By Michael and Wendy Ledwitz
A drive east of The Polo Club of Boca Raton, the coast opens into a quiet stretch of protected barrier island. A boardwalk, a tower, and outdoor aquariums make it a pleasant outing in any season. We recommend it often, especially when relatives are in town for the winter, and everyone wants an easy, shared outing.
Here is what to see, when to go, and what to know before you arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Free admission: General admission is free, and donations are welcome.
- Protected setting: The center sits on 20 acres of barrier island between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic.
- Trail hours: Trails, the boardwalk, and the tower are open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset.
- No pets: Pets are not permitted on the grounds, though service animals are allowed.
The Boardwalk and Jacob’s Outlook
The boardwalk winds through the coastal hammock and leads to a 40-foot observation tower named Jacob’s Outlook. The tower was rebuilt in the 2020s with an accessible ramp of more than 800 feet.
Views From Above
- Original design: The center’s first boardwalk was one-third of a mile long.
- Accessible ramp: The long ramp makes the tower reachable for more visitors.
- Wide views: The tower looks out over the hammock toward the water.
The walk is easy and paced for visitors of every interest, even in warm weather. Bring water and sun protection, and take your time at the tower for views over the treetops.
Ashley Trail and the Butterfly Garden
The Ashley Trail and Butterfly Garden are part of the center’s 20 acres of protected land. The first descriptions of the site date to 1870, when it was called the Boca Raton Hammock.
A Quiet Walk Through the Hammock
- Tree canopy: The gumbo limbo tree, which gives the center its name, is abundant here.
- Butterfly garden: The garden attracts butterflies throughout the year.
- Trail access: Trails are open daily from 7 a.m. until sunset.
These paths offer a calm break from the pace of the weekend and a chance to spot butterflies along the way. Outdoor areas close when lightning is nearby, so check the weather before you head out.
Aquariums and Exhibits
The center has several large outdoor marine aquariums, resident sea turtles, and interactive exhibits. An FAU research gallery explains the science behind the work done on site.
A Closer Look at Coastal Science
- Aquariums: The outdoor tanks show marine life from nearby waters.
- Research gallery: FAU studies topics such as sea turtle behavior and ocean acidification.
- Founders: The center began in 1984 as a project of the city, the Park District, and FAU.
The exhibits are a good option for any visiting group with a mix of interests, and are especially a hit with children. Inside hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Monday from noon to 4 p.m.
Turtle Walks and Coastal Stewards
The center monitors about five miles of city beach and more than 1,000 nests a year, which covers a long stretch of local coastline. Guided Turtle Walks in 2026 ran on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from late May to early July.
How to Reserve a Spot
- Reservations: Walks require reservations through the city’s WebTrac system.
- Cost: Tickets were $15 for residents of the city or Park District and $20 for non-residents.
- Sellout: All of summer 2026 sold out, so plan early for next season.
Reservations opened in late April this year, so watch for a similar window. The Coastal Stewards, formerly Friends of Gumbo Limbo, support the center’s work.
Visit Details and Parking
The nature center is at 1801 N Ocean Blvd. on the barrier island. Limited free spaces are available for visitors, and metered spots are in the Red Reef West lot.
Practical Details
- Spaces: On-site spaces are for center visitors only, not for the beach.
- Closures: The center closes on New Year’s Day, July 4, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
- Nearby beach: Red Reef Park is next door, and pets are not allowed there either.
Check the city’s Plan Your Visit page for current hours before you go, since holiday closures and weather can change the schedule. A morning arrival often makes finding a space simpler and leaves time for the beach afterward.
FAQs
Is Gumbo Limbo Nature Center free to visit?
Yes, general admission is free, and donations are welcome. Free spaces are limited, with metered spots in the Red Reef West lot, so arriving early is a good idea.
What are the hours?
The nature center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Monday from noon to 4 p.m. Trails, the boardwalk, and the tower are open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are not permitted anywhere on the property or at Red Reef Park, though service animals are allowed. Plan pet care before you go so your whole group can enjoy the trails and exhibits.
Reach Out to Us, Michael and Wendy Ledwitz
If the coast is calling and you are exploring The Polo Club of Boca Raton, reach out to us, Michael and Wendy Ledwitz, today.