Minutes from the shore, miles from stress

My idea of stress relief? Amelia Island's Watsu pool.

Watsu,a one-on-one aquatic body massage, combines gentle stretches with slow, steady acupressure. Amelia Island Spa

It's an oddly comforting dance. My therapist and I both wore swimsuits, and I rested my head on her shoulder, my body floating free while she led me through a series of gentle movements.

Amelia Island Watsu Therapy PoolThe biggest challenge is giving up total control to someone you've just met. It took me a while to become weightless, but once I gave in, relaxation was mine for the taking.

Watsu therapy at Amelia Island Inn and Spa is like having your very own guru who has a direct line to tranquility.

Fringe Benefits

The Inn is a 249-room luxury hotel with all rooms facing the ocean.

Express your outdoorsy side and sign up for some of Amelia Island Shorelinethe on-site programs (Bird Watching 101 or the Crab Grab) or watch dolphins from your patio while sipping your first coffee of the day.

If you're more hedonist than naturalist, head to the lakeside shops for some upscale shopping therapy and gourmet dining.

Passport to Amelia Island Plantation

• 610 rooms
• Year built: 1974 (renovated 1998)
• Dining - Ocean Grill, Marche Burette, Beach Club Grill, Golf Shop Restaurant, Verandah Restaurant, Amelia Lobby Lounge, Falcon's Nest, Sunrise Café, The Bean Counter, Dunes Club Sand Bar, room service available
• All rooms have an ocean view
• Gym/spa/fitness area
• Close by: Horseback riding, golf, scuba diving, shopping
• Room Rates
• o Standard Minimum: $199US
• o Standard Maximum: $356US
• o Suite Minimum: $241US
• o Suite Maximum: $957US

Ever been to Amelia Island Plantation? Tell us your favorite treatment?

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