The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida, is one of the most iconic and historic luxury hotels in the United States. Its origins date back to 1896 when railroad magnate and entrepreneur Henry Morrison Flagler built the original version of the hotel to accommodate wealthy travelers arriving by train to Florida’s emerging luxury playground. After two fires destroyed earlier versions of the property, the current magnificent Italian Renaissance–style building opened in 1926. The hotel was modeled after the grand palaces of the Italian Mediterranean and features soaring arches, detailed stonework, hand-painted ceilings, and expansive courtyards reminiscent of Europe’s most elegant historic estates. Today, The Breakers stands not just as a hotel, but as a living symbol of the Gilded Age and the legacy of American luxury hospitality.
Guests entering The Breakers are immediately struck by the grand lobby, which features vaulted ceilings inspired by Rome’s Palazzo Carpegna and adorned with elaborate frescoes. The craftsmanship, stunning chandeliers, and classic European design details create a sense of old-world grandeur blended with modern sophistication. The hotel has undergone continuous renovation and modernization, including a multimillion-dollar investment program that ensures that while it retains its historic character, it also offers cutting-edge comfort and world-class amenities.
The Breakers offers over 500 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, each designed with an emphasis on comfort, elegance, and luxury. Many rooms offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean or lush gardens, giving guests a sense of serenity and escape. The suites provide an even more elevated experience, with spacious living areas, fine furnishings, marble bathrooms, and exclusive services. The hotel also offers a private Flagler Club — a boutique hotel-within-a-hotel — providing additional privacy, personalized concierge service, and exclusive lounge access for guests seeking an ultra-premium experience.
Dining is a major highlight of The Breakers, offering multiple award-winning restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. From fine dining to casual beachfront meals, the hotel provides an exceptional culinary journey. Restaurants such as The Flagler Steakhouse, HMF, and The Seafood Bar are well-known destinations not only among hotel guests but among Palm Beach residents and visiting celebrities. Fresh seafood, premium steaks, artisan cocktails, and seasonal menus reflect both innovation and timeless culinary traditions. The dining spaces themselves are beautifully designed, with some offering floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean, creating a perfect atmosphere for romantic dinners and special celebrations.
Beyond accommodations and dining, The Breakers is also a destination for recreation and relaxation. The resort spans 140 acres of oceanfront property and features four beachfront pools, five whirlpool spas, and a private half-mile stretch of sandy beach. Guests can enjoy luxury cabanas, water sports, and full-service attendants who provide towels, refreshments, and personalized service. The resort also includes two championship golf courses, including the historic Breakers Ocean Course, the oldest golf course in Florida. Tennis players also benefit from professional coaching, well-maintained courts, and access to a full tennis program.
The Breakers Spa offers a sanctuary for rejuvenation with a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, body rituals, and wellness therapies inspired by both modern techniques and holistic healing traditions. Natural ingredients, ocean-inspired therapies, and peaceful treatment rooms create a deeply relaxing environment. A fully equipped fitness center, oceanfront workout classes, and wellness programs complement the spa’s offerings, making health and relaxation a core part of the Breakers experience.
One defining characteristic of The Breakers is its family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers a children’s program, family activities, and dedicated family pools, making it a popular choice for multi-generational travel. At the same time, its refined style and exclusive amenities make it equally appealing to couples, business travelers, and luxury seekers.
Throughout its long history, The Breakers has remained independently owned by the Flagler family, allowing it to preserve its heritage, maintain exceptional service standards, and continuously reinvest in improvements. The hotel has earned countless awards, including Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond ratings, and it is consistently recognized as one of the best luxury resorts in the world.