by Julie Harron, Global Real Estate Advisor, Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty (Chicago) / One Sotheby’s (Palm Beach), JH Group

Palm Beach - a destination unlike any other - regularly plays host to many of the world’s most discerning tastemakers yet retains a distinctive warmth and charm. The tiny island is home to some and a home-away-from-home to many. For me, Palm Beach always lives up to its legacy of luxury, elegance, and idyllic settings. Even a pandemic can’t diminish the attractiveness of this oasis and I wanted to share some of my best kept secrets... 

Dining Out and Al Fresco
In the time of COVID-19, al fresco dining has taken on a new purpose - it extends beyond the charm of open-air dining with romance and aesthetics, it has now become therapeutic for many. Blessed with wonderful winter and spring weather, Palm Beach was created for outdoor dining! Enjoy a few of my favorites, from breakfast at the Colony, to lunch at Ta-boo, frosé at the newly-opened Lola41, dinner at the unmissable Buccan, and dessert at BiCe! Sant Ambroeus and the Royal Plaza – probably Julie’s favorite backdrop for lunch and the most beautiful scenery to boot. Next on my radar: dinner at La Goulue for New Year’s Eve.

The Lake Trail
Walk, run, or bike the 5.5-mile trail that runs along the island’s western edge, with ever-changing views of the Intracoastal. Enjoy this scenic pathway passing charming homes with tall hedges set against white-washed walls and wooden gates. A cyclist rolls by smiling and nodding as he goes. There’s time to say hello here, and to get a sense of how Palm Beach defies the conventional pace of modern life! 

Insider tips: I love to recommend waking up early, walking the lake trail, and stopping at Celis for a green juice. Remember to always hydrate; bicycles are available for rental on the island, as well.

Worth Avenue
With European sophistication and inimitable style and grace, Worth Avenue is one of the most beautiful shopping venues in the world. Over three blocks, discover an impressive collection of luxury brands and one-of-a-kind boutiques featuring the ultimate in art, apparel, home furnishings, accessories, as well as celebrated dining. The Clock Tower greets you at the entrance of the Avenue. It is a landmark on the island that serves to record memories of a trip to the beach in this archetypal town of posh lifestyle, artsy entourage, and sumptuous mansions. The clock is also intended to be a monument to the Palm Beach Pier which stood on that site before it was destroyed by a 1930 hurricane.

Insider tip: Plan to visit early in your stay...chances are you’ll want to return time and again! Also, don’t forget to walk the enchanting “VIAS” located off of the main street.  

Pop-Ups & Royal Poinciana Plaza 
The Royal Poinciana Plaza is a delightful example of the “Palm Beach style” and allows guests to enjoy pop-up events, sip coffee, or gather (responsibly) with family and friends while shopping or dining. Built in the 1950s, the al fresco plaza today stands revitalized, as a landmarked property and one of Palm Beach’s most treasured architectural gems. With prestigious retail and lush, sprawling gardens, it is the perfect destination for indulgence, inspiration, and retreat. 

Insider tips: Check out events like Shop to Table, a monthly outdoor shopping experience, or a Royal Sweat, a courtyard fitness series running 7 days a week. Another of my favorites this season: Sotheby’s Palm Beach gallery - stop in to preview a rich selection of fine art, design, jewelry, watches, and luxury cars in a curated lifestyle setting, all available for immediate purchase and continuously rotating throughout the coming months. 

The Beach
One of the best parts about going to the island is, of course, the immediate access to the ocean. Public beach access can be found every few blocks along Ocean Boulevard. With the island being only three-quarters of a mile wide, you are never far from the ocean and the water is always warm enough for swimming!

Insider tip: Stay at the gorgeous, newly-opened White Elephant and request a “beach day”...not saying more, just try it!

Near and Dear to my Heart  
The Breakers - a must! Located on the beach, about a mile north of the center of town, this stunning Italian renaissance landmark is the anchor of Palm Beach. Some of my favorite things to do at The Breakers include family beach and pool days by the bungalows, golf tournaments and tennis matches, spa before dinner, and a night at Flagler Steakhouse!
 

Museums: Whitehall is the magnificent mansion that Henry Morrison Flagler built for his third wife in 1901, a short 10-minute walk from The Breakers. Another venerable cultural venue, the Society of the Four Arts hosts regular exhibitions, concerts, films, and speaker series. Over the bridge, The Norton Museum of Art is internationally known for its distinguished permanent collection including 19th and 20th century European, American, and Chinese art. It also features notable photography pieces.

Insider tip: While over the bridge at the Norton Museum of Art, stop at Tammy Fender: the best facialists and all natural products. Add a reflexology foot massage to your next facial!
 
Equestrian and Polo: I love the Winter Equestrian Festival, hosted at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington. Over the three-month season, participants and more than 6,000 horses compete for more than a half billion dollars in prizes. The International Polo Club Palm Beach is also a favorite venue where you can enjoy the excitement of world-class matches.