A Bungalow Treehouse Escape at Crane’s Beach House in Delray
Have you ever dreamt of staying in your own adult-version of a treehouse? Growing up in South Florida I’ve always had a fascination with the height and poise of the palm trees, so confident and magical as they effortlessly sway with the wind. I knew I always wanted to be like them, reaching up towards the sun with infinite grace, natural wisdom and total ease.
Especially considering all that we’ve collectively endured in 2020, now is the time to chase the freedom of nature and to savor every moment of revelry. That’s why as soon as I had the opportunity to hop on the road from Tampa Bay to Delray Beach, Florida, I knew that I had to adventure in tropical bliss at Crane’s Beach House Boutique Hotel & Luxury Villas, a property I had been lusting after and eagerly wanting to visit and photograph.
Pulling up to the hotel grounds, you’d never realize that you’re only steps away from bustling Atlantic Avenue (downtown Delray Beach’s main drag) and the Pineapple Grove Arts District, as Crane’s transports guests to the islands with tropical vibes, yet located less than a mile from the beach and the Atlantic coastline.
Boasting 28 charming guest suites and luxurious villas in a spacious bungalow setting — Crane’s offers one-of-a-kind accommodations with character, making for the perfect home away from home. Whether a local Floridian or an out of state visitor, Crane’s has curated the authentic coastal-Floridian experience.
Upon entering, you’ll feel an immediate sense of serenity and relaxation as you’re met with the soothing sounds of birds, running water, wind chimes and leaves rustling in the wind. Roaming through the property, it’s easy to feel a sense of wonder, as you’ll find hidden spaces for conversation, nature gazing and photography sprinkled throughout. I felt like Alice in Wonderland and as though I had stepped into my very own private jungle island, as I explored the grounds and continued to stumble upon the perfect whimsical photo opp.
As I work remotely and planned to do some filming for work during our getaway, we opted for extra space and privacy by booking a luxury villa. Perfect for romantic getaways, groups, families or those seeking an extended stay for work or play, our luxury villa was truly breathtaking!
I was taken aback by the space and openness and how it easily transitioned from exoctic jungle paradise, to a sense of elevated coastal living. Our second floor villa opened up to a tree-covered balcony overlooking both the north and south pools and the private meditation garden. The enormous bamboo stalks, colorful birds of paradise and lush palm trees canopied around our windows, creating a cozy treehouse bungalow feel unlike any I’ve ever experienced during my travels. In my mind’s eye, I could have been anywhere in the world, on an island in the Caribbean or a jungle in South America (a feeling of wonder and relaxation that many of us have been craving this year), but regardless I felt right at home.
Our luxury one bed/one bath villa felt fresh, clean and incredibly uplifting with beautiful views and tons of natural light pouring into the kitchen, living room and bedroom. Along with an enormous and gorgeously decorated master suite, our villa had a full walk-in closet, living area, office and dining areas and full modernized kitchen, complete with a functioning refrigerator, oven, stovetop, microwave & dishwasher, with all the cookware, dishware & utensils you could ever need provided to you at no extra cost. For families looking to vacation in a luxury villa, all children under 18 are allowed to stay free in the same suite with parents.
The more I enjoyed it, the more I realized the kitchen amenity is truly overlooked, especially when staying by the beach and during times of pandemic. For folks that don’t really want to leave their hotel, this is the spot for you, as delivery and takeout is available at most downtown restaurants. Right after check-in, we found a nearby market where we picked up all of the snacks and goodies that we could refrigerate and knew we would want to enjoy during our stay (who doesn’t want ice cream after a day at the beach?!). Not to mention, you can keep pool and beach beverages cool and store any leftovers from one of your nearby restaurant stops.
The design and decor of our villa made for seamless indoor + outdoor coastal living with calming blue color tones and elegant metallic hardwardware blended with nautical touches, reflecting the highest level of style, comfort and functionality. Villa visitors can enjoy a range of amenities including fine linens, fluffy bath robes, a river rock shower and spacious living areas.
Along with an inherent sense of privacy and intimacy, Crane’s current “No Contact” policy ensured that social-distancing was adhered to with distanced check-in, remote check-out and distanced seating in all public spaces. Thoughtful details such as masks and gloves were also provided upon entry to your room, as well as water and snacks and beverages for purchase.
A labyrinth of tropical trees and colorful flora leads guests to hidden bungalows, secret gardens and zen spots for relaxation throughout the grounds. Two saline swimming pools and the Tiki Bar are the center jewels, as accommodations are thoughtfully spread out around the south and north side pools, all brimming with flowers and greenery for tons of pool gazing, shade and privacy. The Tiki Bar typically offers libations and live music, but is currently not operating due to the COVID safety precautions. However, guests can bring their own beverages to the tiki bar and pool area to enjoy.
Guest are catered to throughout their stay with services including personal concierge, in-room food and beverage delivery, in-suite or poolside massage services, complimentary pool lounge chairs and guaranteed 12pm checkout. I must mention the incredible, happy and kind staff that made sure every guest was individually cared for and catered to, ensuring that we were all completely at ease. They surely made the experience one to remember!
If you can tear yourself away from the tiki vibes, serene pools and accomodations, guests are provided complimentary yoga mats, beach chairs and bikes to use at leisure while exploring Delray Beach.
Although we cooked in our kitchen (charcuterie counts as cooking, right?), we opted for a (socially distant) Saturday night out in Downtown Delray, starting with happy hour at Salt 7, appetizers at the new LionFish Modern Coastal Cuisine and dinner at Rack’s Fish House and Oyster Bar. We also ordered takeout from Mellow Mushroom to enjoy football Sunday from our enormous living room t.v!
The best part was that after being able to explore all of the corners of Delray, we were able to easily and swiftly return to our private bungalow at Crane’s where we could watch the trees swaying in the wind without a care in the world. As I sat in my balcony and sipped some tea the morning before check-out, I felt thankful that I was able to sway with them in my bungalow for just a little bit.
Crane’s Beach House is located at:
82 Gleason ST, Delray Beach, FL 33483
Follow the hotel on IG at @Cranesbeachhouse and visit online or call (866) 372-7263 to make your reservation!
Remember to always keep {safely} galavanting! xx Alexia