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By GERRY and PAMELA BARKER
North Palm Beach Life SINGER ISLAND_Located on a beach, facing the Atlantic Ocean, adjacent to Ocean Reef Park and east of the Intra-Coastal, the Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort and Spa rises 21 stories on this barrier island. Its accommodations and amenities are a magnet for both locals and visitors from all over the world seeking to soak up Florida's sunshine, breezes and hospitality. While we've been long-time fans of Happy Hour at the 3800 Lounge, we had a recent opportunity to book an overnight stay. If a trip to Singer Island is in your future, here are 10 things you'll love about the Singer Island Marriott: |
The Rooms. The resort boasts 193 one-and-two-bedroom suites. Ours was a one-bedroom on the 20th floor, with an expansive view of both the ocean and the Intra-Coastal. Stylishly appointed, it was more like a high-end apartment. Oversized windows accent the view. It came with a complete kitchen, including a washer/dryer, stainless steel appliances and gleaming black granite countertops. The bedroom featured a walk-in closet and a bathroom with a soaking tub and separate shower. And of course a private balcony to take in the view or just relax. For entertainment, we had flat screen TVs in both rooms, along with Internet connections. Basically, everything you need so you never really want to ever check out.
3800 Ocean. This is the resort's signature restaurant. The first thing you can't help but notice is the wall of windows providing a glorious view of the Atlantic. And while nighttime dimmed the view for us, it heightened the romance at our candle-lit table. Our friendly and knowledgeable server added to the experience. But of course the main event here is the food. We kicked things off with the Fried Green Tomatoes and Pork Belly Confit, featuring Bacon-Onion Marmalade and Jumbo Lump Crab Remoulade ($16). It arrived in two stacks, which we quickly reduced in size. For the entree, I went with the special, a blackened snapper, while Pam opted for the Crispy Florida Flounder ($34). While mine was good, the flounder was the star of the meal. The tempura was perfectly prepared; the Asian slaw a nice complement. Dessert was the Guava Key Lime Tart ($9). The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
3800 Ocean (Credit: Marriott)
Fried Green Tomatoes Crispy Florida Flounder Guava Key Lime Tart
SiSpa. While we didn't make it to the Spa this time around, the award-winning SiSpa makes the list of Conde Nast Traveler's Top 100 spas. There are eight treatment rooms with heated marble beds, a private outdoor Jacuzzi, 12-head signature showers, a hot tea bar and a fitness center. Men and women can choose from a wide range of treatment options, with names like "Si Chakra Experience" to "Replenishing Sargasso Seaweed Experience." Just the ticket after a hard day in front of a computer.
The Pool. Or should I say, "pools." There's the Lagoon Pool, featuring a two-story waterfall and slide in a grotto-style setting. It features live entertainment Saturday afternoons and a "Dine-In Movie" on Friday and Saturday nights. Then for those who want a more tranquil setting, there's the Infinity Pool, featuring a whirlpool, chaise lounges and cabanas. Both pools are heated.
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The SiSpa (NPBL Photo)
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The Infinity Pool (NPBL Photo)
The Kids Club. While our son is well past the "kid" stage, the resort is definitely family-friendly. Catering to ages 4-12, daily activities include crafts, sports and seasonally, hair braiding, water balloon games, sea shell hunting and more. There's also "Parents Night Out" on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 6-10 pm, dinner included. Fees are based on what sessions are booked.
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The Beach. Admit it -- isn't this the first place you head for after you get settled in your room? Not only can you chill under an umbrella with your favorite beverage, but also take surf lessons, rent snorkel gear, body boards, pedal boats and kayaks. Sign up for morning yoga and meditation classes, rent a bicycle or try your hand at beach volleyball. Or just leave your footprints.
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Local Attractions. Just looking for a change of scene? There's no shortage of things to do in the area. Golf at nearby clubs, like the North Palm Beach Country Club. Book a fishing charter and go after the "big one." Love adventure? There's scuba diving, snorkeling and jet skiing close at hand. Head for downtown West Palm Beach for shopping and sightseeing. Baseball fans can even get in on spring training by the St. Louis Cardinals, Miami Marlins and Washington Nationals. Plus lots more.
A firepit on the beach (Marriott)
Ocean Breeze Cafe. Don't overlook this little gem outside the 3800 Lounge. Besides snacks, salads and wraps, you can get a first-class pastry or baked good, thanks to the resort's executive pastry chef. It's a "must stop" if you have a sweet tooth (and I do).
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Resort Bonfires. Who doesn't like the camaraderie created sitting around a fire? In January, they had a beach bonfire to mark the full moon, and another one to accompany Saturday movie night, complete with night volleyball, cocktails and s'mores. Sign us up for that!
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The Ambience. From the dark woods, marble floors and soothing colors to the dramatic public spaces, the resort is beautiful. And a special shoutout to the staff, from the valets when you arrive to the counter and service personnel -- all friendly, pleasant and helpful. There are cozy seating areas both indoors and out that invite you to stop, relax and enjoy what Florida beachfront living is all about. The only downside to our visit -- checking out.
Seating on the patio (Marriott)
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Holiday decor in the lobby (NPBL Photo)
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