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.

 

I’m linking up with Jenn from Runs with Pugs and Jenny of Runners Fly for Tuesday topics Link-Up. Be sure to check out not only the hosts’ posts, but those of the other great bloggers joining in on the fun!