The 1,047-room The Boca Raton straddles the Intracoastal Waterway roughly halfway between Palm Beach and Ft. Lauderdale. On the mainland side stands Addison Mizner’s ornate 1926 Cloister hotel and the new 112-room Yacht Club, which faces the Intracoastal Waterway, and a cluster of Boca Bungalows along the golf course. Boats and shuttles leave from the main complex for the recently renovated Beach Club, a seven-story complex of rooms, restaurants, and swimming pools fronting a half-mile of private Atlantic-washed beach on a barrier island just across the Intracoastal.
Tennis at the resort took on a new dimension with the debut in March of 1998 of the $10 million Tennis and Fitness Center and again late in 2001 with the opening of the palatial Spa Palmera. Architecturally, the new clubhouse looks like a contemporary of the neighboring Cloister. From the hotel a path along the croquet courts leads to a two-story Mediterranean-inspired structure tricked out in the same pink stucco and barrel tile as Addison Mizner’s original. Straight ahead double wooden doors on the first floor open onto a bright fitness center full of state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment and Cybex workout stations, while to the right and left twin stone staircases lead to an arched and pillared second-floor arcade and the entrance to the expansive tennis shop.
Rich in wood trim and a large selection of well-displayed clothing, this 5,000-square-foot retail outlet looks more like a boutique than a full-service pro shop. Behind it a covered deck extends above the fence line of courts Nos. 1 and 2 and provides a panorama of the complex. The courts themselves, 18 in all, are arrayed to either side of a brick-lined alleyway, decorated with benches, trees, and flowers. All of the courts are clay with a subsurface watering system called HydroGrid. What you cannot see from this perspective is that this entire complex of 18 courts sits atop a parking garage.
The effort that went into the new complex is being matched by the efforts of the staff to take good care of tennis players. Chief among the services is a well-honed system of finding matches for guests, typically by calling on local members. To do that the resort designates some of its staff as “tennis concierges,” with the responsibility not only to set up games but also to carpenter together a personalized tennis program, including any of five daily clinics, tennis aerobics, and occasional round robins. The man behind the programs is director Erik Silver, who has been on these courts since he first started to work there at age 14.
When you walk into the pro shop, through the double doors, you come face to face with a raised counter and two tennis concierges eager to arrange matches or create an individually tailored program from the week’s menu of activities. That and the physical beauty of the complex make an indelible first impression.
Tennis Staff: With his model-like looks and long wavy dark brown hair, tennis director Erik Silver looks the part of a resort tennis pro. His mother is a long-time member, and Silver first began working with the colorful Warren Woodcock, a former director, in 1978. After eight years as head pro, he took over as director in 1996. He has assembled a large staff of very personable pros, including his assistant director Brett Maynard, head pro Larry Gottfried, and an attentive crew to man the pro shop.
Tennis Programs: Apart from game matching, which is handled by a “Tennis Concierge”, and private lessons, the staff runs 5 to 6 daily clinics, a few weekly round robins, and tennis aerobics. For kids, they offer a once-a-week Mighty Mites program for 3-4 year olds and Tiny Tots sessions three times a week for those ages 5 to 7.
Off Court
Beach: The Beach Club, across the Intracoastal Waterway on a barrier island facing the Atlantic, fronts half a mile of private beach, furnished with padded lounge chairs with fold-up canopies each with an individual flagpole to use to request beverage or other service.
Golf Courses: The resort has two 18-hole courses. It is also home to the Kellie Stenzel Golf Academy and the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School.
Resort Course: Reconstructed and reconfigured in 1999, this course now features water on most of its fairways, including the 18th, which has an island green. Par 71. Length: 6,253 yards from the back tees.
Country Club Course: Also redesigned in 1999, the Country Club course features contoured greens and many deep, greenside bunkers. Par 72. Length: 6,714 yards from the back tees.
Spa & Fitness Center. The 6,200-square-foot fitness center at the tennis courts has a full line of aerobic and cardiovascular equipment as well as a set of Cybex stations. Its exercise studio schedules a variety of aerobics and toning classes, and personal training is available from the staff. The resort also has a second fitness center at the Boca Beach Club and a third at the Boca Country Club.
Just across the road from the tennis center stands Spa Palmera, a 50,000-square-foot sanctuary with 44 treatment rooms, an opulent wet room, an eclectic menu of spa treatments, sunning terraces, and an additional 10,000 square feet of gardens with waterfall whirlpools and a spa pool with underwater music.
The resort has seven swimming pools, one at the Cloister, three at the Beach Club, and one each at the Country Club, Boca Bungalows, and Spa Palmera. The resort also has a full-service marina immediately adjacent to the historic Cloister on the Intracoastal Waterway. It has 32 slips and can accommodate sailing vessels up to 170 feet in length. There are also croquet lawns, racquetball courts, volleyball, basketball, and badminton.
Children's programs: Children’s activities and recreation are divided into three groups by age: Boca Tots, ages 3-5; Boca Bunch, ages 6-12; and Boca Sport, ages 12-17.
Dining: Rather than have a single chef oversee the entire resort operation, the Boca Raton brought in outside chefs for some of its restaurants. Of the dozen or so food outlets on property, the signature restaurant is Cielo, which recently became the province of Michela Larson. From its location on the 27th floor, it looks up and down the Intracoastal Waterway and in a state as flat as Florida seems to afford the ability to see forever. Among the other notable options are noted restaurateur Drew Nieporent’s Tuscan-inspired Lucca in the Cloister Piazza and SeaGrille at the Boca Beach Club, where it serves fresh local seafood and salads.
Accommodations
The nostalgic first choice in lodging would seem to be the historic Cloister hotel until you discover that its quarters seem small by today’s standards and at best have views of the golf course. As a result, those who adore the beach will opt instead for the recently refurbished rooms at the Boca Beach Club, even though that puts you a shuttle or boat ride away from the tennis courts and many of the restaurants. The South Tower thus stands out for its convenience, the spaciousness of its rooms, and the glorious views from the mid to high floors. Those who want seclusion can opt instead for the Boca Bunaglows, some of whose rooms and suites have kitchens. The newest lodging is in the luxuriously appointed Yacht Club, whose design resembles a Venetian palace.
Getting there
Seasons: Although the resort is open year-round, summers in south Florida are hot and steamy and tennis activity wanes. Rates are almost half what they are in winter, however.
Travel Instructions: By Air: Palm Beach Airport is 28 miles to the north, Fort Lauderdale is 24 miles to the south, and Miami International is 45 miles south. By car: Take I-95 or the Florida Turnpike to Camino Real and head east. The Resort located between U.S. 1 (a.k.a. Federal Highway) and Highway A1A.
I had an amazing time playing tennis at the Boca Resort. The facilities (including the courts) were in fantastic shape, and the staff was top notch. Besides getting to play some matches, I received the highest quality instruction from Erik Silver. He really knows his tennis, and his ability to help me with all facets of my game is impressive. I left the courts feeling confident and playing better tennis after only a short time. I look forward to my next trip to the Boca Resort to relax and continue improving my game.
EL
I went for a week. The first 4 days with 3 of my sisters and the last 3 with my husband and 2 kids. I think the tennis facilities are the best. Har tru is a wonderful surface. Plus there is beautiful stately building with a beautiful al fresco porch that overlooks the courts. We hooked up with the tennis pro Reed for the whole time we were there. He took an old dog (me) and taught me new tricks! And our son, who is 15, and a decent player, Reed really ramped up the workout and was a huge boost to our son’s game. Reed is a beautiful, high quality player. We didn’t do organized tennis programs, just one on one, so can’t comment on that. In terms of the rest of the resort, we found all the staff so welcoming and helpful. We were never ignored and never felt that people were to0 busy to help us. The ambience is fun and busy. The restaurants are all happy wonderful places. We especially loved eating outside (which is offered at most of the restaurants), and enjoying the gorgeous weather. The pool is a fun place too. Great live music during the day (kind of an island reggae band, that we heard) and it’s not too loud, just really fun. Hope that gives some insight into Boca Raton Resort.
NW
Wow! As a working teaching pro in Philadelphia, I usually leave my racquet at home when I travel. So glad I decided to bring it with me to Boca Raton Resort. I explained to the staff at the pro shop that I wanted a upbeat, positive pro for a private lesson. I was introduced to Reed and loved him. So much so that I booked a hour and a half lesson the next day for my husband and myself. The rain prevented us from taking a third lesson. Seeing Jimmy Conners give a lesson was quite incredible also. Can’t wait to go back. Thanks Reed Rubenstein !
MR
I spent three days taking clinics at this resort. On Monday and Wednesday, there were 4-5 pros with each court having 3-4 players. Tuesday was a smaller group with 4-5 people and 1 pro. The courts are in excellent condition and play very well. The clinics are run very well and Larry Gottfried and his staff are very attentive and make guests feel welcome. You are divided up by skill level and move around to the different pros during the 2 hours. I have played at many resorts in Florida and Arizona and this is one of the best I have been at. I would recommend Boca Raton Resort and Club to all tennis players.
EM
The drills and clinics are fantastic! All of the instructors were wonderful. The setting is lovely and the courts are beautifully maintained. I have been to several of the top 25 tennis resorts and this is the best by far!
CA
Beyond the well maintained courts and the and other typical appointments, not all luxury tennis resorts are the same. The tennis environment is the difference and that invariably depends on the pros and the others who manage the facility. Are they merely clocking the hours or do they really care about the game and the players? As others have noted on this site, this is what makes Boca Resort so distinctive. Erik Silver, the head pro, and his staff are passionate about the sport and about teaching and helping the people who come to play. That is certainly why they have created a devoted following of players who return year after year. And if they miss a year or two, not to worry, Erik, Larry Gottfried, Brett Maynard who have spent their careers at the club, never seem to forget a name, and they always treat you as a member of the family. When they walk on the court, they bring a sense of energy and enthusiasm that enriches the entire experience. You leave with your body and your game feeling that much better. My only regret is that I don’t spend more time there. I have played at clubs around the world and there is truly none as inviting, supportive, and welcoming as Boca.
MC
I am a member of the Boca Resort and Club and have been playing tennis there for over 25 years. I currently reside out of state and get to play when we get back to Boca which is once or twice each year. The tennis is an exceptional facility with a skilled and accommodating staff headed by Eric Silver. My son participates in one of the youth programs and always enjoys his time playing – plus he is learning. One cannot go wrong scheduling a tennis holiday at the Resort and Club.
DH
The integrity, reliability and dedication, combined with a high teaching quality, irrespective of your own standard as a player. Guests are treated just as courteously as members. A leisurely ambiance prevails. It is exciting to watch also former top notch players (Colin Dibley, Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert) or play and talk with erstwhile former business executives. Eric Silver as director and Larry Gottfried as top pro are great assets.
JS
I love the Boca Raton Resort and Club. It’s by far the best tennis resort I have ever played at. The courts are meticulously groomed and there is always cold water next to where you are playing. The pros are unbelievable, especially Erik, Larry and Solomen. I have had lessons with all of them. Jane, Brett, Courtney and Danny run an excellent pro shop. I have visit the resort about 3-5 times per year primarily for the tennis and beach. I will be returning again next November!
BJ
Amazing tennis facility with great coaches. You will not be disappointed.
KM
Beautiful resort offering fabulous pools and balmy beaches in addition to top tennis instruction. Expensive Waldorf Astoria property but outstanding tennis and golf.
SW
Fantastic instruction. VERY customer-friendly
SG
Nice courts, helpfull people, Nice tennis teachers. The only weakness was that i had to borrow a tennisracket at the shop. They were old and not up to date. I was a pleasure of been there and playing with one of the teachers ( Larry)
MB
My stay at the Boca Beach Club Resort was outstanding. The facility was exceptional from the service to the food. We visited in July to celebrate a friends 40th birthday. What made our trip most memorable was the top-notch tennis facility and clinic that we attended. The courts were beautiful and well maintained. What was above and beyond was the tennis instruction by the pro. I have been playing tennis for about 3 years with a lot of one-on-one coaching. Their pros were able to tweak my techniques to change my game and bring it to a whole new level of play. I not only recommend the tennis club at the Boca Beach Resort but I will be sure to return again and again!
LC
We were lucky enough to play with Daniel. We had our 12 year old ATP player son take a one hour lesson, and he loved it. Larry was funny and charming. I thought the facility was was state of the art and gorgeous. We can’t wait to come back.
MK
I was there for a business trip but was able to get a lesson and a clinic in. Tennis pro Larry was awesome. He was flexible and is an excellent instructor. The clinic was awesome, with five of us in the clinic, there were three pros where we rotated every 40 minutes. They listened to us and adjusted accordingly. I would recommend this facility highly.
RW
The best resort. Facilities are incredibly maintained. Staff is outstanding. We go 2-3 times each year only for the tennis facilities. Highly recommend.
LK
My third visit to Boca, and tennis is the draw, plus the beautiful grounds and variety of places to eat and enjoy the sun. There are 18 beautifully maintained Har-Tru courts with a range of excellent players who attend the clinics, both locals and guests at the resort. Excellent ratio in the morning drills — never more than 1 pro to 4 players — with a focus on live-ball play. They manage to get in instruction but keep things moving as in a real game. I have been to four other tennis resorts or camps and prefer this one to all others. Larry does a great job of organizing all and has a great sensibility as a teacher — low key, but expert tips. Would appreciate some game arranging or more round robins, as someone else mentioned. And I wish it were not so humid, but hey, it’s Florida! Love the place and try to come back at least once a year.
JF
We have been coming to this resort for 15 years primarily for the tennis. The courts are well maintained and the pros hop staff is helpful . The two main pros, Eric and Larry are energetic and excellent teachers. We have been to several tennis camps and ore resorts and this is the one we return to each year. We highly recommend the resort and especially the tennis.
AG
Great choice for my tennis vacation I got to play lots of tennis, took some clinics to improve my game and worked out and even took a few fitness group classes which is all part of the tennis complex you only downside was not a lot of Round robin opportunities. Since I was alone, it was good but I wanted to play more. Highly recommend the clinics with Larry. Great way to get use moving on the clay courts.
AK
Nice facility in gorgeous resort. Club members and guests play in clinic together. Good pros. Friendly.
CC
We wanted a tennis getaway for my wife’s birthday. I emailed ahead and let Brett know what we wanted and he took care of the rest. Clinics, private lessons, you name it, they can do it. Exceptional service. Facility is top notch. And the pros were all great. Special thanks to Eric, Larry, Todd, Allesio, Matt and Soloman for making my wife’s tennis birthday/vacation trip unforgettable. I would highly recommend Boca Resort & Club for anyone looking for a personalized tennis vacation.
RC
Exceptional teaching staff with superb attention to detail in perfecting my overall play.
TH
An awesome resort for a tennis getaway! Beautiful surrondings including beautiful resort beach, all the amenities, wonderful staff, and most of all a superb tennis program with knowledgeable and fun Pros!
DW
Enjoyed the facilities very much.
JM
Beautiful setting and excellent instruction. I have played tennis for 9 years 2-3 times a week. While I was delighted to get instruction on my form, I would have also liked to know more about game strategy and would to play more games.
LP
It is Fabulous tennis!! Clay Courts, exceptional professionals and great tennis atmosphere!!
TG
Last weekend I took 14 Girls from my tennis team over to the Boca Resort for the weekend. We had several clinics with Larry Gottfried and assorted Pro’s from the Resort. It was fabulous. Fast paced tennis work outs, and they really worked on the doubles strategies we need on the courts for our Team. This was not my first tennis weekend, and I was very impressed with the service on and off the courts. We had fabulous meals from Breakfast to Dinner, and enjoyed the Beach and Pool amenities. Not to mention that the Spa is one of my all time favorites in the world:) I hang with some high maintenance ladies…and they were all extremely happy with out weekend.
JS
I have taken clinics at this resort three or four times. It was more drilling than instruction. The setting is plush, and facilities are nice, but I didn’t learn all that much. Just hit a lot of balls.
JS
I trained to play professional tennis at the Chris Evert Academy and currently compete for NYU. I have been fortunate enough to take lessons from some of the best pros and have seen many of the great tennis facilities. The Boca Raton Resort has hands down the best tennis facility and pros that I have come across. I have been taking lessons from Erik Silver since the time I started coming to the resort and he is the ultimate pro. I had an issue on my Forehand Volley that had been bothering me for months and he was able to fix it in a half hour. The rest of the pros including Larry, Brett and Jane at the front desk are great as well. The pro shop is stocked with all the items a tennis fanatic could ask for. The clay courts are also very well maintained, this is rare in the tennis industry. They have a new junior program run by Martin Blackman and many of top players in the world attend. I have run into many pros in my time attending the resort and it is always a treat to shake hands with some of the games best. I Make sure tennis is a staple of your stay, you wont be disappointed.
LO
I’ve been to a lot of tennis camps and clinics and found Boca Raton R & C to have struck the right balance. The instructors were able to keep the pace moving and challenging for all levels, ratio of instructor to student was kept to a minimum 1:4 at all times and the instructors are very upbeat and fun. Some of their drills were new to me and effective. The members of the resort are a very friendly group. So, someone like myself who was traveling alone felt very comfortable and welcomed by the club’s regulars.
TO
I have been to many resorts with tennis facilitates and pros and by far Boca Raton is the best. The pros and very friendly and go the extra mile to help you with your game and give you a great workout. Erik Silver is the Director and he and his staff are excellent. I plan to go back.
LP
I am 76 years of age and just returned from a wonderful vacation at the Boca Raton Resort and Club and must say I had the most phenominal time at the tennis club no one asked my age and I played tennis every day in clinics and a couple of privates and felt like one of the crowd my comfort zone was complete and the instruction was above par as for the instructors, i have played for many years in many places and by far they were the best..g d willing, we cant wait to go back thank you one and all for a most delightful vacation in all respects
LK
Fantastic Resort! Best tennis program ever. Instructors were professional, warm and engaging..Learned alot and had alot of fun. The atmosphere is wonderful and the tennis great. Highly recommend it.
JC
I traveled here for a quick weekend trip alone. I stayed at the Beach club & made reservations for 3 clinics prior to my arrival. I’d recommend doing this as the clinics were full each day I participated. Beach club was beautiful- restaurants 1 on the ocean, a pool bar, and 2 in the hotel. Room opened up to 3 pools (1 adult only), and the beach was across the way. There is a shuttle that takes you to the resort that runs every 5-15 minutes (it’s about a 15 min trip). I walked each day about a 15 minute beautiful walk over the intercostal waterways. Tennis clinics started at 9-1030. There were a mixture of men/women and skill level. Most days were 3-5 people. They consisted of drips, practice of various strokes and some play time. I took one private lesson with Greg, who was fantastic. All the instructors were really top notch, professional, and offered great tips. Other players were friendly and pleasant to work with. The location was beautiful.
CG
I love this resort. The tennis program is fantastic! All of the instructors hav played on the tour at one time. They are all friendly, pleasure to be around and highly skilled instructors. Can’t wait to go back!!!
NL
Great tennis instruction,and they will costomize instruction, beautiful landscapping, health club and pool. Good restaurant options. Business conferences detract from vacation atmosphere.
RR
Great adult tennis camp. The instruction was geared toward our age and skill level. I learned alot and improvd my game while having alot of fun. Great for groups of friends.
KR
The camp was fantastic. The Boca Club is an exquisite setting. The instructors were top-notch, and encouraged us to try things differently (e.g. serves, different spins). They also worked with us as a team, to develop some different plays. The instructors also took care to group players appropriately. A great tune up for a northerner before our regular season begins. As an aside, the pools at the resort are really great for apres tennis relaxing — you’ll need it after all that hard work!
DS
Our family of four just returned from a one week stay at the Boca Raton Beach Club (the Beach Club is a relatively new addition to the Resort, on the beach in Boca Raton). We are very picky about our vacation sports, and this place was simply terrific for an ocean getaway combined with great pools, fitness, food, facilities, rooms, views, and great tennis. The har-tru courts were beautifully situated and maintained throughout each day. The pros were all incredibly available, engaging and helpful. However, it was the efforts and energy of one particular pro – L. Gottfried – that made the tennis on this trip so special and productive. Over the week, he took the time to provide each of us with specific tips and techniques to improve our individual skills … all the time keeping it light, positive and fun. overall area was terrific too. We visited the Sony Ericsson Open, Delray Beach, and other great local spots. You must eat at the Whale’s Rib – one of the best local dive joints ever – and a fantastic local surf shop; both located within 100 yds of each other, just south and around the corner from the Beach Club on Hwy A1A. We make it a rule never to visit a vacation destination twice, but we all agreed that we would make an exception for the Boca Raton Beach Club; this one deserves a return visit!
BB
we have gone here many times and love it there. They have the best staff for lessons and clinics.
MN
I had a wonderful tennis experience at the Boca Raton Resort. Erik Silver was a great instructor and really improved my game.
CS
the drills offered by the hotel’s tennis pro’s was excellent. great instruction,feedback small in size. do NOT take a tennis camp with drew evert – that was a total waste of time and money. He gave no instruction, never picked up a ball and poor interaction with drill.
TT
coming from france, you don’t have in my country the teacher, erik silver and his team (drew evert, tod, solomon) are really good and you know it because after 3 days, you play like never you’d played before. the tennis club is perfect, near the main hotel, the tennis clay courts : my god ! you believe you are at forest hill !!
RG
I just returned from a meeting at the Boca Raton Resort and Club. By far, the most enjoyable part of the trip was spending time at their incredible tennis facility. Three hours a day in the intense Florida (June) heat simply flew by under the fantastic direction of Erik Silver (Director of Tennis) and Tod Roth. The facility, instruction and complete tennis experience was incredible. I would enthusiastically recommend this tennis facility to any player at any level.
LK
Beautifully maintained Tennis Courts…Excellent service..Very well qualified Pros for all different levels.
AM
It is an awesome vacation!
GA
Recently spent a few days at The Boca Resort. It was my third trip there in the past six months. I played tennis ever day and had an amazing time. I took an hour each day with Erik and my game has improved every time. He keeps in fun but still always challenges you to step up your game. On the last day we played doubles against Solomon (another instructor) and one of his students and it was a great experience. As beautiful as this facility is, as we all know, you are only as good as the people who run it. The staff is eager to match you up in games with other members or guests and are alqways friendly & helpful. See you next time!
JS
On my recent vacation at The Boca Resort, I found the tennis program sorely lacking in accomodating playimg guests with arranged games. Practically no effort was made to make a game available for those players who want to play and take expensive lessons.
JP
As a traveling 5.0 player, I’ve been fortunate enough to play at many of the top clubs/resorts across the country. The facility at the Boca Raton Resort is definitely among my favorites. Immaculate courts, gorgeous setting, and terrific pros. I would definitely recommend staying here. FYI, hotel rates during the summer months are very reasonable.
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123 Reviews on “The Boca Raton”
I had an amazing time playing tennis at the Boca Resort. The facilities (including the courts) were in fantastic shape, and the staff was top notch. Besides getting to play some matches, I received the highest quality instruction from Erik Silver. He really knows his tennis, and his ability to help me with all facets of my game is impressive. I left the courts feeling confident and playing better tennis after only a short time. I look forward to my next trip to the Boca Resort to relax and continue improving my game.
I went for a week. The first 4 days with 3 of my sisters and the last 3 with my husband and 2 kids. I think the tennis facilities are the best. Har tru is a wonderful surface. Plus there is beautiful stately building with a beautiful al fresco porch that overlooks the courts. We hooked up with the tennis pro Reed for the whole time we were there. He took an old dog (me) and taught me new tricks! And our son, who is 15, and a decent player, Reed really ramped up the workout and was a huge boost to our son’s game. Reed is a beautiful, high quality player. We didn’t do organized tennis programs, just one on one, so can’t comment on that. In terms of the rest of the resort, we found all the staff so welcoming and helpful. We were never ignored and never felt that people were to0 busy to help us. The ambience is fun and busy. The restaurants are all happy wonderful places. We especially loved eating outside (which is offered at most of the restaurants), and enjoying the gorgeous weather. The pool is a fun place too. Great live music during the day (kind of an island reggae band, that we heard) and it’s not too loud, just really fun. Hope that gives some insight into Boca Raton Resort.
Wow! As a working teaching pro in Philadelphia, I usually leave my racquet at home when I travel. So glad I decided to bring it with me to Boca Raton Resort. I explained to the staff at the pro shop that I wanted a upbeat, positive pro for a private lesson. I was introduced to Reed and loved him. So much so that I booked a hour and a half lesson the next day for my husband and myself. The rain prevented us from taking a third lesson. Seeing Jimmy Conners give a lesson was quite incredible also. Can’t wait to go back. Thanks Reed Rubenstein !
I spent three days taking clinics at this resort. On Monday and Wednesday, there were 4-5 pros with each court having 3-4 players. Tuesday was a smaller group with 4-5 people and 1 pro. The courts are in excellent condition and play very well. The clinics are run very well and Larry Gottfried and his staff are very attentive and make guests feel welcome. You are divided up by skill level and move around to the different pros during the 2 hours. I have played at many resorts in Florida and Arizona and this is one of the best I have been at. I would recommend Boca Raton Resort and Club to all tennis players.
The drills and clinics are fantastic! All of the instructors were wonderful. The setting is lovely and the courts are beautifully maintained. I have been to several of the top 25 tennis resorts and this is the best by far!
Beyond the well maintained courts and the and other typical appointments, not all luxury tennis resorts are the same. The tennis environment is the difference and that invariably depends on the pros and the others who manage the facility. Are they merely clocking the hours or do they really care about the game and the players? As others have noted on this site, this is what makes Boca Resort so distinctive. Erik Silver, the head pro, and his staff are passionate about the sport and about teaching and helping the people who come to play. That is certainly why they have created a devoted following of players who return year after year. And if they miss a year or two, not to worry, Erik, Larry Gottfried, Brett Maynard who have spent their careers at the club, never seem to forget a name, and they always treat you as a member of the family. When they walk on the court, they bring a sense of energy and enthusiasm that enriches the entire experience. You leave with your body and your game feeling that much better. My only regret is that I don’t spend more time there. I have played at clubs around the world and there is truly none as inviting, supportive, and welcoming as Boca.
I am a member of the Boca Resort and Club and have been playing tennis there for over 25 years. I currently reside out of state and get to play when we get back to Boca which is once or twice each year. The tennis is an exceptional facility with a skilled and accommodating staff headed by Eric Silver. My son participates in one of the youth programs and always enjoys his time playing – plus he is learning. One cannot go wrong scheduling a tennis holiday at the Resort and Club.
The integrity, reliability and dedication, combined with a high teaching quality, irrespective of your own standard as a player. Guests are treated just as courteously as members. A leisurely ambiance prevails. It is exciting to watch also former top notch players (Colin Dibley, Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert) or play and talk with erstwhile former business executives. Eric Silver as director and Larry Gottfried as top pro are great assets.
I love the Boca Raton Resort and Club. It’s by far the best tennis resort I have ever played at. The courts are meticulously groomed and there is always cold water next to where you are playing. The pros are unbelievable, especially Erik, Larry and Solomen. I have had lessons with all of them. Jane, Brett, Courtney and Danny run an excellent pro shop. I have visit the resort about 3-5 times per year primarily for the tennis and beach. I will be returning again next November!
Amazing tennis facility with great coaches. You will not be disappointed.
Beautiful resort offering fabulous pools and balmy beaches in addition to top tennis instruction. Expensive Waldorf Astoria property but outstanding tennis and golf.
Fantastic instruction. VERY customer-friendly
Nice courts, helpfull people, Nice tennis teachers. The only weakness was that i had to borrow a tennisracket at the shop. They were old and not up to date. I was a pleasure of been there and playing with one of the teachers ( Larry)
My stay at the Boca Beach Club Resort was outstanding. The facility was exceptional from the service to the food. We visited in July to celebrate a friends 40th birthday. What made our trip most memorable was the top-notch tennis facility and clinic that we attended. The courts were beautiful and well maintained. What was above and beyond was the tennis instruction by the pro. I have been playing tennis for about 3 years with a lot of one-on-one coaching. Their pros were able to tweak my techniques to change my game and bring it to a whole new level of play. I not only recommend the tennis club at the Boca Beach Resort but I will be sure to return again and again!
We were lucky enough to play with Daniel. We had our 12 year old ATP player son take a one hour lesson, and he loved it. Larry was funny and charming. I thought the facility was was state of the art and gorgeous. We can’t wait to come back.
I was there for a business trip but was able to get a lesson and a clinic in. Tennis pro Larry was awesome. He was flexible and is an excellent instructor. The clinic was awesome, with five of us in the clinic, there were three pros where we rotated every 40 minutes. They listened to us and adjusted accordingly. I would recommend this facility highly.
The best resort. Facilities are incredibly maintained. Staff is outstanding. We go 2-3 times each year only for the tennis facilities. Highly recommend.
My third visit to Boca, and tennis is the draw, plus the beautiful grounds and variety of places to eat and enjoy the sun. There are 18 beautifully maintained Har-Tru courts with a range of excellent players who attend the clinics, both locals and guests at the resort. Excellent ratio in the morning drills — never more than 1 pro to 4 players — with a focus on live-ball play. They manage to get in instruction but keep things moving as in a real game. I have been to four other tennis resorts or camps and prefer this one to all others. Larry does a great job of organizing all and has a great sensibility as a teacher — low key, but expert tips. Would appreciate some game arranging or more round robins, as someone else mentioned. And I wish it were not so humid, but hey, it’s Florida! Love the place and try to come back at least once a year.
We have been coming to this resort for 15 years primarily for the tennis. The courts are well maintained and the pros hop staff is helpful . The two main pros, Eric and Larry are energetic and excellent teachers. We have been to several tennis camps and ore resorts and this is the one we return to each year. We highly recommend the resort and especially the tennis.
Great choice for my tennis vacation I got to play lots of tennis, took some clinics to improve my game and worked out and even took a few fitness group classes which is all part of the tennis complex you only downside was not a lot of Round robin opportunities. Since I was alone, it was good but I wanted to play more. Highly recommend the clinics with Larry. Great way to get use moving on the clay courts.
Nice facility in gorgeous resort. Club members and guests play in clinic together. Good pros. Friendly.
We wanted a tennis getaway for my wife’s birthday. I emailed ahead and let Brett know what we wanted and he took care of the rest. Clinics, private lessons, you name it, they can do it. Exceptional service. Facility is top notch. And the pros were all great. Special thanks to Eric, Larry, Todd, Allesio, Matt and Soloman for making my wife’s tennis birthday/vacation trip unforgettable. I would highly recommend Boca Resort & Club for anyone looking for a personalized tennis vacation.
Exceptional teaching staff with superb attention to detail in perfecting my overall play.
An awesome resort for a tennis getaway! Beautiful surrondings including beautiful resort beach, all the amenities, wonderful staff, and most of all a superb tennis program with knowledgeable and fun Pros!
Enjoyed the facilities very much.
Beautiful setting and excellent instruction. I have played tennis for 9 years 2-3 times a week. While I was delighted to get instruction on my form, I would have also liked to know more about game strategy and would to play more games.
It is Fabulous tennis!! Clay Courts, exceptional professionals and great tennis atmosphere!!
Last weekend I took 14 Girls from my tennis team over to the Boca Resort for the weekend. We had several clinics with Larry Gottfried and assorted Pro’s from the Resort. It was fabulous. Fast paced tennis work outs, and they really worked on the doubles strategies we need on the courts for our Team. This was not my first tennis weekend, and I was very impressed with the service on and off the courts. We had fabulous meals from Breakfast to Dinner, and enjoyed the Beach and Pool amenities. Not to mention that the Spa is one of my all time favorites in the world:) I hang with some high maintenance ladies…and they were all extremely happy with out weekend.
I have taken clinics at this resort three or four times. It was more drilling than instruction. The setting is plush, and facilities are nice, but I didn’t learn all that much. Just hit a lot of balls.
I trained to play professional tennis at the Chris Evert Academy and currently compete for NYU. I have been fortunate enough to take lessons from some of the best pros and have seen many of the great tennis facilities. The Boca Raton Resort has hands down the best tennis facility and pros that I have come across. I have been taking lessons from Erik Silver since the time I started coming to the resort and he is the ultimate pro. I had an issue on my Forehand Volley that had been bothering me for months and he was able to fix it in a half hour. The rest of the pros including Larry, Brett and Jane at the front desk are great as well.
The pro shop is stocked with all the items a tennis fanatic could ask for. The clay courts are also very well maintained, this is rare in the tennis industry. They have a new junior program run by Martin Blackman and many of top players in the world attend. I have run into many pros in my time attending the resort and it is always a treat to shake hands with some of the games best. I Make sure tennis is a staple of your stay, you wont be disappointed.
I’ve been to a lot of tennis camps and clinics and found Boca Raton R & C to have struck the right balance. The instructors were able to keep the pace moving and challenging for all levels, ratio of instructor to student was kept to a minimum 1:4 at all times and the instructors are very upbeat and fun. Some of their drills were new to me and effective. The members of the resort are a very friendly group. So, someone like myself who was traveling alone felt very comfortable and welcomed by the club’s regulars.
I have been to many resorts with tennis facilitates and pros and by far Boca Raton is the best. The pros and very friendly and go the extra mile to help you with your game and give you a great workout. Erik Silver is the Director and he and his staff are excellent. I plan to go back.
I am 76 years of age and just returned from a wonderful vacation at the Boca Raton Resort and Club and must say I had the most phenominal time at the tennis club no one asked my age and I played tennis every day in clinics and a couple of privates and felt like one of the crowd my comfort zone was complete and the instruction was above par as for the instructors, i have played for many years in many places and by far they were the best..g d willing, we cant wait to go back thank you one and all for a most delightful vacation in all respects
Fantastic Resort! Best tennis program ever. Instructors were professional, warm and engaging..Learned alot and had alot of fun. The atmosphere is wonderful and the tennis great. Highly recommend it.
I traveled here for a quick weekend trip alone. I stayed at the Beach club & made reservations for 3 clinics prior to my arrival. I’d recommend doing this as the clinics were full each day I participated.
Beach club was beautiful- restaurants 1 on the ocean, a pool bar, and 2 in the hotel. Room opened up to 3 pools (1 adult only), and the beach was across the way. There is a shuttle that takes you to the resort that runs every 5-15 minutes (it’s about a 15 min trip). I walked each day about a 15 minute beautiful walk over the intercostal waterways.
Tennis clinics started at 9-1030. There were a mixture of men/women and skill level. Most days were 3-5 people. They consisted of drips, practice of various strokes and some play time. I took one private lesson with Greg, who was fantastic. All the instructors were really top notch, professional, and offered great tips.
Other players were friendly and pleasant to work with. The location was beautiful.
I love this resort. The tennis program is fantastic! All of the instructors hav played on the tour at one time. They are all friendly, pleasure to be around and highly skilled instructors. Can’t wait to go back!!!
Great tennis instruction,and they will costomize instruction, beautiful landscapping, health club and pool. Good restaurant options. Business conferences detract from vacation atmosphere.
Great adult tennis camp. The instruction was geared toward our age and skill level. I learned alot and improvd my game while having alot of fun. Great for groups of friends.
The camp was fantastic. The Boca Club is an exquisite setting. The instructors were top-notch, and encouraged us to try things differently (e.g. serves, different spins). They also worked with us as a team, to develop some different plays. The instructors also took care to group players appropriately.
A great tune up for a northerner before our regular season begins. As an aside, the pools at the resort are really great for apres tennis relaxing — you’ll need it after all that hard work!
Our family of four just returned from a one week stay at the Boca Raton Beach Club (the Beach Club is a relatively new addition to the Resort, on the beach in Boca Raton). We are very picky about our vacation sports, and this place was simply terrific for an ocean getaway combined with great pools, fitness, food, facilities, rooms, views, and great tennis.
The har-tru courts were beautifully situated and maintained throughout each day. The pros were all incredibly available, engaging and helpful. However, it was the efforts and energy of one particular pro – L. Gottfried – that made the tennis on this trip so special and productive. Over the week, he took the time to provide each of us with specific tips and techniques to improve our individual skills … all the time keeping it light, positive and fun.
overall area was terrific too. We visited the Sony Ericsson Open, Delray Beach, and other great local spots. You must eat at the Whale’s Rib – one of the best local dive joints ever – and a fantastic local surf shop; both located within 100 yds of each other, just south and around the corner from the Beach Club on Hwy A1A.
We make it a rule never to visit a vacation destination twice, but we all agreed that we would make an exception for the Boca Raton Beach Club; this one deserves a return visit!
we have gone here many times and love it there. They have the best staff for lessons and clinics.
I had a wonderful tennis experience at the Boca Raton Resort. Erik Silver was a great instructor and really improved my game.
the drills offered by the hotel’s tennis pro’s was excellent. great instruction,feedback small in size. do NOT take a tennis camp with drew evert – that was a total waste of time and money. He gave no instruction, never picked up a ball and poor interaction with drill.
coming from france, you don’t have in my country the teacher, erik silver and his team (drew evert, tod, solomon) are really good and you know it because after 3 days, you play like never you’d played before. the tennis club is perfect, near the main hotel, the tennis clay courts : my god ! you believe you are at forest hill !!
I just returned from a meeting at the Boca Raton Resort and Club. By far, the most enjoyable part of the trip was spending time at their incredible tennis facility. Three hours a day in the intense Florida (June) heat simply flew by under the fantastic direction of Erik Silver (Director of Tennis) and Tod Roth. The facility, instruction and complete tennis experience was incredible. I would enthusiastically recommend this tennis facility to any player at any level.
Beautifully maintained Tennis Courts…Excellent service..Very well qualified Pros for all different levels.
It is an awesome vacation!
Recently spent a few days at The Boca Resort. It was my third trip there in the past six months. I played tennis ever day and had an amazing time. I took an hour each day with Erik and my game has improved every time. He keeps in fun but still always challenges you to step up your game.
On the last day we played doubles against Solomon (another instructor) and one of his students and it was a great experience. As beautiful as this facility is, as we all know, you are only as good as the people who run it. The staff is eager to match you up in games with other members or guests and are alqways friendly & helpful. See you next time!
On my recent vacation at The Boca Resort, I found the tennis program sorely lacking in accomodating playimg guests with arranged games. Practically no effort was made to make a game available for those players who want to play and take expensive lessons.
As a traveling 5.0 player, I’ve been fortunate enough to play at many of the top clubs/resorts across the country. The facility at the Boca Raton Resort is definitely among my favorites. Immaculate courts, gorgeous setting, and terrific pros. I would definitely recommend staying here. FYI, hotel rates during the summer months are very reasonable.