“May you never be too busy to stop and breathe under a palm tree.” – Unknown
That is precisely what I did last week during our getaway to Palm Beach. This was our first visit to the beautiful Florida enclave, and we were thoroughly impressed with the entire area. Every inch is well maintained and not a blade of grass was out of place.
We stayed at the Breakers, the storied resort originally opened by Henry Morrison Flagler in 1901 as the Palm Beach Inn. According to reviews at the time, “Those who know, say it is the finest resort hotel in America.” I think this holds true today. The Renaissance inspired design, immaculate grounds and luxurious atmosphere transport you to another era.
Since our room was not yet ready upon our arrival we ventured to another famed hotel for lunch, The Colony. Known for its iconic pink flare and gorgeous lobby featuring hand painted wallpaper by de Gournay it’s easy to understand why celebrities, tycoons and royals have made it a destination since 1947. We lunched by the pool at Swifty’s and enjoyed our meal as well as the people watching.
Afterwards, it was a short walk to Palm Beach shopping Mecca, Worth Avenue. We popped into boutiques like Ala Von Auersperg, Roller Rabbit and the flagship Lilly Pulitzer store where we had to pick up some cute items for the girls.
We were lucky with the weather during our stay and enjoyed mostly sunny skies, which meant plenty of beach and pool time. With many to choose from we took advantage of our child-free status and hung by the “adult pool” reading books and sipping a fun drink or two (served in a pineapple of course).
There is no shortage of fine dining in Palm Beach, and we had delicious dinners at Bucaan, La Goulue and the Seafood Bar at the Breakers featuring an actual aquarium bar overlooking the sea view. HMF in the lobby was also a lively spot for a nightcap, and we happened to spot musician, Dave Matthews, one evening. The band was staying at our hotel, so we decided to grab two last minute lawn tickets to the concert, and it was a wonderful decision. Listening to the soundtrack of our high school/college years in a beautiful setting will be a lasting memory.
Our only complaint about the trip was that it ended too soon, and we didn’t have longer to explore. It only means that we’ll plan a return visit and bring our girls along. The resort offers a host of family activities, a kids club and more.
Before departing, I had the opportunity to connect with local photographer, Kendall Mehta, for an impromptu shoot. I highly recommend her when you’re in town for a family or couple session.
Thank you, lovely Palm Beach, for a relaxing refuge! Until next time.
