February 24, 2023
The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is located on the southern end of Amelia Island and sits on the oceans edge like a grande dame keeping watch over her dune-lined beaches and surrounding environment. With a rare combination of relaxed and refined, this resort will be your home away from home for the weekend and it promises southern hospitality to the nth degree.
Stroll on 13 miles of pristine beach. Take a dip in one of the three outdoor and indoor pools. Tee it up at the on-site golf course just steps from the resort. Relax with a personalized spa service. Dine in a variety of delicious restaurants including the award-winning Salt. Whatever you choose to do or not do, get ready to be pampered.
Kick off your weekend in tropical style with an al fresco lunch at Coquina, an ocean front poolside restaurant where salt not only seasons your food but also lines the rim of your margarita glass and lingers in the sea salty air. Coquina’s menu is inspired by the island’s Spanish roots when Spain was one of the eight flags that flew over Amelia Island. Try the Crispy Mahi sandwich served with Tomatada and topped with Coquina Aioli. It’s muy delicioso!
After lunch, escape to the rejuvenating solitude of The Ritz-Carlton Spa for a variety of massages, facials, Chakra balancing, reflexology, and meditation along with a healing saltwater pool. This is the way to begin your stay to ensure a stress free weekend. Try one of their signature services such as the “Heaven in a Hammock” massage, which combines touch therapy, gentle rocking and the illusion of zero gravity to echo the movements of the tide. You’re gonna leave feeling way more refreshed than when you went in.
With the gorgeous Atlantic ocean as your backdrop and several pools to choose from, an entire day could easily be spent in your swimsuit. So, what will it be… the beach or pool? How about both! Chairs and umbrellas are available on the beach and by the pool to soak up the sun in comfort. Or, for the ultimate in privacy, you may want to rent your very own private poolside cabana. Decisions decisions.
It’s been an amazing day — why not end it on a high note. Recognized with a AAA Five Diamond award, Salt restaurant is the crème de la crème in dining experiences. Oozing romance, the view overlooking the Atlantic ocean is just a hint of what’s to come. Pan Seared Lamb Loin, Beef Tenderloin with fingerling potatoes, and Baklava with pistachio and goat cheese cremeux are just a sampling of the amazing fare.
Insider Tip: Consider booking the Salt Chef’s Table Experience for breathtaking vistas of ocean and dunes.
Start day 2 with locally-roasted coffee, fresh juices, handcrafted smoothies and milkshakes. First Drop is the resort’s newest dining addition providing breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and more. Grab a scrumptiously large cookie to go and save it for later!
Can’t choose between an afternoon of golf or a game of tennis? No problem. The RCAI offers both. Guests receive playing privileges at The Golf Club of Amelia Island, a challenging 18-hole Mark McCumber/Gene Littler course that winds its way through palm, pine and oak trees, offering spectacular views of Amelia Island’s many natural treasures.
If tennis is your game, it’s a love match on the oceanfront clay court, where you can receive daily drills clinics and personal instruction from skilled tennis professionals.
The perfect place to catch the latest game while dining on casual seafood dishes and classic grill fare is Tidewater Grill. The relaxed atmosphere with nautical decor is exactly what you’re looking for at the beach. Try their signature Low Country Shrimp Boil served with a half-pound of Mayport shrimp, potatoes, andouille sausage and corn. You won’t leave hungry!
Side Note: The Tidewater Grill serves dinner nightly and is only open for lunch on Saturdays.
Since you’re spending the weekend in the lap of luxury, you might as well take home a few souvenirs to remind you of your mini vacation. Shopping at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is second to none and absolute heaven for the luxury shopper. Pick up tailored American men’s clothing from the Signature Shop. Explore the only stand-alone Lilly Pulitzer® boutique in northern Florida with products for women and girls. Pop into The Boutique for the latest fashions from the best designers. And, don’t forget the Spa where you can pick up clothing, jewelry and all of the finest spa products to continue your regimen at home.
Enjoy healthy, hearty food from land and sea at Coast Restaurant. Coast offers coastal cuisine with a seasonal menu that includes local seafood, steaks, fresh pasta, salads and small plates… all in a casual atmosphere. Try the Lobster Roll served on a Brioche roll with lemon and Old Bay seasoning. Oh my.
After dinner, wrap up your night with a drink in the Lobby Bar featuring a curated list of small-batch spirits, infusions and classic cocktails created by expert mixologists. Sip on a smokey old-fashion or signature martini while you make plans to come back.
Before you check out, work out! Revitalize your mind and your body at the Fitness Center where ocean views are as plentiful as the equipment. Open 24 hours a day, the Fitness Center has a full range of cardio equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, recumbent and stationary bikes, and more. Fitness classes and personal training are also available if you need a little more push.
Before you head back to reality, grab a delicious breakfast at Coast restaurant. Whether you settle on a healthy Berry parfait made with yogurt, berries, nuts and house-made granola, or the stick to your ribs Shrimp & Grits entree with eggs, Mayport shrimp, andouille grits and red eye gravy, it’s all delicious and filling. The perfect ending to the perfect weekend!
Insider Tip: Fill your belly at The Amelia Island Breakfast Station offering seasonal fruits, breads, pastries, smoked salmon, eggs, pancakes, breakfast meats, charcuterie, omelet station, and Chef’s renowned sticky buns! That’s what I’m talking about!
These suggestions are just a sneak peek of many things to do during your Weekend Getaway to The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Click here for a complete list of places to stay, eat and play on Amelia Island and plan your perfect trip. We’re looking forward to seeing you and your family here for years to come.
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