Nestled in the vibrant heart of West Palm Beach, I found myself on a Saturday afternoon indulging in a wellness experience like no other. My journey began at Body+Beauty Lab, part of the AKA West Palm hotel—a new addition to the city’s rapidly evolving wellness landscape. As I laid my face against the cool surface of the Visia Skin Analyzer, I was engulfed in a brief moment of anticipation. The machine sprang to life, illuminating my skin and revealing a detailed critique of UV damage, fine lines, and congested pores. This was not simply a routine check; it was a glimpse into the future of skin health and a testament to the advanced technology embedded within the spa’s offerings.
Following a revitalizing hydro facial, I took advantage of the hotel’s complimentary bicycles to explore the picturesque surroundings—West Palm Beach’s beautiful parks and bustling streets provide the perfect backdrop for leisure and fitness. My culinary adventure led me to A.Market on Olive, where I savored fresh kale salads and refreshing pressed juices. This mindful eating experience was reflective of the wellness-focused approach adopted by the AKA West Palm, which opened its doors in 2022, just as the city began to embrace a culture centered around health and well-being.
Jordan Rowan, the general manager at the AKA West Palm, noted that the hotel harmoniously integrates luxury and wellness, catering to the growing demands of health-conscious visitors. “Our facilities are not just places to unwind but sanctuaries for rejuvenation in a city surging with a renewed focus on holistic living,” he commented. This reflects a broader trend in West Palm Beach where visitors and locals alike are drawn to experiences that nourish both body and soul.
Participating in an outdoor group fitness class at CityPlace, the lively shopping and entertainment epicenter of West Palm Beach, was an invigorating part of my wellness journey. Here, I joined fellow city dwellers for yoga and high-intensity training amidst the energetic atmosphere of this transformed locale. Formerly known as Rosemary Square, CityPlace is now a hub for health-centric dining, featuring eateries like Planta and True Food Kitchen—places that cater to the dietary needs of a more conscientious populace.
With an emphasis on communal fitness activities and health-driven eateries, CityPlace encapsulates the shift in West Palm’s identity. The arrival of such amenities marks a significant turning point for a city that has often been characterized as a place merely for business.
Milton Segarra, the CEO of Discover the Palm Beaches, offers insight into this transformation, stating that wellness has transcended being a fleeting trend and has ingrained itself within the lifestyle of the Palm Beaches. “Residents and visitors are increasingly seeking destinations that support their well-being, and West Palm Beach is ready for this shift,” he explains. With its sun-drenched beaches and flourishing culinary scene, this city stands as a sanctuary for wellness seekers.
This shift in culture is complementing events like Eudemonia, a three-day wellness summit held at the Hilton West Palm Beach. The event, which attracted health enthusiasts nationwide, featured workshops and sessions focused on diverse aspects of well-being. From guided meditation to scientific discussions around longevity, attendees were treated to valuable insights by industry leaders. “The synergy of perfect weather, great transport options, and a community that’s passionate about health makes West Palm an ideal wellness destination,” said Sean Hoess, the founder of the summit.
Just a short drive north brings you to the recently established Amrit Ocean Resort on Singer Island, a luxurious retreat where wellness is paramount. Its expansive spa facility, the largest in Florida, is an embodiment of the resort’s philosophy—to provide guests with experiences that harmonize mind, body, and spirit. Nicknamed “elixir of life,” the name Amrit embodies the essence of vitality, and this ethos is woven throughout every service they offer.
During my visit, I indulged in a series of therapies ranging from hyperbaric oxygen treatments to soothing massages, demonstrating the expansive scope of contemporary wellness practices. Emphasizing nutrition, the on-site restaurant Tula promotes a sustainable food philosophy, balancing plant-based and animal protein options to enrich the wellness journey of its patrons.
The key takeaway from my exploration of West Palm Beach is that the city is no longer just a sunny destination; it has emerged as a beacon for those seeking to improve their health outcomes while enveloped in the luxury of nature. For both long-term residents and new visitors, West Palm Beach is not just a place to visit—it’s a thriving ecosystem devoted to the art of living well.