Welcome to Amelia Island, a charming paradise located on the northeastern coast of Florida. Known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and picturesque landscapes, Amelia Island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for travelers of all ages.
Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, this guide will help you make the most of your time on Amelia Island.
Amelia Island Itinerary: Where to stay, dine and what to do!
Know before you go:
How to get to Amelia Island:
If you are planning to fly in, the easiest airport is Jacksonville, Florida. The airport is relatively small, which makes getting in and out of it easy. The airport is about a 45 minute drive to Amelia Island.
When to visit Amelia Island:
The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are relatively smaller. During the summer it can be very hot and humid as well as busy.
Beaches:
Amelia Island offers 13 miles of gorgeous shoreline with 40 public access points to take advantage of. There is no shortage of beach on this incredible island.
Respect the local wildlife:
It is not uncommon to see turtles, shorebirds, alligators, deer, sea turtles.
Where to stay:
I had the pleasure of staying at The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, and I can confidently say that it was an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with warm smiles, champagne and impeccable service that set the tone for the rest of my stay.
The accommodations at this luxurious resort were nothing short of perfection. My room was spacious, elegantly appointed, and boasted a private balcony with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The plush bedding and thoughtful amenities ensured a restful and indulgent stay, making it difficult to leave the room to explore the rest of the property.
I checked into an Oceanview One Bedroom Suite with Club access. Coming in at just about 1077 square feet, this gorgeous room had a separate living and sleeping space, 1.5 baths, 2 TV’s, a coffee and minibar, and so much more.
If you are considering a Club Level room, do it! I have nothing but amazing things to say about the club here. Each day came with five food presentations: continental breakfast, lunch, lite snacks, hors d’oeuvres , and sweets and cordials to end the evenings.
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island offers a plethora of world-class amenities that cater to every whim and desire. The resort’s spa is a sanctuary of relaxation, where I indulged in a rejuvenating massage, leaving me feeling pampered and rejuvenated.
The golf course, with its picturesque landscape and challenging fairways, will provide you with an enjoyable and memorable golfing experience.
Dining at the resort was a gastronomic delight. The culinary creations at Salt, the AAA Five Diamond restaurant, were exceptional. Each dish was a work of art, skillfully prepared with fresh, local ingredients that tantalized my taste buds. The attentive service and elegant ambiance made it a highlight of my stay.
For dinner I went for the east coast oysters, lobster and finished with the baklava! Every dish was sensational and the chef plays with unique flavors on classics.
I also enjoyed dining at Coast, which is located by the pool with a hint of a coastal view. The Coast Salad with salmon was perfection in a bowl. Light, crisp and fresh!
I was extremely impressed by all the food I had the opportunity to try at The Ritz-Carlton. So much so, I am thinking of coming back in the fall for the Amelia Island Cookout on property! I have been to the Cayman Cookout twice and if you are a foodie, 10000% should be on your list of things to do.
I imagine the Amelia Island Cookout will be on a smaller scale but equally as impressive with the food.
The Lobby Bar is a must visit! Each day at 5:45pm is First Call. Expert mixologists present the day’s bourbon. Each day bourbon is steeped in fresh ingredients and herbs to infuse a specialty bourbon. But once its gone, it’s gone. So come early!
Another drink to consider at the Lobby Bar is the smoked old fashioned. I had them double smoke it and it was incredible.
Throughout my time at The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, the staff went above and beyond to ensure my comfort and satisfaction. Every request was promptly attended to, and the team exuded genuine warmth and hospitality that made me feel like a valued guest.
The resort’s beachfront location was a dream come true. I enjoyed leisurely walks along the sandy shores, mesmerized by the stunning sunrises that painted the sky with vibrant colors.
The pool area was equally inviting, and I appreciated the poolside service, where I could relax with a refreshing drink in hand. Highly recommend getting a pool cabana for the day!
The staff stock your cabana with a lot of drink options, snacks, and you get a fruit plate, an appetizer from Coquina and two alcoholic drinks (the pina colada was amazing).
The Ritz Kids program was an excellent touch for families, offering engaging activities for children, allowing parents to enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time while knowing their little ones were in good hands.
One of the most memorable aspects of my stay was the seamless blend of luxury and natural beauty. The resort’s surroundings were pristine, and the soothing sound of the ocean waves provided a serene soundtrack to my getaway.
The resort has a few Mercedes Benz vehicles on site for guests to use, free of charge. You just need to book it in advance to guarantee it will be available. I took out one of the SUV’s to explore downtown, a few beaches, a couple State Parks, and went shopping.
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island surpassed all expectations. It is a place where luxury meets genuine hospitality, offering a perfect balance of opulence and tranquility. Whether you are seeking a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, this resort is a haven of indulgence and relaxation. I highly recommend The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island for an exceptional and unforgettable stay.
Things to do in Amelia Island:
Hit the Beaches:
With 13 miles of pristine beaches, Amelia Island is a beach lover’s paradise. Spend time basking in the sun, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, building sandcastles, and collecting seashells.
Fort Clinch State Park:
Explore the well-preserved 19th-century military fort, Fort Clinch. Take guided tours to learn about its history and enjoy breathtaking views of Cumberland Sound.
Amelia Island State Park:
Experience the unspoiled beauty of this state park with hiking and biking trails, wildlife watching opportunities, and a chance to relax with a picnic on the beach.
Fernandina Beach Historic District:
Stroll through the charming streets of Fernandina Beach, filled with historic homes, unique boutiques, art galleries, and excellent dining options.
Amelia Island Museum of History:
Learn about the island’s fascinating history, including its connections to pirates, the Timucua Indians, and the Civil War, through exhibits and guided tours.
Water Sports:
Engage in water activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, and fishing to make the most of the island’s coastal location.
Shop in Downtown Fernandina Beach:
Browse the charming shops and boutiques in the historic district, offering a variety of unique souvenirs, gifts, and artisan goods.
Amelia Island Lighthouse:
Visit the historic lighthouse and climb to the top for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding area.
Where to dine in Amelia Island:
Salt:
David’s Restaurant and Lounge:
