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The ultimate guide to Palm Beach

Welcome to Palm Beach – an oasis of leisure and luxury on the white sands of Florida’s sparkling East Coast.

The American East Coast’s rich and famous have long flocked to the serene, sun-kissed shores of Palm Beach. The peaceful atmosphere, year-round sunny weather, distinctive design style (think scalloped edges, lush foliage and a vibrant colour palette) and excellent hotels and dining are just a few reasons to follow in their footsteps.

Where to stay in Palm Beach

As the storied resort destination that it is, the hotels are the beating heart of Palm Beach. “Snowbirds" (aka Northern East Coast dwellers from places like New York City and Boston who fly south for warmer weather in the winter) are known to spend months at some of these iconic hotels.

The Breakers

Henry Morrison Flagler founded The Breakers in 1896 – the first oceanfront resort in the area at the time – with hopes of turning Palm Beach into America’s edition of the French Riviera.

an aerial view of the pool at The Breakers, Palm Beach
The Breakers was the first oceanfront resort in the area.

There’s no doubt that Palm Beach indeed became a locale synonymous with leisure and luxury, just as Flagler had envisioned, and that The Breakers was an important first step towards this destiny.

Henry's Palm Beach at The Breakers
Dine at Henry’s Palm Beach at The Breakers.

As you first approach the grand, Italian-Renaissance-style hotel along the long driveway and step into the palatial foyer, the sense of history is palpable. The tall, vaulted ceilings draw the eye up to intricate, hand-painted details on the ceiling. The hotel’s extensive 56 hectares includes 10 (ten!) restaurants, first-class shopping, four pools and a golf course.

the Palm Courtyard at The Breakers, Palm Beach
Wind down in the Palm Courtyard.

The Colony

The Colony Hotel embraces playful maximalist design in a way that is quintessential Palm Beach.

the building exterior of The Colony, Palm Beach
The Colony Hotel is magical from the moment you arrive. (Image: Lesley Unruh)

The playful, sunny effect begins from the exterior, the building awash in soft millennial pink. The hand-painted, custom de Gourney wallpaper in the lobby is loaded with nods to the Palm Beach way of life.

the living room interior of The Colony, Palm Beach
Marvel at the hand-painted, custom de Gourney wallpaper. (Image: Carmel Brantley)

An excellently crafted partnership is around every corner at The Colony Hotel, from the guest room’s Society Social furniture (all of which is available for purchase) to the Dyson hair care tools in the bathroom. The charm carries you all the way out the door to Swifty’s, the hotel’s poolside restaurant and another certified Palm Beach it-spot that you can’t miss.

the Swifty's at The Colony Hotel, Palm Beach
Dine at the poolside Swifty’s. (Image: Carmel Brantey)

The Brazilian Court Hotel

Palm Beach’s boutique hotel spotlight is often focused on trendier spots like The Colony or the White Elephant Hotel, but The Brazilian Court Hotel deserves more recognition.

the lobby of The Brazilian Court Hotel, Palm Beach
Step into the elegant atmosphere of The Brazilian Court Hotel.

Elegant and timeless, stepping into the palm-fringed courtyards of this hotel truly feels like stepping out of time. There is a distinct unbothered European atmosphere to the hotel and a solid contingent of returning guests come back annually for it.

a hand holding a glass of cocktail at the lobby of The Brazilian Court Hotel, Palm Beach
Sip classic cocktails in the luxurious lobby.

Plus, an excursion in an Italian Solaris Power Yacht with up to eight fellow guests (but often less) is a complimentary amenity, which truly puts other hotels’ boasts of fast wi-fi and thin slippers to shame.

empty chairs at Lily's Pool Bar, The Brazilian Court Hotel, Palm Beach
Pull up a chair at Lily’s Pool Bar.

Where to eat in Palm Beach

Cafe Boulud

The dining and hospitality scenes are closely intertwined in Palm Beach, so it’s no surprise that the best food I tasted in town was at Cafe Boulud tucked away in The Brazilian Court Hotel.

the al fresco dining at Cafe Boulud
Dine al fresco in the sunny courtyard of Cafe Boulud. (Image: AJ Woomer)

Sitting in the sunny courtyard, every dish that hit the table dazzled the senses. The salmon crudo was tossed with a bright lemony sauce and studded with poppy seeds. The shrimp and mango salad was tossed with chilis and bursting with flavour. The dessert was delicate and thoughtful, pairing flavours masterfully, and served up with a complimentary side of fresh, mini madeleines.

afternoon tea at Cafe Boulud
Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea at Cafe Boulud.

But if I only had to pick one dish to try, I would have to go with the Britany Dover sole, which was presented unadorned on the plate, then bathed tableside with a stunning herby, buttery sauce. All paired with a crisp cool glass of Sancerre, this dining experience is pure heaven.

a table-top view of a Dover Sole dish at Cafe Boulud, Palm Beach
Don’t pass up the chance to try the Dover sole at Cafe Boulud. (Image: Bronwyn Knight)

El Segundo Tacos and Tequila

The perfect lowkey taco joint for post-beach dinner and a cold drink. Despite being sandy and sunburned, the friendly staff makes you feel welcome immediately upon setting foot in their cheerful patio, decked with string lights and colourful floating umbrellas.

The house margarita is very good, and it’s only five dollars ($7.60). The menu serves up creative flavours that go beyond the typical wheelhouse of a casual taco joint. Don’t miss the pimiento cheese elote dip and the brisket burnt ends taco.

Buccan

Buccan is definitely a buzzy, scene spot, but not at the expense of a warm and welcoming staff. With James Beard Award nominee Chef Clay Conley at the lead, seasonal fare rotates in and off the menu, while some classic dishes stay consistent. A reservation is highly recommended in advance.

a close-up shot of Maine lobster arrabbiata dish at Buccan
Buccan rotates its menu seasonally.

What to do in Palm Beach

Hit the beach

Let’s start with the obvious. You came here to enjoy that turquoise water and fine white sand. I recommend the beach access at Clarke Avenue to enjoy a well-kept public beach just south of The Breakers.

Worth Avenue Clock Tower on Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida
It’d be a crime not to enjoy the beach in Palm Beach. (Image: Crystal Bolin Photography via Getty Images)

Norton Museum of Art 

The sun-dappled, sculpture-studded courtyards of the Norton Museum of Art are a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. The museum’s works are showcased indoors and outdoors – an impressive collection spanning from oil paintings by Claude Monet to sculpture by Pablo Picasso.

the exterior of Norton Museum of Art, Palm Beach
The Norton Museum of Art is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. (Image: CJ Walker)

The Restaurant at the Norton is a lovely place to enjoy a sweet honey lavender tea and salmon crudo and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

the interior of Norton Museum of Art, Palm Beach
Step into the newly transformed Norton Museum of Art. (Image: CJ Walker)

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Shopping

Palm Beach is known for its excellent shopping. Worth Avenue is something of the beating heart of Palm Springs, and the perfect place to begin shopping expeditions.

the Palm Beach, Florida, USA at Worth Ave.
Worth Avenue is the beating heart of Palm Springs. (Image: Sean Pavone via Getty Images)

Don’t miss Lycette Designs, a cheery shop for all things needlepoints. For characterful antique shopping, start at Circa Who and explore the nearby antique shops.

the shop interior of Lycette Designs, Palm Beach
Head to Lycette Designs for all things needlepoints. (Image: Capehart Photography)

As you walk around, keep an eye out for dazzling orchids nestled among the branches of live oaks and coconut – a typical Palm Beach hallmark.

Worth Avenue, Palm Beach, Florida
Wander Worth Avenue. (Image: Sean Pavone via Getty Images)

Kayak at John D MacArthur Beach State Park

This beautiful state park will take you several steps away from the bougie resort vibe in Palm Beach and immerse you in Florida’s natural beauty – a glimpse into a time before coastal development. Renting a kayak is the perfect way to explore.

kayaking at John D MacArthur Beach State Park, Palm Beach
Go kayaking at John D MacArthur Beach State Park.

How to get to Palm Beach

Option 1: Fly into Palm Beach International Airport, which connects to many of the major cities on the East Coast such as Chicago or New York City.

an aerial view of Palm Beach, Florida
Fly into Palm Beach. (Image: Crystal Bolin Photography via Getty Images)

Option 2: Fly into Miami and train the rest of the way. I recommend the Brightline train, which has an airport shuttle that can transport you to the station. The stations are impressively clean and convenient, and the ride from Miami to Palm Beach breezes by in a quick hour and 15 minutes.

towering palm trees at Palm Beach, Florida
Drive along the towering palm trees. (Image: Tessa Edmiston)

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12 grand journeys throughout North America

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    Discover North America’s epic adventures — from Route 66 and Alaska cruises to Hawai‘i road trips, NYC culture, Mexico trails and more.

    1. Route 66, the Main Street of America

    Travelling with: Ricky French

    Sunset on Route 66 in the California Mojave Desert.
    Hit the open road and trace America’s legendary highway. (Image: Getty/Der_Thomasa)

    Dubbed the Main Street of America, Route 66 radiates serious main character energy, cemented into popular culture through everything from John Steinbeck’s novel The Grapes of Wrath to the Disney Pixar film Cars. Spanning nearly 4000 kilometres from Chicago to Los Angeles, the historic highway celebrates its centenary next year, a timely invitation to take the mother of all road trips along the Mother Road. Allow two to three weeks to tackle the full length, or bite off a smaller chunk at either end, cruising the dramatic deserts of California or the more pastoral landscapes of Illinois, lined with neon-lit diners, retro gas stations and quirky roadside attractions.

    2. Mexico’s Día de los Muertos

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    emblematic catrina of mexico with flowers and necklace with sempasuchil flowers
    Celebrate life and honour loved ones in vibrant style. (Image: Getty/Fabian Pacheco)

    You might know Oaxaca as the birthplace of mole and mezcal. But the state in southern Mexico is also where the Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) began. Time your visit to coincide with the colourful holiday, on 1–2 November, which honours and celebrates loved ones who have passed away. Oaxaca is also Mexico’s Michelin-starred culinary capital, with 18 restaurants and a humble taco stand listed in the 2025 guide.

    3. Museum-hop in New York City

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    The Guggenheim Museum’s iconic spiralling exterior, a highlight of North America Epic Adventures.
    Step inside and marvel at bold, world-class art. (Image: Damiano Fiore)

    Your map app will look like it’s been scattered with confetti after you’ve dropped pins on all the museums you want to visit in New York City. Must-sees are the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art aka the Met, and the Museum of Modern Art. The American Museum of Natural History is also a draw. It’s also worth venturing into the boroughs to browse institutions such as the Brooklyn Museum, which has a huge permanent collection categorised by culture.

    4. The USA’s music scene

    Travelling with: Elizabeth Whitehead

    The Seattle skyline at night, aglow with city lights on North America Epic Adventures.
    Soak up skyline views and dive into the city’s coffee culture. (Image: Abigail Boone)

    If you’re a muso, chances are you’ve wanted to make a pilgrimage to the United States, the epicentre of so many beloved genres. Whether you’re head-banging your way around the Grunge Circuit in Seattle, chasing the twang of the pedal steel through Tennessee or bouncing between blues bars in the Mississippi Delta, the USA’s rich music culture has something that’ll strike a chord.

    5. Road-tripping Hawai‘i

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    A woman surfing in Hawaii, gliding across turquoise waves on North America Epic Adventures.
    Catch the waves and ride Hawaii’s iconic swells. (Image: Ben Ono)

    Hawai‘i is one of the most diverse US states to road trip around. Of the six major islands to visit, the Island of Hawai‘i packs in everything from the snowy summits of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to black-sand beaches and lava fields frozen in the act of flowing forward. Change down a few gears on the island of O‘ahu, too, where you can find your own patch of sand on Waimanalo Beach. Visit poi and pineapple plantations. And hang ten on beginner-friendly waves on the North Shore.

    6. Cruising Alaska

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    Explora Journeys ship cruising in Alaska.
    Sail past glaciers and spot whales in pristine waters.

    Seeing Alaska from the sea allows you to cover a lot of distance quickly. This immersive frontier now beckons more than ever before with Explora Journeys adding the American state to its global destination portfolio. Best of all are the pre-and post-journey immersions that connect the luxury of a cruise onboard Explora III with the rugged grandeur of the Alaskan interior. UnCruise Adventures also weaves in access to remote national parks, legendary wildlife corridors and authentic cultural experiences on its Alaskan itineraries.

    7. The Wixárika Route in Mexico

    Travelling with: Elizabeth Whitehead

    People journeying through the Wixarika Route.
    Journey deep into sacred Huichol traditions and art.

    For generations, the Indigenous Wixárika People of Mexico have walked a sacred path known as Tatehuarí Huajuyé, or ‘The Path of Our Grandfather Fire’. The annual pilgrimage route spans 500 kilometres, taking in significant sites in Wixárika spirituality and cosmology. The route passes through the deserts, mountains and forests of northern Mexico before reaching Wirikuta, believed to be the place the sun first emerged. The route is a living cultural landscape of Indigenous culture pre-Columbian influence and, in July this year, was formally inscribed into UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

    8. Drive the Iceberg Coast in Canada

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    Iceberg off the east coast of Canada
    Chase icebergs along Expedition 51 on Canada’s east coast. (Image: Canadian Tourism Commission/ Chris Hendrickson)

    Download the icebergfinder.com map to better plan your road trip along Canada’s Iceberg Coast. The new highway, which has been nearly 25 years and CAD$1.1 billion in the making, threads through the country’s pleated coastlines around Quebec, Newfoundland, Labrador, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick before looping in the French islands of St Pierre and Miquelon. As well as chasing icebergs along Expedition 51, travellers will have the opportunity to engage with cultures that have thrived in the pristine provinces for thousands of years.

    9. A foodie tour of Nova Scotia

    Travelling with: Katie Carlin

    Lunenberg Nova Scotia
    Try lobster rolls in Lunenburg on the east coast of Canada in Nova Scotia. (Image: Natalia Kvitovska/ Unsplash)

    World-famous for its lobster, Nova Scotia is a Canadian province best savoured through its culinary clout shaped by sea and terroir. Bite into lobster rolls at historic Lunenburg’s Salt Shaker Deli & Inn and sip maple rum at Ironworks Distillery. Winery-hop around Wolfville’s rising vineyards (don’t miss Lightfoot & Wolfville). Take a maple syrup tour at Sugar Moon Farm near Earltown. And pull up a seat at waterfront Bar Sofia in Halifax, where Nova Scotia oysters aguachile arrive bright with cucumber, lime and pickled onion.

    10. Soak up the sun in the Caribbean

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    Overwater bungalows off a beach in the Caribbean
    Experience the white-sand beaches and cerulean seas of the Caribbean on board a cruise.

    The Caribbean is on the radar for seasoned cruisers. And it’s easy to see why, with white-sand beaches, cerulean seas and swaying palms so picture-perfect they look AI-generated. Cruise with Windstar, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity on its inaugural Xcel season to the Caribbean to enjoy action-packed excursions such as snorkelling coral reefs and shopping for local trinkets. And those sea days? Spectacular.

    11. Red Chair Hikes of Canada

    Travelling with: Kassia Byrnes

    Red Adirondack chairs overlooking Lake Minnewanka in Canada
    Take a seat at Lake Minnewanka, one of more than 400 red Adirondack chairs scattered across Canada’s hiking routes. (Image: Getty Images/ Autumn Sky Photography)

    No one appreciates the great outdoors more than Canadians, emerging from snow-covered winters to tread glacial rivers and snowshoe through forests, or to hike mighty mountains and wildflower-strewn valleys come spring. Along popular hikes around the country, more than 400 red Adirondack chairs have been placed in peaceful, breathtaking locations. What started as a social media contest now sees hikers soaking in classic Canadian lake and mountain vistas, overlooking historic sites or gazing down on the mountainous path they just travelled.

    12. Ride the Rocky Mountaineer from Denver to Moab, USA

    Travelling with: Carla Grossetti

    Sweeping views from the Rocky Mountaineer.
    The Rocky Mountaineer will continue as the Canyon Spirit in 2026, seen here carving through Ruby Canyon.

    Sighting wild animals is one of many incredible thrills along the two-day luxury Rockies to the Red Rocks route onboard the Rocky Mountaineer across America’s Southwest between mid-April and mid-October. In addition to the lone bear, we spot bighorn sheep, elk, beavers, pronghorn antelope, bald eagles and ospreys. Riding the rails onboard the luxury train, which was founded in Canada in 1990 and has been awarded the prestigious World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train several times, has never been about just getting from A to B. Ride the train from Denver to Moab and you will see the scenery change from snow-capped peaks to meadows, red-rock canyons and soaring cliffs that resemble ornate Gaudí-esque cathedrals. But it’s not until you get off the train that you can produce the ultimate Venn diagram, with nature and adventure in the intersecting spheres.