We want to know from those who know it best, what makes Delray Beach so special? Of course, there is the perfect beach weather and the fact that it boasts a thriving arts scene and bustling downtown with fabulous shopping and plenty to see and do. Many say that there is a laid-back vibe that makes Delray Beach an inviting beach town to not only visit, but to call home. We asked some of the top agents in the area to pinpoint why Delray is a stand-out.
Jennifer Kilpatrick
The Corcoran Group
Delray Beach
“As a longtime resident and a luxury real estate specialist, one of my great joys is sharing our town with newcomers who have just “heard” of Delray Beach. I always share that our local lifestyle is incomparable, and it’s why we have been chosen as the “Most fun town in the USA” by Rand McNally several times. We have charming shops, savory restaurants, elegant art galleries, and a multitude of amenities to entertain everyone in the crowd — movies, live music, happy hours, festivals and, of course, our gorgeous beaches. A new rage in town is pickleball, with tons of new groups forming and hitting the courts! If you want to grab a bike, kayak or sailboat, Oceanside Beach Service has several locations at the ready for outdoor fun. The food scene is one of our largest draws as well. A favorite restaurant of mine is The Grove, where Chefs Michael Haycook and Tony Coddington have created an ever-changing menu of the freshest ingredients served with warm hospitality. Any of their daily handmade pastas are drool-worthy. And last but not least, Delray is well-known for its beautiful homes, from historic bungalows to brand-new oceanfront mansions. Each neighborhood offers something special to those looking to buy their own tropical paradise.”
Chuck Luciano
Compass
Boca Raton
“Delray Beach, Florida, the ‘Village by the Sea,’ lives up to its name. The only city in Florida recognized as a three-time ‘All- American City’ award winner continues to attract tourists and locals. Some say Delray is where the people in Boca Raton go to get away from the people in Boca Raton! A charming beach town whose pulse is Atlantic Avenue, where fine and casual dining, nightclubs, bars and art galleries seem to coexist flawlessly. The attributes that make Delray Beach different from other coastal cities in the area — and what many people don’t know — are that it is rich in history with five designated historical regions. Nearly 270 identified historic structures are preserved to guarantee that its roots will never be forgotten. Strict building codes that will not allow new construction that would exceed four stories and a beachfront that is a beachfront with no high-rise condominiums on the sand are what contribute to the “small town” feel. So whether you like the sophistication of the new Rosewater Rooftop Bar at The Ray Hotel or the locals’ Delray Hideaway lounge or the cuisine of a Michelin-starred chef at Akira Back or a 2 a.m. cheese steak at Big Al’s … one thing is for sure, Delray Beach has it all.”
Senada Adžem
Douglas Elliman
Boca Raton
“Delray Beach is one of the few burgeoning South Florida markets that’s able to maintain its small-town charm amid an ever-expanding menu of offerings. The city works to maintain its intimate vibe with events that celebrate and bring together the community. But at the same time, Delray continues to establish itself as a dynamic destination. We’re seeing world-class chefs put their stamp on the restaurant scene; developers reimagine downtown with residential projects, luxury boutique hotels and the state’s largest food hall; and an emphasis on unique cultural offerings and entertainment. There’s a buzz in the air about Delray — and for good reason!”
Candace Friis
The Corcoran Group
Delray Beach
“Delray Beach is a unique blend of a quaint beach town coupled with all the luxury conveniences of international shopping and great eateries. Plus, it offers all the best of the coveted South Florida lifestyle. Delray has a vibrant, hip atmosphere — but it isn’t too bustling that it feels overwhelming. The town is best known for Atlantic Avenue — it’s where the cosmopolitan and beach vibes meet. What makes the town special is that in spite of its constant evolution, it still retains its ‘Village by the Sea’ feel. Delray’s best-kept secret is the Green Market every Saturday morning in Old School Square, where local vendors from around the county showcase their farm-to-fork produce. The area is growing with new swanky developments, innovative architecture, restaurants and things to do everywhere! But residents still get to know each other and bond, creating a tight-knit community. In addition, tennis is very popular in Delray. The most notable event for the sport is the Delray Open — which attracts players to compete from around the world.”
Raymond Smith
Douglas Elliman
Southampton
“I’ve owned a townhouse in Delray, the ‘Village by the Sea,’ for the past five years, and it’s always a pleasure to spend time there, though I haven’t been able to get there as often as I would have liked. Delray is special in a way much like Southampton — the village has two miles of protected open beach access, and there’s a height limit on buildings and no high-rise condos. In Delray, you’ll find a better Christmas tree than New York City, a better market than Faneuil Hall in Boston, a new IPIC theater, a world-class tennis center and a new library, not to mention more great eateries than most resort destinations in America. Real estate values are through the roof, and the weather is sublime! As with all good things, the word gets out, and my favorite South Florida destination is certainly getting more crowded these days, but there’s lots to love and share in Delray.”
This article appeared on the cover of Behind The Hedges Palm Beach in December 2022. For more Palm Beach real estate news and features, click here.
