Though travel has looked very different for most of us the last year, that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t take the time to explore, discover, and/or relax in a new place. I was reminded of this when I did a weekend staycation in Palm Beach, a mere 90-minute drive from Miami (where we briefly relocated at the end of 2020). The pandemic shifted our travel rhythms, but it also opened the door to local escapes—rediscovering the hidden gems right in our own backyard. A short drive can still yield a world of luxury, tranquility, and rejuvenation. For anyone craving a reset without the hassle of airports and international travel, a Palm Beach getaway offers the perfect blend of coastal beauty, upscale amenities, and effortless relaxation.
While the towns of Palm Beach and West Palm Beach certainly have their charms, the most of our weekend was spent at the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, which invited us for a 3-day stay in January. And to be honest, our stay couldn’t have come at a better time. Nestled on seven acres of lush tropical gardens along the Atlantic Ocean, the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa is a Forbes Five-Star property that epitomizes refined elegance. From the moment you pull into the porte-cochere, you’re enveloped in a world of attentive service and thoughtful details. The resort’s Mediterranean-inspired architecture, adorned with coral-pink hues and sweeping arches, immediately sets the tone for a restful escape.
It goes without saying that 2020 was an exceptionally tough year for all of us for myriad reasons. Covid-19, as well as the subsequent losses, lockdowns, and dips in the economy, made this a year of sadness and a year of strife. But the very fact that I’m writing this blog post in 2021, with both my health and my wits intact, represents a year of survival. A getaway at Eau was the perfect way to celebrate. The resort had implemented comprehensive health and safety protocols, allowing guests to enjoy its luxury with peace of mind. Social distancing was effortlessly maintained in the sprawling common areas, and sanitization stations were tucked discreetly around every corner. This attention to safety, combined with the serene environment, made it possible to truly let go and immerse in the moment.
Eau Palm Beach Resort and Spa is a luxury property with loads of amenities (see the “spa” in its name) and its own private beach. Our large, well appointed room had a view of both the pool and the ocean. The accommodations at Eau are nothing short of spectacular. We stayed in a Deluxe Oceanfront Guest Room, which featured a spacious layout, a king-sized bed draped in Frette linens, and a marble bathroom with a deep soaking tub. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the turquoise waters, and a private balcony provided the perfect spot for morning coffee while watching the sunrise. The room’s neutral palette with pops of seafoam green and coral echoed the coastal surroundings, creating a soothing sanctuary. The over-sized closet and ample storage made unpacking effortless, and the state-of-the-art technology allowed us to control the climate, lighting, and curtains with a touch of a button.
I was treated to a facial at their serene spa and devoured sumptuous breakfasts and dinners at the Temple Orange, one of several restaurants found on property. The Eau Spa is a 42,000-square-foot wellness haven that lives up to its name. Upon entering the Spa Garden, you’re greeted by a whimsical amphitheater of flowering plants, a reflection pool, and a signature “Whim” element that encourages whimsy and relaxation. My facial was a customized experience using organic EviDenS de Beauté products, leaving my skin glowing and my mind completely at ease. The spa also offers a hydrotherapy circuit, including a eucalyptus-infused steam room, a sauna, and an experience shower—all included with any treatment. For meals, Temple Orange became our favorite spot for breakfast; the guava-filled pastries and the eggs benedict with smoked salmon were particularly divine. Dinners there matched the elegance of the setting, with fresh catches like yellowtail snapper and a decadent chocolate fondant for dessert. The resort’s other dining options—such as the poolside Breeze Ocean Kitchen and the Japanese-inspired Angle & Sushi—provided variety for every craving.
And most importantly, I got to spend some relaxing quality time with my husband and daughter, who had just turned 1 the previous weekend. The resort proved surprisingly family-friendly, with a kids’ club, a children’s pool, and thoughtful amenities like a rented baby bathtub and a mini-robes. We spent lazy afternoons on the private beach, building sandcastles while the waves lapped at our feet. My husband and I took turns stealing away for a swim in the adult pool, while our little one napped in the shaded cabana. In the evenings, we ordered room service and watched the sunset from our balcony—a simple, priceless luxury. This blend of adult indulgence and family togetherness made the stay feel balanced and deeply fulfilling.
At the end of last year, I promised myself that I would prioritize self-care in 2021. This getaway to the Eau allowed me to do just that, and was a great reminder that a vacation doesn’t require hopping on a plane or spending long days exploring. Sometimes, the best vacations are the ones where you let relaxation, luxury, and indulgence take center stage. Whether you’re a local seeking a quick escape or a traveler looking for a longer stay, the Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa embodies the art of the staycation—one that heals, renews, and reminds us of the simple joys of being present with loved ones. As I returned to Miami with a sun-kissed glow and a lighter heart, I knew this was a promise I would keep.