Remember Chevy Chase tying the recently deceased Aunt Edna to the top of the family truckster in National Lampoon’s Vacation? Like Clark W. Griswold, I am loading our car for an end-of-summer trip. The vehicle is loaded down with a roof carrier and three bicycles hanging off the back bumper.
Our destination is Amelia Island, a barrier island northeast of Jacksonville, Fla. where my Mom lives. My family started vacationing at Amelia Island Plantation over thirty-five years ago. Originally started in 1971 by the Sea Pines Company of Hilton Head Island, SC, the resort is a sprawling 1,350 acres that has been meticulously preserved and includes a mile of pristine beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
I spent many of my summers as a junior golfer learning the game on Pete Dye’s original golf course. The layout features tight holes with small greens with a premium for accuracy and short game wizardry. Now, the resort includes three other courses: Ocean Links designed by my friend Bobby Weed, Long Point — one of Florida’s best courses by Tom Fazio, and Royal Amelia built by Tom Jackson. The facility is also home to the Amelia Island Plantation Golf Academy, and I am looking forward to catching-up with Director of Instruction Ed Bowe. I call him the Google of Golf Instruction because he can diagnose and correct a swing flaw within one minute of working with a student.
In addition to championship golf, amenities include beach and pool activities, recreation programs, and nature tours. A renowned tennis center features 23 Har-Tru courts. The spa offers luxurious spa and salon services. Anglers are invited to try deep water, inlet, and lagoon fishing. Bikers can explore seven miles of bicycle trails. A quaint village awaits shoppers with several boutiques, and diners have numerous appetizing options.
Amelia Island is like home to me and is an ideal destination for vacations as well as meetings and conventions.
What is your favorite golf resort or vacation destination? Please take a minute and leave a comment.
Until next time, enjoy golf, America!
