Delray Sand Resort
Overview of Delray Sands Resort
I subscribe to the idea that there are two types of vacationers: the sightseers and the loungers. I’m unequivocally the former and even when traveling to a warm-weather destination where there’s little else to do other than relax on the beach, I’ll find a way to keep busy. A stay at the Delray Sands Resort in Delray Beach, Florida, however, might be the exception. Sure, there’s a quaint, 24-hour fitness center where I could’ve potentially worked up a sweat any time of the day, but this oceanfront property, with its valet cabana service on the sand and a heated pool that stays open late, will seduce even the busiest of bodies to idle submission.
Admittedly, the sudden state of lethargy I found myself in was in part due to the indulgent meals I was feasting on at Latitudes Ocean Grille, the resort’s restaurant. After a daily alfresco breakfast of fresh berries and yogurt, there was little to do on the premises beyond work on my tan and catch up on some reading, both of which I seldom have the time to do. Here, the hotel makes the time for you.
Make your way to the property’s private beach area and an outgoing attendant, who’s been servicing guests with umbrellas and cabanas for decades, will take your room number and set you up with free lounge chairs (umbrellas and cabanas are extra, $10 and $25 for the day, respectively). Chat him up to hear the native New Yorker share stories of Delray and the families who frequent this sleepy town annually. Couple his hospitality with all-day cocktail service on the sand, and you’ll find it impossible to break free from your lounger. The soothing sound of crashing waves, warm sun beaming down on your skin and regular refills of ice-cold coconut water cocktails are enough to keep you bound to the Sands, if just for a weekend away.
Rooms
The Delray Sands went through a million-dollar renovation in 2014, transforming the former Holiday Inn property into a sleek, modern resort, and each of its 115 ocean-inspired guest rooms and suites reflect its new facade. Beach-facing rooms have a large balcony furnished with comfortable chairs on which to sit and listen to the roaring ocean below. Double rooms are standard yet spacious, with cable TV, a large closet, shower with a multi-jet spray and a single-cup Keurig coffee machine—essential to whatever type of vacation you prefer.
Latitudes Ocean Grille is particularly lovely at breakfast time, when it’s still cool enough to have your meal outdoors on the shaded patio while watching the rolling waves and early risers sitting on the sand — which is literally steps away. For those who want more than a morning jolt, the menu is packed with the usual breakfast standards (Benedicts, omelets, pancakes), some heartier dishes like the steak and eggs and several healthier options.
Lunch and dinner mostly coastal cuisine, ranging fish tacos and lobster rolls to fresh stone crabs, plus a general assortment of sandwiches, pastas and steak. Whether for breakfast or lunch, we found the outdoor area to be relaxed and inviting — and surprisingly cool for Florida.
For dinner, you’ll want to make your way inside to the spacious dining room that’s been beautifully decorated in a sleek, midcentury style. Ask for a table alongside the all-glass perimeter for the best views in the whole place, both of the ocean and the ornate light fixtures throughout. The crowd fluctuates as the day wears on, with a mix of hotel guests and locals who you’ll spot having cocktails at the outdoor bar at sunset. Coincidentally it’s also when the dinning room is abuzz with Delray Beach’s well-heeled seniors wrapping up dinner. Age notwithstanding, the restaurant was busy as expected for a Saturday night but service remained friendly and consistent. Our waitress was forthcoming with recommendations, including a delicious beet salad and a crab-topped fish filet—one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
Reservations are recommended for dinner and Sunday brunch, when families and large parties start filing in as early as 10am.
Delray Sands Resort is the right hotel for you if:
Delray Sands Resort is not the right hotel for you if:
I subscribe to the idea that there are two types of vacationers: the sightseers and the loungers. I’m unequivocally the former and even when traveling to a warm-weather destination where there’s little else to do other than relax on the beach, I’ll find a way to keep busy. A stay at the Delray Sands Resort in Delray Beach, Florida, however, might be the exception. Sure, there’s a quaint, 24-hour fitness center where I could’ve potentially worked up a sweat any time of the day, but this oceanfront property, with its valet cabana service on the sand and a heated pool that stays open late, will seduce even the busiest of bodies to idle submission.
Admittedly, the sudden state of lethargy I found myself in was in part due to the indulgent meals I was feasting on at Latitudes Ocean Grille, the resort’s restaurant. After a daily alfresco breakfast of fresh berries and yogurt, there was little to do on the premises beyond work on my tan and catch up on some reading, both of which I seldom have the time to do. Here, the hotel makes the time for you.
Make your way to the property’s private beach area and an outgoing attendant, who’s been servicing guests with umbrellas and cabanas for decades, will take your room number and set you up with free lounge chairs (umbrellas and cabanas are extra, $10 and $25 for the day, respectively). Chat him up to hear the native New Yorker share stories of Delray and the families who frequent this sleepy town annually. Couple his hospitality with all-day cocktail service on the sand, and you’ll find it impossible to break free from your lounger. The soothing sound of crashing waves, warm sun beaming down on your skin and regular refills of ice-cold coconut water cocktails are enough to keep you bound to the Sands, if just for a weekend away.
Rooms
The Delray Sands went through a million-dollar renovation in 2014, transforming the former Holiday Inn property into a sleek, modern resort, and each of its 115 ocean-inspired guest rooms and suites reflect its new facade. Beach-facing rooms have a large balcony furnished with comfortable chairs on which to sit and listen to the roaring ocean below. Double rooms are standard yet spacious, with cable TV, a large closet, shower with a multi-jet spray and a single-cup Keurig coffee machine—essential to whatever type of vacation you prefer.
Latitudes Ocean Grille is particularly lovely at breakfast time, when it’s still cool enough to have your meal outdoors on the shaded patio while watching the rolling waves and early risers sitting on the sand — which is literally steps away. For those who want more than a morning jolt, the menu is packed with the usual breakfast standards (Benedicts, omelets, pancakes), some heartier dishes like the steak and eggs and several healthier options.
Lunch and dinner mostly coastal cuisine, ranging fish tacos and lobster rolls to fresh stone crabs, plus a general assortment of sandwiches, pastas and steak. Whether for breakfast or lunch, we found the outdoor area to be relaxed and inviting — and surprisingly cool for Florida.
For dinner, you’ll want to make your way inside to the spacious dining room that’s been beautifully decorated in a sleek, midcentury style. Ask for a table alongside the all-glass perimeter for the best views in the whole place, both of the ocean and the ornate light fixtures throughout. The crowd fluctuates as the day wears on, with a mix of hotel guests and locals who you’ll spot having cocktails at the outdoor bar at sunset. Coincidentally it’s also when the dinning room is abuzz with Delray Beach’s well-heeled seniors wrapping up dinner. Age notwithstanding, the restaurant was busy as expected for a Saturday night but service remained friendly and consistent. Our waitress was forthcoming with recommendations, including a delicious beet salad and a crab-topped fish filet—one of the restaurant’s most popular dishes.
Reservations are recommended for dinner and Sunday brunch, when families and large parties start filing in as early as 10am.
Delray Sands Resort is the right hotel for you if:
- You love waking up and being steps from the ocean
- Having drinks and lunch brought to you on the sand is a must for a day at the beach
- You’re traveling with kids or in a large group
- You’re looking for a quality restaurant on the premises
- Peace and quiet is important
- You prefer to be away from a bustling city center
Delray Sands Resort is not the right hotel for you if:
- You don’t like to valet your car (it’s required at all times)
- You’re looking for a large, state-of-the-art gym
- A busy, party atmosphere is your scene
- A spacious lobby in which to sit and people watch is expected
- Youl like to be walking distance from attractions or popular restaurants
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