The Luxe Life: Road Trip to Palm Beach

Destination: Palm Beach

Miles from Naples: 149

Palm Beach has a long history as America’s winter playground, but it’s rather exquisite in summer, too. When the storied Palm Beach social scene comes to a halt, winter residents flock to cooler climates and the locals reclaim their place in the sun.

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The Worth Avenue clocktower.

Why go: Languid days, uncrowded beaches and restaurants, and family-friendly activities abound during the summer months. Plus, Palm Beach’s top hotels offer Florida resident rates that are too good to pass up.

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Fire pit at Eau Palm Beach.

Where to sleep: For seekers of modern luxury, the big story is Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa. Located just south of Palm Beach in Manalapan, this newly reimagined property is reminiscent of the Palm Beach that was—barefoot luxury and unfettered playfulness. Redone by Jonathan Adler, the rooms are not for lovers of beige. Think midcentury-style metallics, fearless splashes of turquoise, and fresh takes on classic patterns. The decor is such eye candy it almost eclipses the view.

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Suite at Eau Palm Beach.

What to doThe Eau Spa is reason enough to make the trek from Naples. The experience begins with a dreamy wishing well and ends with cupcakes and Champagne. Somewhere in between is a scrub-and-polish bar, wicker chairs floating over a water garden, and a Bejeweled facial with, yes, precious stones. It’s not all pampering, either. For the fitness-minded, the SUP yoga class is an exhilarating challenge. With the Atlantic waves in the mix, you’ll definitely feel a sense of accomplishment.

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Eau Spa.

Where to eat: The Palm Beach area has slowly but surely staked its claim on the foodie map, and there is incredible culinary energy in downtown West Palm Beach. The newest hot spot, The Regional Kitchen & Public House by Top Chef finalist Lindsay Autry, opens this summer. Expect regionally sourced ingredients prepared in the chef’s signature Southern style. Other standouts: Jardin, a creative take on seasonal cuisine and craft cocktails in a beautiful courtyard setting, and Grato, a nouveau Italian concept by James Beard–nominated chef Clay Conley.

Crispy Humus with Lemon Aioli Photo Credit South Moon Photography
Crispy hummus with lemon aioli at Jardin. (Photo by South Moon Photography)

On the island, renowned Montreal chef Laurent Godbout serves inspired French-Canadian cuisine at Chez L’Épicier. Summer specials include bottomless moules-frites on Thursdays for $22, which is terrific with a starter like avocado with sesame oil, yuzu, and puffed red quinoa.

Mussels and fries Photo Credit Justin Bruns
Moules et frites at Chez L’Epicier. (Photo by Justin Bruns)

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