Green Cay Nature Center & Wetlands — Attraction in Delray Beach

This park was closed for the past two years when I’ve been here. My mother told me about it and said I would like it. Happened to pass by it and noticed that it’s open again. There is a large parking lot and if it’s nearly full, I wouldn’t go as the boardwalk would be busier than I would like. It happened to be mostly empty. Walking into the main entrance I expected to have to pay a fee to get into the park. There is no fee for this park. Pets, food, and smoking are not permitted. This is a park to walk slowly and enjoy nature. The sign says no jogging, running or speed walking are permitted.

The Nature Center is open from 9AM to 6PM, Wednesday through Sunday. It was a Monday so I didn’t get to visit the Nature Center but the bathrooms are always open. The park itself is open from sunrise to sunset every day of the week. If your reason is to see birds then near sunrise or sunset would be your best option. I was pleasantly surprised that there was still a good amount of bird activity in the early afternoon.

The boardwalk is a one mile loop with a few short side paths leading to shelters with benches to take a rest and spend time enjoying the park. These shelters are also good places to spend time with binoculars or camera to enjoy the wildlife while being out of the sun. One path was closed for work that would shorten the walk a little.

There were a few people with large telephoto lens cameras but most like myself were taking pictures on their phones. I’m happy with a few of the photos I got using my phone. A telephoto lens would make for better quality photos here as many of the birds are a distance away from the boardwalk.

I’m sure younger children would enjoy the nature center but the mile long walk might be more than they want. You could walk a short distance and then turn around before they get tired or board. Bring binoculars to make it more fun for children.

If you want to take a longer walk go across the street to a three quarter mile paved path around a lake which is part of the Southern Region Water Reclamation Facility as is Green Cay.

I look forward to visiting again when the Nature...

Green Cay Nature Center in Boynton Beach, Florida, is a true hidden gem for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Located on a sprawling 100-acre nature preserve, this spot offers a unique and immersive experience in Florida's beautiful wetlands.

As you step onto the elevated boardwalk that winds through the wetlands, you're immediately surrounded by lush vegetation, native plants, and the sounds of birds calling in the distance. The boardwalk itself is a highlight—it allows you to explore the ecosystem up close without disturbing the delicate habitat. Along the way, you'll encounter wildlife like wading birds, turtles, and even the occasional alligator basking in the sun. It's a photographer's paradise!

Fun fact: Green Cay Nature Center is part of the larger South Florida Water Management District and is dedicated to preserving the region's natural habitats. The preserve is home to more than 200 species of birds and numerous amphibians, mammals, and reptiles, making it a prime location for birdwatching, especially during the migratory season.

In addition to the boardwalk, the nature center itself is an educational hub. It features interactive exhibits and offers educational programs that focus on local wildlife, conservation, and the importance of preserving wetland ecosystems. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always willing to share insights, making it a great spot for families and school groups to learn about Florida's rich biodiversity.

Green Cay is also a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re looking to take a serene walk, do some birdwatching, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this nature center is a must-visit. The mix of education, wildlife, and tranquility makes Green Cay Nature Center a perfect escape into Florida’s...

I have been going there for the past several years. All I can say that it is a wonderful nature perserve. The wooden boardwalks throughout the perserve are really easy to walk on, and are very friendly to your knees and feet. The natural beauty of, for the most part, the swampy areas, and water, and shaded areas is a treat. And, the different birds, aquatic life, alligators, especially in the winter, make it a very fascinating and exciting place to visit. Also, when the, Pjjavilion is open, I, believe, on Wednesday thru Saturday from 9:00 am. to 3:00 pm, I think you will enjoy the programs, educational videos and displays, gift shop, and animals that are in this beautiful building. Also, I should mention something about the staff, voluntary, and professional( park rangers, etc.)that work in the facility. They are some of the nicest, nature knowledgeable, most caring people that I have ever come across, and that is the truth. By the way, if you happen to ever stay out until dusk, after they turn the Pavillion lights on, it is a really pretty site, and a great way to end your visit. Yes, I only rated it a five star because a six star...