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Highland Beach

Highland Beach

Quiet and exclusive, Highland Beach sits between Boca Raton and Delray, offering ocean-to-Intracoastal residences in a serene, low-density setting. The town has no commercial strip, emphasizing peace and privacy. Ideal for retirees and end-users wanting beachfront living with minimal traffic and timeless appeal. Prices: $1.5M–$10M+.

Palm Beach County

Explore Highland Beach condos and waterfront homes for sale, including boutique oceanfront towers, Intracoastal estates, and luxury townhomes. Nestled between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Highland Beach offers a quiet, ultra-private enclave with direct beach access, yacht-friendly canals, and proximity to two of South Florida’s most dynamic downtowns.

Interesting Facts

  • Tiny footprint: Just 1.1 square miles of residential community, with no traffic lights.
  • Exclusive population: About 4,000 year-round residents, swelling to ~8,000 in season.
  • Ocean to Intracoastal: The town stretches from the Atlantic to the Intracoastal, so almost every home has water views or access.
  • Protected beaches: Over 80% of Highland Beach’s shoreline is designated sea turtle nesting habitat.
  • No commercial strip: Restaurants and shops are absent by design — residents head to nearby Boca Raton or Delray Beach.
  • Library by the sea: The Highland Beach Public Library is one of the only oceanfront libraries in the U.S.
  • High net worth enclave: Median home prices consistently rank among the highest in Palm Beach County.
  • Resort amenities without crowds: Condos include pools, gyms, and beach clubs — but fewer units mean more privacy.

History

Incorporated in 1949, Highland Beach was carved from barrier island dunes between Boca Raton and Delray. Development surged in the 1970s–1980s with luxury high-rise condos, while canals west of A1A brought single-family estates with private docks. Today, Highland Beach is deliberately low-density: no hotels, no nightlife, no malls — just ocean, Intracoastal, and residential peace.

Lifestyle Snapshot

Highland Beach is resort living in a residential shell. Days are shaped by beach walks, boating, and quiet leisure. Residents bike along A1A, swim in oceanfront condo pools, or sail from backyard docks into the Intracoastal. For dining and culture, it’s a 5-minute drive north to Atlantic Avenue in Delray or south to Mizner Park in Boca Raton. The vibe is secluded luxury, perfect for those seeking oceanfront living without tourist traffic.

Why Live in Highland Beach

True beachfront luxury: Most condos are directly on the sand. • Peace & privacy: No hotels, bars, or commercial strips — just residences. • Central location: Minutes to Boca and Delray for dining and entertainment. • Water everywhere: Oceanfront sunrise and Intracoastal sunset views. • International appeal: Popular with seasonal residents from New York, Canada, Europe. • Low density: Fewer people, more exclusivity.

Why Buyers Choose Highland Beach

Ocean-to-Intracoastal living

Many condos and homes span both waterfronts.

Luxury amenities

Beach clubs, fitness centers, pools, concierge.

Boating lifestyle

Private docks on canals with easy inlet access.

Security & services

Police, fire, and lifeguards dedicated to the small town.

Central but hidden

Easy access to I-95 and Brightline stations without sacrificing seclusion.

Investment stability

Limited inventory supports strong property values.

What to Consider

No walkable retail: Dining and shopping require a short drive.
HOA fees: Full-service oceanfront towers come with higher dues.
Strict zoning: No commercial development
limits local conveniences.
Hurricane prep: Oceanfront exposure demands impact windows and higher insurance.
Resale competition: Luxury buyers often compare Highland Beach with Boca Raton oceanfront.
Car needed: A1A is scenic, but most errands require driving.

New Construction & Pre-Construction

Highland Beach has limited land, so new projects are rare and ultra-luxury: Boutique oceanfront condos with large terraces and full-service amenities. Waterfront townhomes with private docks. Custom rebuilds of older Intracoastal homes into modern estates. Recent notables include Ocean Delray (nearby) and Boutique A1A developments that cater to high-net-worth seasonal residents.

Places to Go & Things to Do

Highland Beach shoreline: Private-feel beaches with dune crossovers.
Intracoastal boating: Easy access to Boca or Boynton inlets.
Spanish River Park (Boca): Nearby nature preserve with trails and beaches.
Atlantic Avenue (Delray): Dining, art, nightlife ~5 min north.
Mizner Park (Boca): Shopping, dining, concerts ~5 min south.
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center (Boca): Turtle rehabilitation and boardwalk trails.
Delray Beach Market: Culinary hall with chef-driven food concepts.

Places to Go & Things to Do

Highland Beach shoreline: Private-feel beaches with dune crossovers.
Intracoastal boating: Easy access to Boca or Boynton inlets.
Spanish River Park (Boca): Nearby nature preserve with trails and beaches.
Atlantic Avenue (Delray): Dining, art, nightlife ~5 min north.
Mizner Park (Boca): Shopping, dining, concerts ~5 min south.
Gumbo Limbo Nature Center (Boca): Turtle rehabilitation and boardwalk trails.
Delray Beach Market: Culinary hall with chef-driven food concepts.

Practical Tips

  • Car essential— Plan for short drives to restaurants and shopping.
  • Check HOA rules— Rental terms vary widely (some seasonal, others annual-only).
  • Premium pricing— Be prepared for higher price per sq. ft. than inland Boca/Delray.
  • Insurance diligence— Confirm windstorm, flood, and association reserves.
  • Lifestyle match— Perfect for quiet luxury — not ideal for nightlife seekers.

Top Nearby Schools

Public Schools

J.C. Mitchell Elementary (Boca Raton)
8/10
Boca Raton Community Middle
7/10
Boca Raton Community High
9/10

Private Schools

Saint Andrew’s School (PK-12, Boca Raton)
A+
Pine Crest School (Fort Lauderdale)
A+
American Heritage (Delray Campus)
A+

Proximity

Airports
Palm Beach Intl (PBI) ~20 mi; Fort Lauderdale (FLL) ~25 mi.
Rail
Brightline Boca Raton (~7 mi).
Beaches
Direct beachfront throughout Highland Beach.
Key hubs
Delray Beach ~5 min N; Boca Raton ~5 min S; Palm Beach ~25 min N; Fort Lauderdale ~30 min S.

Who Loves Living in Highland Beach?

  • Seasonal snowbirds seeking quiet beachfront retreats
  • Retirees valuing privacy and security
  • Wealthy families who want Boca/Delray proximity without the bustle
  • Boaters enjoying private docks and water access
  • International buyers drawn to exclusivity and central location.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Not sure about Highland Beach? Compare with: Delray Beach (Downtown): Walkable nightlife + arts scene. Boca Raton Oceanfront: Larger city with more luxury high-rises. Gulf Stream: Ultra-exclusive, small-town luxury just north. Palm Beach Island: Iconic, historic luxury further north.

FAQ

01

Which celebrities have homes or have lived in Highland Beach?

Highland Beach, a quiet stretch between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, has attracted high-profile executives and celebrities looking for exclusivity, including retired athletes and prominent business moguls who value its private oceanfront estates.

02

What is the typical price range for luxury real estate in Highland Beach?

Condos generally start around $1M–$1.5M, luxury residences average $3M–$6M, and direct ocean-to-Intracoastal estates can surpass $10M–$25M+.

03

Is Highland Beach walkable?

Yes for beach walks and bike rides, but daily errands require driving.

04

Do condos here allow short-term rentals?

Most limit leases to 3–12 months; rules vary by building.

05

How do prices compare to Boca or Delray?

Generally higher per sq. ft. due to exclusivity and limited inventory.

06

What’s the lifestyle vibe?

Peaceful, private, with resort amenities but no tourist crowds.

07

Are there single-family homes?

Yes — primarily on Intracoastal canals with private docks.

Location

Similar neighborhoods

Fisher Island

Fisher Island Club — Marina, golf, spa, and private dining venues.
Vanderbilt Mansion — Historic centerpiece turned social club and restaurant.
Private Beach Club — Exclusive white-sand beach with full-service cabanas.
Marina & Yachting — Deep-water slips accommodating mega-yachts.
Wellness & Sports — Golf, tennis center, spa, fitness pavilion, and pools.
Day School & Community Center — Private education and events for residents.

Bal Harbour

Bal Harbour Shops — Iconic open-air luxury center; anchor for dining + shopping days. Highlights: Makoto (modern Japanese by Chef Makoto Okuwa), Hillstone at Bal Harbour (American classics), Carpaccio (beloved Italian terrace), Avenue 31 Café (all-day European-style), and Café en 3 at Neiman Marcus (light bites upstairs).
The Surf Club Restaurant (next-door Surfside, Four Seasons) — MICHELIN-starred fine dining by Thomas Keller; white-glove, Old-Florida glamour. Book well ahead.
Beachfront path / Beach Walk — A landscaped, mile-plus oceanfront path; also check the 102nd St access path by landscape architect Enzo Enea for a shady, photogenic approach to the sand.
Haulover Park & Inlet — Classic kite-flying field, fishing pier, marina and inlet views; look for Kite Festivals and Food Truck Tuesdays (community event by the kite field, evenings).
Oleta River State Park — Kayak, SUP, canoe or bike the mangrove trails; easy rentals via Oleta River Outdoors.
Quick culture hops: Miami Design District (art, galleries, showrooms) and Wynwood murals are short drives south; combine with shopping/dinner runs.

Downtown Hollywood

ArtsPark at Young Circle — Open-air concerts, food trucks, and cultural festivals.
Downtown Hollywood Mural Project — Walking tours of world-class street art.
Hollywood Boulevard — Boutiques, coffee shops, galleries, and nightlife.
Arts & Culture Center of Hollywood — Contemporary exhibitions and events.
ArtsPark Movie Nights & Food Truck Invasions — Family-friendly community gatherings.
Hollywood Beach Broadwalk — A short bike ride east for oceanfront dining and strolls.

North Palm Beach / Old Port Cove

North Palm Beach Country Club — Golf, tennis, pool, Farmer’s Table dining.
Old Port Cove Marina — Yacht slips, walking paths, and condo amenities.
MacArthur Beach State Park — Kayaking, nature trails, and preserved beachfront.
Anchorage Park & Marina — Community park with boat slips, playgrounds, and events.
PGA Boulevard (nearby) — Fine dining, shopping, and The Gardens Mall.
Juno Beach Pier — Iconic fishing pier and beach destination.

Surfside

Surfside Beachwalk — Scenic oceanfront path for walking, running, or biking.
Four Seasons at The Surf Club — Fine dining, spa, and luxury amenities.
Harding Avenue District — Boutiques, bakeries, kosher dining, and cafés.
Surfside Community Center — Pools, kids’ programs, and resident activities.
Bal Harbour Shops (next door) — Luxury retail and fine dining.
North Beach Oceanside Park — Larger beachfront green space just south.

North Bay Village

Benihana (bayfront) — Iconic teppanyaki dining with skyline views.
Shuckers Waterfront Grill — Beloved casual seafood spot with direct bay access.
Beaches nearby — Just across the causeway to Miami Beach.
Boating & marinas — Private docks, slips, and yacht clubs throughout NBV.
Cultural access — Wynwood, Design District, and Downtown Miami minutes away.
Future NBV Waterfront Promenade — Planned pedestrian-friendly green space with retail and dining.

Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach Broadwalk — Iconic promenade with cafés, bike rentals, and ocean views.
Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort — Dining, live music, rooftop bar, and pools.
Diplomat Beach Resort — Luxury resort with restaurants and spa.
Charnow Park — Family-friendly green space with playgrounds and splash pads.
Anne Kolb Nature Center — Mangrove trails, kayaking, and observation tower.
Hollywood Beach Theatre — Free live music on the Broadwalk.
Downtown Hollywood (nearby) — ArtsPark, murals, dining, and nightlife just minutes away.

Coral Gables

Miracle Mile — Shopping, dining, and the historic Miracle Theatre.
Venetian Pool — Historic 1924 swimming pool built from a coral rock quarry.
Biltmore Hotel — Iconic resort with golf, spa, dining, and events.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden — 83 acres of lush gardens and events.
Books & Books — Beloved indie bookstore and café.
University of Miami — Cultural, athletic, and educational hub.
Shops at Merrick Park — Upscale shopping and dining destination.