Arrival/Check-In: Situated on a pristine barrier island with superb beaches and panoramic ocean views, The Ritz-Carlton at Key Biscayne epitomizes tranquility, serenity and luxury. This 5-star resort features the unparalleled amenities and services that have made the Ritz name synonymous with quality. From the moment you arrive, you will appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere, the incredible views and the uniquely Floridian décor of the newly renovated lounge.

Guest Quarters: My room was bright, spacious and elegantly appointed. A full balcony offered panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The room also featured a fully stocked refreshment cabinet, a purposeful business center with a large desk and internet service. I enjoyed the attention to detail, including the marble bath, luxurious linens and 24-hour dining.

Services/Amenities: Sitting on the only South Florida location named one of America’s best beaches by Dr. Stephen Leatherman’s “America’s Best Beaches” list, The Ritz-Carlton at Key Biscayne features a zero-entry family pool, a tranquil adult pool, an oceanfront Grand Lawn, and the Cantina Beach and Dune Burgers on the Beach casual eateries.

Restaurants offer a range of dining venues from the cosmopolitan to the casual snack. RUMBAR/Lobby Lounge, an Old Havana-inspired bar lounge, presents a traditional warm and welcoming feel. Scoop serves ice cream. Several waterfront dining options include Lightkeepers, Cantina Beach and Dune Burgers on the Beach.

The Lobby Lounge’s à la carte dining meant I could enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner and drinks at my leisure. It serves four meals per day, each of which I found to be superb. I also enjoyed the casual snacks from time to time in this more private environment.

We dined alfresco at Lightkeepers with lovely views of the ocean. Two knowledgeable and seasoned executives greeted us: Jorge Mendoz, sommelier, and Executive Chef Raul A. del Pozo. The evening began with a delightfully light and flavorful sparkling wine which we enjoyed along with the views of the setting sun. Then we had a superb pairing of Sauvignon Blanc with grilled octopus and lamb and chorizo empanadas. Our main course of blue cobia and grilled branzini were served with crispy Brussels sprouts and a traditional lobster mac and cheese dish. We wrapped it all up with two incredible desserts of key lime cheesecake and chocolate plantain cake served with a Port digestif.

The resort features a 20,000-square-foot spa with 21 treatment rooms and more than 60 treatments, a full-service salon, a Wellness Center and state-of-the-art fitness center.

For the tennis fan, 10 clay courts, daily tennis clinics and lessons with a tennis pro are available.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ Featuring a Ritz Kids activity program and excellent business amenities, the resort is equally enjoyable for family get-aways or practical business needs.

◆ The Key Pantry is perfect if you’d like to grab a picnic basket, a baguette, a bottle of wine and head to the beach.

◆ If you plan to visit the area for business or pleasure, this serene beach escape just moments from the hustle and bustle of Miami is customizable for your family or for yourself.

◆ More than 30,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and banquet facilities include a 10,000-squarefoot ocean-view ballroom.

THE RITZ-CARLTON KEY BISCAYNE, MIAMI

455 Grand Bay Drive
Miami, Florida 33149
tel 305 365 4500
ritzcarlton.com