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Delray Beach: History, Beaches & Booming Food Scene

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. ay-beach-history-beaches-booming-food-scene.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, January 21st 2026 at 3:39 GMT by Travel + Leisure
      Locale: UNITED STATES

A Brief History & Identity

Founded in 1894, Delray Beach's story is intertwined with the development of Florida's east coast. The crucial moment arrived when Dr. James Schmidt generously donated land to Henry Flagler, enabling the extension of the Florida East Coast Railway. This pivotal decision opened the area to settlement and development. The name itself, "Delray," carries a poetic origin, derived from a Scottish phrase meaning "of the rays," beautifully referencing the shimmering sunlight reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean - a defining characteristic of the region.

Experiencing Delray Beach: What to Do

Atlantic Avenue (The Ave): This iconic main street remains the heart of Delray Beach's vibrancy. The Ave has undergone significant renovations in recent years, with expanded pedestrian areas, public art installations, and a dynamic mix of shops, boutiques, and entertainment venues. While restaurants and galleries remain a staple, new concepts and pop-up shops frequently refresh the scene. Recent investments have focused on creating a more pedestrian-friendly and aesthetically pleasing experience, particularly in the evenings.

Sun, Sand, and Surf: The beaches are, as always, a major draw. While maintaining their natural beauty, recent ecological restoration projects have further enhanced the shoreline. Efforts to combat beach erosion have been largely successful. Watersports remain popular, with numerous vendors offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet ski rentals.

Cultural Enrichment: The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens continue to be a source of pride and cultural enrichment, featuring expanded exhibits and specialized events that delve deeper into Japanese art, history, and traditions. The gardens themselves have benefited from continued landscaping and design improvements, creating an even more serene and immersive experience.

Tennis and Beyond: The Delray Beach Tennis Center remains a world-class facility. In 2025, the center secured a new multi-year agreement to host a significant ATP Challenger Tour event, further establishing Delray Beach's prominence in the tennis world. Beyond tennis, the city has also invested in expanding recreational trails for biking and walking.

Culinary Delights: A Booming Food Scene

Delray Beach's dining scene has matured considerably, reflecting diverse tastes and culinary trends. While the previously mentioned establishments like Rocco's Tacos, Dune Deck Cafe, and The Sea Turtle Restaurant remain popular, several new additions have elevated the dining experience. New farm-to-table restaurants emphasizing locally sourced ingredients have become increasingly common. Vegan and vegetarian options are now widely available, catering to a broader range of dietary preferences. Several upscale restaurants, offering innovative tasting menus, have also opened, attracting food enthusiasts from across the state.

Notable mentions in 2026: Veridian: A farm-to-table restaurant emphasizing seasonal Florida produce. Ocean & Oak: A modern seafood restaurant with a sophisticated ambiance. * Spice Route: A popular spot specializing in fusion cuisine with influences from across Asia.

Where to Rest Your Head: Accommodation Options

The lodging options in Delray Beach are diverse, catering to every budget and preference. The Ray Hotel continues to be a landmark, known for its rooftop pool and vibrant atmosphere. The Delray Sands Resort maintains its classic charm, while newer hotels like the Hyatt Place offer convenient locations and modern amenities. Vacation rentals, particularly those directly on the beach, remain highly sought after. A growing trend involves boutique hotels and guesthouses, offering personalized service and a more intimate experience.

Getting to Delray Beach

Located approximately 75 miles north of Miami and 65 miles south of Palm Beach, Delray Beach is easily accessible. Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) remains the closest major airport, with frequent flights connecting to domestic and international destinations. Ground transportation options include car rentals, ride-sharing services, and shuttle services.