Amara Resort and Spa

Amara Resort and Spa, Sedona: A Michelin Key Selected Oasis Amidst Red Rock Splendor

Amara Resort and Spa in Sedona stands out as a Michelin Key selected property, consistently praised for its breathtaking setting, exceptional service, and modern comforts. Guests frequently highlight the resort's ability to offer a tranquil retreat while remaining conveniently close to Sedona's vibrant Uptown area.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The overall sentiment for Amara Resort and Spa is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "excellent," "memorable," and "gorgeous." The property consistently receives high ratings for location, cleanliness, comfort, and staff performance. While some reviews mention it being a bit pricey, many consider the experience well worth the cost, recognizing it as a luxury hotel offering a high level of service and amenities.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several aspects of Amara Resort and Spa:

• Location & Views: The resort's prime location directly on Oak Creek offers stunning views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations, including Snoopy Rock, Lucy Rock, and Camel Rock. The heated infinity pool overlooking these natural wonders is a particular favorite.
• Service & Hospitality: The staff, from valet to reception and restaurant, are frequently described as outstanding, amazing, helpful, and friendly.
• Design & Ambiance: Following a significant renovation completed in 2021, the resort boasts a modern, contemporary design with a "tree lodge" aesthetic that complements its natural surroundings. The property offers a serene ambiance with amenities like fire pits, garden patios, and communal spaces with games.
• Amenities: Key amenities that guests love include the infinity pool and hot tub, the full-service Amara Spa, morning yoga classes, and a pet-friendly policy. Valet parking is also included and appreciated by guests.

3. Room Quality

The 100 guestrooms and suites at Amara Resort and Spa were refreshed as part of the 2021 renovation, featuring a neutral palette with natural materials like wooden headboards and woven textiles. Rooms are described as nice, clean, comfortable, and well-appointed. Many rooms offer a patio or balcony, with options for Creekside or Red Rock views at a premium. Bathrooms are often highlighted for their sleek marble and black finishes, providing a luxurious feel after a day of exploring. Suites offer additional space with separate living areas and sometimes deep-seated tubs.

4. Dining Experience

SaltRock Southwest Kitchen, the resort's on-site restaurant, receives high praise for its delicious local cuisine and exceptional views. Guests enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, with breakfast often cited as a favorite, offering plenty of protein-rich choices and delicious dishes like the Acai bowl, Steel cut Oatmeal bowl, Waffles, and Huevos Rancheros Breakfast. The restaurant features both indoor and expansive al fresco patio dining, where guests can enjoy handcrafted drinks and the stunning scenery. The bar also features a Himalayan pink sea salt accent wall.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Amara Resort and Spa is consistently lauded as outstanding. Guests frequently commend the staff for being amazing, helpful, friendly, polite, and welcoming. Specific mentions include attentive valet staff, efficient coordination of transportation, and overall excellent hospitality from everyone encountered. The concierge service is also highly recommended for recommendations and booking activities like dinner reservations and jeep tours.

6. Location & Accessibility

Amara Resort and Spa boasts an ideal location in Uptown Sedona, situated directly on the banks of Oak Creek. This allows guests to enjoy the tranquility of the creek and red rock views while being within easy walking distance to shops, restaurants, and galleries. While hiking trailheads typically require driving, the resort offers convenient valet parking and a shuttle service within a one-mile radius to help guests explore the area.

7. Value & Pricing

Amara Resort and Spa is considered a luxury property, and its pricing reflects that. While some guests acknowledge it can be pricey, many feel the experience, amenities, and service justify the cost, viewing it as a good value for a luxury hotel without five-star prices. Room rates vary depending on the room type and season. A daily resort fee is mentioned, and Wi-Fi may incur an extra cost unless a rewards member.

8. Common Complaints

While generally highly rated, a few recurring issues and criticisms have been noted by guests:

• Resort Fees and Wi-Fi Charges: A daily resort fee and potential extra cost for Wi-Fi (unless a rewards member) have been mentioned as downsides.
• Spa Accessibility: One guest noted the spa being located across the main lobby, valet, and parking lot, finding the walk to and from it somewhat inconvenient.
• Concierge Service (Past Issue): One review from October 2025 indicated a lack of on-site concierge service and a "remote" concierge that did not return calls, suggesting an inconsistency in this service.
• Noise (Minor): Occasionally, guests in lower-floor suites have reported hearing dogs running on the floor above.
• Past Construction (Resolved): Older reviews (from 2021) mentioned significant construction, including issues with hot water and burst pipes. However, a $100 million renovation was completed in 2021, and more recent reviews reflect updated and clean rooms with good water pressure, indicating these issues have been addressed.
• Coffee Replenishment: One guest in December 2025 mentioned that the complimentary coffee did not get refilled consistently, and milk options were limited.
• Dining Cost: While the restaurant is praised for its quality, it is noted as not inexpensive.

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