Beach & Tourism

A1A, Red Reef Golf Course Still Flooded in Boca Raton; South Inlet Beach Closed to Swimming

by
Daniel Nee
October 28, 2025

Torrential rains on Sunday are still having an effect on Boca Raton despite two days of sunshine. The city’s Recreation Department announced Tuesday that the Alan C. Alford Red Reef Family Golf Course, located along North Ocean Boulevard (A1A) was shut down due to lingering flooding.

The roadway itself is mostly clear, however floodwaters still occupy much of the east shoulder area. The area outside of the travel lanes includes a significant depression, leading some vehicles to occasionally become stuck or flooded if they leave the lanes or attempt to ride in the shoulder. The public works department has posted signs indicating the area may be flooded in some areas.

Flooding along North Ocean Boulevard (A1A) and the Alan C. Alford Red Reef Family Golf Course, Oct. 28, 2025. (Photo: Boca Daily News)

Meanwhile, just to the south, South Inlet Park was closed after water testing by the state Department of Health of Palm Beach County showed elevated bacterial levels in the water. The heightened bacteria levels are likely linked to the storm, since runoff from roadways and landscapes often contributes to a rush of water into the inlet.

“For the safety of residents and visitors, swimming is prohibited until further notice, however, the park and beach will remain open,” the city stated in an announcement. “This swim advisory does not apply to any City of Boca Raton beach parks.”

South Inlet Park, Boca Raton, FL. (Photo: Boca Daily News)

The water at South Inlet Beach was tested Monday, Oct. 27, according to Health Department data. A “poor” rating, necessitating a beach closure, is posted when there is 70.5 or greater Enterococcus colony forming units per 100 ml of marine water. The water is normally retested the following day.