In The Know

As originally published in CURATED Magazine.

While Exclusive Resorts grants Members access to a portfolio of incredible residences, resorts, and travel experiences around the globe, it also opens the doors to a discerning selection of private clubs that would otherwise require a separate membership. From New York City’s finest society space to the number-one golf course in the Bahamas, these coveted clubs provide VIP entrée into the culture, art, food and wine, and sports worlds. Bonus points for the endless perks, including discounted initiation fees and behind-the-scenes invitations to sold-out events and exhibitions. Here are eight luminary clubs primed for play — all you have to do is pick your passion. 

For the Resort-Ready

UNWIND AT THE BOCA RATON CLUB 

The Vibe | With five hotels plus coveted beach and yacht Clubs, the multi-faceted personalities of this iconic resort are always at play. 

The Access | This iconic Florida gem is the essence of timeless elegance, where every detail whispers refinement and history. Experience the allure of the newly imagined Beach Club (opening in December 2024), including all-new guest rooms and suites, three private pools, half a mile of private golden beach, and luxury cabanas. Make sure to laze a day (or two) away at the Spa Palmera, a 50,000-square-foot oasis that takes its cue from Spain’s Alhambra Palace.

Dream Experience | Indulge in extraordinary culinary adventures that celebrate gastronomy. The exquisite dishes are crafted by renowned chefs, showcasing the finest ingredients and innovative techniques. Enjoy exclusive events, including the enchanting Candlelight Performance by the Palm Beach Symphony Chamber Ensemble series, cozy Family Beach Bonfires, the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and more.

For the Culturally Curious

MINGLE WITH TOP MINDS AT CORE:

The Vibe | A like-minded community of in-the-scene cultural explorers, celebrating art, pop culture, and big ideas at curated events held at coveted locales. 

The Access | This ultra-exclusive club costs upwards of $100,000 a year, but Exclusive Resorts Members are granted complimentary visits to the lavish new clubhouse on New York’s Fifth Avenue. And for those interested in more than a day trip, book one of 11 suites located on the 15th floor.

Dream Experience | The brand new, 60,000-square-foot NYC space houses a 40-person screening room and theater, an art gallery of rotating exhibits, a state-of-the-art gym, and a spa. While the new amenities are above and beyond, CORE: events are the talk of the town, with intimate musical experiences, film screenings, and dynamic discussions with luminaries such as architect Bjarke Ingles, biologist Richard Dawkins, and artist Marina Abromovic. 

In the Know | Chef Michele Brogioni of Armani Ristorante oversees all things food and drink, including the rooftop restaurant, a speakeasy, wine library, and 17-seat culinary lab that hosts a rotating lineup of Michelin-starred chefs.

For Art Aficionados  

MUSEUM HOP WITH THE CULTIVIST 

The Vibe | It’s all about private exhibitions, meet-the-artist fetes, and first dibs on swoon worthy art. Flash a card from the Cultivist, and you’ll receive V-VIP treatment at the most buzzworthy global museums.

The Access | This trendy global arts club gives Members the perks of its Enthusiast program, which includes access to exhibitions at more than 60 leading museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Musee Picasso in Paris, and the National Portrait Gallery in London.

Dream Experience | No bookings. No lines. No hassles. Members also receive access to the Cultivist’s network of vetted tour guides and seasonal invitations to private hours at museums and monthly virtual art talks, along with the opportunity to purchase custom, guided tours and virtual Academy classes with vetted experts on topics ranging from ancient Greek culture to contemporary culture. 

In the Know | Upgrade to the Cultivist’s Club Level and your artsy personal concierge will leverage bespoke itineraries, tickets to sold-out shows, unlimited group Academy classes, plus Cultivist Trips with like-minded Members.

For Auto Enthusiasts

HIT THE TRACK AT MONTICELLO MOTOR CLUB

The Vibe | Days of Thunder meets country club social networking at this esteemed motor club located just 90 minutes outside of New York City.

The Access | Avid drivers will find the amenities and services hard to resist, particularly the access to the 4.1-mile road track and one-on-one professional driving instruction.

Dream Experience | Get behind the wheel of high-performance vehicles, compete on the Northeast’s finest go-karting track, partake in a drift competition on a wet ski pad, and tackle the precision autocross course. 

In the Know | Porsche upgrades are also available to Members, so you can channel your favorite Formula One Driver while zigzagging around the coveted racetrack in one of the fastest cars ever made.

For Oenophiles  

DISCOVER EXCEPTIONAL WINES WITH VINEYARD VIP

The Vibe | For most Members, an obsession with wine exceeds popping the finest bottles. They want to experience terroir firsthand, meet legendary winemakers, and partake in side-by-side tastings of top vintages.  

The Access | The Club’s Vineyard VIP program provides thoughtfully curated experiences and insider access (often with preferred pricing), to more than a dozen top wineries, including Staglin Family Vineyard, Far Niente, Nickel & Nickel, and Three Sticks (pictured left).     

Dream Experience | Be the first to learn about the latest releases, spend days vineyard-hopping in Napa and Sonoma, and partake in lavish stays at wine country residences. At Napa’s Darioush Winery, known for Bordeaux-inspired wines, Members are granted first access to its small lot, library, and large-format bottles, as well as invitations to private events, plus discounted shipping and preferred pricing on special culinary experiences including the coveted Estate Dinner Series. 

In the Know | At Napa’s historic Chateau Montelena — the cellar that put America’s winemaking on the map after its white wine won the 1976 Judgment of Paris — Members are invited to a tasting of rare library vintages alongside current releases. 

For Golf Players

TEE OFF AT THE EDEN CLUB

The Vibe | Imagine an all-access pass to a golfer’s dream destination. In other words, the Eden Club at Scotland’s Pittormie Castle is as discriminating as it gets.

The Access | Five Exclusive Resorts residences are located right on the castle grounds, each with two bedrooms and finished in traditional Scottish style. The storied Old Course at St. Andrews is minutes away, while 38 other distinct courses are within an hour’s drive.

Dream Experience | Between rounds, Members perfect their swing at the short-game center and par 3 hole, and on down days, relax poolside or recover with a deep-tissue massage at the five-star spa.

In the Know | The best place to rehash your day on the links is at the acclaimed Pittormie Kitchen, where Michelin-decorated chef Russell Robertson delights guests with locally sourced meals. 

For Adventurists

SET SAIL WITH BARTON & GRAY

The Vibe | Vitamin sea meets social cruising. Nothing says luxury like entertaining guests on your own private yacht — whether you’re out for a day cruise or a week-long adventure.

The Access | This New England-based mariners club operates a fleet of 80-plus Hinckleys, Daychasers, vintage Boston Whalers, and sailing catamarans. Take a captained cruise from one of Barton & Gray’s 30-some harbors, including Nantucket and Charleston. You get to choose from a predefined route or collaborate with the captain to create your own tailor-made itinerary.    

NEW! Dream Experience | Embark on an overnight journey through the Bahamas aboard a newly retrofitted catamaran. The crew will drop anchor at bustling marinas and charming seaside villages, and you can kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel right off the boat.  

In the Know | The ship’s private chef will prepare meals on the open sea, or you can venture into town and dine at a local hotspot.  

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