I think I’m too young to be a snowbird. But after years of talking about it, we did it. We purchased property in Florida. So, I guess I’m now a Palm Beach County snowbird and I’m here to share a few of my favorite things about PBC with you!
How We Got Here
For years my husband I would have the Miami versus Boca (our go-tos) debate as to where we wanted to be during the cold weather months up north. Although we love Miami Beach, we weren’t sure it was right for our needs for the future. Palm Beach County, especially Boca Raton, always held a special place in our hearts, but Boca didn’t feel quite right for us either.
Enter Delray Beach. Although not even a contender in our constant discussions, it turned out to be the perfect place for us. Delray Beach is on the southern end of Palm Beach County, which stretches from Boca Raton in the South to Jupiter in the North. After years of visiting here, we knew Palm Beach County offered endless possibilities for the discerning traveler.
Where to stay:
The Breakers Palm Beach
There is probably no more famous, full service, 5 star property in Florida than The Breakers Palm Beach. The Breakers has everything the well-traveled heart can desire; pristine beach, gorgeous pools, golf, spa, and five-star dining. The guest rooms are elegant and tastefully decorated. Known for its “unapologetic luxury,” the Breakers is the gold standard for luxury hotels.
The Boca Raton
The Boca Raton, formerly known as the Boca Raton Resort and Beach Club, was our family’s home away from home for 18 years. It just underwent a 200 million dollar renovation. Its collaboration with architecture firm, the Rockwell Group, Major Food Group (of Carbone NYC fame) and Colin Cowie at their spa will certainly further elevate this property as THE choice for 5 star accommodations and dining in southern Palm Beach County. The resort is massive and comprised of 5 different hotel options. The architecture is stunning and varied, from Italianate stucco in the main hotel to modern glamour at the Beach Club. If you want to enjoy the golf, restaurants and spa at this resort, you must be a member or guest.
The Eau Palm Beach
Located in Manalapan, just south of Palm Beach, the Eau is the former Ritz Carlton. It is a beautiful property that still feels like a Ritz, with perhaps the most unique and beautiful spa in PBC. Room choice is key here. Always try to book the ocean front rooms, as the ocean view can vary and some can be a bit disappointing.
Restaurants:
Buccan, Palm Beach
A culinary feast. This James Beard nominee never disappoints. The food is fresh and inventive. Nothing typical here in this modern, airy Palm beach eatery. The Sweet Corn Agnolotti is my personal favorite, both light and rich and full of flavor.
Casa L’Aqua, Delray Beach
We visited this lovely Italian restaurant, housed just off of Atlantic Avenue in Delray, several years ago when it first opened. At the time, it was relatively unknown. We met the owners (who hailed from Italy) and were wowed by our meal. I hoped this restaurant would succeed, and succeed it did. Their Scampi Francese is one of the best dishes you will ever taste. Reservations are recommended for this Delray hotspot.
Lola 41, Palm Beach
I’ve mentioned Lola in my Nantucket post. Simply one of the best burgers in the country. Located in the beautiful, new White Elephant Palm Beach, the setting is chic and refined, different from the Nantucket outpost , but just as fabulous.
Sant Ambroeus, Palm Beach
Just exquisite. A perfect Italian meal for the sophisticated palate. I would describe this as special occasion Italian food. Pappardelle alla Milanese is not be missed- homemade saffron pappardelle in a rich, veal Osso Buco sauce- you will savor every last bite.
Trattoria Romana, Boca Raton
Long our favorite restaurant in Boca, if not anywhere, Trattoria Romana is a quintessential Italian restaurant. Expect to wait, even if you have a reservation, but when you finally sit down to eat, you will be rewarded with some of the best pasta dishes on the East Coast. The Veal Chop Romana is a stand out speciality; the chop pounded thin, layered with crispy prosciutto, soft eggplant and gooey cheese. Don’t miss the linguini carbonara, not on the menu, but always at the ready if you’re so inclined.
What to do:
Boating
What better way to see Palm Beach than from your own adorable chartered “mini yacht” at Palm Yachts. Open since June 2021, these chic picnic boats are the perfect way to take in the sights. You can charter these 17 foot Boston Whalers, complete with licensed captain. They offer drop off locations in Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Jupiter.
Hit the beach!
Palm Beach county is home to some of the prettiest and expansive beaches in all of Florida with stunning turquoise waters. There are so many options along the coastline, you will never feel crowded.
Shopping
In the heart of Delray, Atlantic Avenue is the perfect street for a leisurely stroll and to shop and dine. Home to dozens of restaurants from casual to fine dining, and plenty of varied shops and art galleries. Its proximity to the ocean lends to the beachy, casual vibe.
If you’re looking for a shopping mall for a rainy day, look no further than Town Center at Boca Raton. This mall has everything you could ever want and something for everyone.
For a truly luxurious experience, visit The Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach. While many think of Worth Avenue for Palm beach shopping, Royal Poinciana Plaza is unique, whimsical and chic. From Alice and Olivia to Zimmerman, with some Cartier and Hermes sprinkled in between, this shopping plaza is the ultimate in stylish shopping. (Sant Ambroeus, a favorite I list under restaurants, can also be found here). Much more than your typical shopping plaza, the The Royal also hosts a myriad of special events, including Sunset Yoga and outdoor exhibits.
Spa
The Eau Spa at the Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa is one of the most stunning spas I’ve ever been to. It has a modern, sleek look that still exudes tranquility . The outdoor area, with swinging egg chairs over a low water feature, is the ultimate is sophisticated relaxation.
The Spa Palmera at the Boca Raton is the opposite vibe of the Eau, but just as impressive. Newly redesigned by Colin Cowie, the world famous designer and lifestyle guru, it is grand and stunning, with sumptuous tuscan features. You feel as if you are stepping into an Italian villa built for your pleasure and relaxation. Do not miss the Bath Ritual at the Spa Palmera.
For the little ones, be sure not to miss the Palm Beach Zoo. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon when you need a break from the beach!
It is no wonder Palm Beach County is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Florida. It has everything you could possibly want and more.
