It’s all about the details for the White Elephant Palm Beach. From lavender sachets in the room closets to a rotating selection of beach-ready books, and even BMWs at guests’ disposal, the White Elephant Palm Beach leaves no detail overlooked.
Originally designed as the Beach Club, a ritzy casino that attracted tycoons of business and society, the property itself is nearly a century old. When it was converted into a hotel during the mid-twentieth century, it continued to draw fashionable crowds who adored its prime location just two blocks from the Atlantic Ocean. Three years ago, the property was converted into the White Elephant, a 32-room gem offering an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Upon arrival, guests are sure to note that the property feels more like an idealistic mansion than a hotel. The understated entrance, shaded from the Florida sun by a classic striped awning (and yes, a row of palm trees), leads into an inviting lobby with neutral tile and walls that provide the perfect backdrop for vibrant bursts of color created by local flora and curated art.
Rooms are accessible just off of the lobby, located on one of just three guest floors that house 13 rooms and 19 suites. The suites are perfect for family travel, with a separate living space that can be fully closed off from the bedroom by a set of French doors. For even larger groups, book the Palm or Park Suite, both located on the fourth floor and boasting multiple bedrooms and bathrooms alongside a full kitchen. None of the rooms, however, could ever be considered small, ranging in size from just over 500 square feet to 3,000 square feet.
All rooms feature hardwood floors (made homey with woven rugs), Carrara marble bathrooms, and uniquely upholstered headboards with just a pop of patterned color on their edges to bring forth Palm Beach vibes. Do not miss the bronze elephant door knockers that pay homage to the property’s namesake.
Be sure to book a table at the signature hotel restaurant Lola 41: a Nantucket staple that has found a new home in Florida. Serving globally-inspired dishes from two distinct kitchens, sushi can be found on one side of the menu, with kitchen appetizers and entrées on the other.
Perhaps one of the most unique elements of the property is its abundance of art––appropriate given Palm Beach’s often under-appreciated status as one of the foremost art cities in the US, with institutions such as the Norton Museum and Flagler Museum. It’s hard to miss the seven-foot white elephant statue by Santa Fe-based artist Fredrick Prescott standing just outside the hotel, but this piece is one of just 120 originals across the property in common spaces and guest rooms.
Public spaces are well-stocked with amenities; pastries and coffee are available in the morning, while wine and cheese are complementary in the early evening. For a quick trip to the beach or to Main Street, grab a Priority Bicycle or take advantage of exclusive access to Barton & Gray yachts for water-based excursions. Those looking to go a bit further by land should sign out one of the house BMW 7 Series for a few hours.
Whether in Palm Beach for the beach, the culture, or just an escape, find a home away from home at the White Elephant.
Top Takeaways
Location: Palm Beach, FL
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Coastal mansion meets Florida chic
Food + Drink: Lola 41 is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Amenities: Fitness center; Restaurant; Pool; Complimentary morning coffee, tea, and pastries; and evening wine and cheese
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The beautiful lobby is an excellent place for a coffee (or cocktail), board gaming, and people-watching
5 Nearby Attractions: Worth Avenue, Kravis Center, Norton Museum, Flagler Museum, the beach
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: Check out Royal Poinciana Plaza for great dining and shopping
Rooms: 13 rooms and 19 suites
Pricing: Rooms start at $650/night
Closest Airport: PBI
