The oceanfront Red Reef Park occupies 67 acres on one of Florida's most scenic highways, State Road A1A. In addition to swimming, snorkeling and surf fishing, the park also offers the Red Reef Executive Golf Course and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, as well as extensive picnic facilities.

Almost all reviewers agreed the easy swim to the reef, great snorkeling and beautiful shoreline are worth the trip, calling Red Reef "one of the best kept secrets" in Boca Raton. Those traveling with kids appreciated that youngsters can view colorful parrotfish near the shore or search for sharks' teeth. Another highlight for parents: Lifeguards patrol the beach year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Although there is no admission fee, there is a vehicle entry fee of $16 on weekdays and $18 on weekends. Many recent visitors advised taking advantage of the metered parking available across the street from the park to save big bucks. However, metered parking fees, which cost $2 per hour on weekdays and $3 per hour on weekends, can also add up quickly. To learn more about Red Reef, visit the Boca Parks website.