Gumbo Limbo Nature Center

Boca’s best asset is not its collection of retail, cultural or culinary treats, but this condo-free stretch of waterfront parkland. The crown jewel of the system is the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, a wild preserve of tropical hammock and dunes ecosystems. Dedicated to educating the public about sea turtles and other local fauna, the natural-history displays include fascinating saltwater tanks full of critters – fed with leftover seafood scraps donated by local businesses. Plus, it’s one of 10 places in the US where you can (legally) observe sea turtles nesting, 9pm to 11pm every Monday and Thursday between May 20 and July 11 ($5).