A Weekend at the Davis Cup in Delray Beach

Tennis Thrills, Downtown Stays, and a Taste of South Florida Life

Combining world-class tennis with the charm of a vibrant South Florida coastal town is something special. Our weekend in Delray Beach for the 2025 Davis Cup Qualifiers was everything a sports fan and leisure traveler could wish for. It featured international tennis drama, delicious meals at lively local spots, and the comfort of staying right in downtown.

For those of us enjoying condo living in South Florida, this experience was a great reminder of why this lifestyle makes it so easy to embrace these moments.

Arrival and The Davis Cup: USA vs. Czechia

We got to Delray Beach in plenty of time for the opening matches at the Delray Beach Tennis Center, which hosted the intense Davis Cup tie between the United States and Czechia. You could feel the excitement. Fans arrived from Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, enjoying the city’s friendly, walkable downtown—one of the major benefits of living in South Florida. A quick drive or Brightline train ride brings major events right to our doorstep.

The matches were filled with drama. On Friday, Frances Tiafoe faced Jiri Lehecka, and Taylor Fritz went up against Jakub Mensik. Tiafoe brought the bold energy that U.S. tennis fans love, but Lehecka proved to be tough, impressing the Delray crowd with his sharp volleys and relentless baseline play. He ultimately won a hard-fought match for Czechia. In the second match, Fritz, the top-ranked American, competed against Mensik. Fritz’s aggressive serve and smart net play made a difference as he secured a crucial point for the home team.

After the match, local fans and travelers mingled downtown, chatting about every exciting rally over drinks and small plates—a classic Delray moment. The city’s blend of small-town feel and international charm created a tennis experience like no other in Florida.

Our Downtown Stay: The Courtyard by Marriott

The Courtyard by Marriott in Delray Beach offers convenient on-site parking with in/out privileges, making it easy for guests to come and go during their stay. The hotel features an on-site restaurant called The Bistro, serving a range of meals from breakfast through dinner, perfect for dining without stepping far. One of the hotel's standout amenities is its rooftop pool complete with The Reef Pool Bar, providing a relaxing spot to unwind while enjoying panoramic views of downtown Delray and the Atlantic Ocean. This combination of parking, dining, and leisure amenities makes it a great choice for visitors exploring the vibrant heart of Delray Beach.

Although we had a tough time checking in since the hotel’s computers were down when we arrived, we didn’t let that get us down. The hotel’s location is one of its best features: it’s just a few blocks from the tennis center and Atlantic Avenue’s nightlife and dining.

Friday: Culinary Delights and Pre-Match Spirits

We started our Friday with lunch at Lulu's Cafe & Cocktails, a local favorite known for its fresh, vibrant flavors. As vegans, we appreciated Lulu’s thoughtful menu options and enjoyed a delicious Falafel Burger that was both satisfying and flavorful. This highlighted the town’s dedication to diverse and healthy dining.

Later, we had a drink at The Reef Bar at The Courtyard by Marriott. The view from the bar was amazing, overlooking downtown Delray and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the laid-back yet lively vibes of the city before heading to Throw Social for a light snack.
 
Throw Social is a fabulous tropical-themed venue with a lively vibe combining cocktails, cabanas, fun games like cornhole and darts, and a spacious indoor-outdoor setting. It's known for its large covered patio and casual, upbeat atmosphere—the perfect spot to have fun and unwind before the tennis match.
 
As the match began, the excitement grew, and the energy spread. The mix of world-class tennis and coastal charm was truly special.
 
 

Saturday’s Eatery Hopping and Tennis Drama

On Saturday morning, we had breakfast at The Modern Rose. This café impressed us with its light pastries and strong coffee—the kind of place that sets a wonderful tone for a day full of adventure and sport. It was very vegan-friendly, and we enjoyed their Boca Egg Sammie and Health Nut.

For lunch, we kept it light at The Avalon Beach House, where the coastal vibe matched the fresh menu perfectly. We chose the Quinoa Bowl, filled with colorful vegetables and healthy grains—a nourishing meal ideal for sports fans. The casual, beachy atmosphere made it easy to relax and talk about the upcoming matches.
 
Later that afternoon, we stopped by Tin Roof for drinks before the match. Although there was no live music that day, we learned that Tin Roof is well-known for its lively music nights, making it a favorite for those wanting to enjoy Delray’s vibrant nightlife after events.
 

The highly anticipated doubles match started but was delayed by two hours due to lightning issues near the tennis center. Although we had to head home, we tuned back in and watched the match on TV when play resumed. This convenience showed how living close to venues like Delray Beach allows us to enjoy events both live and from home.

Tennis Highlights: Upsets and Intensity 

The weekend’s matches were packed with excitement and tension. The American duo Krajicek and Ram fought hard in doubles, but the lighting delay tested everyone’s patience. In the end, the Czech team made a remarkable comeback, securing a narrow 3-2 victory over the United States, with Jakub Mensik clinching the final singles match against Frances Tiafoe.

Despite the loss, the quality of play and the crowd’s enthusiasm made it a memorable Davis Cup weekend. The mix of competitive tennis and lively city life created an unbeatable atmosphere for sports lovers in South Florida.

Why Delray Beach is a Treasure—Especially for South Florida Condo Dwellers

Beyond the thrill of tennis, our weekend in Delray Beach reminded us why the city is a gem for those exploring South Florida. Its walkable, vibrant downtown mixes small-town charm with cosmopolitan energy, where art walks, live music, top-rated restaurants, and major sporting events are part of daily life. The compact layout lets you see a world-class match and hit the best local bars and cafés—all without ever needing your car.

For those living in South Florida condos, Delray’s location is a major advantage. With easy access to the Tri-Rail, I-95, and even new express trains like Brightline, spontaneous weekend getaways become stress-free. Condo owners also enjoy “lock-and-leave” living, with maintenance taken care of and amenities like secure parking and concierge service making travel worry-free. There’s no better way to attend a big event than to step out of a high-rise, hop on a train or take a short drive, and dive into the excitement—all while knowing home is nearby.

Final Thoughts

Our Davis Cup adventure delivered everything we desired: thrilling tennis, unforgettable meals, and a true taste of South Florida life. Delray Beach stands out not only for its warm atmosphere and culinary treasures but also for being the ideal home base for residents eager to enjoy the region’s endless events. As we packed our bags and returned to the condo, it was clear that in South Florida, the best events are always close by, and the joy of spontaneous travel is just another benefit of condo living.
 
If you want to experience sports, sun, and community spirit all in one, Delray Beach—and the South Florida lifestyle—await you. See you at the next event!