Palm Beach isn't your grandparents' vacation.
Then again...maybe it is, at least in a way. Palm Beach is one of America's original resort destinations. Built up by Florida oil magnate, Henry Flagler, Palm Beach was meant to be the getaway to end all getaways.
Flagler connected the barrier island to the Florida coast with a railway and then established two resort hotels: the Royal Poinciana Hotel and The Breakers Hotel. The rest of the island was then filled with mansions-including Flagler's own.
Throughout the years, the incredible opulence of early Palm Beach waned into a more typical American beach vacation location with all of the good clean fun one might have expected from 50's beach party movie.
Yet, because this is the Florida coast, the vibe has always been a little more Parrothead than surfer. Jimmy Buffett even owns three homes in Palm Beach, if you're looking for one fact to tell you everything you need to know about how relaxed of an atmosphere this town can create.
So, to be honest, if you're looking for your grandparents' vacation, Palm Beach has the sort of history, relaxation, nostalgia and different levels of luxury that countless generations of vacationers have searched out and found in abundance in Palm Beach.
For the younger crowd-including those young at heart-Palm Beach has also been reinventing itself over the past few years as one of the most hip, incredibly playful, adventure-focused and highest-end resort destinations. In many ways, it's becoming for 2019 and beyond, exactly what Mr. Flagler had in mind over a century ago.
What to Do:
Catch a Concert: Between Coral Sky Amphitheatre in West Palm and number of nearby venues in Boca Raton and elsewhere, there is always a quality musical act in a quality location. This summer, catch acts like Sublime (with Rome), O.A.R., Rob Thomas or Rascal Flatts.
Take in a Polo Match: With ultraluxe roots like Palm Beach has, it's no surprise that there's a history of great polo talent. You can spectate at the International Polo Club in nearby Wellington or even take a lesson to learn from some of the best.
Detour to the African Savanna: Crank up Africa by Toto (or the recent Weezer cover) and head to Lion Country Safari which is a drive-through safari experience that is not to be missed. Pro Tip: Even though it's a drive-through, there is plenty of walking to do, so dress weather appropriate.
Where to Stay:
The Original: The aforementioned Breakers was founded in 1896 and is just as luxurious so many years later. Feel free to bring the kids, because The Breakers meshes their top-notch service with plenty to do for guests of all ages.
Golf Junkies Unite: Just about anywhere you stay in this area of Florida is going to have great golf nearby, but none can lay claim quite like PGA National Resort & Spa. It's hosted PGA Championships and Ryder Cups, and your foursome could be next! Oh, and not for nothing...the hotel, spa and dining are all just as world class as the course.
Connect with Nature: Lion Country Safari has its very own KOA, which could be the most thrilling stay of your life! If you're looking for something just a little more tame, John Prince Park Campground has reasonable rates and a ridiculous amount of wildlife and hiking/biking trails.
What to Eat:
Go Resort Chic: Whether you're staying at a high-end resort or not, there's tremendous opportunity to take advantage of some amazing dining option. Eau Palm Beach Resort has a number of excellent options, including Temple Orange which will transport you to the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, The Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach offers Florie's, a restaurant in partnership with three-Michelin-starred chef, Mauro Colagrec. Get the burrata and thank me later.
Make a Reservation for Al Fresco: Some of my family's best memories are at Guanabanas in Jupiter, Florida. Part restaurant, part Swiss Family Robinson-style treehouse, it's a great place to grab a drink and some appetizers or a full meal. Then again, if you're looking to eat outside, Palm Beach literally has a restaurant named "Al Fresco" with awesome Italian fare.
When to Go:
Visit the Boys of Summer Spring: With a number of Major League Baseball teams calling the Palm Beach area home for spring training, fans of all ages (and even those who rarely sit through nine whole innings) will love the intimate atmosphere and All-American fun to be had in February and March each year. Pack an extra bag just for the autographs and merchandise!
Party Like a Local: Summer in Florida can be unbearable. The thing is: Floridians know that and plan all of their best celebrations for when tourists can't take the heat! Take advantage of off-season or shoulder-season rates at some amazing resorts and enjoy events like SunFest (a music festival in May), 4th on Flagler which is one of the country's largest Independance Day festivals or the Palm Beach Beer Fest which is well worth the price of VIP Admission.
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