South Inlet Park
Boca Raton, FL
South Inlet Park sits right at the Boca Raton Inlet, its 74 parking spaces and jetty views making it a favorite for watching boats pass between the Intracoastal and the open Atlantic. It's a smaller, more specific stop than Boca's bigger beach parks, worth it mainly for the inlet views rather than a long day in the sand.
The inlet views and boat traffic give it a specific appeal beyond a typical beach stop, though its small size and no pets policy mean it's more a quick visit than a full day destination.
How we score beachesBark Beach at Spanish River Park is the better bet if traveling with a dog, South Inlet Park itself doesn't allow pets. Weekend passes for Bark Beach run just 15 dollars if you don't want the annual permit.
Parking runs 2 dollars an hour, with 74 spaces available.
The beach and jetty views are a short, flat walk from the lot.
Pets aren't allowed at South Inlet Park; Bark Beach at Spanish River Park is Boca Raton's designated pet-friendly option, with weekend passes available for 15 dollars.
Winter and spring bring South Florida's driest, mildest weather and the biggest snowbird crowds. Summer's heat and hurricane season, June through November, thin things out despite the warmest water of the year.
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