Travel Edge Network advisor Jeff Breeze details his luxurious escape to The Breakers.
Written by: Julie Xie
Photos by: Jeff Breeze
Driving across the bridge to Palm Beach Island, you know you've arrived somewhere special. Royal palm trees line the streets like a welcome party, while luxury boutique stores wink from behind, reminiscent of Beverly Hills but with Florida’s breezy charm. Among the perfectly manicured structures and high-end shops, one building dominates the skyline: The Breakers.
First impressions
The Breakers is so more than just a hotel—it’s a Palm Beach historical landmark. Even before I arrived, its reputation preceded it – when I mentioned my upcoming stay at The Breakers to my Floridian friend, I saw the knowing glint of excitement in his eyes.
From the moment I drove up to the property, the grandeur was palpable. A majestic fountain welcomed guests at the entrance, valet staff greeted me warmly, and stepping inside, the sheer scale and artistry of the space took my breath away. The gilded ceilings were covered with intricate paintings, reminding me of the Vatican.
Checking in
While the check-in process was mostly seamless, there was one minor hiccup. Despite pre-arrival communications and arriving an hour later than planned, my room wasn’t ready. It was a small inconvenience that did eat into my prep time for the evening’s welcome cocktail and dinner, but the staff’s courteousness made up for it, and I was able to enjoy the pool area while I waited.
A quick note for international and business travelers: the Wi-Fi was pretty spotty. For a property of this caliber, a stronger internet connection would have been appreciated.
Once I stepped into my room, all frustrations evaporated. My luxurious ocean-view room was an absolute sanctuary. Everything from the plush bedding to the marble-laden bathroom and the view was impeccable.
A feast for the senses
Dining at The Breakers is as much about the ambiance as it is about the food. Over the course of my stay, I was able to enjoy multiple restaurants, each one of them a distinct experience. The highlight was without a doubt a seafood-centric restaurant where the bar doubled as an aquarium—you could sip cocktails while tropical fish swam underneath your glassware.
The dining experiences at The Breaker not only fed our appetite, but our souls as well. From all-you-can-order breakfasts in a sunlit dining room with sparkling ocean views to evenings of live music at the piano bar, every meal and every moment was impeccable.
One evening, we were treated to a progressive dinner across three restaurants, each introducing us to a different culinary palate.
A golfer’s paradise
As a golf enthusiast, the opportunity to play at Florida’s oldest golf course was a dream. The Breakers’ course is a golfer’s playground, with perfectly manicured fairways and fine, powdery sand. The Breaker's staff was so kind and hospitable, and I'm incredibly grateful to them for arranging this tee time.
Luxury beyond the building
The Breakers’ amenities go far beyond its gorgeous rooms and restaurants. One highlight was the cabanas—these luxurious private cottages complete with outdoor rain showers, living areas, and speedy Wi-Fi. Even a rainy afternoon (quite common during hurricane season when we visited in August) couldn’t dampen the experience. It was the ultimate retreat.
The transportation around Palm Beach Island was another standout feature. The hotel’s fleet of luxury Mercedes-Maybachs whisked guests to off-property restaurants and attractions, all included in the stay. It’s these thoughtful conveniences that really elevated the experience.
Who’s it for?
The Breakers attracts a discerning crowd: locals in search of a luxurious weekend, well-heeled New Yorkers, and international travelers seeking a slice of the Florida sun. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a spa aficionado, or just someone who appreciates the finer things in life, The Breakers has something for everyone.
Final thoughts
If I could bring one element of The Breakers home with me, it would be the art and architecture. Every last detail, from the lobby's fresh floral arrangement that would command guests' attention when they were refreshed every few days, to the ethereal courtyard with its European villa design, was an inspiration to behold. Whether you're staying for a weekend or an extended retreat, The Breakers is a destination in itself, with a timeless elegance that stays with you long after the tan fades away.