I Stayed at Palm Beach’s Most Instagrammed Hotel—Here’s What It Was Really Like originally appeared on Parade.
When I pulled up to the Colony Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, I knew that I’d found the perfect hotel that seamlessly mirrored my personality and overall vibe. The striking architectural design and aesthetically pleasing pale pink facade signaled to my senses that I’d finally found my happy place. As I stepped inside the super luxe lobby, every stress melted away. I was instantly transported to a pink paradise that would be my home away from home for the next three days.
Popular for girls’ trips, bachelorette weekends, and die-hard Barbiecore fans who dream of staying in a pink hotel, this boutique property reigns supreme. It looks like something right out of Kristin Wiig’s comedy-drama series Palm Royale, which is set in luxurious Palm Beach.
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Before I could even sit down to check in (more on that later), the de Gournay mural on the walls of the property’s Living Room stopped me in my tracks. My eyes lit up in delight as I marveled at the hand-painted masterpiece that covered the entire lobby. Flanked by floral-patterned couches and pastel upholstered chairs, the whimsical motif is the focal point. With flamingos sporting pearl necklaces and bedazzled monkeys sitting in trees of a lush garden, it’s hard not to be captivated by the brilliant artistry.
I was only pulled out of my trance when I saw the host gesture for me to start the check-in process.
Why You Should Trust Me
As an experienced travel writer, hotels are like my second home. From small, budget-friendly accommodations to sprawling, extravagant estates, I’ve stayed in and reviewed countless properties around the world.
Also, as someone who enjoys documenting my travels and creating online content, I’m in-the-know about the most Instagrammable places around the globe and where to take those coveted IG-worthy shots. What’s more, I’ve written about why business owners should prioritize making their spaces visually appealing and social media-friendly.
From check-in to check-out, it’s my responsibility to gather all the facts and details so I can share them with curious, discerning readers.
What It’s Like to Check Into the Colony Hotel
The first thing that I noticed during check-in was the well-dressed staff. The women wore gorgeous, rose-colored satin dresses and the men donned light-colored, linen suits. The dresses were the prettiest, most flattering hotel uniforms I’d ever seen. It’s only fitting for such a stunning, detail-oriented hotel.
The moment you step onto the property, you’ll notice the hospitality is unmatched. Bellmen rushed to take my bags as I approached. They whisked my luggage away, making me hands-free to hold a refreshing, cold bottle of water that was offered upon my arrival.
The host checked me in, gave me a rundown of the amenities, and kindly let me know that my room wasn’t ready. Since I’d arrived a couple of hours before check-in, which is 4 p.m. (check-out is 12 p.m.), she suggested that I order lunch at their on-site restaurant, Swifty’s, and hang out by the sparkling pool. I happily obliged.
By the time I finished lunch and took photos and videos of the pool area and lavish lobby, which also has a Dolce & Gabbana outpost and a couple other in-house retailers, my room was ready.
Rooms and Interior Design
The hotel offers sumptuous accommodations, including 89 guest rooms and suites. On the way to my standard room, I was blown away by the dazzling hallway. On my floor, the walls were adorned with white wallpaper bedecked in geometrical bamboo designs. The carpet was bright pink and covered with verdant leaves. The bold colors, patterns and textures complemented the lobby, but with a slight twist.
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That same maximalist design approach was executed in my guest room. My eyes quickly gravitated to the light-green floral headboard, which was the clear centerpiece of the space. The wicker furniture and desk with a hidden vanity inside were charming touches that added character to the room. Plus, splashes of pinks and greens throughout made it a dream bedroom for people like me who appreciate bright colors, mixed prints and eye-catching patterns.
The best part? The Colony Hotel offers a shoppable room experience. So, almost everything is available for purchase. From Matouk linens to Dyson hair dryers, guests can take a piece of pink paradise back to their homes.
Pro Tip: Make sure you don’t pass on turndown service. There will be a delicious Parisian treat waiting on your pillow to ensure a sweet slumber.
The Pool, Dining and Bar Scene
The pool is the place to be if you can pull yourself away from your glamorous room. Comfy lounge chairs, umbrellas and playful inner tubes surround the pool. While chilling in the shade or sunbathing, guests can flip through the latest magazines for light reading. As a long-time magazine lover, I was thrilled to see the “Poolside Press” newsstand. It gives a cool, retro vibe to the area. Plus, it’s one of the most Instagrammable places (there are many) on the property.
Swifty’s, one of the hotel’s two dining venues, is a recommended eatery. Offering three meals a day, it’s a great spot to grab a bite while lounging at the lively pool scene. I had several breakfast and lunch meals, including the most delicious salmon bowl I’ve ever eaten. Breakfast is consistently good with offerings like avocado toast, granola parfait and other morning meal classics.
In addition to Swifty’s, the Colony is also home to Pink Paradise Cafe. Guests can pick up grab-and-go sandwiches, salads and snacks. Of course, it also serves coffee and pastries for those who need a java and sweet fix.
While dining or flipping through magazines poolside, you just might spot vintage-loving celebrities like Kelsey Grammer or Coco Rocha, who are known to frequent the property. The legendary hotel has a long history of being a hotspot for stars and Palm Beach socialites that dates to the 1950s. Some of its famous past guests include Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Lena Horne, to name a few.
Drinks and cocktails are always flowing in the Living Room, located in the lobby. This is the prime gathering spot for live entertainment, socializing and people-watching. In fact, the Living Room even has its own series featuring notable personalities and entrepreneurs, which takes place every Wednesday evening. During my stay, Suebelle, the stylish bouffant-wearing famous influencer, was hosting a gathering. The Colony is also where trendy Palm Beachers and tastemakers go for book signings, fashion pop-ups and more.
Of course, guests are decked out in the latest designer fashions. From Valentino to Lilly Pulitzer, women go to the Colony to see and be seen. It’s a fashion-friendly property where getting dressed up is expected.
So, be sure to pack flowy maxi dresses and glittering pink ensembles that will complement your pretty surroundings. It’s also a good idea to bring a few casual pieces like tank tops, shorts and, of course, bathing suits.
Ahead of my trip, I created a mental mood board to help with my packing list. It prevented me from overpacking and made my clothing selection process easy.
Perfect for Girls’ Trips, Mother-Daughter Escapes and Bachelorettes
If you’re looking for a hotel where feminine aesthetics thrive and top-notch amenities abound, the Colony answers the call. That’s why it’s the ultimate destination for girls’ trips, mother-daughter getaways and bachelorette celebrations.
Whether you’re hanging out at dinner, relaxing by the pool or having a slumber party while wearing the branded white robes, spending time with your favorite girls is always loads of fun. The hotel’s ambiance and mesmerizing designs serve as the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories.
Plus, it’s just steps or a short drive away from the beach and nearby hotspots. Guests who want to take a dip in the ocean can request a buggy to the beach. Sure, you can walk, but who doesn’t want to be chauffeured in style? In true Colony fashion, the buggy is completely branded with all the flair that the property boasts.
In the mood to shop? Gather your girls and get some retail therapy on Worth Avenue, Palm Beach’s famous luxury shopping district. Designer brands and luxury retailers like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. are mainstays on the strip. Also, be sure to stop in Lilly Pulitzer for vibrant print dresses and darling accessories.
If you want to indulge in an off-site dinner, head to Pink Steak, where they keep the pink and green vibes going. The restaurant serves quintessential steakhouse fare like high-quality steaks, seafood and classic sides. It has a lively atmosphere that’s ideal for bachelorette party groups.
If being out in nature is a must, add the Ann Norton Sculpture Museum to your itinerary. It’s a wonderful way to see exquisite sculptures and remarkable artwork while being outdoors. The museum even has a cozy porch for visitors to sit and take in all of nature’s beauty.
The Flagler Museum is another option for those who crave history and culture. The museum is housed inside Whitehall, Henry Flagler’s opulent 75-room Gilded Age mansion, which is also a National Historic Landmark.
What Surprised Me the Most About the Experience
Prior to my stay at the Colony Hotel, my expectations were extremely high. However, I had no clue that they’d be greatly exceeded. I anticipated that there would be plenty of cute photo-ops, good food and breathtakingly beautiful decor, but I was blown away by the hospitality and amazing attention to detail.
Sometimes looks can be deceiving. For example, I’ve visited several places that were visually appealing but lacked in the quality of service. This hotel excelled in both areas. When I requested a steamer for my dress, it came within minutes and was, of course, pink!
From the branded items in my guest room to the staff calling me by name, it was a pink paradise that I plan to revisit for years to come.
Rates and Deals
Rates start at $499-$999, per night, per room in the summer season. High season starts at $999-$2499, per room, per night.
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I Stayed at Palm Beach’s Most Instagrammed Hotel—Here’s What It Was Really Like first appeared on Parade on Jun 21, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 21, 2025, where it first appeared.
