Highland Beach
Exclusive barrier island living between Boca and Delray
By Scott Selleck — Licensed NJ/FL Real Estate Agent | 32+ Years in Bergen & Hudson Counties | The Selleck Group / KW City Views Realty
Last updated: June 2026
What Is It Like to Live in Highland Beach, FL?
Highland Beach is a narrow barrier island community situated between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, known for its exclusive, quiet residential character. With approximately 4,300 residents and median home values of $795K to $1.1M, it offers luxury coastal living in an intimate setting.
Highland Beach occupies a unique position on a narrow three-mile stretch of barrier island between Boca Raton and Delray Beach. The town is exclusively residential — no commercial corridors, no hotels, no resorts — which gives it a quiet, private atmosphere that's increasingly rare in South Florida.
The housing stock is primarily luxury oceanfront condominiums and waterfront estate homes along the Intracoastal. The town is bisected by A1A, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. This dual-waterfront geography means that nearly every resident has access to water views and coastal living.
For homebuyers, Highland Beach offers proximity to the dining and shopping of both Boca Raton and Delray Beach while maintaining a distinctly residential, low-key character. Flood zone awareness and comprehensive HOA insurance are important considerations for barrier island properties.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Highland Beach, FL?
A1A Oceanfront
Luxury oceanfront condominiums and single-family homes along the barrier island's Atlantic side. Premium pricing for direct beach access and ocean views.
Intracoastal Waterfront
Deep-water estate homes along the Intracoastal with private docks and boat access. Popular with boating enthusiasts.
Highland Beach Club
A gated community with beach club access, resort-style amenities, and a mix of condos and townhomes.
Schools Serving Highland Beach, FL?
Palm Beach County Schools. Highland Beach students are typically zoned for Boca Raton area schools. Boca Raton Community HS and Spanish River HS serve the area.
What Do Homes Cost in Highland Beach, FL?
Median home values $795K–$1.1M. Oceanfront condos range from $500K to $3M+. Waterfront estates command $1M+. HOA fees common with comprehensive insurance.
How Do You Get Around?
Car-dependent. A1A provides north-south access. I-95 accessible via Linton Blvd or George Bush Blvd. Tri-Rail station in Delray Beach, 10 minutes north.
Where Are the Best Restaurants in Highland Beach, FL?
32 East
Upscale American bistro on the Intracoastal with fresh seafood, craft cocktails, and waterfront views.
Café Renoir
French-inspired café with pastries, light fare, and a European café atmosphere. A local favorite.
Highland Beach's dining is limited by its residential character. Residents typically head to Boca Raton or Delray Beach for broader dining options.
What Parks and Recreation Does Highland Beach Offer?
Highland Beach Town Beach
A pristine stretch of Atlantic beach with lifeguards, restrooms, and direct access. Quiet and uncrowded compared to neighboring beaches.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens — Highland Beach Branch
A small botanical garden with native plants and walking paths. Part of the broader Selby Gardens network.
What Community Events Happen in Highland Beach, FL?
Highland Beach Holiday Parade
Annual community holiday event with a parade, tree lighting, and family festivities.
Own a local business in Highland Beach? Get featured — submit here.
Highland Beach — Schools & Education
Schools serving the Highland Beach area span public, private, parochial, and early childhood options across multiple grade levels.
Public Schools
The School District of Palm Beach County serves this community. Schools in the district include:
Elementary Schools
- Boca Raton Elementary School — PK–5
Middle Schools
- Boca Raton Community Middle School — 6–8
High Schools
- Boca Raton Community High School — 9–12
- Spanish River Community High School — 9–12
For enrollment information and district details, visit School District of Palm Beach County.
School ratings are sourced from GreatSchools.org as of 2026 and may change. Verify current data directly with the school district or GreatSchools.org. For Florida school grades, also reference the Florida Department of Education: https://www.fldoe.org/school-grades/.
Thinking About Highland Beach?
Exclusive barrier island living between Boca and Delray. Let's talk about what Highland Beach could look like for you.