Hidden luxury awaits at the White Elephant Palm Beach
The setting sun painted a breathtaking scene, with its golden rays illuminating the untouched shores of Palm Beach. With the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore and palm trees swaying softly in the ocean air, the picture seemed unreal and this peaceful setting was much needed. Upon arriving at The White Elephant Palm Beach, I was instantly transported to a bygone era of splendor and luxury. The elegant charm and timeless beauty of this hidden gem instantly took my breath away, making me feel like I was immersed in a world where sophistication and grace reign supreme.
Once I checked in, I decided to take a quick tour. As I stepped into the U-shaped outdoor courtyard, its stunning beauty immediately caught my attention. This area was charming, with bold black-and-white decor that was both elegant and incredibly pretty.
The property’s layout has been carefully crafted to make the most of the abundant South Florida sunshine and the courtyard acts as the vibrant hub of the hotel, fostering a lively social atmosphere. This is where guests can have a drink, unwind and have a good time or relax on the patio poolside. It was a peaceful oasis, 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 only 32 rooms, but it radiates a palpable sense of timeless elegance. Situated in the former Bradley Park Hotel, built in 1924, it boasts a fascinating past as one of the pioneering resorts on Palm Beach’s Main Street. This hotel, with its rich history dating back to its days as Colonel Edward R. Bradley’s private Beach Club casino, has long attracted business moguls and high rollers. Its prime location in Bradley Park has made it a coveted destination for over a century.
Entering my room felt like stepping into a private sanctuary, where luxury and comfort effortlessly blended together. The hotel seamlessly combines the comfort of an upscale home with the allure of an exclusive boutique getaway. The design had a chic and modern feel, with a sophisticated color palette, stylish metal accents, and eye-catching bursts of color. The level of attention to detail in this space was modern and stylish, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
As I kicked back in a comfy lounge chair, enjoying a glass of wine, and catching up on some TV, a sense of calm washed over me, exactly what I had hoped for this weekend. The guestroom also showcased exquisitely designed furniture and a selection of opulent amenities that created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The bathroom was a lavish retreat, decorated with beautiful marble tiles and filled with luxurious L’Occitane bath products. It offered an ideal escape for indulging in some self-care after a busy day of shopping or exploring the outdoors. Who can resist the allure of a stunning bathroom complete with plush robes and comfy slippers?
The assortment of modern pop art at White Elephant Palm Beach was also undeniably impressive, meticulously selected by the proprietors and Elkus Manfredi. The hotel had a vibrant and cultured atmosphere, with more than 120 unique artworks decorating its rooms and public areas. With a curated selection of artists such as Robert Rauschenberg and Jennifer Bartlett, the hotel proudly presents a grabbing array of artwork that encompasses various decades and styles. If you have a passion for art, this is definitely something you will appreciate.
Throughout my stay, I thoroughly immersed myself in the White Elephant Palm Beach experience, venturing into every nook and cranny of the hotel, enjoying the delicious meals at the restaurant, and exploring the vibrant surroundings. I even asked a friend to come over, and together we explored a few nearby eateries and pubs.
Yes, there are many restaurants nearby, but nothing compares to dining at Lola 41. The restaurant at White Elephant Palm Beach exceeded all expectations. Drawing inspiration from its Nantucket origins, Lola 41 presents a delectable selection of dishes that blend global flavors with locally sourced seafood delicacies. The meals were incredibly good, meticulously prepared, and bursting with flavor. The expertly crafted drinks perfectly complemented the dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
For those in search of the ultimate in opulence, there are two penthouse suites where elegance knows no bounds. These luxurious accommodations provide ample living space, well-appointed kitchens, and balconies with breathtaking views, perfect for entertaining visitors or indulging in opulence.
Additionally, White Elephant Palm Beach offers an array of complimentary services, including beach shuttles, Priority Bicycles, Barton & Gray yachts, and other luxurious amenities that add a touch of excitement to every moment. I absolutely loved the complimentary sweet treats from the White Elephant ice cream cart that was always available by the poolside. It was such an enjoyable bonus to my experience.
Lastly, I absolutely cannot overlook a major highlight of my experience. From the moment I set foot on the premises, I was graciously presented with the keys to a sleek and luxurious BMW 7 series vehicle, ensuring that I would be able to navigate the city in utmost style and luxury throughout the weekend. Who wouldn’t be absolutely thrilled by that? This brilliant complimentary service is offered through the collaboration of White Elephant Palm Beach and BMW. For those who would rather not drive, there is the convenient option of being chauffeured into town. In addition, the remaining fleet is available for a limited time on a first-come, first-served basis. Everything was great, with the exception of annoying phone calls from BMW dealerships, starting as soon as I got in the car and continuing for about two weeks after my trip. They were very persistent in their efforts to sell me a car.
Overall, this experience was honestly exceptional, providing the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation, and excitement. There is plenty to do in the area, from shopping to enjoying the beach, which is just a short walk or drive away, and a variety of dining options. Palm Beach offers a relaxing and easygoing atmosphere, making it an ideal hidden gem that’s quiet during the day and a bit lively at night. This is definitely the spot for those seeking a tranquil yet vibrant getaway.
Evie Blanco, a seasoned entertainment journalist who has transitioned to travel writing, has a distinguished career spanning almost ten years. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in the vibrant and diverse city 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 its history. Evie enjoys writing about various travel-related topics, including exciting new foreign places to visit, festivals, new family-owned restaurants, and even recently renovated hotels. She can be reached at evieblanco@detourxp.com.
If you enjoy our perspective on travel and Black culture, please sign up for our newsletter. You should consider joining our travel club, too. Or maybe write a piece for us about your favorite destination. In other words, let’s stay connected!
Follow us on Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok or LinkedIn and subscribe to our channel on YouTube to stay ahead of trending stories in Black Travel.
