Palm Beach, Florida is teeming with life and commerce, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all types to visit at least once in their lives. When going to anywhere new or even familiar, it is always prudent to thoroughly plan when it comes to your transportation and any accommodations you may have in mind, especially in such a busy county.
To, start, you must see Worth Avenue if you're in Palm Beach. This retail and dining district, dubbed an “enchanting resort destination", has some wonderful high-end stores. You'll find high-end classics like Chanel and Gucci, as well as unique boutiques like Kassatly's, which has been open since 1923. If you want to bring home a fully Palm Beach look to take your beautiful vacation with you, don't overlook Lilly Pulitzer.
Let free with some silly buffoonery at the South Florida Fair. Throwback some champagne during Palm Beach International Polo Season, learn the art of the quiet cheer at the Honda Classic, go to Boca Raton and watch the Florida Atlantic University Owls play FBS football at Howard Schnellenberger Field, and root, root, root for the home team at some spring training games—just a few of the annual sports events in Palm Beach County. And going to the Palm Beach International Boat Show and Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction is an absolute necessity while you're here.
If you really want to do the Palm Beach lifestyle, there's polo. Polo, also known as the Sport of Kings, has been played by horse enthusiasts for over 2,000 years. During the high season, South Florida's busiest time of year, the National Polo Center commemorates the historic sport.
The world's best polo players and their ponies compete in Wellington, Florida, known as horse country in Palm Beach County, for 16 weeks out of the year.
While the polo match is the focus of attention, the glamorous social scene that surrounds the sport is also worth noting. The National Polo Center hosts a lavish brunch on Sundays with more than 80 delectable gastronomic options, live entertainment, and free-flowing bottles of Champagne.
Places to Stay in Palm Beach
Classic Opulence By The Ocean
It’s certainly a splurge, but if you can swing it, book a room at The Breakers. This iconic hotel was built in 1896 by none other than Henry Flagler. It is the essence of the old-world elite in Palm Beach. The sprawling resort by the sea is impeccable in every way with a price tag to match, but nothing comes close. Still, if it’s out of your budget, make sure you take the time to at least come for a spa treatment, visit the bar (more on that in a moment), dine, or simply gawk at the splendor.
Modernly Luxurious Seaside
The Breakers is known as an iconic legend, but if you’re looking for new-money style and 5-star resort charm, the Four Seasons Palm Beach is a must. Also on the water, it boasts restaurants with a Michelin-starred chef plus a sommelier that offers expertise in wine as well as water. The accommodations are sumptuous and elegant in a more modern way. Also, with a spa and plenty of activities, you may very well never want to leave. However, those who are keeping to a tight budget should at least schedule some spa time and bask in the glory of the good life.
Luxury On A Budget
We know that not everyone can swing a room that costs $350 to over $1,000 per night. We can all live the dream though! If you want luxury for less, try out the Hilton West Palm Beach, a slick and modern 4-star hotel with an incredible pool, or the Palm Beach Gardens Marriott, which is a little further from the beach but still offers a polished experience and is the secret that business travelers use when visiting this rather pricey zip code.
Dining and Drinking
Taste A Legend
One of the most important places to stop, at the very least for a drink, is Ta-Boo. It’s been a staple on the scene since 1941 and, supposedly, the first Bloody Mary ever was made here for Barbara Woolworth Hutton. It’s a traditional place with an older crowd, but this bistro has all the classics, from crab cakes to steaks and everything in between.
See And Be Seen
Buccan is a favorite among the Palm Beach locals. Buzzy and fresh, it specializes in small plates of inventive flavors. With a menu that changes often to reflect the freshness, there’s something new to taste each time, if you can get in. During the high season, you might be waiting a while, but its sister restaurant Imoto, located just next door, is also a divine choice.
Best Of Both Worlds
Want spectacular Italian and a hip place to hang out at night? Don’t let the daytime visage fool you. Cucina has a stellar brunch and food you’ll love. At night, though, it really comes alive. Once the old crowd goes home and to bed, you’ll find the under-30 gang cranking up the music and having a wild time.
Break-In For The Bar
Remember what we said about The Breakers earlier? Inside is the swanky HMF bar, a nod to Henry Morrison Flagler, the founder. Reservations aren’t accepted, so you’ll have to do your best to grab a table if possible. The wine list is extensive, there are some small bites to tide you over, and a DJ to keep the party going, though this is a place you’ll enjoy best if you like to keep things more calm and sophisticated.
It's Easy to Stay Busy in Palm Beach
Explore Natural Beauty
In 1938, the Botanical Gardens at The Society of The Four Arts was merely to show off the diverse tropical foliage of Palm Beach. These days, though, the gardens are divided into themed spaces to showcase popular styles in the area. There’s the Chinese Garden, the Palm Garden, the Fragrant Moonlight Garden, the Jungle Garden, and the Spanish Façade Garden, just to name a few!
Tour Through History
Once upon a time, Henry Morrison Flagler built his wife Whitehall. This stunning 75-room mansion is a true testament to Palm Beach love. Finished in 1902, it was hailed as more remarkable than any palace in the world. Now known as the Flagler Museum you can wander through it and wish someone loved you enough to build you a home like this!
Sun And Sand
For those choosing a hotel that isn’t on the ocean to save a few bucks, you’ll likely still want to stick your toes in the sand. The best places to do it on this elite island are at Ocean Reef Park, as long as the water is calm, so you can discover the reef. For the best of both worlds, John D. Macarthur Beach State Park is a prime choice for its boardwalk, boating, and snorkeling.
Hit The Links
If you prefer to spend your time on the green, Palm Beach has a plethora of golf courses to choose from. Palm Beach County is home to over 160 picturesque golf courses, ranging from ultra-swanky to more affordable options. You can experience the game on world-class tracks, and golfers of all skill levels will find the greens they seek!
Ready to experience what the rich and famous love about luxurious Palm Beach? Make your plans today and discover it for yourself!
