Boca Raton City Guide

Diverse food with upscale options and international cuisines. Fresh seafood is common. Vegetarian and vegan options are easy to find. Late-night food is available mostly around Mizner Park and downtown.

Nightlife is upscale with bars, lounges, and live music spots mostly around Mizner Park and Royal Palm Place. The scene is refined, not party-heavy.

Developing coffee scene with a mix of chains and third-wave shops like Third Place Coffee Lounge. Focus is on relaxed social coffee rather than competitions.

Tipping is expected for service workers. In restaurants, 15-20% tipping is typical. Other services like taxis and hotels also expect tips.

SIM cards are sold at carrier stores (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) and electronics shops like Best Buy. T-Mobile and AT&T have good coverage. You will need ID or passport for purchase.

City is clean with well-maintained public spaces and efficient waste services. Sanitation issues are rare.

Some 24/7 pharmacies and convenience stores are available. Night clinics are limited, and after-hours food is mostly fast food.

Large supermarkets like Publix, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's carry international products. Fresh markets operate seasonally. Stores generally open 7 AM to 10 PM and are open Sundays with shorter hours.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed but handy for small vendors or tips.

ATMs are common at banks, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Watch for fees on out-of-network machines, usually $2.50 to $5.00.

Public schools are part of Palm Beach County School District and are well-regarded. Private schools like Saint Andrew's offer diverse programs. Instruction is mainly in English.

The community is small but active with professional meetups and nomad-friendly cafés. Co-working spaces serve as hubs. Online groups exist.

Excellent parks and trails like Sugar Sand Park and Spanish River Park offer shaded walking areas and good running paths.

Scenic running routes along the beach and parks with safe, flat paths. Local running clubs and regular races support an active community.

Several gyms with various fitness classes are available.

Many public and private tennis courts plus emerging padel courts. Courts mostly hard surface. Reservations often required. Coaches and equipment rentals available.

Padel courts are growing in number with some dedicated clubs and coaching available.

Numerous studios offer various yoga styles and meditation. Drop-in classes and memberships available. All instructors speak English.

Multiple schools offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, and MMA. Local competitions happen. Most gyms allow drop-ins and have English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available due to flat terrain and no snow.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on the Intracoastal Waterway. Sailing lessons and windsurfing are also options, with equipment rentals widely available.

Surf spots at Red Reef Park are suitable for beginners and intermediates on smaller days. Warm water year-round, best swells in fall and winter. Nearby surf schools and rentals are accessible.

Good diving and snorkeling with reefs and ledges. Visibility varies from 30-80 feet. Marine life includes reef fish and turtles. Dive shops offer rentals and certification courses. Best in summer but suitable year-round.

Healthcare quality is high with hospitals like Boca Raton Regional. English-speaking staff are common. Over-the-counter meds and pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) are readily available, many with drive-thru and extended hours.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Good for families with many playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and attractions like Children's Science Explorium and Gumbo Limbo Nature Center.

Generally accepting and safe with many inclusive venues. Nearby cities host larger Pride events. Legal protections exist, and discrimination risk is low.

Pet-friendly city with many accommodations, restaurants, and parks for dogs. Good veterinary clinics and pet supply stores are available.