This 13-story, 491-room hotel trails along 1,200 feet of beach on the Atlantic Ocean at roughly the midpoint of the island and a short drive from Crandon Park.
The resort takes its architectural clues from the Colonial West Indies, but the comfort and very attentive service are all Ritz-Carlton in marble baths, feather beds, down comforters, and Frette linens. Among its amenities are a 20,000-square-foot spa, five restaurants and lounges, and an oceanfront Ritz Kids pavilion with a children’s-only pool and oceanfront playground. But the most significant amenity from the point of view of tennis players is the on-site facility designed by former touring pro and noted television commentator Cliff Drysdale.
Tennis Staff: Cliff Drysdale Tennis manages the club’s operation and installed Max Mangones as director. Originally from Haiti, Mangones came to the U.S. at age 15 and went on to play Division II college tennis at Miami’s Barry University. He heads of a staff of as many as 10 international pros in season, catering both to the needs of active local members and to those of guests.
Tennis Programs: The weekly roster includes a 90-minute clinic every day, supplemented by three more on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings. Two things distinguish these clinics: the large turnout (often 20 or more people) and their lively and challenging organization. Although mine began, as clinics often do, with work on forehands and backhands, it quickly moved to live-ball drills in a variety of formats as we players rotated through half a dozen pros. As a hotel guest these afford an immediate introduction to some of the local players, though if you prefer playing to drilling the staff can draw on that same stable to set up matches. Finally, from early June to late August, the Tennis Center adds a summer day camp for juniors ages 7-17. Clinics aside, there are a number of special events scattered throughout the year, among them luxury ladies’ retreats and social round robins.
Also part of the complex are three lighted padel courts, a racquet sport played on an enclosed court (different from paddle tennis) that has become enormously popular in places like Mexico—where it originated—Argentina, Spain, and Italy and enthusiasm for the sport is spreading world wide.
Court fees: $15/day and includes a can of balls
Off Court
Golf Courses: The resort has no golf course of its own but guests can play at the highly rated public course in nearby Crandon Park.
Spa & Fitness Center: A 20,000-square-foot spa and fitness center with 21 treatment rooms overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Its treatments draw on the local history of the Tequesta Indians, explorers, and coconut plantations for ingredients and inspiration, whether that’s a coconut nourishment to soothe the skin or a detoxifying ceremony to purify and restore balance. The Fitness Center has an array of TechnoGym equipment, its cardio elements facing windows with views of the foliage outdoors. It also hosts a selection of classes that include boot camp workouts, Pilates, yoga, cycling, and stretching.
There are two outdoor pools, one for adults only, the other a large amoeba-shaped zero-entry expanse bordered by lounge chairs.
Children's programs: The Ritz Kids program provides supervised activities for those ages 4 to 10+ in partnership with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society. Not mere babysitting, it instead seeks to exploit children’s natural curiosity as a way of introducing them to the natural wonders and culture.
Dining: There are several tasty options: contemporary American cuisine at the Fountain Cafe, a selection of tequilas and Mexican fare at the oceanfront Cantina Beach, and gourmet burgers and international appetizers at Dune Burgers on the Beach. In addition, Light Keepers is about to open and will focus on coastal cuisine.
Accommodations
There are 402 rooms altogether, 37 of them suites. All have terraces that overlook the ocean, bay or gardens.
Getting there
Seasons: Year-round, though hot and steamy in summer.
Travel Instructions: By Air: The Ritz is roughly 17 miles from Miami International Airport (MIA), which is served by all the major airlines.
231 Reviews on “The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne - Cliff Drysdale Tennis”
Excellent
4.7
231 reviews
On Court Experience
5.0
Off Court Experience
5.0
Overall Tennis
5.0
Overall Pickleball
4.9
Overall Padel
4.9
Adult Tennis Camp Experience
5.0
Tennis Instruction
5.0
Padel Instruction
5.0
Pickleball Instruction
4.9
Adult Tennis Camp Experience
5.0
Accomodations
4.8
Resort Amenities
5.0
KC
Tennis pros are friendly and helpful. They always know your name. Very personal experience.
FC
Cliff, Drysdale, Max Mangones and the team of pros are exceptional! They know tennis and are very friendly and encouraging. The setting is beautiful. The courts are pristinely maintained. The resort is exceptional.
IS
The entire group was amazing, led by Max. Very positive, very enjoyable, and very personable. I will definitely play and stay there again!
AC
My friends and I had a wonderful time on our 3rd annual tennis get away. The staff was wonderful ~ willing to help us with the playing times we wanted and offering to help anyway they could. I would recommend it to anyone.
XG
I only have good things to say: Great facilities (10+ courts in very good condition), amazing tennis instructors (extremely flexible, diverse set of pros, each providing very good tips to improve one’s game), casual atmosphere.
JM
This is very organized and well run. I stayed at the hotel for 5 nights and each morning participated in the Tennis clinic. It encompasses local players and hotel guests. We moved every 20 minutes to another court with a different pro. Let eve meeting new players and Tennis point of few from different pros. It was great and nothing to complain about. I love going there every year.
PB
the best tennis facility in Miami. great team of professionals, and wonderfully managed by Max. they made us feel very welcome and we enjoyed our daily 2 hour clinic. we made great friends there and will definitely go back next year. thank you Max and the team for making our stay so enjoyable.
AK
Had an awesome week. Perfect offering for every skill level through private lessons as well as daily morning and evening clinics which have the right mixture of skills levels as well as interesting mixture of locals and vacation guests. Club is extremely well organised by Max and his team. Been for the second time and definitely will be back.
DR
Nice resort, easy and very accomodating tennis services. Great pros. Only negative was the courts are clay which is not what we typically play on, so it was a bit difficult to adjust.
DB
Strengths: great attitude from front line staff, coaches, instructors. Felt very valued as customer. Great tennis experience, improved game along with family.
JD
Our group has a tennis tournament every year, our experience at the Ritz Key Biscayne was well organized, fun and the pros filled in to keep the rotations on schedule. Our group had many different levels of tennis players and they were able to make everyone’s experience a pleasure. Our group concesses; best tournament ever. Great job guys! I also took a tennis clinic and it surpast my expectations.
SM
i use the resort to drill and get a great workout. the staff is nice, fun, and very talented. the courts are always in great shape. I’m sure if i wanted to do clinics or have them arrange games for me, they’d be great at that also. I have no complaints, and would highly recommend to anyone.
TS
My parents were here for a special vacation and I booked them to stay at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne as well as the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center on the grounds of the hotel. Not only were Max and his team of professionals outstanding at organizing the drills for their level and making them feel welcome and comfortable, but I have also played numerous times at the clinics when vacationing here and must say they are the best I have ever been played – hats off to Max and his amazing staff of pros – they really deliver a top notch experience for tennis lovers.
CR
Fantastic program
EW
Max and the rest of the staff at the tennis facility are very professional and offer high quality instruction. The private lessons and clinics are extremely well run.
PK
Once again, our GIRLS tennis trip to Key Biscayne R-C was amazing! This is our second year back and it seems as if there is no other tennis resort that compares. The beautiful, beachfront hotel with the incredible Cliff Drysdale tennis club on property makes our decision to come back every year.. simple. I can not say enough great things about Max and his attention to detail in providing us with 2 energetic and outstanding tennis pros (Matt & Anthony) who made the 3 hours of instruction each day fun and worthwhile. This is the perfect get-away for 8 mom tennis players who need to get away during the cold winter months in Kansas City. We will keep coming back for years to come!! With Much Appreciation,
CG
We visited the Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne in January 2017 and had a fabulous time. The accommodations are beautiful and luxurious, but what makes this a special place is the tennis facilities and programs available to resort guests. Max Mangones is the Director of Tennis at the facility. Max, along with his very talented staff of pros, are excellent instructors, who excel at making every player of any level feel comfortable on the court and ensure that they have a great experience. The instruction is top notch and the pros make every clinic or private lesson loads of fun. I first attended a tennis retreat with a group of girl friends in October and I loved it so much that I had to bring my husband back for a tennis trip in January. I plan on returning for another girls trip and a couples trip in the near future.
DS
This was my second trip in two years. All in all a fantastic place for the tennis enthusiast. The coaching was excellent, everyone very friendly, courts and amenities are first class. I would have no hesitation recommending this to anyone.
BK
For the past 10 years, I have run a “tennis” program at a large business meeting. Many meeting participants were former recreational players that loved the game at some point in the lives, but had forgotten how much fun it is to play. I arranged with Max to have a number of pros available, and we start everyone with basic drills, running around, and having fun. Max’s and his pros make our sessions so much fun that business colleagues rave to others once our meetings start that they have had the time of their lives, and had forgotten how much fun it is to play tennis. Max and his team expertly bring up the level of each participant, and they walk into our meeting refreshed, and positive. Well done Max.
AB
Nice atmosphere, very good tennis professionals, and well planned tennis program.
MB
I have visited this tennis center three times and have greatly benefited from the outstanding instruction provided by the staff.
AZ
My favorite place to play tennis! Staff is knowledgeable, consistent, friendly, and so much fun! Over the years, I have gone to the regular clinics, 3 ladies retreats, and private clinics with friends. Highly recommend the Ladies retreat here–instruction and very fun!
AC
This is my tennis team’s second “Cliff Drysdale” vacation and we couldn’t be happier. Our first adventure was to Amelia Island with Scott Colebourne, Sal Barbaro and their team of professionals – it was absolutely first rate. For this trip we chose the program at Key Biscayne as we wanted something a bit warmer for this time of year. The weather and facilities exceeded our expectations. Max Mangones is a wonderful instructor and just the nicest person – as is Matt who couldn’t have been more fun, charming and an all-around great tennis professional. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and each walked away with something to take home to work on. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the excellent service and care of Sue Lopez in working with me to organize this trip. From the hotel to booking the restaurants we wanted – she was and is an absolute professional and pleasure to work with. One note that has nothing to do with the tennis aspect of the program: while the hotel facilities were immaculate and staff was just terrific (especially the shuttle service that took us to all the local restaurants) several billing errors occurred which we felt uncharacteristic (and unacceptable) for a Ritz Carlton. If you charge to your room – especially if you are sharing – keep a record of your exact charges and throughly check your bills at checkout. Some of us were charged for things we didn’t buy and one meal was double charged. Even when using a credit card at the bar or for meals – double check the bill and then again when you sign. Halfway through our stay we noticed on a bar bill the amount increased from what was on our check when we handed the waiter our credit card to what was charged when we went to sign for it – of course the waiter apologized and immediately corrected it and we were a bit more aware and careful from that point on. That being said – we are looking forward to returning and just love the Cliff Drysdale staff and approach to tennis!
SS
We have been back twice now, and absolutely love it. The facilities, the staff and the pros. We will be returning for many years to come. No weaknesses except for the unpredictable weather and humidity – nothing much can be done about that except a little rescheduling and the center couldn’t be more accommodating!
LS
Love the Cliff Drysdale at Key Biscayne. Max and all the staff are wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves
DM
Best tennis vacation ever! Whether you visit for one lesson, one day, or one week you will not be disappointed. My first experience here was with the Ladies Retreat in the Fall and I loved it so much I returned a couple months later on my own for daily drill/private lessons when I was back in the Miami area and then again the following Fall for another Retreat — you too will not be able to stay away! The drop in format is awesome and allows for ultimate flexibility — if you can only attend one drill or want to make an entire day of it, Max and his team could not be more accommodating. I am so impressed with the always low student/pro ratio and every time I return the pros welcome me back like family — the staff here is truly top notch and the energy, enthusiasm, professionalism, and passion for tennis that these pros have for the game will bring joy to any tennis player. For a private lesson, ask for Anthony, Florian, Hillel, Matic, Max, or Mel – ANY of them will give you a great lesson and improve your game in a short time. For those staying at the Ritz Carlton, nothing beats waking up to the ocean, taking a stroll down the palm tree-lined path to the Tennis Garden knowing that great tennis awaits you, and then winding down at the beach. The restaurants, spa, gym, and beach service at the Ritz are great. If you are looking for a beach vacation with world-class tennis (as well as the option to live it up in nearby Miami) look no further, this is your place. I dream of when I can return here to play tennis and then relax and enjoy the ocean waves!
VP
The Hotel is amazing. The Tennis Center is also incredible. Many courts as you can need, great coaches, good pro shop and the clinics are very good. My kids went to a camp and also private lessons and they said it’s the best time of the vacation!
VC
Great resort and great tennis. The pros are all very accommodating and the clinics are efficient and instructive.
DS
My friends and I were completely blown away by the experience. We did a private group Clinic that was just for me and my two friends. The attention paid to us by everyone at the tennis facility Was inspiring.We were asked what we wanted to work on And all Instruction was catered to our needs. The instructors worked with our schedules. The facilities were great too. We used the gym as well as the locker rooms. I used the whirlpool and my friends used the pool and sauna. We were definitely able to elevate the level of our game in only 4 days. That is an incredible testament to the staff at Cliff Drysdale Amelia Island!!.
TR
Perfect setting for every morning tennis practices at a high level, beautiful courts and professional coaching with coaches from all over the world, excellent organization and management and very nice staff
KP
The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne was a fabulous resort with first class lodging and restaurants. We took some private tennis lessons as part of our vacation and had a very good experience. The staff throughout the resort was exceptional. The spa was beautiful and luxurious, one of the best I have been to.
KK
I was so impressed with the Tennis Program at this Ritz-Carlton. Max Mangones (head tennis director) & Hileill Rousseau were both fantastic tennis instructors & outstanding people to learn from. Max, in particular, encouraged me the whole time I was there. He made the whole program so much fun & could access people’s abilities very quickly. I walked away falling in love with tennis again.
ZK
We visited the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne for a girls getaway with the focus on tennis. We reserved resort view rooms and were delighted with our ocean view upgrade. The hotel is lovely and I would stay again with out hesitation. The tennis was just as promised. Max is an outstanding pro. Lots of energy, enthusiasm and excellent instruction. He was really the highlight. Hillel is younger, less experienced but very good at instruction and a pleasure to play with. Max did a great job with setting the fast pace and keeping everyone moving on both courts. I definitely learned some new things and came home a happy and better player.
CR
I have just returned home from my 7 year of visiting this facility . The lessons and the courts are the best.
LR
I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank-you to the entire team for a highly positive tennis experience! The quality of instruction, ease of logistics and “out to please” attitude of the entire staff made the visit highly pleasurable. Picture perfect Florida weather and pristine court conditions didn’t hurt either.
RZ
World class facility run by super friendly, skilled and dedicated professionals. My son recently trained there for a week and Max Znangones arranged for daily lessons and matches. When he couldn’t find enough juniors on site Max introduced us to the tennis director at the nearby Crandsll Apark Tennis center. I can’t say enough good things about the tennis center and this Ritz Carlton fscility/staff in general
AZ
Great drills and wonderful staff!
KS
Great instruction on technique as well as playing tips. Could not of been nicer and better prepared!!!
EC
Had the best tennis group experience by far. Great setting of hotel and tennis center was clean, immaculately maintained, had brand new balls during drills, pros, max and Nate were exceptional with teaching institution and made learning and playing a great experience. Definitely would come back again for place, pros and fun and variety in drills. Great follow up by pros before and after vacation getaway. Will brag about the experience and learning we got from Nate and max for years!
AK
Max Mangones and his wonderfully assembled crew were super accommodating and available for all requests– I did group clinics daily, one night time mens clinic, He set up frequent private clinic as for my family of four( so great for us) And arranged doubles matches for me with local members( great people and conversationalists ) could not have been better for all of us.
AA
Max Mangones and his team of teaching pro´s at The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne are doing a fantastic job. SIgn in drills in the morning and evening are very appreciated both among teenagers and grown ups at all levels. All pro´s have a combination of great energy, enthusiasm and knowledge that is easy for participants to appreciate. My family and I just came home from a 10 days holliday there (fifth time) and we are already longing back. We are happy to give this resort our best recommendation.
JB
A wonderful experience for a tennis enthusiast. I attended their clinic everyday (morning) I was at the resort. The clinic was outstanding. The clinic was exceptionally well organized. There was good instruction and lots of hitting tennis balls and no wasted time. Players were matched up by skill level after a brief warm up period by the staff. Groups were 3 to 4 players with an instructor. Each drill emphasized a different skill and lasted 15 – 20 minutes. Then you rotated to a different staff member and a new drill. The staff were talented tennis players. They were all friendly and very helpful in correcting stroke and court positioning issues. I have attended the clinic the last several Christmas vacations and plan to in the future.
AW
Great pro’s; knowledgable instructors; very friendly & accomodating staff incl the pro’s & very well run facility. Cliff & Max run a tight ship down there!
IE
Great resort and fantastic pros and great courts” Excellent clinics and great fun and fantastic coaching Best ever and I have been to many resorts
PC
This is not your typical tennis facility at a top notch hotel. It has got it all accomdating kids and the full range of playing abilities (including 4.5+) from begiiners to advanced. Nice clinics throughout the week and friendly and knowledgeable staff. Courts are clay and lit at niht too. High energy leadership from Tennis Director Max Mangones.
AD
Strengths: Max(tennis director),ample clay courts&staff, logistics of resort/tennis,nice accommodations, Cantina Beach mojitos and Guacamole! weaknesses: tennis water cooler(not adequate-trickle),court drainage system backs up(walkways messy)
BA
The resort and tennis facility are truly the best. We look forward to our trip to the Ritz at Key Biscayne every year. The tennis is fantastic!
RR
I have been to many tennis resorts this is by far my favorite. The staff is really what sets this place apart from the others in South Florida. I would highly recommend the Men’s clinic on Monday evenings.
YD
I recommend this tennis camp highly. Efficiently organized by the head coach Mark Chellas who is very professional , enthusiastic, and high energy. The stuff is friendly and welcoming. The clinic run by Mark is well organized, the coaches on each court are very qualified. The facility is well maintained in the tropical setting, beautifully landscaped. Only weakness, if I must say, is that sometimes if multiple events are held, it is hard to find a parking space.
KC
We travelled from Australia & this place is a must for tennis players. The pro staff are so great and knowledgable, and from all over the world. I have played in a lot of tennis facilities but the instruction and professionalism here is really unsurpassed. My children love it too, again as the pro staff are so accommodation and wonderful on court. Only downside is we wished we could stay longer!
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231 Reviews on “The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne - Cliff Drysdale Tennis”
Tennis pros are friendly and helpful. They always know your name. Very personal experience.
Cliff, Drysdale, Max Mangones and the team of pros are exceptional! They know tennis and are very friendly and encouraging. The setting is beautiful. The courts are pristinely maintained. The resort is exceptional.
The entire group was amazing, led by Max. Very positive, very enjoyable, and very personable. I will definitely play and stay there again!
My friends and I had a wonderful time on our 3rd annual tennis get away. The staff was wonderful ~ willing to help us with the playing times we wanted and offering to help anyway they could. I would recommend it to anyone.
I only have good things to say: Great facilities (10+ courts in very good condition), amazing tennis instructors (extremely flexible, diverse set of pros, each providing very good tips to improve one’s game), casual atmosphere.
This is very organized and well run. I stayed at the hotel for 5 nights and each morning participated in the Tennis clinic. It encompasses local players and hotel guests. We moved every 20 minutes to another court with a different pro. Let eve meeting new players and Tennis point of few from different pros. It was great and nothing to complain about. I love going there every year.
the best tennis facility in Miami. great team of professionals, and wonderfully managed by Max. they made us feel very welcome and we enjoyed our daily 2 hour clinic. we made great friends there and will definitely go back next year. thank you Max and the team for making our stay so enjoyable.
Had an awesome week. Perfect offering for every skill level through private lessons as well as daily morning and evening clinics which have the right mixture of skills levels as well as interesting mixture of locals and vacation guests. Club is extremely well organised by Max and his team. Been for the second time and definitely will be back.
Nice resort, easy and very accomodating tennis services. Great pros. Only negative was the courts are clay which is not what we typically play on, so it was a bit difficult to adjust.
Strengths: great attitude from front line staff, coaches, instructors. Felt very valued as customer. Great tennis experience, improved game along with family.
Our group has a tennis tournament every year, our experience at the Ritz Key Biscayne was well organized, fun and the pros filled in to keep the rotations on schedule. Our group had many different levels of tennis players and they were able to make everyone’s experience a pleasure. Our group concesses; best tournament ever. Great job guys! I also took a tennis clinic and it surpast my expectations.
i use the resort to drill and get a great workout. the staff is nice, fun, and very talented. the courts are always in great shape. I’m sure if i wanted to do clinics or have them arrange games for me, they’d be great at that also. I have no complaints, and would highly recommend to anyone.
My parents were here for a special vacation and I booked them to stay at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne as well as the Cliff Drysdale Tennis Center on the grounds of the hotel. Not only were Max and his team of professionals outstanding at organizing the drills for their level and making them feel welcome and comfortable, but I have also played numerous times at the clinics when vacationing here and must say they are the best I have ever been played – hats off to Max and his amazing staff of pros – they really deliver a top notch experience for tennis lovers.
Fantastic program
Max and the rest of the staff at the tennis facility are very professional and offer high quality instruction. The private lessons and clinics are extremely well run.
Once again, our GIRLS tennis trip to Key Biscayne R-C was amazing! This is our second year back and it seems as if there is no other tennis resort that compares. The beautiful, beachfront hotel with the incredible Cliff Drysdale tennis club on property makes our decision to come back every year.. simple. I can not say enough great things about Max and his attention to detail in providing us with 2 energetic and outstanding tennis pros (Matt & Anthony) who made the 3 hours of instruction each day fun and worthwhile. This is the perfect get-away for 8 mom tennis players who need to get away during the cold winter months in Kansas City. We will keep coming back for years to come!! With Much Appreciation,
We visited the Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne in January 2017 and had a fabulous time. The accommodations are beautiful and luxurious, but what makes this a special place is the tennis facilities and programs available to resort guests. Max Mangones is the Director of Tennis at the facility. Max, along with his very talented staff of pros, are excellent instructors, who excel at making every player of any level feel comfortable on the court and ensure that they have a great experience. The instruction is top notch and the pros make every clinic or private lesson loads of fun. I first attended a tennis retreat with a group of girl friends in October and I loved it so much that I had to bring my husband back for a tennis trip in January. I plan on returning for another girls trip and a couples trip in the near future.
This was my second trip in two years. All in all a fantastic place for the tennis enthusiast. The coaching was excellent, everyone very friendly, courts and amenities are first class. I would have no hesitation recommending this to anyone.
For the past 10 years, I have run a “tennis” program at a large business meeting. Many meeting participants were former recreational players that loved the game at some point in the lives, but had forgotten how much fun it is to play. I arranged with Max to have a number of pros available, and we start everyone with basic drills, running around, and having fun. Max’s and his pros make our sessions so much fun that business colleagues rave to others once our meetings start that they have had the time of their lives, and had forgotten how much fun it is to play tennis. Max and his team expertly bring up the level of each participant, and they walk into our meeting refreshed, and positive. Well done Max.
Nice atmosphere, very good tennis professionals, and well planned tennis program.
I have visited this tennis center three times and have greatly benefited from the outstanding instruction provided by the staff.
My favorite place to play tennis! Staff is knowledgeable, consistent, friendly, and so much fun! Over the years, I have gone to the regular clinics, 3 ladies retreats, and private clinics with friends. Highly recommend the Ladies retreat here–instruction and very fun!
This is my tennis team’s second “Cliff Drysdale” vacation and we couldn’t be happier. Our first adventure was to Amelia Island with Scott Colebourne, Sal Barbaro and their team of professionals – it was absolutely first rate. For this trip we chose the program at Key Biscayne as we wanted something a bit warmer for this time of year. The weather and facilities exceeded our expectations. Max Mangones is a wonderful instructor and just the nicest person – as is Matt who couldn’t have been more fun, charming and an all-around great tennis professional. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and each walked away with something to take home to work on. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the excellent service and care of Sue Lopez in working with me to organize this trip. From the hotel to booking the restaurants we wanted – she was and is an absolute professional and pleasure to work with. One note that has nothing to do with the tennis aspect of the program: while the hotel facilities were immaculate and staff was just terrific (especially the shuttle service that took us to all the local restaurants) several billing errors occurred which we felt uncharacteristic (and unacceptable) for a Ritz Carlton. If you charge to your room – especially if you are sharing – keep a record of your exact charges and throughly check your bills at checkout. Some of us were charged for things we didn’t buy and one meal was double charged. Even when using a credit card at the bar or for meals – double check the bill and then again when you sign. Halfway through our stay we noticed on a bar bill the amount increased from what was on our check when we handed the waiter our credit card to what was charged when we went to sign for it – of course the waiter apologized and immediately corrected it and we were a bit more aware and careful from that point on. That being said – we are looking forward to returning and just love the Cliff Drysdale staff and approach to tennis!
We have been back twice now, and absolutely love it. The facilities, the staff and the pros. We will be returning for many years to come. No weaknesses except for the unpredictable weather and humidity – nothing much can be done about that except a little rescheduling and the center couldn’t be more accommodating!
Love the Cliff Drysdale at Key Biscayne. Max and all the staff are wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves
Best tennis vacation ever! Whether you visit for one lesson, one day, or one week you will not be disappointed. My first experience here was with the Ladies Retreat in the Fall and I loved it so much I returned a couple months later on my own for daily drill/private lessons when I was back in the Miami area and then again the following Fall for another Retreat — you too will not be able to stay away! The drop in format is awesome and allows for ultimate flexibility — if you can only attend one drill or want to make an entire day of it, Max and his team could not be more accommodating. I am so impressed with the always low student/pro ratio and every time I return the pros welcome me back like family — the staff here is truly top notch and the energy, enthusiasm, professionalism, and passion for tennis that these pros have for the game will bring joy to any tennis player. For a private lesson, ask for Anthony, Florian, Hillel, Matic, Max, or Mel – ANY of them will give you a great lesson and improve your game in a short time. For those staying at the Ritz Carlton, nothing beats waking up to the ocean, taking a stroll down the palm tree-lined path to the Tennis Garden knowing that great tennis awaits you, and then winding down at the beach. The restaurants, spa, gym, and beach service at the Ritz are great. If you are looking for a beach vacation with world-class tennis (as well as the option to live it up in nearby Miami) look no further, this is your place. I dream of when I can return here to play tennis and then relax and enjoy the ocean waves!
The Hotel is amazing. The Tennis Center is also incredible. Many courts as you can need, great coaches, good pro shop and the clinics are very good. My kids went to a camp and also private lessons and they said it’s the best time of the vacation!
Great resort and great tennis. The pros are all very accommodating and the clinics are efficient and instructive.
My friends and I were completely blown away by the experience. We did a private group Clinic that was just for me and my two friends. The attention paid to us by everyone at the tennis facility Was inspiring.We were asked what we wanted to work on And all Instruction was catered to our needs. The instructors worked with our schedules. The facilities were great too. We used the gym as well as the locker rooms. I used the whirlpool and my friends used the pool and sauna. We were definitely able to elevate the level of our game in only 4 days. That is an incredible testament to the staff at Cliff Drysdale Amelia Island!!.
Perfect setting for every morning tennis practices at a high level, beautiful courts and professional coaching with coaches from all over the world, excellent organization and management and very nice staff
The Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne was a fabulous resort with first class lodging and restaurants. We took some private tennis lessons as part of our vacation and had a very good experience. The staff throughout the resort was exceptional. The spa was beautiful and luxurious, one of the best I have been to.
I was so impressed with the Tennis Program at this Ritz-Carlton. Max Mangones (head tennis director) & Hileill Rousseau were both fantastic tennis instructors & outstanding people to learn from. Max, in particular, encouraged me the whole time I was there. He made the whole program so much fun & could access people’s abilities very quickly. I walked away falling in love with tennis again.
We visited the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne for a girls getaway with the focus on tennis. We reserved resort view rooms and were delighted with our ocean view upgrade. The hotel is lovely and I would stay again with out hesitation. The tennis was just as promised. Max is an outstanding pro. Lots of energy, enthusiasm and excellent instruction. He was really the highlight. Hillel is younger, less experienced but very good at instruction and a pleasure to play with. Max did a great job with setting the fast pace and keeping everyone moving on both courts. I definitely learned some new things and came home a happy and better player.
I have just returned home from my 7 year of visiting this facility . The lessons and the courts are the best.
I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank-you to the entire team for a highly positive tennis experience! The quality of instruction, ease of logistics and “out to please” attitude of the entire staff made the visit highly pleasurable. Picture perfect Florida weather and pristine court conditions didn’t hurt either.
World class facility run by super friendly, skilled and dedicated professionals. My son recently trained there for a week and Max Znangones arranged for daily lessons and matches. When he couldn’t find enough juniors on site Max introduced us to the tennis director at the nearby Crandsll Apark Tennis center. I can’t say enough good things about the tennis center and this Ritz Carlton fscility/staff in general
Great drills and wonderful staff!
Great instruction on technique as well as playing tips. Could not of been nicer and better prepared!!!
Had the best tennis group experience by far. Great setting of hotel and tennis center was clean, immaculately maintained, had brand new balls during drills, pros, max and Nate were exceptional with teaching institution and made learning and playing a great experience. Definitely would come back again for place, pros and fun and variety in drills. Great follow up by pros before and after vacation getaway. Will brag about the experience and learning we got from Nate and max for years!
Max Mangones and his wonderfully assembled crew were super accommodating and available for all requests– I did group clinics daily, one night time mens clinic, He set up frequent private clinic as for my family of four( so great for us) And arranged doubles matches for me with local members( great people and conversationalists ) could not have been better for all of us.
Max Mangones and his team of teaching pro´s at The Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne are doing a fantastic job. SIgn in drills in the morning and evening are very appreciated both among teenagers and grown ups at all levels. All pro´s have a combination of great energy, enthusiasm and knowledge that is easy for participants to appreciate. My family and I just came home from a 10 days holliday there (fifth time) and we are already longing back. We are happy to give this resort our best recommendation.
A wonderful experience for a tennis enthusiast. I attended their clinic everyday (morning) I was at the resort. The clinic was outstanding. The clinic was exceptionally well organized. There was good instruction and lots of hitting tennis balls and no wasted time. Players were matched up by skill level after a brief warm up period by the staff. Groups were 3 to 4 players with an instructor. Each drill emphasized a different skill and lasted 15 – 20 minutes. Then you rotated to a different staff member and a new drill. The staff were talented tennis players. They were all friendly and very helpful in correcting stroke and court positioning issues. I have attended the clinic the last several Christmas vacations and plan to in the future.
Great pro’s; knowledgable instructors; very friendly & accomodating staff incl the pro’s & very well run facility. Cliff & Max run a tight ship down there!
Great resort and fantastic pros and great courts” Excellent clinics and great fun and fantastic coaching Best ever and I have been to many resorts
This is not your typical tennis facility at a top notch hotel. It has got it all accomdating kids and the full range of playing abilities (including 4.5+) from begiiners to advanced. Nice clinics throughout the week and friendly and knowledgeable staff. Courts are clay and lit at niht too. High energy leadership from Tennis Director Max Mangones.
Strengths: Max(tennis director),ample clay courts&staff, logistics of resort/tennis,nice accommodations, Cantina Beach mojitos and Guacamole! weaknesses: tennis water cooler(not adequate-trickle),court drainage system backs up(walkways messy)
The resort and tennis facility are truly the best. We look forward to our trip to the Ritz at Key Biscayne every year. The tennis is fantastic!
I have been to many tennis resorts this is by far my favorite. The staff is really what sets this place apart from the others in South Florida. I would highly recommend the Men’s clinic on Monday evenings.
I recommend this tennis camp highly. Efficiently organized by the head coach Mark Chellas who is very professional , enthusiastic, and high energy. The stuff is friendly and welcoming. The clinic run by Mark is well organized, the coaches on each court are very qualified. The facility is well maintained in the tropical setting, beautifully landscaped. Only weakness, if I must say, is that sometimes if multiple events are held, it is hard to find a parking space.
We travelled from Australia & this place is a must for tennis players. The pro staff are so great and knowledgable, and from all over the world. I have played in a lot of tennis facilities but the instruction and professionalism here is really unsurpassed. My children love it too, again as the pro staff are so accommodation and wonderful on court. Only downside is we wished we could stay longer!