What Makes Delray Beach One of America’s Cleanest, Safest, Most Beautiful Beaches?

When it comes to breathtaking beaches, Delray Beach continues to outshine the rest—literally. Our beloved Municipal Beach has garnered international and national praise, earning recognition not just for beauty, but for excellence. Delray is one of only two beaches in the continental United States to receive the prestigious Blue Flag Award, an international designation given to coastal destinations that meet rigorous standards for water quality, environmental education, safety, and accessibility. The Blue Flag proudly flies at the intersection of A1A and Atlantic Avenue, symbolizing Delray’s commitment to keeping our shoreline world-class year after year.

But the accolades don’t stop there. Delray Beach was voted Best Beach in Florida two years in a row by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards, a testament to how loved—and unforgettable—this stretch of coastline truly is.

And if you’ve ever wondered why the water looks impossibly turquoise, there’s science to back it up. A comprehensive study from beach.com, analyzing five years of satellite data across 1,346 beaches in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas, revealed that Delray Public Beach has the clearest and bluest water in the entire Southeast. Researchers examined everything from chlorophyll levels (the pigment that makes water look greener) to the reflection of blue light off the surface. Out of the 39 top-performing beaches identified, Delray ranked #1 in both clarity and color.

All of this recognition isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s a reflection of a community deeply committed to protecting the natural beauty that makes Delray Beach so special. Whether you’re lounging on soft sand, diving into crystal-clear water, or simply taking in the views along A1A, you’re experiencing one of the finest coastal environments in the country. And that’s something we’re proud to share with residents and visitors alike.