On a sunny afternoon in West Palm Beach, one finds oneself immersed in a transformative experience that blends luxury and well-being. Picture stepping into Body+Beauty Lab located within the chic AKA West Palm hotel. This unique day spa boasts state-of-the-art facilities and an ambiance that invites relaxation. My journey started with a session at the Visia Skin Analyzer, a sophisticated machine that conducted an in-depth analysis of my skin, identifying UV spots, wrinkles, and clogged pores. This highly engaging experience serves as a perfect introduction to the wellness journey one can embark upon in West Palm.
The year 2022 marked the opening of AKA West Palm, perfectly timed with a burgeoning wellness movement sweeping across the area. Jordan Rowan, the general manager of AKA West Palm, emphasized how the hotel embodies this momentum. “Our amenities provide a seamless blend of luxury and holistic well-being,” he mentioned, highlighting the Technogym Fitness Center and various wellness treatments. This commitment to rejuvenation reflects a broader trend in West Palm Beach, where wellness is rapidly becoming an integral part of life for both residents and visitors alike.
As I basked in my delightful staycation, I ventured out to participate in an outdoor fitness class at CityPlace—West Palm Beach’s vibrant downtown hub of shopping and entertainment. The bustling open courtyard had transformed into a workout haven, featuring group yoga sessions and high-intensity interval training. The renewed focus on health and vitality in this district is evident not only in the fitness classes but also in the array of health-centric dining options that have emerged, including renowned eateries like Planta and True Food Kitchen.
CityPlace, with its recent makeover, is rapidly evolving into a focal point for health and wellness enthusiasts. Gone are the days when West Palm Beach was merely a title of a “business-only” city. Today, it stands as a beacon of culinary delights and wellness-forward activities, prompting a cultural shift that appeals to both tourists and locals. Milton Segarra, CEO of Discover the Palm Beaches, articulated this shift eloquently, stating, “Wellness has become a fundamental aspect of life, enhancing the quality of experience for all.”
Events like the Eudemonia wellness summit highlight West Palm Beach’s commitment to wellness. This three-day event showcased the latest in health and wellness, attracting experts from various fields including top neuroscientists and yoga teachers. The name itself, translating to “well-being” in Greek, epitomizes the focus of the event on holistic health practices.
Founder Sean Hoess passionately expressed his view of West Palm as an ideal destination due to its favorable climate, robust transport options, and an affluent community that prioritizes well-being. The vibrant programming included sound baths, celebrity-led fitness classes, and interactive sessions designed to encourage attendees to fully immerse themselves in a healthier lifestyle. Thus, the city finds itself not only hosting significant wellness events but also establishing itself as a cornerstone of a nationwide wellness revolution.
Just a stone’s throw from West Palm Beach lies Amrit Ocean Resort, which has taken the wellness experience to new heights. Home to the largest spa facility in Florida, the Amrit draws inspiration from diverse wellness traditions—incorporating European, Chinese, and Indian techniques into its offerings. The resort’s philosophy is aptly encapsulated in its name, which means “elixir of life.”
I explored this oasis during my trip, partaking in an array of treatments, including a hyperbaric oxygen session and a hot stone Himalayan massage. The extensive facilities—including the Aayush Hydrothermal Experience—provide a comprehensive approach to relaxation and rejuvenation, emphasizing integrated wellness practices under the guidance of qualified health professionals.
Dining at Amrit’s Tula restaurant further elevated my experience, with a menu that adheres to a principle focusing on plant-based nurturing aimed at creating balanced health. Akram Kawasmeh, the executive director of wellness and spa at Amrit Ocean Resort, succinctly encapsulated the ethos of this luxurious destination: “Every experience is crafted to recenter guests, emphasizing the essential role wellness plays in a fulfilling life.”
Over the years, West Palm Beach has quietly transformed itself into an extraordinary wellness destination, and the local population takes pride in this evolution. With new hotels, enticing dining options, and innovative wellness programs, the city draws attention from those seeking a retreat that promises to enhance physical and mental well-being.
As someone who has witnessed West Palm Beach’s metamorphosis firsthand, I am excited to share this blossoming landscape with the world. The region’s sunny disposition, combined with its dedication to health and wellness, invites all to indulge in experiences that leave them feeling rejuvenated. Now, more than ever, it stands ready to welcome visitors eager to explore the myriad of wellness opportunities available amidst pristine beaches and a vibrant community.