If you’re looking for a tropical birding experience without driving all the way to Everglades National Park, look no further than Wakodahatchee Wetlands. The easy boardwalk loop in suburban Delray Beach, Florida goes through a mini natural oasis that’s home to a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and flora. While its name may be intimidating to pronounce, this is an extremely welcoming and easygoing stroll for all ages.
- Level of Difficulty: Easy, well-kept boardwalk.
- Skill Level: All skill levels will enjoy this loop.
- Distance: 0.75 miles in length (loop trail).
- Cost: Free to access year round.
About Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Delray Beach Florida
The 50-acre wetlands reclamation area is used by Palm Beach County to filter treated wastewater (don’t worry, there’s no smell!). The wetlands act as a percolation pond that treats millions of gallons of water every day and returns fresh water back into the water table.
Located at 13026 Jog Road in Delray Beach, Wakodahatchee Wetlands is open every day from 6am to 6pm free of charge.
Walking along the boardwalk just a few feet above the wetlands, you’ll pass through marsh, open water ponds, islands with shrubs, and areas where birds can nest and roost. There are several gazebos with benches throughout that offer shade (a necessity in sunny, humid Fla.) as well as interpretive signs with facts about the birds and plants all around you.
Since my parents are active birders (they gifted me a monocular before we went to the Everglades) this park is a must on their to-do list every visit! It’s ADA accessible and loved by many locals and visitors, as well as professional and amateur photographers. Don’t be surprised when you see multiple photographers carrying expensive equipment making their way onto the boardwalk!
Best Time to Visit Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Early morning sunrise is a great time to visit, especially during the fall and spring bird migrations. During the later part of the day, around 5pm, the boardwalk can be much busier with more people and families.
On weekends in the winter, the parking lot is often full, but since the walk doesn’t take much time, there is faster turnover so may only have to wait a few minutes before a space becomes available.
Wakodahatchee Wetlands Bird Watching
For birders, Wakodahatchee Wetlands is truly the perfect spot in Palm Beach County. There are over 170 species of birds have been sighted here. Some types of birds are here throughout the year as well as migratory birds that flock to this area in the colder months. Bring your binoculars, but also be prepared to see some birds up close and personal as they often hangout right on the boardwalk railings next to you!
Hatching Season: If visiting in the spring, you may get to see some baby and juvenile birds nesting! We visited at the end of April, and got to see multiple nests of squaking baby storks, tri-colored herons, and anhingas. Almost immediately after starting the trail at Wakodahatchee, there is a section of the boardwalk where many storks have chosen to nest in trees only an arm length from the railing.
Types of Birds You May See at Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Some of the birds you may catch a glimpse of or hear include:
- Great blue heron
- Green heron
- Tri-colored heron
- Snowy egret
- Osprey
- Glossy ibis
- Wood stork
- Pied-billed grebe
- Roseate spoonbill
- Purple gallinule
- Couple-crested cormorant
- Anhinga
- Black-bellied whistling ducks
Plants and Animals in Wakodahatchee Wetlands
To restore the area’s natural habitat, native trees and plants were planted. You’ll wind through lush, tropical flora like cypress trees, ferns, duckweed, live oak, sabal palm, pond apple, giant bulrush, and more. Along with diverse vegetation and waterfowl, you may see wildlife such as:
- Alligators
- Iguanas
- Turtles
- Rabbits
- Variety of fish
- Raccoons
- Butterflies
- Snakes and more
Are Dogs Allowed at Wakodahatchee Wetlands?
Unfortunately for your four-legged friend, he will have to stay home as dogs are not allowed at this park. This is mainly to not frighten and scare away the birds, and for your dog’s own good as little ones paws might get stuck or fall through the boardwalk.
Jogging, bikes, skateboards, roller blades, smoking, fishing, food, and alcohol are also not permitted.
