June 15, 2021
The word “luxury” has been described as attention to detail, originality, exclusivity and above all, quality. With that being said, sometimes a getaway is needed and then sometimes a luxury getaway is needed. Luckily, Amelia Island is diverse enough for every size budget, every style and every personality type. But, when you’re ready to get pampered and stay in the lap of “luxury” for a bit, take a look at these helpful hints.
When it comes to pampering guests and offering world-class luxury, two resorts on the south end of Amelia Island have it down pat. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island and The Omni Amelia Island Resort each boast meticulously designed golf courses, luxururious spas, delicious restaurants, award-winning kids programs, shopping and miles of white sandy beaches. These resorts provide their guests a worry-free stay where your every wish is their command (within reason, of course).
Relax in pure bliss with a rejuvenating treatment at the Spa at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, the Spa at the Omni Amelia Island Resort, or Magna’S Salon. Each of these luxurious spas offer treatments that will pamper your body, awaken your senses and calm your mind. Speaking of awakening your senses, when is the last time you attended a tea party? The English Tea Experience at the Victorian Hoyt House mansion offers up loose teas from around the world, freshly made scones and crumpets, jams and clotted cream, and an assortment of finger sandwiches. For an sunset cruise on the Amelia River, climb aboard Windward Sailing with a bottle of bubbly and be swept (or sailed) away for a memorable sunset. Or, skipper your own boat at Amelia Island Boat Tours for an active day out on the water. Hit the links on one of Amelia Island’s golf courses where stunning canvases, along with challenging holes, provide some of the best views and fun the island can offer.
Throughout the year, Amelia Island hails events and entertainment for the likes of everyone. From signature annual events to music, theatre, literature and visual arts happenings, our island does it all in style. January’s Chamber Music Festival showcases world-renowned artists performing a variety of music styles in intimate and historic settings around the island. March brings the Amelia Island Concours D’Elegance, now in it’s third decade. This Amelia Island car show draws over 300 rare vehicles from collections around the world and is a must see for the rare and vintage car lover. In May, the Omni Amelia Island Resort offers a Fish To Fork weekend for the ultimate foodie while art lovers will delight in the monthly Artrageous Artwalk showcasing the island’s artsy side.
Amelia Island is a shoppers paradise with an island full of treasures for the taking. Palmetto Walk Shopping Village on the south end are unique shops set in a series of charming buildings with inviting front porches where folks can sit a spell in between shopping. The Shops at Omni Amelia Island Resort provide a mix of local boutiques, familiar designers, gourmet food and art galleries while historic downtown Fernandina Beach offers up 50-blocks of historic charm. For those looking to take home an upscale downtown find, look no further than Pearl, Lori + Lulu, JJ Cooper, Lindy’s, or Wadsworth’s.
No one has ever gone hungry on Amelia Island – home to an eclectic and authentic mix of cuisine. Recognized with a AAA Five Diamond award, Salt, located at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, is the crème de la crème in dining experiences. Oozing romance, the view over the water is just a hint of what’s to come. For the extra-special occasion, consider booking the Salt Chef’s Table Experience. Bob’s Steak & Chop House at the Omni Amelia Island Resort is continually recognized as one of the best steakhouses in the country specializing in prime steaks, chops and seafood served by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. The dining vibe in historic downtown Fernandina Beach ranges from the freshest Florida seafood to Italian, French and Spanish specialties. Try David’s Restaurant & Lounge, Burlingame, Leclos or España for that fine dining you’re looking for.
With a long, uncrowded stretch of Atlantic coast beach, a canopy of live oaks, a richly historic downtown and an array of accommodations for every style, there are few places that can match Amelia Island as the ideal place for a luxury escape.