Amelia Island is a twenty-minute drive off of I-95 in Florida. The eye-catching drive will bring you to calm marshland and sandy beaches.
You will pass people fishing along the shores and see signs advertising fresh shrimp at every turn.
Slowly, you approach the sign for the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort at the first roundabout.
Feast Your Eyes on This
You drive onto a mammoth property, encompassing over 200 acres. A stately resort and convention center comes into view and you drive beside the expansive golf course all the way in. The conference center at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort is so huge that it can sometimes hold four conferences at the same time.
I visited the Omni with 24 other travel writers and bloggers for a conference of our own. We met with tourism boards and discussed our favorite subject: travel.
Entering the Pristine Plantation
Entering the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort’s lobby, you are mesmerized by the beautiful, natural decor featuring simple driftwood, stone, and warm lighting. It is ever so fashionable and the feel is immediately welcoming. Faux marble fronts on the receptionist’s desk are impressive. Even though huge in size, the fixtures make the resort feel incredibly intimate.
At check-in, I was shown a map to navigate myself around. The property holds several restaurants, a shopping area, 2 gorgeous oceanfront pools (one for adults only), and a fitness area. Small conversation pit/seating groups are littered throughout the property, some with fire pits and one anchored by a large fireplace.
My Accommodations
I made my way to my oceanfront room and immediately liked the layout of my room. My room was functional and comfy, though a far walk from the convention center or lobby. I had two queen size beds with soft, supreme linens and a nice chair, ideal for blogging.
I was not a fan of the super small bathroom. The sink was outside of the bathroom and up against a narrow wall, making it impossible to blow dry my long hair without hitting the wall behind me. I think I was in one of the older style rooms as I had friends in rooms with more modern functionality.
Amenities included an in-room safe, mini fridge, thick robes, and best of all, a full ocean view. I slept with my doors open each night to fully submerse myself in the ocean breezes and sounds. Needless to say, I awoke totally invigorated each morning.
Sampling the Food and Restaurants
The Omni manages nine restaurants throughout the property including casual fare, a deli, fine dining, and pool-side cafés.
One morning I ordered breakfast from the Omni’s room service, guaranteeing delivery in 20 minutes or less. The Eggs Benedict, my favorite dish, was perfect. The English muffins were lighter than usual and super soft. I enjoyed them immensely.
Another noteworthy room service item was a delightful honey cake appetizer that they delivered one night while I was out. Yummy!
Though all of our lunches and dinners were catered, I will tip my hat to the culinary teams because the food was hot, fresh, and tasty. We always had superb salads, seasonal fruit, and the freshest seafood available.
One of our lunches was in the Sunrise Café & Terrace which was closed to the public for our luncheon. We had impressive views of the ocean, amazing foodie favorites to choose from, and the service was incredible.
One of our dinners took place at Canopy Park, featuring a picnic style Southern style BBQ meal. If you get the opportunity to enjoy these catered events, save room for the Bread Pudding or Peach Pie.
The Sprouting Project hosted another dinner. Although the local snapper was the star of the show, my favorite parts of the meal were the beef, array of salads, and peach cobbler. The Sprouting Project is a special feature at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort developed as a culinary interaction dinner. Here, diners can see the advanced technology of aquaponic greenhouses, the organic gardens, and have a memorable farm-to-table experience. Check out their beehives and pick up their delicious local honey that is available for purchase.
And All the Extras
Points of interest around the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort are a Fitness Center, Boat Ramp, Drummond Park & Playground (a big draw for children), Golf Channel Academy, The Spa & Salon, Nature Center, and the boutique shops such as Harrison’s Mercantile and Monkey Barrel. A tram is available to drive you around the complex and there are designated walking paths.
If you are a conference attendee, a vacationing family, or just out for a weekend getaway, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation will satisfy your needs. Park the car and enjoy everything you need right on the property.
Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort
39 Beach Lagoon Road
Fernandina Island, FL 32034
(904) 261-6161
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