If you're dreaming

of slow mornings, salty air, and barefoot luxury, The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island might just be your next perfect escape. Nestled along the northeast coast of Florida, this gem delivers all the charm of the South with the serenity of a remote island—plus some truly unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re here to unwind, celebrate, or simply get inspired, this destination hits every mark.




From the moment we stepped into our suite, we felt worlds away. The room was coastal perfection—airy, minimal, and bathed in natural light. Our balcony looked out over the Atlantic, where gentle waves rolled in like a lullaby. We made it a ritual to start each morning with a coffee in hand, wrapped in cozy robes, watching the sunrise paint the sky. The sea breeze alone was medicine.


Palm trees line a green lawn overlooking the ocean at sunset with dramatic clouds in the sky.
Golden sunset over the ocean with waves crashing and water reflecting warm light on textured wet sand.
Palm trees line the horizon at dusk along a green coastal landscape with ocean views in the background.
Silhouettes of birds flying over ocean waves at sunset with pink and orange sky reflecting on calm beach waters.
Sea oats and beach grass sway in the breeze along a sandy coastline at sunset with ocean waves in the background.

Beach Walks & Yoga

Sunrise moments and seashells

One of the most special experiences on the island was our early morning sunrise beach walks, barefoot in the cool sand. The Atlantic was still and shimmering, and we shared the beach only with sandpipers and pelicans. This is my favorite way to begin any day—camera in hand, heart wide open, embracing humidity. While I didn’t take a yoga class at the resort, it’s absolutely the type of place where rolling out a mat on your balcony or near the dunes feels completely natural. The atmosphere invites mindfulness.




Spa & Wellness Treatments

Palm trees silhouette a curved swimming pool at sunset with lounge chairs and umbrellas along the deck at a resort.

Wellness is woven into the experience here. I spent one dreamy afternoon at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, where I indulged in a deeply relaxing massage using locally inspired botanicals. The spa itself is a sanctuary—quiet, clean, and full of thoughtful touches like herbal teas, eucalyptus steam rooms, and plush lounging spaces.


Between long beach walks and slow spa hours, I truly felt restored.


This is the kind of place where your nervous system finally exhales.

Sea oats sway in the breeze on a peaceful beach at sunset with gentle waves rolling in on the horizon.
Dramatic ocean sunset with rolling waves crashing on beach as golden sun dips below horizon over sea.
Sunset view over manicured lawn with palm trees and flower gardens at a coastal golf course under dramatic cloudy sky.
Ocean waves crash onto sandy beach during sunset creating a serene coastal scene with soft pastel colors.
A sea turtle digs a deep nest hole in sandy beach soil surrounded by green vegetation and roots.
A wooden boardwalk path through white sand dunes leads to a beach at sunset with sea oats framing the view.
Full moon rises in twilight sky behind silhouetted palm tree fronds creating a tranquil tropical scene.
Wooden boardwalk path leads to beach at sunrise with pink clouds and sea grass in Florida.
Wooden boardwalk path winding through sandy beach dunes with sea oats at sunset.
Ocean waves crash on the beach during a stunning pink sunset as the sun dips below the horizon over calm waters.
Scenic beach sunset with clouds casting rays over dunes and coastal vegetation along the shoreline.
Gentle ocean waves wash up on a sandy beach at sunset with soft pink clouds in the pastel sky.
Sunset reflects orange and pink hues on dark rippling water surface creating a mesmerizing pattern.
Gentle waves wash over sandy beach at sunset creating reflective patterns and small bubbles on wet shoreline.
Palm trees and a curved walkway lead to a beachfront condo building at sunset in Florida.
Coastal sand dunes covered in sparse vegetation stretch towards the ocean under a cloudy sunset sky.
Silhouetted birds fly over rolling ocean waves at sunset with dramatic cloud formations in the sky.
A wooden boardwalk pathway stretches towards the horizon at sunset with cloudy skies and ocean views.
A gray cat lounges on sandy ground next to an air conditioning unit while a person stands nearby in the sunlight.

The Guided Nature Tour: Shark Teeth, Turtles & Coastal Botany


One unexpected highlight of our stay was the free guided nature tour offered by the resort. Their in-house naturalist is warm, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the island’s unique ecosystem. We learned about the native plants, wildlife patterns, and the fascinating history of the dunes. He even showed us how to find shark teeth—yes, actual fossilized shark teeth in the sand! And the real stars? The hotel’s resident turtles, who live in a beautifully cared-for outdoor area. They’re fed fruit daily and are, hands down, the most charming hotel guests I’ve ever met.

A palm holds several small silver rings and crystals while wearing denim and brown leather accessories.

Dining & Discovering on Amelia Island: From Fine Salt to Vintage Finds

Restaurant table setting at Coast with elegant wooden decor, small flower arrangement, and jars of preserves by beachside palm trees.
Cozy vintage shop interior with wooden shelves displaying colorful pillows, lamps, books and various home decor items.

One of the most memorable parts of our trip was how seamlessly indulgent meals and charming local adventures blended together. Evenings at Salt, the resort’s signature restaurant, felt like a celebration—each dish thoughtfully prepared with local ingredients and salts sourced from around the world. The experience was elevated yet approachable, with service that made us feel completely at home.


By day, we embraced the island’s more laid-back side. Lunches at Coast, the Ritz’s beachside restaurant, were full of flavor and fresh sea air—think perfectly made honey-infused cocktails, with the sound of waves setting the mood. And on slower mornings, room service breakfasts on the balcony—fluffy eggs, buttery pastries, and seasonal fruit—made for the dreamiest start to the day. It was also lovely to grab a coffee and wander through the resort’s luxury boutiques, where curated pieces and coastal style made browsing feel like its own kind of retreat.


Off the resort, we ventured into downtown Fernandina Beach, just a short drive away. Pastel storefronts, quirky signage, and cozy shops made it easy to spend an afternoon browsing everything from artisan home goods to one-of-a-kind vintage finds (I had to remind myself I only brought one suitcase). The warm Southern hospitality was unforgettable—locals were quick to share stories, recommendations, and smiles, adding a personal touch to every stop.

A fluffy Japanese souffle pancake dusted with powdered sugar and served with fresh berries on a gray plate at a restaurant.
Customer browsing in an eclectic shop filled with plants, decor, and vintage furnishings in a dimly lit space.
A winding path through coastal sand dunes leads to the ocean horizon under a cloudy sky.

My final thoughts: Relaxation & Charm

Amelia Island is the kind of place that stays with you. Our stay at The Ritz-Carlton felt like a step into a slower, more intentional way of life—where luxury meets nature in the most thoughtful ways. From turtles to tides, spa days to sunrise walks, every detail invited us to reconnect—with ourselves, each other, and the land. If you’re craving equal parts relaxation and charm, add this one to your list.


Next up: My guide to the most Instagrammable spots in Bermuda—from pink beaches to hidden caves and dreamy resorts you won’t want to miss.

Of light & craft