbridge, adding interest when boats pass through.
Park features include a fountain, outdoor mosaics, and landscaped arbors. A playground serves young children while tennis courts and lawn bowling greens attract other visitors. Benches line the shoreline and offer spots for rest or boat watching.
Dogs remain welcome on leash along the main trail. Wheelchair accessibility extends to paths and restrooms, with handicapped parking just steps from the entrance. Free parking fills up most weekends, but weekdays and early mornings are easier.
City crews handle routine maintenance, keeping paths clear and landscaping neat. Visiting between November and April provides milder temperatures and more pleasant breezes. Veterans Park combines simple facilities and a waterside setting for a calm, accessible outdoor outing.
Eagle Park
Eagle Park in Delray Beach features an accessible loop trail that runs beneath open skies. The path is paved and entirely flat, so strollers and wheelchairs move without difficulty. No steep grades or hidden dips appear on the loop, which circles a grassy field.
A playground adjacent to the trail offers climbing structures and slides for children. An on-site drinking fountain keeps visits cool and hydrated. Benches dot the trail and trash bins stand at regular intervals. Several picnic tables and a covered pavilion stand ready for packed lunches or small celebrations. Bike racks near the pavilion allow riders to secure wheels before walking.
Parking is located in an on-site lot, removing any need to park on the street. Park hours extend from 8 a.m. until dusk with gates open daily. City maintenance crews keep the grass trimmed and the pavement clear of debris. Eagle Park may be modest in size, but it delivers clean facilities and straightforward design—no extra frills, just a dependable neighborhood spot for walks and gatherings.
City of Delray Beach Orchard View Park
Orchard View Park in Delray Beach provides a calm retreat across six acres of green space. A quarter-mile walking trail encircles the area, offering a smooth, flat surface ideal for strollers and wheelchairs. Mature orchard trees cast generous shade along the path, and benches tucked beside pollinator gardens invite quiet breaks. Sidewalk ramps at each pavilion entrance make transitions easy for anyone using a wheelchair or stroller.
The park includes covered picnic pavilions, barbecue grills, and open-air tables that suit family gatherings. A playground stands near the parking lot, which holds about 25 vehicles. Restrooms and a drinking fountain sit close to the main pavilion. This park welcomes dogs on leashes, though pet waste stations are not yet installed, so visitors should come prepared with their own bags.
City crews keep the lawn mowed and the picnic areas swept. While the space rarely feels crowded, group gatherings and casual meetups do occur. Orchard View Park balances simple amenities with reliable maintenance, providing a pleasant spot for short walks, barbecues, and unhurried afternoons under the oaks.
Cornell Park
Cornell Park spans just over three acres of mixed green space in Delray Beach. A quarter-mile loop trail surrounds the park edge. Portions of the path are paved, then shift to compacted earth, so stroller or wheelchair users might hit a few uneven spots. This trail targets casual walkers rather than those seeking intense exercise.
Tall pine trees stand overhead and cast patterned shade across open lawns filled with native grasses. Benches lie at intervals around the loop, offering spots to rest or check a phone. On-street and grass parking lines the nearby road. Dog owners will find poop-bag dispensers at two corners but should hold extra bags just in case.
Cornell Park has no sports courts or major playgrounds, but its simplicity attracts locals looking for a quick walk. Community cleanups help keep litter at bay, and the city arranges occasional groundskeeping. The park rarely feels crowded, though midday sun can feel intense without extra shade. Morning and evening visits offer milder temperatures and soft light.
Plumosa Park
Tucked into the local area, Plumosa Park covers 10.5 acres of green space with practical features for everyday use. A smoothly paved loop traces the park’s perimeter, stretching about a third of a mile and providing wide access for strollers and wheelchairs. Parking sits close by, so you arrive ready to start without a long walk in the heat.
Grills and picnic tables line the open lawns; they look worn in but sturdy enough for weekend gatherings. A Little League diamond sits in one corner, perfect for youth practices, while benches near the picnic spots cater to casual visitors. Dogs on leashes are welcome, although you’ll need to bring supplies since waste stations and water bowls are not provided.
The park remains quiet most weekdays and early mornings, only filling up when games or group outings take place. Occasional train noise drifts in from a nearby track. The grass stays neatly trimmed, and the trail has a few minor cracks but stays smooth overall. Visitors often arrive before or after peak sun hours to keep cool under Florida’s strong daylight.
