The setting sun painted a breathtaking scene, its golden rays illuminating the pristine shores of Palm Beach. With the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore and palm trees swaying gently in the sea air, the scene seemed surreal and this peaceful setting was much needed. Upon arriving at The White Elephant Palm Beach, I was immediately transported to a bygone era of splendor and luxury. The elegant charm and timeless beauty of this hidden gem immediately took my breath away, making me feel as if I had been immersed in a world where refinement and grace reign supreme.
After checking in, I decided to take a quick tour. As I stepped into the U-shaped courtyard, its stunning beauty immediately caught my attention. This area was charming, with a bold black and white decor that was both elegant and incredibly beautiful.
The layout of the property has been carefully designed to take full advantage of the abundant South Florida sunshine and the courtyard acts as the vibrant focal point of the hotel, creating a lively social atmosphere. Here guests can have a drink, relax and have a good time or relax on the pool terrace. It was an oasis of calm, with lush, native plants creating a serene atmosphere. Immersed in a symphony of vibrant hues and intoxicating scents.
The White Elephant Palm Beach may be small, with just 32 rooms, but it exudes a palpable sense of timeless elegance. Housed in the former Bradley Park Hotel, built in 1924, it has a fascinating past as one of the pioneering resorts on Palm Beach’s Main Street. With a rich history dating back to its days as Colonel Edward R. Bradley’s private Beach Club casino, the hotel has long attracted business magnates and high rollers. Its prime location in Bradley Park has made it a coveted destination for more than a century.
Stepping into my room felt like stepping into a private sanctuary, where luxury and comfort blended effortlessly. The hotel seamlessly combines the comfort of a luxury home with the allure of an exclusive boutique getaway. The design had a chic and modern feel, with a refined color palette, stylish metallic accents, and bold pops of color. The attention to detail in this space was modern and stylish, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
As I leaned back in a comfortable lounge chair, enjoyed a glass of wine and watched some TV, I was overcome with a sense of tranquility, just what I had been hoping for this weekend. The guest room also featured beautifully designed furnishings and a selection of lavish amenities that created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The bathroom was a lavish retreat, adorned with beautiful marble tiles and stocked with luxurious L’Occitane bath products. It provided an ideal escape for some self-care after a busy day of shopping or exploring the great outdoors. Who can resist the allure of a beautiful bathroom, complete with fluffy bathrobes and comfy slippers?
The assortment of modern pop art at White Elephant Palm Beach was also undeniably impressive, carefully selected by the owners and Elkus Manfredi. The hotel had a vibrant and cultural atmosphere, with over 120 unique works of art adorning the rooms and public spaces. With a carefully curated selection of artists such as Robert Rauschenberg and Jennifer Bartlett, the hotel proudly presents a captivating collection of artworks that span different decades and styles. If you have a passion for art, this is definitely something you will appreciate.
During my stay I fully immersed myself in the White Elephant Palm Beach experience, exploring every nook and cranny of the hotel, enjoying delicious meals in the restaurant and exploring the vibrant surroundings. I even invited a friend to come along and together we explored some nearby eateries and pubs.
Yes, there are many restaurants in the area, but nothing compares to dining at Lola 41. The restaurant at White Elephant Palm Beach exceeded all expectations. Inspired by its Nantucket origins, Lola 41 presents a delectable selection of dishes that combine global flavors with locally sourced seafood delicacies. The meals were incredibly good, carefully prepared, and bursting with flavor. The expertly crafted drinks complemented the dishes perfectly and enhanced the overall dining experience.
For those seeking the ultimate in opulence, there are two penthouse suites where elegance knows no bounds. These luxurious accommodations offer ample living space, well-appointed kitchens and balconies with breathtaking views, perfect for entertaining or indulging in opulence.
Additionally, White Elephant Palm Beach offers a variety of complimentary services including beach shuttles, Priority Bicycles, Barton & Gray yachts, and other luxury amenities that add a touch of excitement to every moment. I loved the complimentary sweet treats from the White Elephant ice cream truck that was always by the pool. It was such a nice bonus to my experience.
Finally, I absolutely cannot overlook a major highlight of my experience. From the moment I set foot on the premises, I was graciously given the keys to a sleek and luxurious BMW 7 Series, so that I could drive around the city in the utmost style and luxury all weekend. Who wouldn’t love that? This brilliant complimentary service is offered by the partnership of White Elephant Palm Beach and BMW. For those who prefer not to drive, there is the convenient option of being taken into the city. In addition, the remaining fleet is available for a limited time on a first come, first served basis. Everything was great, except for the annoying phone calls from BMW dealers, which started as soon as I got in the car and continued for about two weeks after my trip. They were very persistent in their attempts to sell me a car.
Overall, this experience was honestly exceptional, with the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation and excitement. There is plenty to do in the area, from shopping to enjoying the beach, which is a short walk or drive away, and a variety of dining options. Palm Beach offers a relaxed and laid back atmosphere, making it an ideal hidden gem that is quiet during the day and a little lively at night. This is definitely the place for those looking for a quiet yet lively getaway.
Evie Blanco, a seasoned entertainment journalist turned travel writer, has had a distinguished career spanning nearly a decade. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the vibrant and diverse borough of Queens, New York, she has experienced the best of both worlds. She is passionate about many forms of aesthetic expression, including contemporary architecture, and is also quite knowledgeable about hip-hop music, culture, and history. Evie enjoys writing about a variety of travel-related topics, including exciting new places to visit abroad, festivals, new family restaurants, and even newly renovated hotels. She can be reached at evieblanco@detourxp.com.
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