VIBE

The chic and contemporary Omphoy Ocean Resort began as (and, as of 2011, continues to be) the only oceanfront boutique hotel on the island. Though in perpetual competition with luxury beachfront behemoths like the Four Seasons and The Breakers, it caters to a largely younger crowd. As with all Palm Beach surfside properties, guestrooms boast panoramic views of the Atlantic or Intracoastal Waterway, though the hotel sets itself apart with exclusive goodies like foodie dining at Chef Michelle Bernstein’s signature restaurant and full mind-body spa by exhale (complete with cardio gym and yoga). If you want a contemporary feel in Palm Beach, this is your best bet.

GO HERE WITH

Friends; clients or colleagues; significant other

WHY WE LIKE IT

It breaks from Palm Beach tradition by catering to hip and trendy travelers. This translates into a lack of pretension–it's a scene where younger folks mix and mingle over cocktails on the MB Terrace, on the powder-white beach sands, or around the O-bar’s pool table. Generally, rates at this hotel are a bit more affordable than at other Palm Beach beachfront properties.

AMENITY WE LOVE

Exhale Spa, famous for its Core Fusion and other workout classes, will inspire you to stay in shape while on vacation. These aren’t your grandmother’s exercise classes (typical of so many beach resorts), so you won’t skip a beat.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The pool sits street side and is consequently urban-feeling. We wish they had taken advantage of the beachfront location to create a unified beach-pool environment (like at the Four Seasons, the Ritz-Carlton, and The Breakers). Also, Worth Avenue and the shops and restaurants in the center of Palm Beach are a good 10-15 minute drive away.

GOOD TO KNOW

The hotel offers activities like windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing, and access to exclusive golf courses. Keep in mind that all guestrooms are non-smoking. Cribs are also available. The hotel is located next to the Four Seasons (they share a beach).

CLOSEST COMPS

Thompson Beverly Hills (Los Angeles); Viceroy Santa Monica (Los Angeles)

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