We’re more than just professional travel writers. Jenn is a 20-year veteran in the service industry who has worn many hats at four and five-star properties, including Concierge, Spa Lead, and Brand Standards Coach.
Ponte Vedra Inn and Club has eleven separate buildings spread out over 300-acres that contain 262 guest rooms. There is the historic Inn, nine beachfront houses, and a golfer’s paradise house that overlooks the Ocean Course’s signature Island 9th Hole.
When we pulled our well-loved Subaru Outback loaded down with bikes and a surfboard into the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, we were a little afraid about how they would react. We weren’t exactly dressed for the role of high-end travelers going to a top luxury resort. The bell staff was immaculately professional. They greeted us with a smile and welcomed us to the property.
We look for rooms that create living spaces, and impeccable bedding. Our room, a superior oceanfront double queen, hit all these points and more. There was plenty of space in the bedroom to spread out. The oceanfront balcony was spacious enough to recline and watch the waves crash on the shore. The bathroom featured an oversized rain shower and a stand-alone tub with a portal opening into the main room. We could take a bubble bath together with an ocean view.
One fear we have about staying at dispersed properties is the response time from the front desk. Sometimes, even the most straightforward request seems like it takes forever to accommodate. We needed a sewing kit and wine glasses. Within 10-minutes of placing our call, somebody was knocking at our door with both items.
We planned a romantic sunset dinner at the Seahorse Grille. Even though it faces east, the dramatic views of the Atlantic were spectacular. The surf was up that day, so we watched surfers cutting and carving the breaks at the Surf Club as the sun went down.
Dining at the Seahorse Grille took us n gastronomic journey from sea to land took us from savory heights to subtle nuances.
From our beachfront room, we were only steps away from the beach. Not just any beach, but miles and miles of soft white sand stretching out beyond your imagination. Florida’s Atlantic beaches are more variable than their Gulf Coast cousins.
The Ponte Vedra Inn and Club gym was a gem in every sense of the word. More than 75 exercise stations were spread out in the 8,000 square foot facility, including plenty of cardio machines, weight machines, and free weights for the hard-core guests.
Ponte Vedra Inn and Club prides itself on its golf and tennis options. They offer the full trilogy of services: top-notch facilities, superior instruction, and well-stocked pro shops. 15 Har-Tru Hydro-court tennis courts and 36 holes of championship golf are available for guests and members.
Aesthetically speaking, The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club’s 30,000 square foot Spa is breathtaking! It truly is a sanctuary of peace and tranquility with its own private (only for Spa guests) Spa Cafe’ and relaxation room, outdoor hydrotherapy pool featuring a waterfall, and four therapy grottos.
After our farewell breakfast at the Inn’s elegant Dining Room, complete with white linens, crystal touches, and fresh flowers, we had the opportunity to talk with Craig Schoninger, the Director of Sales and Marketing. He invited us to look around at the historical pictures of the four generations of guests who have enjoyed this property since it opened in 1928.