Need a Vacation? Here's How We Spent a Weekend in Palm Beach
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If you're looking for a place surrounded by history and where nostalgia drips from every corner, let us show you around the beautiful Palm Beaches.
The sun shines bright down on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach. While strolling the famous street, shoppers catch a peek of The Colony Hotel covered in pink paint and dripping with nostalgia. The ocean breeze crosses Golfstream Road and narrowly makes its way through the mansions and bungalows that line every corner of the neighborhood. The area is one of the most famous spots in all of Palm Beach, if not the whole country.
Known as America's winter resort, the charming beach town is tucked away on the southeastern coast of Florida. Here, fame and fortune meet laid back luxury for a dreamy vacation. It's been that way since the town was incorporated in the early 1900s by the famous oil tycoon, Mr. Henry Flagler. Today, more beach bums and well-to-do travelers visit the area than ever before. Depending on what you're looking for, you can slip away into rest and relaxation or see what all the buzz is about in some of the most bustling spots.
With more than a dozen beaches and nearly 50 miles to cover, there are plenty of options for a weekend getaway or an extended stay during high-season. Golf, relaxing by the water, shopping, history, and fancy feasting are some of the things you'll find Palm Beach does best. Country Living visited for a long weekend about town. Follow along to find the best spots for your next stay. Trust us when we say your dream destination awaits you.
Stay & Play at PGA National Resort
If you're looking for a resort that pretty much has it all, PGA National Resort is going to feel like paradise, especially if you have a golf lover with you. As you walk down the halls you'll slowly slip back in time with the style of vintage Palm Beach in ever corner. When you get hungry, head to one of four restaurants on site for a meal that's quick and easy, or a night of fine dining that you'll never forget. For some rest and relaxation, take a dip in the pool with gorgeous views, or visit the renowned spa for a tranquil escape. And what the resort is most known for is the golf. There are six different courses on site, one of them which hosts the PGA National Tour each year. Plus, checkout The Sports and Racquet Club for a game of tennis or pickleball.
Enjoy Lunch at PGA's Honeybelle
Whether you stop by Honeybelle for a casual lunch or make dinner reservations, you're in for a treat. The charming restaurant is led by Chef Lindsay Autry, a three-time James Beard Award nominee. Here is where she blends classic southern dishes with some favored Palm Beach style. The Shrimp Cocktail and FL Shrimp on Toast seem like simple dishes, but they will absolutely change the way you eat seafood.
"The Bear Trap" on The Champion Golf Course at PGA National Resort
Golfers will love visiting one of six courses on the resort. Perhaps the most famous of them all is The Champion, home to the infamous "Bear Trap" which is considered to be one of the toughest stretches of golf on the PGA Tour every year.
Swoon Over Your Supper at The Butcher's Club
A modern steakhouse with a touch of mid-century style, The Butcher's Club offers some of the finest dishes in all of Palm Beach. Each corner of the restaurant looks slightly different with nods to the area's history that almost makes you feel like you're in a museum. Leather booths and dark wood give it an elegant touch, while the knowledgable staff welcome you as if you're visiting an old friend. Make a reservation for dinner and start off with housemade rolls and PGA's famous whipped honey butter. You won't regret it. And if you want to really indulge, order the Wagyu Tomahawk Experience or the Beef Wellington Experience and watch as a chef brings the main course out and prepares it for you tableside.
Get The Beekeeping Expereince
Ever wonder what it's like to be a beekeeper? PGA National Resort is home to more than 200,000 honeybees and their queens. Get a behind-the-scenes look at their hives and honeycombs with a beekeeping pro. The best part? You get to try fresh Florida honey during the tour. And don't worry about bees flying around the resort, they like to stay close to their hives.
Relax at The Ben West Palm
On the other side of town, The Ben in West Palm Beach is another great place to check in. The waterfront boutique hotel has gorgeous views and amazing interiors. While it's luxurious, it's cozy enough to make you feel right at home. Located in the hub of all the happenings, Clematis Street is just a few steps away and it's a quick stroll from Rosemary Square. Go for a swim and relax at the rooftop pool that doubles as a popular bar and cabana area, Spruzzo. Or, stop by happy hour at Proper Grit, one of West Palm's most loved restaurants.
Splash and Sip at The Ben's Rooftop Bar
The Ben is home to West Palm's only waterfront rooftop. Enjoy a poolside cocktail from Spruzzo and see where the night takes you.
Find Something New to Read From the Book Butler
Not everyone thinks of Palm Beach as a literary city but it's where bestselling author and columnist Byrd Spilman Dewey called home. The Ben was inspired by the author and now pays homage to her through the Book Butler Program. Guests are encouraged to ring the Book Butler on the in-room phone and soon, the butler will bring up a complimentary stack of books to flip through during their stay.
Enjoy Happy Hour at Proper Grit
Talk about a Bloody Mary! Proper Grit is one of West Palm's most loved dining spots located on the first floor of The Ben. Sit outside on the patio overlooking the water for a gorgeous and relaxing happy hour.
Where to Eat, Sip, Shop & Play
Enjoy a Meal or Two by The Water at Charlie & Joe's at Love Street
Jupiter is part of the Palm Beach area and a city you don't want to miss. Love Street is known as the Heart of Jupiter and started out as a popular fishing spot for locals in the 1960s. Now, it's where locals still like to hangout and tourists are more than welcome to join. Here, you'll find some of Jupiter's most sought-after restaurants, popular tiki boat tours, activities and everything in-between. If you're making the visit to Jupiter, Love Street is a must.
Shuck Some Oysters
Jupiter's best raw bar is Lucky Shuck, located right on the water along Love Street. It's known for its fresh seafood and craft beer for a fun night out,.
Enjoy Some Sunset Sailing
Embark on a sunset tiki boat cruise with the Love Street Outdoor Center which hosts an array of fun cruises and outdoor activities. Coast along the blue waters and see the Jupiter Lighthouse, float along the Intracoastal, Indian River or Fullerton Island. Watch for manatees, turtles and other wildlife while enjoying the beautiful Florida water. On my tour, the captain pointed out one of Olivia Newton John's former beach houses, which may have been my favorite sight to see along the tour.
Indulge in Dinner, Drinks, and a Dreamy Dessert at Beacon
Along Love Street is Beacon, a swanky chophouse located on the Jupiter Inlet waterfront with some of the best Ahi Tuna I've ever had. While it has fresh seafood that's to die for, it's also known for the bone-in pork chop and pasta dishes. Perhaps the most memorable part of the menu is the dessert options. Executive Pastry Chef Jenniffer Woo creates true artwork out of desserts. Whatever you order, whether it be the Dark Forest or the Meyer Lemon, each plate looks just like the name with a creative and tasty touch.
Mangroves & Mansions Kayak Tour
Want to get an up close look at some of Palm Beach's mega mansions? Hop aboard a kayak with Visit Palm Beach tours for an afternoon of activity. Glide beneath the Royal Palm Bridge, pass some of the area's noteworthy landmarks like the Society of the Four Arts Gardens, Worth Avenue, the Everglades Club, The Breakers Hotel, and the Flagler Museum. And don't forget your sunscreen!
Enjoy a Polo Match at the National Polo Center
Just down the road in Wellington is the esteemed National Polo Center, one of the largest polo centers in the world. Here, they're trying to make a rather traditional sport available to everyone. You'll find eight different championship fields including the iconic stadium on U.S. Polo Assn. Field One. On Sundays, you can buy tickets to the major matches and watch some of the top players in the world compete on Field One. Afterwards, enjoy some fine dining at 7th Chukker or enjoy a drink poolside at Mallet Grille. One step onto the lush property and you'll be ready to learn all about the world of Polo.
Dine at The House Before a Round of Golf
Located on the grounds of a community golf course is one of West Palm's hidden gems known as The House. Inside, the natural wood and white and green color hues make you feel like you're dining in a retro country club, and the floor to ceiling windows overlooking the golf course offer up some great views, too. If you want the feel of an upscale diner that's more approachable with food made fresh by locals, The House is going to be your favorite spot. The restaurant offers brunch and lunch with plenty of options under $20, and a dinner menu that has everything from steak and chicken to Lobster Corndogs and pizza.
Practice Your Swing at The Park
Located in West Palm, The Park is an open golf course for anyone and everyone. Palm Beach is Florida's Golf Capital, so you might as well try your shot at a game while you're visiting! After lunch at The House head over to The Park Shop for some clubs and practice your swing, or, play a full game of golf. Stop by The Cabana for a drink and enjoy the green.
A Shopping Trip and History Lesson All in One at Worth Avenue
Worth Avenue is one of the most popular spots in all of Palm Beach and arguably one of the most exclusive shopping districts in the world. Made famous in the 1930s for its luxurious clothing and tremendous spending, it helped launch some of the biggest names in fashion. It's as much of a piece of history as it is a nice place to stroll on a lazy afternoon. The premier shopping destination stretches four blocks from Lake Worth to the Atlantic Ocean. And if shopping doesn't sound like your ideal way to spend some time, you can take in some of the most gorgeous beach views just across the street, or marvel at the city's historical landmarks like the iconic clock tower, or the Four Arts Gardens just a few blocks down the way.
Create a Custom Shift Dress at Lilly Pulitzer's Flagship Store
While making your way down Worth Avenue, don't forget to stop at Lilly Pulitzer's Flagship Store! The designer and Palm Beach socialite got her start selling dresses after the orange juice stand she ran wreaked havoc on her outfits. A shift dress that was comfortable enough to work in and colorful enough to hide the juice stains became her uniform. It didn't take long for the dresses to become the it girl outfit in just about every beach town in the country. Pop in the Flagship Store to browse the latest pieces and get a glimpse into the designer's history. The best part is the in-house print studio where you can design your own custom shift dress! This is an experience exclusive to the Worth Avenue location that any Lilly fan simply must check out. Pick out your style of dress, print, and lace detailing! A designer will then work their magic to create and deliver your one-of-a-kind dream dress.
Dine for Lunch at The Colony Hotel
The Colony Hotel opened its doors on Hammon Avenue in 1947. To this day it's still one of the most sought after stays in the country with pasts guests including Judy Garland and John Lennon. The hotel is known for its Old Palm Beach style painted in hues of pink and green everywhere you look. Guests lounge by the pool under the famous scalloped umbrellas while locals and loyal visitors enjoy the impressive menu The Colony's popular restaurant, Swifty's. Quite often you'll find locals and tourists stopping in for lunch after a morning of shopping or for dinner and a fun game of bingo.
Wine and Dine at Pink Steak
Though it's a modern steak house, Pink Steak doesn't lose touch of that classic Palm Beach feel. Indulge in a feast of seafood or try the finest steaks from Filet Mignon to Hanger Steak Wagyu. Don't let the main courses distract you though. The list of apps, small plates, and desserts are incredible as well. The Tuna Cones and Coconut Lobster Bisque are some of my favorite items on the menu that I wish I could eat every day! Dining at Pink Steak is about the whole experience. From the whimsical decor to the attentive staff and delicious food, you're going to leave here happy as a clam!
Stroll Through Palm Beach History at The Breakers
The Breakers, standing for nearly 100 years, may just be the epicenter of Palm Beach. Although the famous hotel guests check into now has been open since 1926, its history dates back to the 1890s when Henry Flagler built the original Palm Beach Inn. After not one, but two fires, the hotel reopened as The Breakers and was bigger and better than ever before. It became the prime destination for America's most wealthy and prominent to retreat to during the winter months. Today, travelers still marvel at the grand architecture when they come upon the palm-lined drive and are greeted in the 200-foot-long main lobby with gorgeous hand-painted ceilings. Enjoy breakfast at The Circle, perhaps the most impressive room on the property, or at any of the other 9 dining options on site. Make an appointment for some R&R at the spa and spend some time perusing the shops. A day at The Breakers will leave you feeling like Palm Beach royalty.
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