The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island - A 446-room oceanfront resort with AAA 5-Diamond dining, private golf course, and wellness spa

Located on a dune-lined barrier island beach, this 5-star Fernandina Beach hotel features 446 newly renovated rooms and suites with coastal-inspired decor, marble bathrooms, and private balconies. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island houses seven distinct dining venues, including the AAA 5-Diamond restaurant Salt, the oceanfront Coquina, and the casual Tidewater Grill serving American classics. The property encompasses an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Mark McCumber and Gene Littler, plus a renovated spa offering treatments like the signature 'Heaven in a Hammock' massage. Family amenities include supervised Kids' Night Out programs on Fridays and Saturdays from 6-9 PM, and seasonal events such as Breakfast with Santa. The resort provides direct beach access, an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and guided nature excursions with the resort naturalist. The Ritz-Carlton sits 28 miles from Jacksonville International Airport, with proximity to historic Fernandina Beach's cobblestone streets, museums, and shops.

Pros

Eight-floor Club Level offers exclusive lounge access with continuous culinary service

Barrier island location enables activities like kayaking, horseback riding, and biking

On-site naturalist leads ecological field trips exploring local ecosystems

Extensive wellness programming includes quarterly retreats with expert instructors

Cons

28 miles distance from Jacksonville International Airport requires advance transport planning

Self-parking not available on property