Having fun and embracing a health-focused staycation.
By Darien Davies
Most often when you think of vacation, you think of letting loose. There are no rules! This could mean staying up late, gorging out on all the decadent food you shy away from during normal life, and enjoying the bubbly while still in your hotel robe at whatever o’clock you decide to greet the day. But there is the possibility of enjoying a healthy vacation that is actually good for you! I know, sounds kind of granola, but hear me out. Picture this: you are enjoying exercise, fresh air, healthy bites, outdoor perusing, and some much-needed R&R… you are smiling, you are rejuvenating, you are enjoying yourself… and go! Your fun Delray weekend awaits, my friend, and it knows you’ll be pleased.
Start your staycation on the right foot…
by joining some of your neighbors for Celis Run Club’s Saturday morning jaunt. This 7:30 a.m., 3.2-mile trek (run or walk) will afford you a tour of Delray while getting a much-needed endorphin boost (don’t lie, you need it). A delicious bonus will be an acai smoothie (almond milk, acai, peanut butter, granola, strawberry, blueberry, banana, coconut flakes, and honey) at Celis Juice Bar when you’re done, which you can enjoy as you stroll over to the Summer GreenMarket. Nothing says health like a tote bag full of local produce, after all.
This open-air market at Old School Square will run up to the last Saturday in July and features more than 40 premier food vendors participating, offering everything from farm-fresh eggs, produce, flowers, baked goods, and more.
If you’re craving some reprieve from the sun (or you missed the window for the Summer GreenMarket), Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market may be calling your name instead. On top of offering fresh, locally grown produce, they also invite you to enjoy their ready-made sandwiches, salads, and soups, as well as a fantastic wine offering. Grab yourself some tasty treats, some wine (bring your own cups, just FYI), and some fruit, and head to Veteran’s Park or the beach for a picnic along the water. There’s plenty of seating, plenty of people watching, and you might even recline to the napping position.
Another local favorite is Fit Food Express, which is a tasty healthfood restaurant that specializes in organic juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and pre-made and pre-packaged meals. Grab yourself some grub to go and enjoy a light bite in the sunlight. If you’re now needing some air conditioning, the Arts Warehouse is your refreshing ticket. This rehabilitated warehouse provides studio space for local and international artists, plus rotating exhibitions, and admission is delightfully free.
If you did yourself a weekend solid, it’s about time to check into your local hotel. A personal favorite is Crane’s Beach House Boutique Hotel & Luxury Villas, which is a hidden gem in Delray that features not only luxury villas but also two saltwater swimming pools, all within a few blocks of the beach and the Avenue. Did I mention the tiki hut?
If you like more of a VIP room service type of vibe, The Seagate Beach Club is right down the street and offers all the amenities you’d ever want, as well as a private beach club with cocktail service, to boot.
After a well-deserved nap, head to the Avenue for some fun. A great spot for a refreshing mocktail is Elisabetta’s Ristorante, where they’re dishing up a Cherry-Basil Smash, made with Michigan orchard cherries, agave nectar, local citrus juice and fresh basil. There’s a lovely little upstairs bar with views of the Avenue if you’re lucky enough to nab a spot.
Technically not in Delray, but very worth the 10 minutes north, is Driftwood. They also have a diverse mocktail menu, and many of the herbs used in the drinks are grown in their own onsite garden. Try a “Paradise Punch” for a delightfully refreshing palate warm-up. Since you’re probably also actually famished, snag a table at Driftwood and allow yourself to be wowed by their humble roots (again, the roots are right outside), locally sourced ingredients, and absolute genius in the kitchen. Honestly, you’ll go crazy deciding what to order, so ask for help — and then seconds.
For a sweet treat, head to Cream for some froyo on your way to your hotel and pat yourself on the back for a day well done.
The good news is that you’re only a few blocks from the beach, so if you’re still staycation-ing, head to the sand for the sunrise. It always seems impossible until it’s done, but always worth it in the end.
If your staycation stars align, you should plan to head to Coco Market on a Sunday. Held once a month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., you’re invited to enjoy free yoga led by movement experts, followed by workshops, activities, unique vendors and healthy food and drink.
When you’re ready, head back to concierge and request a late checkout, stating the pool and a refreshing beverage are calling your name. It’s your staycation after all, home can wait.
