Attractions and Places To See around Highland Beach - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Highland Beach include serene coastal areas and natural beauty. This residential town, situated on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, is known for its undisturbed beaches and sea turtle nesting grounds. Its location provides access to a wider array of attractions in nearby Delray Beach and Boca Raton, offering diverse cultural and recreational options.
Best attractions and places to see around Highland Beach
- The most popular attractions is Annapolis City Dock, a historical site that features historic buildings along the water of Chesapeake Bay. It offers eateries and shops, having hosted town merchants for over 350 years.
- Another must-see spot is South River Overlook, a viewpoint over the South River in Quiet Waters Park. Visitors can enjoy the vistas from a small gazebo, which is a suitable place for a break.
- Visitors also love Maryland State House, a historical site that is the oldest U.S. legislative building still in active use. It is notable for its large wooden dome, constructed entirely without nails, and its historical significance as a former U.S. Congress meeting place.
- Highland Beach is known for its quiet beaches, sea turtle nesting grounds, and access to the Intracoastal Waterway. The surrounding area offers a variety of parks, nature centers, and cultural sites to explore.
- The attractions around Highland Beach are appreciated by the komoot community, with 15 upvotes and 8 photos shared.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Maryland State House
Highlight • Historical Site
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Annapolis City Dock
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Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial
Highlight • Monument
The memorial features a bronze sculpture of author Alex Haley reading to three children of diverse backgrounds, along with a Story Wall and Compass Rose, all symbolizing the enduring strength of African heritage and the importance of family history.
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South River Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Kayak Launch Boat Rental Pier
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Tips from the Community
The Maryland State House in Annapolis is the oldest U.S. legislative building still in active use for legislative purposes. Construction began in 1772 and took until 1797 to complete. Its striking feature is its large wooden dome—built entirely without nails. The U.S. Congress of the Confederation met here between 1783 and 1784. Today, the building is located on the grounds of Fort Williams Park and is managed by the State House Trust.
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The Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial in Annapolis, Maryland, is the only U.S. memorial that commemorates the actual name and arrival location of an enslaved African Kunta Kinte. The memorial features a bronze sculpture of author Alex Haley reading to three children of diverse backgrounds, along with a Story Wall and Compass Rose, all symbolizing the enduring strength of African heritage and the importance of family history.
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Nice viewpoint over the South River in Quiet Waters Park. There is a small gazebo which is a great place for a break to enjoy the view.
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Pier in Quiet Waters Park that stretches into the South River. It is a great place to admire the river or to rent kayaks to get out on the water.
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Great spot to admire the wonderful view of the South River. There is a gazebo that is a great place to take a quick break and enjoy the vistas.
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Built in 1772, Maryland State House is the oldest state house that's still in use. It is a beautiful building, topped with the largest wooden dome in the US constructed without nails. It's a designated National Historic Landmark.
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The docks are a wonderful stop on a bike trip. Historic buildings hug the water of Chesapeake Bay and boats come and go from the harbor. There are lots of eateries to refuel and shops to browse through. The docks have hosted town merchants for over 350 years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in and around Highland Beach?
Highland Beach is renowned for its tranquil, undisturbed beaches, which are crucial nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles. You can also enjoy the scenic Intracoastal Waterway for boating and paddleboarding. Nearby, Boca Raton offers Gumbo Limbo Nature Center with marine exhibits and sea turtle programs, and Red Reef Park for snorkeling and bird watching.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions near Highland Beach?
Absolutely! For families, the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton offers engaging sea turtle programs, marine feedings, and indoor aquatic tanks. Sugar Sand Park in Boca Raton is another popular choice with playgrounds and various recreational facilities. For a nostalgic experience, the Silverball Retro Arcade in Delray Beach features over 150 classic video games and pinball machines.
What cultural or historical sites are accessible from Highland Beach?
While Highland Beach itself is primarily residential, you'll find rich cultural experiences nearby. In Delray Beach, the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens offers a serene exploration of Japanese culture and art. The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum in Delray Beach focuses on local heritage, and the Boca Raton Museum of Art provides fine art exhibits.
Where can I find good shopping and dining options close to Highland Beach?
For extensive shopping and dining, venture to neighboring cities. Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach is known for its boutiques, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, often hosting festivals. In Boca Raton, Mizner Park offers upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment, including the Boca Raton Museum of Art and an amphitheater. For luxury shopping, the Town Center at Boca Raton features over 200 stores.
What is the best time of year to visit Highland Beach, especially for wildlife viewing?
The best time to visit Highland Beach for wildlife viewing, particularly sea turtles, is during their nesting season from March 1st through October 31st. During this period, thousands of sea turtle eggs are laid, and later, hatchlings emerge. The serene beaches and lack of excessive light pollution make it an ideal spot for this unique ecological spectacle.
Are there parks or green spaces for outdoor activities near Highland Beach?
Yes, several excellent parks are just a short drive away. Spanish River Park in Boca Raton is a full-service park with nature trails, bird observation areas, and sports courts, including a 'Bark Park' for dogs. Atlantic Dunes Park in Delray Beach offers an elevated, wooded setting with beach access and facilities, including 'surf chairs' for accessibility.
Can I find dog-friendly areas or trails around Highland Beach?
While Highland Beach's main beaches are focused on sea turtle conservation, Spanish River Park in Boca Raton is a great option for dog owners. It features a dedicated 'Bark Park' on the beach, allowing dogs to enjoy the sand and water. Many other parks in the area typically allow leashed dogs on trails and in designated areas.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with physical challenges?
Yes, Atlantic Dunes Park in Delray Beach is notable for its 'surf chairs,' which allow physically challenged individuals to access and enjoy the beach. Many public parks and nature centers in the surrounding areas, such as parts of Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, also offer accessible pathways and facilities.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do along the Intracoastal Waterway near Highland Beach?
The Intracoastal Waterway, which borders Highland Beach to the west, is perfect for various water-based activities. You can enjoy boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. It's also a popular spot for yacht watching, offering a different perspective of the coastal landscape.
Are there scenic drives or cycling routes in the Highland Beach area?
Yes, North Ocean Boulevard (A1A) is a highly recommended scenic route. This tree-lined stretch of highway offers breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. It's ideal for leisurely drives, cycling, or morning walks, providing an iconic South Florida coastal experience.
What unique natural features make Highland Beach special?
Highland Beach is particularly special for its pristine, quiet beaches that serve as vital nesting grounds for endangered sea turtles. The town's commitment to preserving these natural habitats means less light pollution and a more serene environment, offering a unique opportunity to witness this natural phenomenon during nesting season.
Where can I find art and cultural districts near Highland Beach?
The Pineapple Grove Arts District in downtown Delray Beach is a vibrant area filled with shops, art galleries, and boutiques. It also features 'Artist's Alley,' where local artists showcase their work, making it a great place to explore local creativity and find unique pieces.
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