Located on a gorgeous white-sand beach, The Ritz on Key Biscayne is a dream vacation destination for families.

- Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami Facebook Page

By Kara Franker

The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne provides a luxurious island escape for couples and families. Celebrities enjoy the Ritz on the Key because it provides a quiet break from the paparazzi. Justin Timberlake, Martha Stewart, Bill Murray and Simon Cowell have all been spotted at this AAA Five Diamond-rated resort.

The island of Key Biscayne is accessible by a seven-mile stretch of roads and bridges located in Miami-Dade County. It’s close enough to enjoy everything the Magic City and South Beach have to offer, but far enough away from the crowds and clubs that it provides a lavish, family-friendly getaway.

The Ritz is the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure and indulgence. Start your vacation by taking a dip in one of the two heated oceanfront swimming pools.

Then unwind in the 20,000 square-foot spa. I recommend the Key Biscayne Day Package, which includes:

  • 50-minute Vitamin Body Cocktail
  • 50-minute Signature Massage
  • 50-minute Sea and C Facial
  • Seascape Manicure and Pedicure
  • Spa Lunch

After you are content and rested, grab a racket and join the family for a game of tennis at the Ritz-Carlton’s world famous tennis center. Tennis magazine recognized the facility as one of “The 50 Greatest U.S. Tennis Resorts.” Legendary tennis pros Cliff Drysdale, Owen Davidson and staff from the United States Professional Tennis Association offer clinics and lessons for all ages. Every spring during the Sony Ericsson Open, you can be sure to catch stars like Andy Roddick perfecting his serve on the clay courts.

Be sure to finish off the perfect day at one of the monthly moonrise dinners, outdoors on a beautiful terrace at Cioppino, the Ritz-Carlton’s authentic Tuscan restaurant. Cioppino is the best spot in Miami to watch a full moon rise over the Atlantic without the distraction of the city lights. A constellation concierge points out stars and planets, using iPad technology to highlight constellations that may not be visible to the naked eye.

After dinner head over to RUMBAR, an upscale Latin music venue where Andy Garcia has a VIP rum locker. Guests enjoy rum flights, a cigar collection and Cuban-inspired light fare. Dance the night away to a four-piece band dressed in white dinner jackets and bowties, a throwback to Old Havana.

For rates and reservations, please visit the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne website.

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