I recently spent a glorious 48 hours in Palm Beach—and even though my visit was far shorter than I would have liked, I did manage to get in a number of the best things to do in the area. Since I was tight on time, I relied heavily on the recommendations of my good friend Callie Stanton (aka @LaborofLuxury on Instagram)—she’s a Palm Beach regular, and also happens to have the best taste in all things travel.
Below is a recap of my recommendations for hotels, followed by Callie’s suggestions for dining, shopping, drinking, and more. I didn’t have the chance to do everything on her list, but I’m looking at it as the perfect excuse to go back.
WHERE TO STAY IN PALM BEACH
The Pineapple Pad
After seeing this place on Instagram, I just KNEW I had to experience it. If you’re into design—or obsessed with Instagrammable locations—the Pineapple Pad is a must. The 400-square-foot condo, which was designed by influencers/bloggers @PalmBeachLately, is available for rent on VRBO and goes for around $330/night. Everything about it was adorable. It’s great for a couple or two girlfriends, but not big enough for a family as it only sleeps two.
The Breakers
When I took a poll on my IG stories about where to stay in Palm Beach, everyone told me I had to stay at The Breakers. The problem is that they were sold out over my dates, and even if they weren’t—the rates can be insanely expensive. That being said, people swear by the hotel. It’s the epitome of old school luxury. I spent the day here by the pool, then went back for drinks at night—suffice to say I would definitely try and book a room the next time I’m in town.
The Colony Palm Beach
I absolutely LOVED this place. Like a lot of Palm Beach, it has a very old school/retro vibe, so if you’re looking for something more modern, Eau Palm Beach or Four Seasons might be a better fit. Personally, I adored everything about The Colony—from the people watching, to the branded golf cart, to the palm print decor EVERYWHERE. The service was great, and they have Escalades that will take you to and from The Breakers all day for free, which we took advantage of. The crowd was definitely on the older side, but I think that’s par for the course here.
Other Top Hotels That I Didn’t Experience:
– Eau Palm Beach (designed by Jonathan Adler + people say the spa is to die for)
– Four Seasons
– The Brazilian Court
Need help packing for your trip? Check out my Beach Vacation Packing Checklist.
WHERE TO EAT IN PALM BEACH
Buccan
If you only have time for one dinner in Palm Beach, this is the place to go. The food is great and it’s a fun scene.
Stalk them on Instagram: @buccanpalmbeach
Imoto
This is the sister restaurant to Buccan – right next door! Great spot for a sushi dinner or to have drinks after dinner at Buccan.
Stalk them on Instagram: @imotopalmbeach
Palm Beach Grill
A classic Palm Beach stop great for people watching.
Stalk them on Instagram: @thepalmbeachgrill
Renato’s
Perfect romantic spot for a date night; make sure to sit outside in the courtyard.
Stalk them on Instagram: @renatospb
Honor Bar
This spot is still pretty new and one of my favorite lunch places in Palm Beach.
Stalk them on Instagram: @thehonorbarpb
Cafe Boulud
Another great place for people watching located at the Brazilian Court Hotel; sit outside and try at least one of their White Cosmos (their Blood Mary is also delish!)
Stalk them on Instagram: @cafebouludpb
BEST PLACES FOR A DRINK IN PALM BEACH
HMF at the Breakers
Pre or post-dinner drinks here is a definite must-do.
Stalk them on Instagram: @thebreakers
Cucina
This is the famous bar where everyone goes for late night drinks. Not sure what it’s like mid-week but it’s always hopping on the weekend. When I say hopping I mean hopping. Think Rod Stewart climbing on the bar to sing and Billy Joel having a makeout sesh in the corner. They also serve amazing late night pizzas if you have yet to be convinced.
Stalk them on Instagram: @cucinapalmbeach
BEST SHOPPING IN PALM BEACH
Worth Ave
A must-do when you come to Palm Beach – lined with all the usual suspects: Intermix, Saks, Chanel, etc.
C Orrico
A Palm Beach classic with Lilly Pulitzer plus lots of cover ups, jewelry, etc.
Palm Beach Vintage
Always has so many amazing pieces, I can always find something fabulous here.
Stalk them on Instagram: @palmbeachvintage
Lilly Pulitzer
This is their newest store with hand-painted fitting rooms, an interactive pattern designer and—the best —a cocktail bar.
CJ Laing
For the cutest jewelry, cover ups, etc.
Skinny Dip
This recently opened in Palm Beach. Their first was in Nantucket. They have cute sun dresses, jewelry and cover ups. Good stuff for guys too.
Restoration Hardware West Palm
Have lunch at the rooftop restaurant.
Lindroth Design
I LOVE their straw bags and all of their home stuff. Must go here!
Hive (West Palm)
One of the chicest home stores. I always find the best stuff here.
Other highlights: Stubbs and Wootton (for custom smoking slippers), Aerin, the new boutiques at the Royal Poinciana Plaza, Lori Jayne Monogramming (monogram heaven), and Church Mouse is a fab thrift store.
Stoney Clover Lane
The adorable accessory brand’s only brick-and-mortar store where you can personalize pouches, duffels and more with their signature patches. Located at Royal Poinciana Plaza.
Stalk them on Instagram: @stoneyclover
BEST THINGS TO DO IN PALM BEACH + MISC INFO
- Bike ride on the lake trail or beach walk
- Go to the beach!
- Tour The Flagler Museum
- Spa day at The Breakers
- Mary Lily’s at Breakers is a new, yummy ice cream spot.
- Sprinkles is still my favorite ice cream store! It’s a PB icon.
- Gardens at the Society of the Four Arts is so beautiful and would be a good place for pics
- Celis Produce has smoothie bowls if you want to grab something healthy on the go or to have before your flight.
- Christopher’s Kitchen is also a delicious, plant based spot that’s popular, but I would focus on the classics before you dive into this.
- Meraki Juice Kitchen (in West Palm) has yummy, healthy juices, smoothie bowls, etc.
