TRAVEL: Amelia Island Time

In 1896, American Resorts magazine named Amelia Island “The Queen of Summer Resorts” because it was a favorite destination for prominent families like the Vanderbilts, Carnegies, and DuPonts. Today, the barrier island off the northeast coast of Florida, roughly 20 miles south of the Georgia line and a five-hour drive from Charlotte, still has an old-fashioned vibe. Live oaks dripping with Spanish moss frame the two-lane roads and secluded bike trails. Everything about Amelia says slow down. Turn off your cellphone, kick off your shoes, and sip some sweet tea in a rocking chair. You’re on Amelia Island time.

Stay

The Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort offers your standard beach vacation with all the hotel amenities. Golf courses, pools, a fitness center, and a kids’ club are all on-site. For a homier setting, rent a condo in the Beachwood Villas on the plantation. The cottagey two- and three-bedroom units are equipped with kitchens and laundry rooms, and nothing is too precious if kids track sand in the front door. Guests have access to on-site pools and outdoor grills, and you’re a just short walk from the beach.

Eat

For some local brews and upscale pub grub, visit Amelia Island Brewing Co. in Fernandina Beach. Order an AIBC Pretzel for the table—the massive soft pretzel comes on a silver hanging display with a side of beer cheese dip and easily feeds four people. Other highlights include the Mahi Tacos and the Loaded Mac N’ Cheese. For a more casual, kid-friendly meal, head to Pepper’s Mexican Grill & Cantina on Centre Street and munch on no-frills tacos and quesadillas. For something sweet, wander a few doors down to Island Time Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt.

OMNI HOTELS & RESORTS

Do

Rent a bike, Segway, or golf cart at Amelia’s Wheels and ride through the wooded trails under a canopy of trees. Look for egrets, heron, and osprey as you approach the water’s edge. Head back toward the shopping village and treat yourself to a gelato or iced coffee at Marche Burette, or schedule a treatment at the spa. Play golf on one of the six full 18-hole golf courses on the island or partake in some mini golf at Heron’s Cove Adventure Golf on the plantation. Whatever you do, leave the car behind, because there’s bike parking everywhere.

FEELING RITZY?    

Check out these annual events at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island

Every spring, car aficionados flock to the Ritz to admire more than 300 rare vintage automobiles at the Amelia Concours D’Elegance. The four-day event includes driving experiences, an auction, a gala dinner—and maybe a celebrity sighting or two. (Jay Leno and John Travolta are fans.) This year’s event runs May 20-23, 2021.

Come for Salt & Savor Culinary Weekend in October and indulge  in two days of gourmet food and wine. Take classes with Ritz-Carlton chefs, mixologists, and winemakers, and savor exquisite meals with an intimate group of visiting foodies. The package includes a two-night stay in an ocean view guest room and a farewell champagne brunch.

Bring your kids to Santa’s Storybook Tea in December and see the hotel lobby transformed into a magical land of gingerbread houses. Then head to Salt, the hotel’s restaurant, for an over-the-top holiday buffet of finger sandwiches, pastries, candy, and cake. When your sugar buzz peaks, grab a seat by the fireplace as Santa and Mrs. Claus read The Night Before Christmas.

The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, 4750 Amelia Island Pkwy., 904-277-1100.