We recently visited the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, a luxurious resort located on a peaceful five-mile barrier island, minutes away from downtown Miami.
First Impressions
The resort’s main building is stately and opulent, reminiscent of yesteryear’s grand hotels. As we arrived at the porte-cochère (carriage porch) we were immediately welcomed by the hotel’s staff who promptly handled our car, luggage and check in.
It was Christmas time and the hotel was decked in its best holiday attire. The soaring lobby was decorated with a storybook gingerbread house, a giant glittering tree, wreaths and evergreens. A wall of windows overlooked the illuminated fountains and a Christmas tree made of sand.
Accommodations
We stayed in a spacious room (#1047) overlooking the pools, beach and ocean. The room was painted in light cerulean blue and accented with beige hues and light colored furniture. The luxurious marble bathroom had a separate toilet, shower and soaking tub. The fine room amenities included Asprey toiletries, complimentary Fiji water, a Nespresso machine and two plush robes.
Dining
Our room came with access to the Club, an elegant lounge featuring daily food and beverage services: A continental breakfast upgraded with lox, scrambled eggs and Prosecco, and lunch and dinner with beautifully presented small tastings, soups, salads and desserts. In between meals, the lounge offered snacks, coffees, complimentary wines and nightly cordials.
The resort’s main dining venue is LightKeepers, a sprawling restaurant serving coastal cuisine, using mostly Florida sourced seafood, fish and beef. We loved the outdoor seating next to magical gaslight-style heaters overlooking the lush grounds.
Do not miss their signature dish, fried lobster, a Maine lobster tail cooked tempura0style at high temperature and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Complete your dinner with a bottle of wine or a customized pairing by the glass.
The resort offers additional dining venues such as Cantina Beach for Latin food lovers, Dune Burgers for casual beach fare and Key Pantry café and marketplace for light bites.
Pampering
The resort is home to a 20,000 square-foot, four-star Forbes rated Spa and Salon. Indulge yourself and book the signature Tequesta Ritual, a blissful Native American inspired treatment that combines exfoliation, algae wrap, aromatherapy massage and scalp massage. Spend some “me” time luxuriating in the spa’s whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms.
Resort Amenities
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne features plenty of amenities and activities. You can enjoy the separate kids and adult heated pools, exercise in the state-of-the-art fitness center, take a spin class, play at the world-class Tennis Center, or try a round of golf at the nearby course.
You can also unwind under an umbrella on the beach or enjoy watersports such as paddle boarding, sailing and kayaking, all included in the resort fee.
The Ritz-Carlton is also popular for its Ritz Kids, so if you travel with your little ones they can enjoy activities, games and playrooms.
They even have a Photography Concierge who will capture your vacation in a 45-minute “lifestyle” photo shoot.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is a world-class destination, suitable for couples, families and groups. It is also the perfect place for a dream wedding.
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