Wakodahatchee Wetlands
Tucked away in Delray Beach, Florida, the Wakodahatchee Wetlands is a true hidden gem for anyone who loves a blend of nature and photography. Created on 50 acres of utility land, these wetlands have been transformed into a thriving ecosystem that feels worlds away from the surrounding suburbs. A three-quarter-mile boardwalk winds over open water, marshes, and islands, offering an up-close look at an incredible variety of wildlife. Whether you’re there for a casual “hike” or a dedicated bird-watching session, it’s a place where the vibrant energy of the Florida wetlands is on full display at every turn.
About Our Hike
On our way from Tamarac to Westlake, my husband and I made a stop at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands for a scenic bird-watching walk and a very special meetup. I had previously met Darlene for just a few fleeting minutes in Portland, Maine, but this was my first time meeting Jenny in person! The birds were out in full force, and in addition to the birds shown below, we saw an alligator, turtles, and iguanas. It was hard to tell who was having a better time: the three of us chatting our way along the boardwalk, or my husband, who was in his element testing out a new lens on his camera.
Hike Overview
- • Location: Wakodahatchee Wetlands
• Start/Finish: Park entrance
• Course Type: Lollypop loop
• Course Surface: Wooden boardwalk
• Distance: 1.07 miles
• Moving time: 45:48
• Average Pace: 45:48 minute/mile
• Elevation Gain: 3 feet
• Elevation Range: 16 to 20 feet
• Weather: 78° and mostly sunny
• Date of Hike: February 12, 2026
• Start time: 3:17 PM - • Course map from Strava:
Pictures Tell the Story
My husband ended up with over 4,000 shots from our walk, so you can only imagine the monumental task he had whittling them down! Once he did his part, the ball was in my court to pick my ten absolute favorites—which was much harder than it sounds with so many beautiful birds from which to choose.
Little Blue Heron
Black Crowned Night Heron
Great Blue Heron
Great Blue Heron with Hungry Babies
Black-bellied Whistling Duck
Wood Stork
Wood Storks
Purple Gallinule
Boat-Tailed Grackle
Anhinga
Garmin Stats
Garmin map and elevation chart…
Final Thoughts on our Hike
Our afternoon at Wakodahatchee was such a highlight that I would definitely go back in a heartbeat. If you ever find yourself in the Delray Beach area, I highly recommend stopping by! Whether you’re a serious photographer or just looking for a peaceful walk with a friend, it’s a beautiful experience you won’t want to miss.
Questions
- • Wakodahatchee was such a fantastic surprise for us. Do you have a favorite park or nature walk in your neck of the woods that more people should know about? ~ The roaring water at Great Falls is a fun local place for us to take out-of-town guests.
- • I loved finally getting to spend time with Darlene and Jenny! For the bloggers reading, do you make it an effort to meet up with other bloggers when traveling? ~ Yes, if I have time.
- • My husband had the monumental task of whittling down 4,000 photos. For the photographers out there, how do you handle picking your favorites? ~ Even with my iPhone I take so many pictures and picking out my favorites isn’t always easy.
Didn’t even realize there was four feet of elevation there. I never turn on my watch for a walk because it’s always photo pace.
I love the facial expressions Bill caught with his lens. We’re not going to talk about how full my iCloud is with Wakodahatchee, Green Cay and Loxahatchee. Next time I’ll try to sync up with you there
We were definitely walking at photo pace, but I still wanted to record the “hike.” Isn’t that the best expression on the Anhinga? He’s thinking, “Dude, why are you pointing that thing at me?”
I would love a longer meet-up sometime! I’ll let you know our plans for next year once we decide what we’re doing.
Oh yes, I remember this hike with Darlene and Jenny.
4’000 photos are a lot! The selection in this post are FANTASTIC! I bet you had a hard time choosing them!
Thanks, Catrina! I’ll let my husband know you enjoyed seeing his pictures.
Just love this post.
I go there every time I visit Delray. It’s one of the highlights of my trip. And I have zillions if pics. None as good as Bills but my has all the equipment.
Yes I try to meet up with a blogger whenever possible.
Hope our paths cross again
Thanks for suggesting Wakodahatchee Wetlands as a place to meet. Bill and I both enjoyed seeing the nesting birds. And yes, I hope our paths cross again!
I’m SO GLAD you guys came down, because I haven’t been to Wakodahatchee in years. It was really fun to meet up and take this walk! I like how so many people were knowledgeable and willing to share all sorts of birds facts with us. And, your husband really did an amazing job with the photos!!!
Let’s do it again next year : )
It was super fun wasn’t it?! I will most definitely reach out if we’re back in your area again next year. And yes, I loved that we learned some interesting facts from fellow bird-watchers.
Gorgeous hike, gorgeous birds, gorgeous friends!
What a special adventure! I love that you were able to make this happen!
Thanks, Jenn, it was fun!