Why it works

Palm Beach beacon and Leading Hotels of the World member The Brazilian Court Hotel opened its Spanish Colonial doors on New Year’s Day in 1926 and has been steeped in history and glamour ever since. These are the halls Marlon Brando, Audrey Hepburn, and the Kennedys used to roam, and the family-owned property has only peaked since then.

What began as a tropical, tucked-away oasis for the rich and famous has slowly morphed into a revered boutique hotel nestled on Florida’s Gold Coast. Even after a few facelifts, The Brazilian Court has never lost its innate character, charm, or iconic Pecky Cypress wood ceilings in the lobby.

The hotel’s 80 well-appointed guest rooms include recently redesigned suites recast in rich greens and saffron hues. Provence-style shutters and mahogany millwork remain, while custom raffia lampshades flank Sapele cane beds and grass-cloth palm murals.

In keeping with the Old Hollywood theme, black-and-white Terry O’Neill photographs adorn the walls, paying homage to the hotel’s impressive list of notable visitors. Greta Garbo, Ingrid Bergman, Cary Grant, presidents, politicians, and Palm Beach power players have all passed through.

The full-service Brazilian Court Salon is hidden behind lush vegetation and offers French balayage, beauty services, and private poolside treatments.

Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud has been at the helm of Café Boulud for more than two decades. Signature dishes include stone crab claws with Key lime aioli, gazpacho verde, and potato-crusted sea bass, while afternoon tea in the courtyard is a Palm Beach ritual.

Newer amenities include BC ONE, the hotel’s 44-foot Italian Solaris Power Yacht. Guests can cruise the Intracoastal waterways, enjoy Lily’s poolside bar, or head to the beach with a dedicated butler and Café Boulud picnic.

Fast Facts

Location: Palm Beach, Florida

The Vibe: Old Palm Beach glamour with a modern pulse.

Rating: 4.5-star

Food + Drink: Café Boulud, Boulud Bar, and Lily’s at the pool.

Amenities: Fitness center, yoga and Pilates, bicycles, hotel car, valet, concierge, game room, pool, hot tub, salon, and boutique.

Our Favorite Thing: The combination of location and legacy.

Nearby: Worth Avenue, Kravis Center, Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, Royal Poinciana Plaza, and Palm Beach’s top restaurants.

Neighborhood Rec: Mounts Botanical Garden.

Rooms: 80

Pricing: Rates start around $509 per night.

Closest Airport: Palm Beach International Airport.

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