Sedona is one of our favorite spots in all of Arizona and is constantly touted as one of the most beautiful places in America, and even the world.
We stayed at Amara Resort and Spa. Not only is it located close to so many great hikes and outdoor activities, but there is so much to do at the resort!
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What to expect during your stay at Amara Resort & Spa
Table of Contents
- Accommodations at Amara Resort & Spa
- Dining at Amara Resort & Spa
- Activities at Amara Resort & Spa
- Nearby Attractions
- Amenities at Amara Resort & Spa
- List of Amenities and activities at Amara Resort:
Accommodations at Amara Resort & Spa
We arrived at Amara Resort and Spa after dark and in the pouring rain. This might not sound like the best start to a vacation, but we pulled right up and were greeted with an umbrella and complimentary valet parking.
We checked into our room, which was impeccably clean and tastefully decorated.
We walked out onto the patio overlooking the infinity pool and couldn’t wait to go for a swim when the storm passed.
Then we set off to explore the rest of the hotel. The rustic modern lobby was warm and inviting. We sunk into the oversized chairs and played a quick game of tic-tac-toe on the gameboard that was set out.
We sipped on fruit-infused water while filling out complimentary postcards to send to grandparents. I love when hotels put thought into the little details like that. Something as simple as a postcard station was such a nice and unexpected touch.
Since I have three boys, they were anxious to hit the gym! We checked in late so I wasn’t sure if the fitness center would still be open, but they were excited to learn that it is open 24 hours a day.
Dining at Amara Resort & Spa
My husband and I were also excited about the SaltRock Kitchen located adjacent to the lobby.
I had read the reviews before coming and knew that it was one of the top-rated restaurants in Sedona.
We couldn’t wait to try one of their signature fresh Southwest dishes. Rumor is that their grilled corn and carnitas tacos are to die for.
We immediately made plans to grab a pizza for the boys one night and let them watch movies in the room while we dined Al Fresco on the outdoor patio under the string lights.
After a good workout and a hot shower, we snuggled in for a few rousing episodes on the Game Show Network before calling it a night.
Activities at Amara Resort & Spa
The next morning we woke up early and took advantage of the complimentary bikes.
I had looked into renting bikes from a local company but was shocked to see that the rates were $94 per day. So I was excited to learn that there are bikes located on-site available for guests to use at no charge.
You can take the bikes out for the day, so next time I plan to bring our bike rack so that we can take the bikes out on nearby mountain bike trails.
The concierge recommended riding along Jordan Road, a residential street that parallels the main street.
We took it north until it came to a fork at Park Ridge Drive, then headed left until it came to a trailhead.
We did a little mountain biking up the trail until it started getting too hot then we turned around.
I wanted to make it back in time for the free morning yoga class but just missed it. Classes are held in the spa or on the lawn, depending on the weather.
A yoga mat can be found in each of the guest rooms that can be used for the class or on your own. Such a nice touch, one that I will definitely be taking advantage of next time!
After a re-energizing yoga session, you can schedule a treatment at the spa. Or just unwind in their eucalyptus steam room which is free for all guests.
Unfortunately, my three active boys kept me busy enough that I didn’t have time for a spa day, but I am already fantasizing about coming back for a girl’s trip!
Nearby Attractions
We knew we wanted to explore the beautiful outdoors and the concierge was very helpful with recommendations.
We decided on a hike at Soldier’s Pass and then an afternoon swim at Grasshopper Point.
For more hiking recommendations, see our guide 6 of the Best Hikes in Sedona.
They are both located only a few miles from the resort. It was such a fun way to spend the day.
The hike was stunning with views of the Devil’s Kitchen, the Seven Sacred Pools, and a secret cave.
Another favorite kid-friendly hike with a secret lookout is the Fay Canyon Trail.
The swimming hole was so refreshing on a hot summer day and the boys loved cliff jumping.
For more family-friendly recommendations, see our guide for 15 Fun Things to Do in Sedona with Kids and How to Spend a Weekend in Sedona.
Amenities at Amara Resort & Spa
We came back and went swimming in the heated infinity pool. The outdoor space and ambiance at Amara Resort just can’t be beat!
I loved relaxing in the cabana and watching Jason splashing and playing with the boys.
The only thing that made it better was that it was set against the stunning red rock backdrop and swaying trees.
The pool overlooks Oak Creek and there is a short walking trail along the edge of the river to explore.
We dried off then relaxed in the cheerful yellow Adirondack chairs while playing lawn games.
Connect Four is one of my boys’ favorite games, so they were excited to master the life-size version.
That evening we strolled along the main street and stopped at Oreganos for dinner and an ice cream shop for dessert.
The resort offers a complimentary shuttle within a mile of the property, but we enjoyed walking under the stars in the warm summer air.
It’s so convenient that the resort is situated right in the heart of uptown Sedona and within walking distance of so many shops and restaurants.
We were sad to check out the next morning. We absolutely loved our time at Amara Resort. It was the perfect farewell to summer and an experience we’ll remember for years to come!
Sedona is one of our favorite stops on an Arizona Road Trip, click the link for more recommendations!
List of Amenities and activities at Amara Resort:
- Heated infinity pool and hot tub
- Full-service spa
- Complimentary steam room
- 24-hour fitness center
- Complimentary valet parking
- Complimentary shuttle service within 1 mile of Amara Resort
- Free morning yoga class
- Yoga mat for use in each guest room
- Indoor and outdoor dining at SaltRock Southwest Kitchen
- Complimentary wine hour between 5-6 pm. Non-alcoholic drinks are available as well.
- A Morning coffee bar is available in the lobby. Hot Chocolate is served in the winter.
- Lawn games in the summer are held between 7-8 pm. In the winter you’ll find fire pits. Spiced cider is also served in the winter during the wine hour.
- A short walking trail is located along Oak Creek and can be accessed by stairs next to the pool.
- Bikes and helmets are available for use on a first-come-first-serve basis. There are both street bikes and mountain bikes. They do not have kids bikes, but they can lower the seats. My 8-year-old was able to ride one, but it might be too tall for kids younger than that.
- Stargazing sessions are hosted by a local astronomy expert every Monday evening an hour after sunset.
- Located within walking distance of shops and restaurants in uptown Sedona.
- Located only a few miles from popular hikes, swimming holes, Jeep tours, and other activities.
- Stop by the concierge for recommendations of the best activities to do in the area.
- Amara Resort is a pet-friendly hotel, they even have a water dish by the lobby door.
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