Residence Inn by Marriott Amelia Island

The hotel is widely celebrated for its exceptional staff and their commitment to "heartfelt hospitality," making guests feel like family and providing service that consistently goes "above and beyond." This dedication, combined with its prime location just a short walk from the beach, makes it a memorable destination. It is an ideal choice for families seeking spacious accommodations and kid-friendly amenities like free ice cream and a shuttle, as well as couples looking for a quiet, comfortable retreat. Pet owners will also find it accommodating, with nearby walking trails. Business travelers appreciate the well-equipped rooms and convenient shuttle services. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the complimentary shuttle service for island exploration and be aware that bike rentals are available for a fee, offering a great way to see the area's beauty and history. Many guests return repeatedly, highlighting the consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the hotel's diverse range of facilities and amenities designed to enhance their stay. The outdoor area features a pleasant pool and a hot tub, though some guests noted the pool can be cold and the hot tub has occasionally been out of service. There is also a fire pit for evening relaxation and grills available for guest use, complete with fresh rosemary. For recreation, the hotel offers a putt-putt place, board games, and puzzles. A popular highlight is the complimentary soft-serve ice cream available in the afternoons. The lobby recently underwent renovations, providing a fresh and welcoming space. Guests can also rent bikes to explore the island and benefit from a convenient shuttle service to various island locations. Free Wi-Fi is available, ensuring guests can stay connected.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests consistently praise the hotel's cleanliness and the overall comfort of the rooms, often describing them as bright, cheerful, and squeaky clean. The spacious rooms typically include a full kitchen and a separate living area, making them feel like a home away from home, especially for longer stays. Many appreciate the comfortable beds and quality linens that contribute to a restful night's sleep. However, some guests reported significant issues with room cleanliness, including visibly dirty carpet, dog hair, and leftover food in sofa beds. There were also isolated complaints about a chemical smell, worn furniture, and plumbing issues like slow drains or lack of hot water. While generally quiet, some noted minor noise levels from the air conditioning or hallways.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, often described as one of the best hotel breakfasts guests have experienced. It features a wide breakfast variety with hot and cold options, including waffles, scrambled eggs, sausages, and oatmeal with various toppings. Guests particularly enjoy the dedicated coffee station with flavor syrups and whipped cream, and the use of real china and silverware, elevating the dining experience. While most find the food quality excellent, a few mentioned issues with items running out or eggs being cold on occasion. The complimentary soft-serve ice cream available in the afternoons is also a popular treat. For groups, the hotel has also provided well-received catered dinners.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location that is highly convenient for exploring the area. It is just a short walk, typically one to two blocks, from beach access, allowing guests to easily enjoy the coastline. The property also backs directly onto a natural walking trail system, perfect for strolls, dog walks, or cycling, and connecting to a larger area with local wildlife. Guests appreciate its proximity to shopping centers, various restaurants, and the historic downtown area of Fernandina Beach, all within a short drive or accessible via the hotel's shuttle service. While parking is available, some guests noted it can be sparse or crowded during peak times.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives exceptional praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the team's willingness to go "above and beyond" to ensure a pleasant stay, from the quick check-in process to accommodating special requests. The breakfast staff is particularly commended for their cheerful demeanor, efficiency in keeping items stocked, and creating a welcoming atmosphere. Housekeeping is generally noted for maintaining clean rooms, though some isolated issues were reported. The shuttle drivers are also praised for their promptness and helpfulness in transporting guests around the island. Overall, the hotel's commitment to outstanding customer service is a recurring theme, making guests feel valued and at home.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by many guests traveling with animals, though some found the associated pet fee to be higher than expected. Guests should be aware that housekeeping typically operates on an every-other-day schedule, requiring specific requests for daily towel or trash service. There were mentions of ongoing construction or renovations, particularly in the lobby area, which generally improved the facilities but occasionally led to minor inconveniences like crowded parking. One guest reported an issue with a late checkout policy resulting in an unexpected charge. The hotel also offers rewards program benefits for loyal members, and provides thoughtful touches like umbrellas in rooms and complimentary soft-serve ice cream.