HILLSBORO INLET, FLORIDA
Pompano Beach, Hillsboro Beach,  & Lighthouse Point

Hillsboro Inlet connects the Intracoastal Waterway to the Atlantic Ocean near Pompano Beach, Florida. 

Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse

This inlet can be treacherous under certain conditions of wind and tidal current, so it is prudent to have local knowledge before entering and exiting. 

I spent a rough night many years ago tied up to an old wooden dock in the small harbor inside the inlet.

The ancient Alden yawl I was on took quite a pounding from the rollers that came in from the ocean.

Some 40 years later, I still remember that rough night as I pass over the bridge that spans the connection from the inlet harbor to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Hillsboro Inlet Looking Northwest

The lighthouse was first lit in 1907, and can be seen from ships 28 miles at sea.

In the years before the lighthouse, in the 1880s, the U.S. mail could only be delivered periodically to settlements like Palm Beach and Miami to the south by schooner from Key West.

There was no regular mail delivery to these southern outposts by land.

In 1885, the U.S. Postal Service established a mail route from Palm Beach to Miami and back. The route was a 136 mile round trip. 

The route was covered by mailmen going part of the way by boat and the rest of the way walking on the beach between inlets.

This mail route was in operation between 1885 and 1893 and involved several mailmen.  They are now known collectively as "The Barefoot Mailman".

The mailman traveled about 80 miles on foot and 56 miles by boat on his round trip.

The route began in Palm Beach and ended in Lemon City, now known as the Little Haiti neighborhood of Miami.

The Route of the Barefoot Mailman

By walking along the beach and crossing inlets and streams in small boats, he finally made it to Lemon City. 

The trip took 6 days. The mailman would leave Palm Beach on Monday morning and take a boat to the southern end of Lake Worth.

He would then walk over to the beach at what is now Delray Beach, spend the night, and continue walking on the beach in the morning.

He'd finally make it down to Lemon City on Wednesday night.

He started heading back north on Thursday morning and got back to Palm Beach on Saturday evening, if all went well.

It was a hazardous trip, and the mailman had to cross several inlets on the route including the one at Hillsboro Inlet.

One of the mailmen, Ed Hamilton, disappeared and was apparently drowned or eaten by sharks or alligators in Hillsboro Inlet. His body was never recovered.

The Barefoot Mailman Statue at Hillsboro Inlet

The lonely area that claimed the life of the barefoot mailman has become populated with some of the most expensive homes in south Florida in the past hundred years.

The area immediately north of the inlet along State Road A1A is known as "Hillsboro Mile" and is in the town of Hillsboro Beach.

Some magnificent mansions along this coast stretch from the ocean to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Pompano Beach is to the southwest of the inlet, and Lighthouse Point is to the west.

Pompano Beach is a major Broward County city that gets its name from the pompano, a fish that is plentiful in the ocean near Hillsboro Inlet.

The population of the town is more than 100,000.

There was a small settlement in the area when Henry Flagler's train came to town in 1896.  Since then, the town has been in an almost continual growth pattern.

The town was incorporated in 1908, and is even older than Broward County which came into existence in 1915.

Like most South Florida towns, there are not too many historic buildings that have survived the passage of time.

Sample-McDougald House, Pompano Beach, Florida

One that has is the historic Sample-McDougald House that goes back to 1916.  It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Albert Neal Sample built the house.  He was an early pioneer in this area.  Sample Road is named for him.  He was active in Pompano Beach until his death in 1941.

His heirs sold the home to the McDougald family in 1943, and they lived there for many years and took good care of it.

The home was moved from its original site to Centennial Park in 2001 and today the home serves as a museum and community event venue.

Canal in Lighthouse Point

Lighthouse Point is a small city of 10,000 people on the Intracoastal Waterway immediately west of Hillsboro Inlet.

The community is laced by canals and upscale waterfront homes.  It's proximity to the inlet makes its a prime location for sport fishing.

Large sport fishing boats are prominently displayed in local marinas and docked at waterfront homes.

Hillsboro Beach extends north from the inlet for 3.2 miles along the barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway.

Homes in Hillsboro Beach

Many of the mansion properties extend from the ocean to the Intracoastal.  You can see some huge yachts along this stretch of State Road A1A.

This stretch of mansions is known as "Hillsboro Mile" by some and "Millionaire's Mile" by others.

Of course the centerpiece for this entire inlet area is the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse.

Cap's Place is an Old Florida icon that should be visited at least once by everyone interested in Florida History and the old way of life. 

It is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and people go to Cap's for the ambiance as much as the food.

Cap's is a place that has had it's share of famous visitors. The much traveled Al Capone and movie stars and tycoons have enjoyed its food and drink since it was first opened in 1928.

READ MORE ABOUT CAP'S PLACE

THINGS TO DO IN HILLSBORO INLET, FLORIDA

Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse
907 Hillsboro Mile, Hillsboro Beach, FL 33062 | (954) 942-2102

The Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse, pictured and discussed earlier, is a historic beacon offering stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.

We enjoy the guided tours that take you up the spiral staircase to the top, where you can see panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway.

Visitors like learning about the lighthouse’s history and its role in guiding ships safely through the inlet. The lighthouse grounds are beautifully maintained, providing a serene spot to explore. It’s a perfect outing for families and history enthusiasts.

Hillsboro Inlet Park
2700 N Ocean Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Hillsboro Inlet Park is a scenic park perfect for picnicking and fishing. We like the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful views of the inlet and lighthouse.

Visitors can enjoy the well-maintained picnic areas and the convenient fishing spots along the seawall. The park is a great place for a family outing or a relaxing afternoon by the water.

The playground is a hit with kids, and the shaded areas provide a cool retreat from the sun. It’s a lovely spot to watch boats pass through the inlet.

Pompano Beach Fisher Family Pier
222 N Pompano Beach Blvd, Pompano Beach | (954) 532-9724

The Pompano Beach Fisher Family Pier is a popular destination for fishing and leisurely walks. We like the expansive views of the ocean and the lively atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy fishing off the pier or simply taking a stroll to soak in the coastal scenery. The pier is surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a great spot to spend an afternoon.

It’s a perfect place for families and friends to gather and enjoy the beach. The pier’s design and amenities make it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Pompano Beach Aquatics Center
820 NE 18th Ave, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 | (954) 786-4128

The Pompano Beach Aquatics Center is a top-notch facility for swimming and water activities. We like the Olympic-sized pools and the friendly, professional staff.

Visitors can enjoy swimming laps, taking water fitness classes, or simply enjoying the sun by the pool. The center offers programs for all ages and skill levels, making it a great place for families.

The clean, modern facilities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. It’s a perfect spot to cool off and get some exercise.

Pompano Citi Centre
1955 N Federal Hwy, Pompano Beach, FL 33062 | (954) 943-4683

Pompano Citi Centre is a bustling shopping destination with a wide variety of stores and dining options. We like the open-air layout and the convenient location.

Visitors can enjoy shopping at popular retailers or dining at a range of restaurants, from casual to fine dining. The center often hosts community events and activities, making it a lively and engaging place to visit.

It’s a great spot for a day of shopping, dining, and entertainment. The friendly atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a favorite for locals and tourists alike.

Hillsboro Club
901 Hillsboro Mile, Hillsboro Beach, FL 33062 | (954) 941-2220

The Hillsboro Club is an exclusive private club offering luxurious amenities and beautiful beachfront views. We like the elegant setting and the top-notch service.

Visitors can enjoy the club’s private beach, tennis courts, and fine dining options. The club also offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating and fishing.

It’s a perfect place for a relaxing getaway or a special event. The beautifully landscaped grounds and historic charm add to the appeal.

Pompano Community Park
1660 NE 10th St, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 | (954) 786-4600

Pompano Community Park is a large, well-maintained park offering a range of recreational activities. We like the spacious sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Visitors can enjoy the walking trails, tennis courts, and fitness stations. The park is perfect for a family outing or a day of outdoor fun.

It’s a great place to exercise, play sports, or relax with a picnic. The park’s amenities and friendly atmosphere make it a favorite spot for locals. Dogs are welcome at the included Dog Park.

Sample-McDougald House
450 NE 10th St, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 | (754) 307-5446

The Sample-McDougald House, pictured and discussed earlier, is a beautifully restored historic home offering a glimpse into South Florida’s past.

We like the guided tours that take you through the well-preserved rooms and gardens. Visitors enjoy learning about the history and architecture of the early 20th century.

The house often hosts special events and educational programs, making it an engaging place to visit. It’s a great spot for history buffs and those interested in local heritage. The friendly guides and charming setting make it a delightful experience.

Festival Marketplace
2900 W Sample Rd, Pompano Beach, FL 33073 | (954) 979-4555

Festival Marketplace is a vibrant indoor flea market mall offering a unique shopping experience. We like the wide variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to unique gifts.

Visitors can enjoy the bustling atmosphere and the great deals. The marketplace is perfect for a day of shopping and exploring. It’s a great place to find bargains and discover new items.

The friendly vendors and lively environment make it a fun destination for all ages.