A finite element model is developed for the extended Boussinesq equations that is capable of simulating the dynamics of long and short waves. Galerkin weighted residual method and the introduction of auxiliary variables for 3rd spatial derivative terms in the governing equations are used for the model development. The Adams-Bashforth-Moulton Predictor Corrector scheme is used as a time integration scheme for the extended Boussinesq finite element model so that the truncation error would not produce any non-physical dispersion or dissipation. This developed model is applied to the problems of solitary wave propagation. Predicted results is compared to available analytical solutions and laboratory measurements. A good agreement is observed.