Why is the Waldorf Astoria Boca Raton Resort and Club a great choice for your next summer family vacation? Because it has just about everything that will satisfy your entire family. If you're looking for reasonable rates and luxury, this is a fantastic option. Great service and food along with fun kids' activities and kid-friendly touches, makes this resort worth the money. Here are ten helpful things to know about this family-friendly resort.
1. As soon as you arrive at the resort you will feel like you're on a tropical vacation. The sculptures, fountains and palm trees invite you to feel like you've arrived in style. A welcoming staff and renovated lobby add to the experience. The architectural details have been preserved to present a perfect marriage of past and present.
Since the main property is not located directly on the beach, prices are usually lower than other high-end resorts located on the oceanfront. May 1st through September 30th promises summer rates and kids eat for free at 501 East and Palm Court when an adult entrée is ordered. Your kids are sure to spot the fruit infused water dispensers displayed throughout the resort which makes it fun and easy to grab a tasty drink on the go or fill a sippy cup.
2. The accommodations vary in price with the newly renovated Cloisters being located in the main building. The Yacht Club and Tower offer scenic water views of the intercoastal waterway. The Yacht Club's top floor houses the Commodore Lounge which offers a full bar, coffee/tea, breakfast, lunch and dinner to all guests staying in Yacht Club rooms. It's a fantastic inclusion.
3. The kids will love taking the short trip across the intercoastal on the little ferry. There's also a shuttle that can deliver you to the beach as well. The Beach Club is part of the property and sets right on the beach, offering ocean views. You'll find three beautiful pools and cabanas here. The kids' pool has a gradual shallow entry for easy and safe access for little ones. Children of all ages are excited when their meals are delivered in brightly colored sand buckets with shovels. The food and service at the Beach Club is excellent. Do try the shaken chicken chop-chop salad or grilled local mahi mahi fish tacos.
4. Your children will especially enjoy the brunch located in the Palm Court. The sun-flooded room screams, "I'm on vacation in paradise," with a view of the yachts docked outside. The fluffy Belgian waffles are a favorite. Fresh whipped cream, fruit and Nutella make it exciting for everyone. And kids eat free May-September.
5. The variety of restaurants on the property won't disappoint. 501 East Kitchen Bar serves casual American fare and is located above the golf pro-shop. The decor has a stylish flare in the main dining room which is flanked by a more casual bar room. The steaks are excellent and rate as high as your favorite high-end steak house.
Lucca makes delicious modern Tuscan dishes. Their wine list is extensive and their caprese salad offers the most divine burrata and heirloom tomatoes. The Blue is for fine dining and has a great view of the water. It offers seafood along with a raw bar. Definitely visit at sunset to sip their signature basil martini.
Ultra-hip Morimoto Sushi Bar located in the main lobby, will satisfy your sushi craving.
The whole family can dine and indulge in treats at Serendipity. Their famous frozen hot chocolate is meant to share. Serendipity also offers a full yummy menu. Parents can grab a morning Starbucks latte or a variety of prepared foods for a quick take-away snack.
6..The Flow House Boca is thrilling for adventure seeking older kids and adults. Named the FlowRider, it's the ultimate surfers' wave simulator that allows for boogie boarding or traditional surfing. This innovative machine can be found at the Tower pool, right next to the main building. Lessons are offered as well. Tennis and golf lessons are available and the instructors are top notch. Bike rentals give you an additional family activity. There is also a kids' club if you need a little couple-time.
7. The award-winning Waldorf Astoria spa is amazing in every way. The stunning architecture is inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Spain. You will feel transported once you enter the grand arches that are flanked with handcrafted tile and mosaics. Palatial gardens and a private pool add to the tranquil atmosphere. It's worth the experience to enter a world without stress or screaming children.
8. Take advantage of the amazing texting service. It's like your own personal butler, concierge, and resort problem solver all in one. You should receive a friendly text from the hotel welcoming you and asking if everything is okay. Guest complaints and concerns are handled immediately and politely.
9. The Cloister rooms with adjoining doors are sometimes problematic. The doors are very thin and allow even normal conversation or snoring from your neighbor to be heard through the doors. They did offer to change my room immediately when I brought this to their attention.
10. The rates of this lovely resort change like the Dow Jones Index during peak season. I was given a AAA rate on their website of $436, at 1:41pm. I went to book the same room at 3:28pm that same day and the rate had jumped to $588. When I called I was told the rates can change by the hour. Even with my screen shot of the lower rate they were not sure they could honor it. If you see a good rate here, don't wait. You have 48 hours to cancel so you just might want to lock it down while you decide.
**Helpful Hints** Uber is about $28 from the Fort Lauderdale airport to the resort. This hotel is part of the Hilton HHonors rewards club, which is free to join, so you can use your points.