The Lodge and Club at Ponte Vedra Beach

Though it is somewhat less famous than its historic sister property up the road, the Lodge and Club at Ponte Vedra Beach has plenty going for it. The vibe here is quieter and more intimate, with just 66 rooms and fewer on-site amenities than the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club -- but its lower room count and great layout allow for a relaxing atmosphere. The property was designed to capture the charm of a Mediterranean seaside resort, with Spanish-tiled roofs, arched windows, and a cute oceanfront courtyard with a fountain. Interiors are packed with Old-World touches, such as wooden ceilings, columns, and elegant furniture with classic lines and soft upholstery. Also, the resort’s clever design makes the most of its beachfront location: The three C-shaped buildings that make up the property are set parallel to the ocean -- allowing for unobstructed sea views from all rooms and most common spaces -- including spacious decks with tables and umbrellas set overlooking the beach. The Lodge and Club at Ponte Vedra Beach offers a couple of perks for families -- including a family pool and suites with sofa beds and basic kitchenettes -- but sister property the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is a tad more kid-friendly, with a seasonal kids’ club, a playground, and additional amenities. Travelers seeking something cheaper may want to compare rates at the mid-range Best Western Oceanfront, which is located across the boardwalk from the beach and offers great freebies such as breakfast and parking, and spacious, contemporary rooms -- many with balconies and sea views. 

The Lodge and Club has a privileged location right on a sandy, uncrowded beach in an upscale residential area in southern Ponte Vedra Beach. The property is surrounded by beachfront houses and palm trees lining State Highway 203/Ponte Vedra Boulevard, which connects all the area’s wonderful beaches from northern Ponte Vedra to southern Villano Beach. The great beach and excellent golf courses are the main draws here, but aside from that, there’s little to do or see. This is a good spot for a quiet and relaxed getaway, but don’t expect any nightlife or an interesting dining scene. Restaurants, shops, and bars can be found a 10-minute drive north, in Jacksonville Beach. The resort is a 40-minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport. 

The hotel has 66 rooms spread over three buildings set parallel to the beach, which allows for unobstructed ocean views from all of them. Decor is elegant and classic throughout, with a soothing green and neutral palette, plush beige carpets with cute patterns, and elegant dark-wood furniture with classic lines. Pitched wooden ceilings on top-floor units, along with padded headboards and imported fabrics in soft hues, lend rooms lots of Mediterranean charm. Additionally, all units have furnished balconies or patios, as well as triple-sheeted king or queen beds with duvets and several pillows. Standard amenities include high-definition flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, iHome docks, mini-fridges, and terry robes. All but Deluxe and Superior rooms feature gas fireplaces, and suites have separate living areas with sofa beds and basic kitchenettes outfitted with microwaves, mini-fridges, and sinks. Bathrooms are spacious and elegant in all, with double sinks, marble finishes, and ample counter space. Entry-level Deluxe units have shower/tub combos, while all other rooms and suites feature oval soaking tubs and separate showers. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided.

The most alluring feature here is certainly the wide stretch of pretty beach. It's quiet and long, but be aware that beach loungers and umbrellas require fees. This is on top of the daily resort fee. Other highlights at the Lodge and Club at Ponte Vedra Beach are the two heated outdoor pools. The adults-only one is located in the main building, overlooking the ocean, and it has a spacious deck and a whirlpool. The family pool is located across the street and has lanes for swimming and a section for kids with water features and a couple of slides. Adjacent to the family pool is the hotel’s wonderful gym, offering over 40 cardio and strength-training machines, a wide variety of free classes, personal trainers, a sauna, and a steam room. Kayaks, paddleboards, and beach bikes are available for a fee.Dining options at the Lodge and Club are good and varied, ranging from formal to casual. The oceanfront Sea View Grille serves seafood and aged beef, as well as an excellent breakfast spread. The more casual Oasis is open for lunch and dinner and features outdoor seating, along with a light menu that includes salads, seafood, and sandwiches. The poolside Barefoot Bistro is a food truck-style venue serving up snacks and drinks, while the Sea View Lounge is the place to go for a casual meal and cocktails. Afternoon tea is available at Tea by the Sea. The on-site conference center includes over 5,000 square feet of flexible indoor space and 9,000 square feet of outdoor areas. Audiovisual equipment is available, as are catering and event planning services. Valet parking is available for a fee.The hotel provides free shuttle service to sister property the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, complete with several restaurants, a 30,000-square-foot spa, a championship golf course, and 15 tennis courts.