Luxury brands like Waldorf-Astoria and Ritz-Carlton have credibility with consumers. But sometimes, when being part of the pack works against you, striking out solo is a bold move that can pay back big time. Case in point: Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, formerly The Ritz-Carlton, Palm Beach.
When owners felt that their signature spa and other fun property elements were being held back in order to blend in with the Ritz-Carlton's somewhat sedate image, they broke ties and went totally independent. Here’s how Eau is embracing their individuality with their playful, fabulous, and one-of-a-kind style:
The pool's open 24 hours, as long as guests keep quiet while others are sleeping. This is so great for early birds, or people who enjoy moonbathing, or those that just want to experience the pool without anyone else around. Except you won’t get that solo serene experience during Friday Night Adult Swim, or when it’s Dive-In Movie Night, so do check the schedule first.
Elsewhere around the property, you can find guests enjoying s’mores at the firepit, a DJ on the outdoor terrace at Stir Bar, or Champagne by candlelight in the lobby.
There are swings for grownups in Eau Spa's Self-Centered Garden, with a wading pool underneath, and Champagne service. This never gets old. Eau Spa serves you from a place of wellness and a place of indulgence, and yes, those two can co-exist. Cupcakes or fresh fruit plates, fresh-pressed juice or cocktails, you choose. Or don't. Have it all.
Speaking of the spa again, the classes and special events are many and varied, and draw as many locals as hotel guests. Beach yoga, hula hooping, barefoot black-tie events...there's always something healthy in the day, and often something decadent by night. In fact, it is such a huge part of the hotel's identity that owners chose to take the Eau name for the entire property after breaking from Ritz-Carlton.
And what’s this? Why, it’s complimentary Champagne in the adults-only pool. This happens at random times, on no set schedule, because the property just likes to surprise guests with wonderfulness.
But grownups don’t have all the fun. There’s a recording studio with DJ decks in COAST, the teens club, along with foosball and video games. A full-on costume wardrobe, complete with accessories, makeup and a guitar, is also available in case the tweens want to record a music video or do an Insta-Glam shoot while their parents are having date night. This is all strictly off-limits to adults, obvi.
And then, there are the private cabanas—poolside or oceanside—for business breakfasts, posh bachelorette parties, or moonlight dinners for two. No matter what experience you choose, these are the best seats in the house.
