The Breakers Palm Beach
Address: 1 S. County Road, Palm Beach
The allure: The legendary luxury hotel founded in 1896 by Henry Flagler continues to celebrate its 125th anniversary year in grand style. The resort’s annual commitment to invest $25 million into the 140-acre property resulted in several projects completed amid the pandemic, including a 10th restaurant (the off-site Henry’s), redesigned poolside bungalows, room renovations to the North Tower, and Main Street by The Breakers (a café/boutique experience). The Beach Club, alone, is worth the visit with its four pools, five whirlpool spas, private beach, access to watersports, restaurant, and aforementioned bungalows. Of course, there’s also a world-class spa, golf, shopping, and architectural eye candy everywhere you look.
Isn’t that special: Through Sept. 30, the fabled resort boasts complimentary daily benefits as part of a stay. Among the highlights: Breakfast buffet for all staying at The Circle or The Beach Club; free meals for children ages 12 and under; unlimited access to the ocean fitness center and outdoor exercise classes; unlimited tennis court time; and no resort fee. Want to extend your getaway? The Breakers is sweetening the pot with a free sixth night for those already staying more than five consecutive nights (good through Dec. 16). Rates start at $465 per night.
Contact: 833.777.8381; thebreakers.com
Hawks Cay Resort
Address: 61 Hawks Cay Blvd., Duck Key
The allure: Touted as the most expansive property in the Florida Keys, Hawks Cay promises a turnkey vacation experience that’s built around the life aquatic. Think paddleboard and kayak rentals, group reef snorkeling tours, sunset and happy hour cruises, private boating excursions, and offshore and flats fishing charters. There’s even an opportunity to learn about and swim with bottlenose dolphins. Accommodations include 177 rooms, 250 two- and three-bedroom villas. Clients have access to five swimming pools, a saltwater lagoon, and six different dining/bar options.
Isn’t that special: Hawks Cay is saluting our military (past and present), police officers, firefighters and medical personnel with discounted room rates between Aug. 22 and Dec. 19. There also are year-round specials for teachers and Florida residents. For those looking to stay awhile, the resort knocks off 15 percent for bookings of three nights, 20 percent off a minimum of five nights, and 25 percent for seven nights or more.
Contact: 888.395.5539; hawkscay.com
sounds amazing