The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne: Expectations Exceeded on Island Paradise

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This post is brought to you by one of our Staycation Guide Travel Partners: The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

Everyone has high expectations when visiting a luxury resort and rightfully so! However, rarely are those expectations exceeded.Our recent visit to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne can be described as one of those encounters when everything, everyone, every detail completely exceeded our (already high) expectations. If you think enjoying a luxury getaway is not possible with children, think again!

Admittedly, The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne already had a piece of our hearts before we ever stepped on the property. Years ago my husband and I spent our newlywed days living in a small apartment just one street over from this pristine property. Each day on our commute home we passed the grand entrance. Our evening beach strolls led us past the iconic hotel hundreds of times. I even used to escape to the resort coffee shop just to bask in the ambiance, dreaming one day to return as a guest. 

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

While we no longer live in that little apartment on Key Biscayne, arriving at The Ritz-Carlton transported me back to the fond memories of our family’s earlier days before kids! It felt like coming home. To bring our son along with us on our visit felt like a beautiful “full-circle” moment. 

Luxurious Island Paradise 

You can enjoy a luxury getaway with your family, without traveling far. The Island Paradise of Key Biscayne is a 5 mile barrier island minutes from downtown. You will feel yourself exhale as you drive over the Rickenbacker Causeway. You’ll exhale a little deeper when you enter the gated property. You will be in full-on vacation mode as soon as you enter the magnificent lobby where you are greeted by the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton. The exceeding of your expectations begins. 

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

Our room was nothing short of spectacular! Atlantic Ocean views, luxurious Frette linens, two balconies, 1.5 bathrooms, a large living room and a bottle of champagne with a personalized welcome note – not to mention a welcome basket of cookies made to look like a massive hot air ballon. A nod to the fact that we were traveling with children (or that they knew I have an insatiable sweet tooth?) Either way, expectations exceeded. The sunrise balcony views rivaled all I’ve seen.

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

Amenties Galore

When you visit this property you truly are immersed in the quality of service consistent of The Ritz-Carlton brand. You have island-life seclusion coupled with endless amenities. Included in your daily resort fee is:

  • Use of Beach Chairs and Umbrellas
  • Daily Beach Activities including Stand Up Paddle Board, Floats and Kayak
  • Access to Kid’s Activities 
  • Daily One Hour Fitness Class (up to two guests)
  • Spa Access to Soaking Tub, Sauna and Steam Room
  • Complimentary interactive photo session with the Photography Concierge
  • and more!

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

Our room had access to the Club Lounge. This gives the added convenience of private concierge service and four meal presentations throughout the day exclusively for Club Lounge guests.  

Naturally I visited the locally inspired spa. It also exceeded my expectations. I received the Tequesta Ritual which was 100 minutes of total relaxation. The treatment included a body scrub, mud experience, scalp massage, and concluded with an aromatherapy massage. Stop whatever you’re doing and book your experience right now! You will not regret it. They offer more than 60 treatments in their 20,000-square-foot spa which includes a sauna, steam room and soaking tub. There’s bound to be something to help you unwind. 

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

For the Kids 

The resort offers daily programs for kids including sports, crafts, and a Scavenger Hunt. The zero-entry pool complete with waterfall is perfect for wading with your little ones.

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

There is also an area with miniature chairs, a playhouse, and a ping pong table. During our visit we saw a Dad start a pick-up soccer game with a handful of kids on the open lawn in the middle of the property. Kids are welcome and thoughtfully considered at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. They even offer a special American Girl Doll add-on complete with a bed and mini robe for the dolls to enjoy the luxurious experience too! 

Family-Friendly Dining 

You can enjoy fresh guacamole or a scoop of gelato poolside or opt for a sit down meal at 3 different on-site restaurants. I would be remiss to not mention our outstanding experience at Lightkeepers. This oceanfront restaurant, aptly named to recognize those who kept watch over the Florida Coast, is topnotch.

We were personally greeted by the Chef and the Sommelier paired wines with our meal – all while our 9 month old slept in the stroller beside us. The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne is family-friendly at its finest!

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

I could tell you all about the churrasco, the lobster Mac-and-cheese, or the giant crab cake appetizer. However, the real star of the show was, surprisingly, the sweet chili crispy Brussel sprouts. We failed to listen to our waiter’s strong initial recommendation but we are grateful he took matters into his own hands and ordered them for us anyways. Lesson learned: listen to the experts and it will go well with you!

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

Check out their Sunday Brunch or plan a date night to take advantage of their Miami Spice Menu. 

Plan Your Visit 

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne truly offers everything you could ever need and more. With 3 restaurants, a coffee shop, a rum bar, a state-of-the-art tennis facility, a 20,000-square-foot spa, and a handful of boutiques including Lilly Pulitzer, why would you ever want to leave?

I assure you, you will not want to leave!

ritz Carlton key biscayne miami moms blog

Check out the special offers to help you maximize your stay at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne.

Visit their website or call 305-365-4500 to plan your getaway. 

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Cierra
Cierra is the Owner & Founder of Miami Mom Collective. A Southern girl with Alabama roots, she has lived in California, Israel, China, Texas and Florida. Cierra quickly fell in love with the beauty and diversity of South Florida when she first visited Key Biscayne after reconnecting with (and later marrying!) her high school sweetheart. Before having children of her own, she oversaw more than 100 as the Director of Key Biscayne Presbyterian School. In 2017 she launched into her latest and greatest adventure: motherhood! Cierra is Mama to a joyful 5 year girl, an energetic 3 year old boy, snuggly 1 year old boy, and a smiley baby girl! Her hands and heart are FULL to say the least! Cierra is passionate about leading and developing women to use their unique gifts to serve and encourage others. She founded Miami Mom Collective to encourage, equip, and empower Moms with relevant resources and a meaningful community. Follow her on Instagram to stay connected.