THE RITZ-CARLTON, AMELIA ISLAND

A LUXURY GETAWAY

By Stacey Zable

Pirates play a big part in Amelia Island’s heritage and guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island will feel as if they’ve found their own pirate’s treasure upon arrival at the oceanfront resort. It’s only a short flight from New York City to Florida’s Jacksonville International Airport and then a quick 30-minute drive to this 446-room property that provides all that you need for a stress-free stay that excels in pampering service.

Here, four reasons to book The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island as your next luxury vacation.

THE BEACH
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island’s sits along a quarter-mile of wide, white sand beach that is spectacular. The pristine sands are accessible via three private boardwalks that take you over dunes that are home to gopher tortoises. There is even a Sand Castle Concierge to offer the how-to on the best sand building techniques plus the tools for making your beauties. At night, a beach bonfire can be paired with s’mores.

THE POOLS
Find your special spot among the tiered seating surrounding the outdoor pool, dedicated kid’s area, and hot tub and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean. For added indulgence, private poolside cabanas are filled with padded lounge chairs, a stocked mini-fridge, sunscreen, and flat-screen TV. An indoor heated pool and hot tub ensure that taking a dip can be done in any kind of weather year-round. There is also a dedicated adults-only outdoor pool at the spa with therapeutic underwater music plus a separate whirlpool with cascading waterfall. Food can be delivered to the relaxing spa pool deck, so you never have to leave your relaxing lounge chair.

THE RESTAURANTS
The culinary experience at the property includes a choice of five dining venues catering from your casual to upscale mood. The AAA Five-Diamond SALT offers an elegant setting where the selection of more than 40 salts from around the world comes into play from how the meal is prepared to how it is presented. Head to the dedicated salt shop located on the property to taste and buy your selections to bring home.

Though a more casual setting, Coast restaurant offers an extensive seasonal menu, including an abundant daily breakfast buffet. An outdoor terrace allows you to take in the ocean views. Light bites and made-to-order sushi and sashimi are paired with cocktails, wine, and beers at The Lobby Bar. The Pub offers local craft beers and bar fare that can be paired with time at the pool table. The Ocean Bar & Grill serves a poolside lunch menu of seafood, salads, sandwiches, and drinks.

ABOUT AMELIA ISLAND
Amelia Island is a barrier island located on 13 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline. Plan an afternoon in historic downtown Fernandina Beach, a short drive from The Ritz-Carlton, where you can stroll quaint shops and restaurants. The property’s daily resort fee includes the use of two bicycles for two hours so you can take off along the more than 40 miles of bike trails to take in the island’s lush foliage and ocean views. Guided kayak tours through the Intracoastal Waterway can also be set up through the concierge.

For more information on Amelia Island, visit ameliaisland.com.

WELLNESS & THE SPA
Wellness is a big part of the property’s mantra and if the seaside setting isn’t enough to jumpstart your relaxation then The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Amelia Island will do the trick. There are plenty of treatments to pick from to soothe your body, face, and mind. Before or after your treatment, the eucalyptus-infused steam room, sauna, indoor hot tub and wet lounge, as well as the outdoor spa pool, will keep you unplugged and stress-free. Keep the wellness theme going with yoga on the beach and other fitness classes, a long walk along the beach that stretches for miles, time in the well-equipped fitness center, or enjoying on-site golf or one of the offered tennis drill clinics. Schedule your trip during the annual Amelia Island Wellness Festival on November 9th through 11th and package your stay with a weekend that includes yoga, mindfulness, dance, fitness, healthy meals, branded gear, and spa access.

For more information on Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, visit ritzcarlton.com/ameliaisland.