Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort Fourth Of July

Spent two nights over Fourth of July at this wonderful resort. We've visited many times and it's always a treat. Logistically, the location is a bit of a challenge if you're flying into Jacksonville. The car service (black car) was about $120 each way (Dana's Limo), but I gather that Uber is becoming more common on the island. After that though, the resort is so nice that you don't need a car and can enjoy the grounds. We've especially enjoyed the little shopping village with the Marche restaurant and the spa. The Amelia signature shop is nice for souvenirs; like polo shirts and sweat shirts. I think there was an ice cream shop as well.

We were traveling with a dog, and I think the fee was about $125. Also, be aware, that if you're traveling with a pet, you're put in the 'pet wing' which is the ground floor of the southern part of the main hotel. It's convenient because there's a beautiful grass area right outside the room. Unfortunately, some don't clean up after their four legged friend, so watch your step. It can also be annoying though because people tend to bring these little yappy things and you can hear them through the adjoining doors in the rooms at times.

As far as restaurants go, the lobby bar is a nice place for a night cap or pre-dinner cocktail. The Falcon's Nest is also superb for lunch. Connor, who was the head chef prepares some dynamite fried green tomatoes. When in Rome, right? The other plates were pretty standard pub grub, but nice for lunch. Again, Marche is also very nice, although the food is rather bland. The Caesar salad was plain, no anchovies available, and the hummus was only alright. In room dinning is also kind of hit or miss. The chef salad had cubes of meat and cheese which I didn't end up eating. The chicek wings were not good. On the plus side, the wine is very reasonably priced. We also did not enjoy Verandah. The meal was just tired. Falcon's Nest made up for it and we ate there multiple times. Far and away the best restaurant at the resort.

As far as the room goes, it's Omni, so the beds are very comfortable and the there's a nice sitting area. After a day at the beach, it's great to have a sofa to catch up on the news with. Be advised, the TVs still are no high def., which is strange. There's also a mini-fridge in the room, so you can bring drinks and keep them cool. Because we got stuck in the rain one day at lunch (couldn't go inside with the dog), the staff loaded the fridge with ten pilsners; the same pilsner I was drinking at lunch. A very nice touch. The rooms are a bit dated, but they are being renovated slowly to a more modern design.

Of course, the reason to go is the beaches and they are BEAUTIFUL! The water is so pleasant and the grounds crew keep the area spot-less. No, the resort fee does not include chairs. Cabanas were about $55. I think the double chairs and umbrella were maybe $30 or $40 for the day. I HIGHLY recommend booking in advance, especially on week-ends as they do fill up. You can get beach towels near the pool, but they do have you sign for them.

Although the location is a bit far from JAX (and Boston!), it's well worth it. The staff was and always is absolutely fantastic. Sign up for Omni's frequent stay program. Goes without saying here, but the membership Includes complimentary internet and morning coffee gratis at the basic level. Platinum, which is only ten stays, gets a room upgrade, which in my experience has always been honored.