Most of our readers have vacationed on the Florida Gulf Coast. The 30 mile stretch of glorious beaches from Destin to Panama City is known as 30-A and turquoise waters, sugary white sands and serene sunsets are inviting year-round.
However, after visiting my son, in college in Boca Raton, I discovered the “Old World Florida'' vibe of the state’s Atlantic Coast and a little secret gem called Highland/Delray Beach, slightly north of Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano and Boca Raton. The natural beauty is illustrated with a tropical feel as Iguanas roam in the lush green landscape in the dunes of the beach!
I was able to talk with General Manager, Derric Clark of the Delray Sands Resort, a small boutique hotel on the infamous Highway A1A (S. Oceanfront Blvd) about the tropical and vintage feel of the hotel and area.
What is the history of the hotel? It has a vintage vibe so I'm wondering how old it is.
This property has been here since the late 60’s. It was one of the first pieces of property developed in Highland Beach and was originally a Holiday Inn up until 10 years ago. The property has undergone several updates and renovations but still maintains the vibe of a vintage Florida resort.
What is the draw that keeps people returning to the hotel and the area?
I’d like to think that there are several draws to the property but the most obvious would be our private beach. We are the only beachfront resort in Delray/Highland Beach. Each of our guests get two chairs and an umbrella set up daily on our beach with food and beverage service, making this property an ideal beach getaway. I believe another major draw to Delray Sands is our staff. A great deal of our team has been with us for 15+ years and many of our guests have created quite the rapport with them over the years. This paired with our boutique size allows for a uniquely personal and welcoming experience just 2.5 miles from downtown Delay Beach.
Latitudes Restaurant has amazing food - what are some of the guest's favorite dishes?
Breakfast on the ocean is definitely a favorite for guests and locals alike. As for their favorites, the Raw Bar is always a hit. The Shellfish Tower, Mini Ahi Tuna Tacos and Jalapeno Hamachi are some our most popular. As for our dinner selections, the Maine Lobster & Filet, the Crab Crusted Chilean Sea Bass and the Rustic Seafood Stew are some of the favorites.
The area is quaint and artsy in parts. What are some local favorites?
Atlantic Avenue in Downtown Delray is a very popular area. With tons of shops and restaurants lining the way it is very fun place to explore. They often shut down the Ave for events such as the Delray Affair, Savor the Ave, The Delray Art Festival and several others which are quite fun. If you’re looking for something more outdoors, I would recommend Gumbo Limbo Nature Center with turtle rehab center, as well as the Morikami Japanese Gardens and the Wakodahatchee Wetlands. All very cool and unique to the area.
What do you think would appeal to our readers about that area?
As a lifelong Florida native, I can assure you this is one of the best areas in all of the state. There are three major airports located within 45 minutes to an hour, making it very easy to get here. The Atlantic Ocean is amazing for fishing, water sports or simply just playing or relaxing on the beach. We are within 45 min of all of the major stadiums and arenas (local teams in every major professional sport), great local nightlife, plenty of shopping, some of the best food in the world and fun locals.
I have heard the term "Old World Florida" and I feel like Delray Beach exhibits more of that than say, Boca Raton, Ft. Lauderdale, etc.
While Delray isn’t as Old-World Florida as say St. Augustine, it is much more of an authentic Florida experience than the other areas mentioned. It is a very good mix of touristy and local spots.
Any secret gems in the area in terms of great food/drink places?
There are more than a few! We always recommend Drift and the Elevate Skye Bar and Lounge if you’re looking some great spots to grab dinner and drink with a view. Other spots I recommend in Downtown Delray would be Rose’s Daughter, Brulee, Akira Back and Papa’s Tapas.
So there you have it - another Florida coast to explore! Discover the magic of the Atlantic Ocean,
There are three major airports located within 45 minutes, making it very easy to get here.