Blake Walsh

17 Best Things to Do in Deerfield Beach, FL

  • Published 2022/08/03

Trying the best things to do in Deerfield Beach is a great way to enjoy the beaches of South Florida without the crowds.

In 1925, the residents officially established the town of Deerfield.

In 1939, they renamed it the Town of Deerfield.

Then, in 1951, they changed the city’s name to the City of Deerfield Beach.

At one time, Deerfield Beach was home to a big herd of deer that would often graze the area.

Even though they have demolished many of the city’s historical landmarks, it is still a fascinating place to visit.

Deerfield Beach is also home to many great places to shop and eat.

Many of the area’s most popular attractions are within driving distance of Deerfield Beach.

If you like golf, beaches, excellent restaurants, and nature’s splendor, you can just drive to all of them.

Here are the best things to do in Deerfield Beach, Florida:

See the Wildlife at Deerfield Island Park

Aerial view of Deerfield Island Park

Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com

The gorgeous 43-acre Deerfield Island Park, a triangular oasis for the environment and animals, is a perfect spot to get away from it all.

As its name indicates, Deerfield Island Park is an island that you can only reach by boat.

On weekends, a free ferry transports people to and from the mainland every hour.

Still, guests may bring their boats and use one of the six accessible berths.

The waters if Deerfield Island Park

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Deerfield Island Park is just approximately 423 acres.

It is magnificent, with mangrove wetlands and two walking routes with boardwalks and observation platforms.

Deerfield Island Park is home to manatees, tortoises, armadillos, and other birds, some of which migrate to the region during the winter.

Go Fishing at Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier

Daytime view of Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier

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Spanning over 1,000 feet, the Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier is difficult to miss.

It extends towards the ocean.

Fishermen looking for a meal and tourists wandering along the promenade litter the pier.

They all enjoy the scenic view of the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean.

People fishing on Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

The freshly restored pier is home to the pier shop and people fishing and sightseeing.

You can rent fishing equipment such as fishing rods, buy bait and gear, and souvenirs such as T-shirts.

People walking along Deerfield Beach International Fishing Pier

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

Go Camping at Quiet Waters Park

Daytime view of Quiet Waters Park

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

Quiet Waters Park is situated inland from the shore.

Its name is also accurate, referring to several lakes.

The park has around 431 acres of land and water.

Silhouette of a wakeboarder at Quiet Waters Park

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

Ski Rixen, which offers cable water skiing, is a popular destination for boaters and watersport enthusiasts.

Splash Adventure Water Park has an aquatic playground and waterslides and is also inside Quiet Waters Park.

At Quiet Waters Park, there are 27 campsites and numerous teepees, and guests may rent tents if they haven’t brought their own.

Relax at Sullivan Park

Aerial view of Sullivan Park

Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com

The Sullivan Park splash pad and various covered play spaces make it a family favorite.

This tranquil site on the Intracoastal Waterway encompasses little more than three acres.

It offers guests a picturesque outlook and an ideal fishing location.

Children playing on Sullivan Park's splash pad

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Before becoming the Riverview Restaurant, this property was a 1920s packinghouse, a gambling club, and then a restaurant.

In 2017, they turned the land into a serene park.

Sullivan Park is just beside Deerfield Island Park, a wildlife preserve accessible exclusively by a free boat from this location.

An iguana in Sullivan Park

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Learn How to Surf at Island Water Sports

Established in 1978, Island Water Sports teaches tourists and residents how to get the most out of their water sports adventures.

You may participate in free Saturday morning instruction.

Learn how to surf, skim, or stand up paddle board (SUP) at Island Water Sports.

You can rent equipment and go to the water on your own.

The store at Island Water Sports also sells a wide variety of watersports, skating gear, and apparel, in addition to the actual activities.

Learn Cable Skiing at Ski Rixen

Scenic view of a wakeboarder at Ski Rixen

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

You’ll find Ski Rixen USA inside Quiet Waters Park, a unique twist on water enjoyment.

Newbies and pros can try the inflatable obstacle courses.

You can also ride the water skis if you like to get towed across a lake.

Likewise, you can try waterskiing, wakeboarding, and kneeboarding over the glass-like water at Ski Rixen USA.

A wakeboarder at Ski Rixen

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

You don’t even need a boat, since the water doesn’t have huge waves.

Thrill junkies love this lake.

Sign up for a class to brush up on your skills or learn something new.

Depending on how long you visit, you may pay by the hour or purchase a two- or four-hour ticket or a full day pass.

The day pass includes a helmet, life jacket, and other equipment.

A wakeboarder doing tricks at Ski Rixen

Mike Kuhlman / Shutterstock.com

Stroll along Deerfield Beach Boardwalk

Restaurants along Deerfield Beach Boardwalk

Coderenius, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Deerfield Beach has a boardwalk, like many of Florida’s top beaches.

As a popular destination for cyclists, pedestrians, and rollerbladers, this boardwalk is your next stop.

You won’t have to deal with sand in your footwear while you go down the beach.

The path is broad enough for wheelchairs and strollers, making it easy.

In the dark, the area is secure for individuals who want to take a romantic walk beneath the stars.

This boardwalk’s vista will show you breathtaking views at any time of day or night.

Lie back on a seat on one of the boardwalk’s benches and take in the sights.

The towering palm trees provide much-needed shade.

Try one of the seaside eateries when you’re in the mood for some food.

Meditate at Deerfield Beach Arboretum

A paved walkway at Deerfield Beach Arboretum

Dtobias, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

More than 200 tree species and hundreds of flowering plants cover the Arboretum at Constitution Park.

Tree zoos are common in this part of town, and the nine acres of this lovely property are no exception.

You would never suspect it was there until you start looking for it.

See a wide variety of exotic species, including bamboo, blossoming tropical fruit, and other exotic plants and trees.

Get up close and personal with some unusual plants at the H.W. “Zeke” Landis Nursery.

Visit the sanctuary for a free tour to learn more about the unique plants and animals that call it home.

Tour the James D. and Alice Butler House

Front view of James D. and Alice Butler House's exterior

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The Deerfield Beach Historical Society operates out of the Butler House.

In 1923, the Butlers built this Mediterranean-style home with walls and a roof made from terracotta tiles.

Marker of James D. and Alice Butler House

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The coastal villas of Italy inspire the architecture of the house.

After James and Alice Butler died in the 1970s, they left the home to the local historical society.

The group has preserved many of the house’s original furnishings since then.

The Butler House in Deerfield Beach is open to the public during several free events from the Deerfield Beach Historical Society.

A picnic table on the grounds behind James D. and Alice Butler House

Ebyabe, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Gaze at Stunning Works at New Art Gallery

The New Art Gallery, despite its name, has operated for over three decades.

Local artists’ works and reproductions of old and antique posters are among the fine art displayed at the New Art Gallery.

Even if you don’t find something you like among the wide range of styles represented, you can bring your artwork for custom framing if they choose.

New Art Gallery offers on-site framing services while you wait.

It has many frame choices and a highly competent team that produces fantastic work and helps customers create precisely what they’re looking for.

Indulge in BBQ at Patio Bar and Grill

At Patio Bar and Grill, diners may enjoy the glass windows, which allow fresh air and a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Unwind after a day of exploring the island by snorkeling, paddleboarding, or just lazing around on the beach.

Stop by Patio Bar and Grill for a quick bite of its mouthwatering meals.

Aside from mall dishes and delectable meals, you may enjoy handmade cocktails and beer in bottles and on tap.

It also serves coffee and delectable desserts.

Enjoy Seafood at JB’s on the Beach

Dinner on the waterfront is the best way to end a day of sunbathing.

Try the seafood gumbo, juicy burgers, and steaks at JB’s on the Beach in Deerfield Beach.

The restaurant is also known for its extensive wine list and friendly service.

Many guests prefer to dine and drink on the covered veranda, which features live entertainment.

Expect a lot of people between happy hour and dinner, so bring a bottle of water to keep you company.

You’ll find J.B.’s near downtown Deerfield Beach.

Spend the Afternoon at Oceans 234

The Ranch House mom-and-pop cafe, where Oceans 234 now resides, first opened its doors in Deerfield Beach more than 50 years ago.

Danielle Rosse took over the leadership in 2002.

Since then, it has evolved into a fashionable seaside restaurant with spacious terrace seating overlooking the stunning Atlantic Ocean shoreline.

Try their lobster mac & cheese and blackened mahimahi with lump crab flesh and fruit salsa.

You can also order some of the creative takes on traditional seafood dishes in this restaurant.

Likewise, indulge your family in their surf and turf combination platters and raw bar items, including cold-water oysters and middle-neck clams.

The restaurant’s Wine Spectator Award of Excellence-winning wine selection goes well with tropical-themed house drinks.

Grab a Bite at Charm City Burger Company

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a night out with friends, Charm City Burger Company is an excellent choice.

This little pub and burger establishment may not look like much, but don’t let its looks fool you.

Inside, they take great pleasure in delivering some of the tastiest burgers in town, made with only the finest ingredients.

Charm City Burger Company’s burgers are of the highest quality, served quickly, and at a price that’s hard to believe.

At Charm City Burger Company, you’ll find a vast range of burgers, but you’ll also find tater tots, wings, milkshakes, and local beers.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Explore Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Welcome sign of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Jillian Cain Photography / Shutterstock.com

Hugh Taylor Birch Park is in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, just 29 minutes from Deerfield Beach.

It sits between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Picnic table overlooking the waters of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Khairil Azhar Junos / Shutterstock.com

Among the park’s attractions are two lakes popular with kayakers and fishermen, as well as a paved multi-use path over two miles long.

The Coastal Hammock Trail takes hikers through various ecosystems in the park’s most isolated parts, including dunes, hardwood woods, and marshlands.

Pack your Audubon guide and binoculars since the region is home to hundreds of bird species.

A banyan tree in Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Daniel Dror / Shutterstock.com

Explore the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Entrance to the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Jillian Cain Photography / Shutterstock.com

The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, dating back almost a century, stands on over 30 acres in Fort Lauderdale.

It’s 30 minutes from Deerfield Beach.

For most of its history, this location served as both a residence and a recreation area for newlyweds.

Scenic view of Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Jillian Cain Photography / Shutterstock.com

The year-round splendor of the carefully kept gardens and the home’s collection of period furniture, housewares, and art make it a must-see.

After its donation to the state’s historic preservation trust in the 1980s, this property has opened for visitors.

A pretty swan on the waters of Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

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Bring Your Kids to the Museum of Discovery and Science

Picture this: the rain starting to pour, and your kids are furious because the rain has spoiled their beach day.

Do you have another option?

Six days a week, the Museum of Discovery and Science features instructive and exciting exhibits, displays, and activities for children of all ages.

Instead of hauling around a carload of cranky and dissatisfied children, just bring them to this indoor attraction.

In addition to an IMAX 3-D theater with a café and gift shop, the museum covers various fascinating subjects, including animals, weather, and aviation.

You can find this museum in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 23 minutes from Deerfield Beach.

Final Thoughts

Despite its proximity to larger beach communities, Deerfield maintains a more relaxed vibe than many larger areas.

If you’re searching for a calmer vacation area with many fun things to do, think about going to Deerfield Beach instead.

Book your trip today!

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