Just a bit to the north of Fort Lauderdale is Hillsboro Beach, a small beachfront hamlet named for the Earl of Hillsborough, who served as Secretary of State for the American Colonies from 1768 to 1772. In return for his service, the Earl of Hillsborough was rewarded by the King of England with a large grant of land in Florida (since the area was an English possession at that time). He was given ownership of a parcel of land in South Florida along the east coast, which included an inlet from the open water to the interior. Part of this land is now known by the shortened name of Hillsboro and includes the adjacent Hillsboro Inlet. It is located on a small peninsula just north of Pompano Beach, extending just over 3 miles up to Deerfield Beach, with Lighthouse Point to its west (across the Intracoastal) and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Officially settled in 1922 and then incorporated as a town in 1939, today the population of Hillsboro Beach (according to the 2010 census) is a mere 1,875.

Hillsboro Beach real estate enjoys a virtually unspoiled landscape of pristine beaches and lush tropical landscaping. Considered one the most elite addresses along the Gold Coast, the 3.2 miles along State Road A1A includes an exclusive stretch known as “Hillsboro Mile” (often referred to as “Millionaire’s Mile”), where secluded waterfront lots feature some of the most luxurious and stately homes in the area. This idyllic waterfront community is home to these gorgeous homes and luxury condominiums, many offering both prestigious oceanfront locations and prime Intracoastal dockage. Though awash with the feel of an island-like haven, Hillsboro Beach is still just minutes from world-class dining and shopping, with quality golfing nearby, and ample opportunities for water sports, as well.

One of the most popular and historic landmarks in town is the majestic Hillsboro Lighthouse. The light marks the northern limit of the Florida Reef, an underwater coral formation along the southeast coast of the state. In 1901, the United States Lighthouse Establishment persuaded Congress to authorize the construction of a light in the dark area between the Jupiter Inlet Light (approximately 50 miles to the north), and Fowey Rocks Light, located 7 miles south of Cape Florida on Key Biscayne. The octagonal iron tower was built by Russel Wheel & Foundry Co in Detroit, Michigan, moved to the Hillsboro Inlet Light Station in 1906, and officially lit on March 7, 1907. It was automated in 1974, and the light acts as both a coastal navigational aide and a support to local water traffic. Hillsboro Inlet Light is now considered one of the most powerful lights in the world, with a beam that can be seen for 28 nautical miles (32 mi). In 2003, the US Postal Service honored the Hillsboro Inlet Light with its own 37¢ postage stamp.

In the second half of the 20th century, the Hillsboro Inlet became an increasingly busier waterway due to a rise in South Florida’s population and word spreading of its wonderful recreational and commercial boating opportunities. The Inlet serves as one of the main points of entry between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean. Proximity to the inlet makes waterfront real estate in this area highly coveted.

To learn more about real estate in beautiful Hillsboro Beach or other fine South Florida communities, contact The Gayle Borden Group at 954-525-3355. We look forward to hearing from you!