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Planning Your Trip

Guests of this idyllic property, situated on 13 miles of uninterrupted coastline in the Sea Island chain of barrier islands in north Florida, should come prepared with essentials for a visit spent relaxing and watching the waves.

A sandcastle on the beach

Beach Vacation

Just steps from the resort, the Atlantic is surprisingly warm — it’s regularly in the 80s in the summer, so most visitors will want to spend as much time as possible near the water. Be sure to bring the basics:

 

  • Whether you’re swimming or just dipping your toes in the oceanfront pool, a bathing suit is a necessity. Bring two so you always have a dry suit ready to go.
  • The miles of uninterrupted beachfront make for an ideal spot to take long ocean-side strolls. Pack a comfortable pair of sandals, a hat and sunglasses.
  • Temperatures peak in summer around 90 degrees and in winter can dip into the 60s during the day and 40s at night. If you’re planning to visit between November and March, bring a couple of warmer layers.

 

Two people biking down a road shaded by large trees

Weekend Getaway

This skinny strip of land offers myriad activities for visitors, from relaxing ocean-side to horseback riding to exploring the sparsely populated island on long bike adventures. Pack accordingly:

 

  • Be sure to bring your swimming gear, including a hat and sunglasses. The sun gets quite strong, particularly in summer. 
  • The island has more than 40 miles of bike trails, so exploring on two wheels is a great way to spend an afternoon. Helmets are provided, but bring a sturdy pair of shoes.
  • If you’re interested in a horseback ride — sunset is a particularly beautiful time to go — pack a pair of pants both for comfort in the saddle and to ward off evening chill.
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Resort Essentials

There is so much to do at the resort that it would be easy to spend an entire holiday on the property and not get bored. If this kind of low-key visit appeals, here’s what to bring:

 

 

  • The Golf Club of Amelia offers a lush 18-hole championship golf course, so be sure to pack your golf essentials and a light layer for the ocean breezes. Don’t want to bring your own clubs? Guests can take advantage of demonstration clubs. 
  • Plan an evening at the hotel’s AAA 5-Diamond restaurant, Salt, for a memorable meal based on the wealth of food found in the ocean and marshes surrounding the hotel. Shorts are not permitted.
  • Whether you just want to play a round or two or are looking to brush up on your skills with a private lesson, take advantage of the four on-site tennis courts during your visit. Pack your tennis gear, but no need to bring your own racket — rentals are available.   

 

Don’t Forget:

The beaches of Amelia Island are a great place to go shelling. Bring a lightweight tote bag with you on your beach strolls to collect your finds.

Amelia Island is perfect for a short weekend getaway, but there’s easily enough to keep an entire family occupied for a longer visit, as well. From fine dining to outdoor adventures, here’s what you should book ahead of your visit.

DINING RESERVATIONS

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For a special evening, make a reservation for the Chef’s Adventure Tasting Menu at the hotel’s AAA 5-Diamond restaurant, Salt. You’ll experience an exquisite presentation of the freshest local ingredients. Coast is a more casual on-site option offering a seasonal menu with local seafood, steaks, fresh pasta, salads and more; guests can opt to dine indoors or on the terrace.

Spa Appointments

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The spa takes a holistic approach to wellness, offering a variety of treatments designed not only to refresh and rejuvenate the body but also the mind. Book one of the signature treatments like Heaven in a Hammock — the guest is suspended in a hammock while a combination of touch therapy encourages deep relaxation. Or schedule oceanfront yoga, meditation or Reiki sessions.  

Cabanas

While chairs and umbrellas are available first come, first serve, if you’re planning on enjoying an entire day at the pool, consider arranging for a private cabana. In addition to a private oasis to escape from the sun, the cabana also features an LCD television, butler service and sunscreen.  

Outdoor Excursions

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There are so many ways to enjoy the great outdoors while visiting the island. Set a tee time at The Golf Club of Amelia for a round of 18 holes; arrange for a kayak tour of the salt marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway; take a bike tour through American Beach (one of Amelia Island’s oldest neighborhoods); or reserve a space on a private charter boat tour.

Amelia Island is renowned for its coastal beaches and colorful history. This Florida barrier island has flown eight different national flags — and likely a few pirate ones! — since French explorer Jean Ribault landed there in 1562. The island’s charmingly eclectic mix of attractions, adventures and amusements makes it a preferred destination for explorers and escapists alike. One moment you could be striding up the emerald fairway of a top golf course, while the next finds you exploring the shores and shoals of an ecological preserve or basking on a beach in an Adirondack chair. Whatever you decide, your journey begins here.

A man and woman ride horses on the beach

2-Day Romantic Getaway

Its beautiful beaches and quaint, historic neighborhoods make Amelia Island an ideal destination for couples looking to relax, recharge and reconnect.

 

 

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Island Adventure

Amelia Island is known for its beaches, which Condé Nast Traveler has lauded as among Florida’s best, but sunbathing may be the least exciting of the region’s myriad activities.

 

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