This luxurious, Italian Renaissance-inspired hotel is a world unto itself. With nine restaurants and nearly 2,000 employees catering to every need, guests rarely need to venture off the 140-acre property. The sprawling estate almost never feels crowded, thanks in part to its sheer size. The pool area has five distinct pools that effectively keep screaming children away from relaxing adults. The private beach has a more rugged feel than the gentle, sandy beaches at nearby hotels, largely due to the rocks and breaking waves, or breakers (which give the hotel its name). Waves are often big enough to surf on, and guests might be sprayed by sea mist on windy days. The sand is soft and relatively clean, with the exception of some dried kelp and seaweed at the waterline. Paddleboards, floats, kayaks, and snorkels can be rented on the beach. A nearby reef and sunken pier are great places to snorkel, and guided snorkel tours are offered regularly.

The luxurious Eau Palm's location along the oceanfront A1A in Manalapan (away from the hustle of Palm Beach proper) is a double-edged sword. Aside from a few casual beach restaurants, there’s little within walking distance. However, the hotel's long list of amenities creates an oasis that guests may not want to leave for the entirety of their stay. It’s an ideal place for guests looking to escape Palm Beach, rather than vacation in the thick of it. The miles-long beach is immaculately well-maintained. The hotel’s own semi-private patch of sand is technically open to the public but non-guests rarely wander in. Though it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Palm Beach, the sand disappears almost entirely at high tide. The water, however, is frequently calm any time of year and is ideal for swimming or snorkeling.

The Four Seasons Resort is located on a relatively quiet stretch of sand about a 10-minute drive south of the area's main attractions. The 210 rooms have private balconies and are decorated in sophisticated beach style. There are thoughtful amenities for families; the chic spa is a high point; and guests can expect extra touches like water spritzes and sunscreen at the (smallish) ocean-view pool. But some may feel the property isn't quite up to the usual Four Seasons standard: The building exterior is short on curb appeal and rooms lack "wow" factor.

This upscale oceanfront resort sits on a semi-private stretch of beach that’s easily among South Florida’s most pristine and beautiful. While technically public, the stretch of beach is rarely visited by anyone but the area’s hotel guests. It’s wide, quiet, and kept in tip-top shape. Ample beach chairs and loungers are provided, and drink service is available for a fee. The pool has a surprisingly swanky, Miami Beach vibe and smart landscaping that provides a sense of being miles from anywhere. Other hotel perks include a fine-dining restaurant, sushi bar, and a full-service spa, but the pricey food, drinks, and valet parking are hard to ignore.