Courtesy Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority
Editor Aurora Rodriguez and I were invited to experience a day in Delray Beach, a city in Palm Beach that is gaining a name of its own as a place to raise a family while also enjoying the fun of a downtown entertainment scene.
After quick drive north on I-95, we checked into the Delray Sands Resort, a true beachfront property just steps away from the sands of the Atlantic Ocean. The decor was instantly relaxing with light nautical themes from the hues of blue and green throughout, glass bubble artwork, a swimming pool, and a pristine view of the water. You could almost feel your mind slow to the ebb and flow of the waves.
Our day started with breakfast at Latitudes (opt for the outdoor seating!), where we met other travel writers. The Where team decided to explore downtown Delray Beach on busy Atlantic Avenue. Unfortunately, the Downtowner doesn’t come to the hotel, it’s a quick drive or cab ride up A1A to the heart of the city. On the upside, it just so happened that we were staying the same weekend as the cities annual Festival of the Arts, lending to an afternoon of perusing the artists’ booths. For a quick beer, we stopped at The Blue Anchor Pub, a British pub that was literally shipped across the Atlantic and found its new home in South Florida. Then, being book nerds, the two of us were sure to stop by the bookstore, Murder on the Beach, to pick up some used reads.
A part of our evening plans was a fashion show during the opening of Delray Beach’s fashion week, and our hair needed to be up to snuff. A stop at Scarlett Ivy Salon for a blowout was just what we needed—friendly, quick service at an affordable price (especially if you’re there for their happy hour special!)
After getting primped back at the hotel, we were escorted back to Atlantic Avenue via Escalade with the other writers to dine at Salt7, a hot restaurant known for their sushi and steaks. The group went tapas style and ordered a litany of appetizers (a unique stand out is the sushi pizza) to pass around and try, as well as sipping on colorful martinis. Afterward, it was outside to the fashion show, where a dozen local models showcased looks from area stores, from hot bikinis and trunks to playful cover ups and dresses. The event happens every year in the spring and it’s definitely something to experience for those who love fashion and style.
Once the show was over, we continued our night on Atlantic Avenue with a stop at Luigi’s for a quiet drink at the bar before heading back to the resort. With such a busy day behind us, we collapsed into the plush beds for a restful night.
Being an early riser, Aurora headed to the pool to read some of her new finds under the sun and enjoy the sounds of the ocean waves. We finished the trip right where we started, with breakfast at Latitudes, ever refreshed and ready to take on the week.
Visit the Spots
The Delray Sands Resort, 2809 South Ocean Boulevard, Highland Beach, 561.278.6241
The Blue Anchor Pub, 804 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 561.272.7272
Scarlette Ivy Salon, 167 Northeast 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach, 561.274.6680
Salt7, 32 Southeast 2nd Avenue, Delray Beach, 561.274.7258
Luigi’s, 307 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, 561.274.1969
Originally published in WhereTraveler.