Amelia Island Ranks in Top 5 North American Islands

In Conde Nast Traveler’s 2009 Readers’ Choice Award 

AMELIA ISLAND, Fla. (October 19, 2009) – Amelia Island, Florida has been named the #4 North American island in the 2009 Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards.  This is the third consecutive year Amelia Island has been ranked in the awards’ Top 10 island destinations, finishing this year ahead of Hilton Head, S.C. and Sanibel, Fla.  The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, a 444-room beachfront resort, was also named in the awards, voted #17 among Top U.S. Mainland Resorts. 

            “Clearly, we’re excited by the continued satisfaction and enthusiasm of our visitors as expressed in the 2009 Readers’ Choice Awards,” said Gil Langley, President of the Amelia Island Convention and Visitors Bureau.  “The high expectations and standards of the avid traveling readership of Conde Nast Traveler make this a very significant – and satisfying – recognition for the island.”   

            Readers in the survey evaluated their favorite island destinations on activities, atmosphere/ambience, beaches, friendliness, lodging, restaurants, and scenery.  Out of a possible 100 points, Amelia Island scored a 75.6, making it the highest ranked island in Florida.  The top resorts category rated properties based on food/dining, location, overall design, rooms, service, activities and facilities.

            The awards are based on the results of the Readers’ Choice Survey, in which more than 25,000 travelers voted this year.  Winners will be published in the November issue. 

-Amelia Island Convention & Visitor’s Bureau-

About Amelia Island

Northeast Florida’s coastal treasure, Amelia Island is a barrier island rich in colorful history and breath-taking natural beauty.  Its long, beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife, and pristine waters have made the island a favorite destination for outdoor adventure.  Upscale resorts with world-class spas, championship golf and exclusive dining blend effortlessly with a captivating collection of bed and breakfast inns and historic district.  The island is home to Fernandina Beach, once a vibrant Victorian seaport village, and now a charming downtown district of eclectic shops, attractions, and eateries.  Forget the everyday getaway; Come make memories on Amelia Island.  For visitor information and online planning, visit www.ameliaisland.com.