You’ve probably seen the shots on your feed. A floating glass cube reflecting the Florida sunset, a rooftop pool that looks more like a Mediterranean beach club than a downtown hotel, and those massive living walls that make the building look like it’s being reclaimed by the jungle.
Honestly, The Ray Hotel Delray Beach photos don't just happen by accident.
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The place was basically built to be photographed. Located in the Pineapple Grove Arts District, it’s a sharp departure from the beige, stucco-heavy vibes you usually find in South Florida. Instead, you get "Tropical Modernism"—a mix of clean concrete lines, lush greenery, and art that actually feels like it belongs there.
If you're planning a stay or just a dinner at Akira Back, you need to know where the actual "money shots" are.
The Architecture: Why Every Angle Works
Most hotels have one good side. The Ray has about twenty. Designed by Gonzalez Architects, the structure is a LEED Silver-certified masterpiece that uses architecture to create natural light pockets.
The Living Walls and "Floating" Glass
The first thing you’ll notice—and likely the first thing you’ll pull your phone out for—is the greenery. We aren't talking about a few potted palms. There are massive, multi-story living walls and a lush tree canopy that covers the plazas.
Then there’s The Cube.
It’s exactly what it sounds like: a floating glass structure with floor-to-ceiling windows. If you’re lucky enough to be there during a wedding or an event, the way the light hits the glass at 5:00 PM is unreal. It creates this ethereal, translucent effect that makes the whole building feel like it’s breathing.
The Rooftop: Rosewater Is the Star
If you’re looking for the definitive The Ray Hotel Delray Beach photos, you’re going to find them at Rosewater Rooftop.
This isn't just a pool deck; it’s a 22,000-square-foot "experiential" space designed by Studio Munge. They’ve packed it with:
- Sweeping baldachins (fancy word for those canopy-style structures)
- Oversized umbrellas that actually look stylish
- A 360-degree view of Downtown Delray that stretches toward the ocean
The pool itself is surrounded by lush pergolas and a "floating forest" vibe. Pro tip: The best shots are taken from the far corner of the deck looking back toward the bar area, especially when the "Tropical Modern" lighting kicks in after dark.
Interior Design: Art and "Amalfi-Meets-Palm-Beach"
Inside, the vibe shifts slightly. It’s a bit more intimate but still very high-design. Virserius Studio handled the guest rooms, and they didn't play it safe.
The Guest Rooms
The rooms are bright. Like, really bright. Large-scale windows let the Florida sun do the heavy lifting. You’ll find:
- Bespoke furniture with handcrafted textures.
- Slim Aarons photography lining the corridors, leaning into that 1960s luxury aesthetic.
- Byredo bath products and Bilbao linens (because even the bathroom deserves a close-up).
If you want the best room photo, ask for a Grove Premier King or a suite with a large furnished terrace. The balconies here are massive—big enough for a full "breakfast in bed" setup with the Pineapple Grove district as your background.
The Dining Spaces
Each restaurant has its own visual identity. Ember Grill (another Studio Munge project) feels like a swanky, wood-fired neighborhood joint with a plush terrace.
Then there’s Akira Back. Designed by Celano Design, it’s a multisensory experience. The charcoal tones, the gold accents, and the way the food is plated—it’s Michelin-star level presentation. The "Tuna Pizza" is arguably the most photographed dish in the building.
Where to Find the Best "Secret" Photo Spots
While everyone crowds the pool, the real pros find the quieter corners.
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- The Plaza: The outdoor ground-level space has incredible scale. The way the concrete stairs intersect with the tropical plants creates some very cool geometric shadows.
- The Lobby Bar (Ella): It’s equal parts art gallery and lounge. The marble bar is a statement piece all on its own.
- The Stairs: Sounds weird, but the architectural staircases at The Ray are incredibly minimalist and great for fashion-style shots.
Practical Insights for Your Visit
If you’re heading there specifically for the views or to beef up your portfolio, keep a few things in mind. The hotel is about two blocks off Atlantic Avenue, so you’re in the heart of the action but just far enough away to avoid the worst of the traffic noise.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Time your visit: Golden hour (about 45 minutes before sunset) is non-negotiable for Rosewater Rooftop shots.
- Book a Terrace Room: If you want those private, sun-drenched balcony photos without a stranger’s elbow in the shot, the "Grove Vibe" rooms are your best bet.
- Check the Event Calendar: The Ray hosts "Art & Jazz on the Avenue" and other pop-ups. These are great for "lifestyle" photography but make the public spaces very crowded.
- Shuttle to the Beach: Don’t forget the hotel offers a free shuttle to the Delray Municipal Beach (about a mile away) if you want to mix some ocean shots into your gallery.
The Ray basically proved that Delray Beach could do "cool" just as well as Miami or Fort Lauderdale, but with a lot more soul. Whether you’re there for the design or just the rooftop cocktails, you’re going to leave with a full camera roll.