Comprehensive Review of Sea Island Resort, Georgia

Sea Island Overview

For 95 years, Sea Island has welcomed U.S. presidents, European royalty, and regular guests to its private island enclave in Georgia’s Golden Isles. Home to five miles of beautiful beaches, championship golf courses, and two properties named among iBestTravel readers’ favorite resorts in the South, Sea Island is a secluded coastal escape with a long and fabled history.

Designed by Addison Mizner, an architect known for the Spanish Colonial Revival and Mediterranean Revival styles, The Cloister feels like a European palace tucked away on a private island. The hotel opened in 1928, with then-president Calvin Coolidge planting a commemorative oak during his visit—a tradition followed by several presidents thereafter.

Tradition is the heart of Sea Island. From the yearly Fourth of July celebration to the nightly bagpipe performance signaling the end of the day, Sea Island is steeped in exceptional and everyday traditions. While holidays like Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving get special treatment, there’s also magic in ordinary experiences like ice cream (Gold Brick Sundaes, a resort specialty) and “Sunday best” bingo.

Sea Island Summary

• From the Mediterranean-influenced Cloister to the English manor-style Lodge, Sea Island’s design evokes traditional European luxury with a Southern twist.
• Rooms range from elegant suites with river and ocean views at The Cloister to eight-bedroom residence rentals.
• More than a dozen food and beverage outlets cater to a variety of tastes, including family-friendly options.
• On-site activities include horseback riding on the beach, golfing on acclaimed courses, and boat tours in the salt marsh.
• Situated in Georgia’s Golden Isles, Sea Island offers a private coastal escape with five miles of pristine beach.

Sea Island Hotels

Sea Island offers five distinct accommodation options spread out across the eponymous private island and St. Simons Island: The Cloister at Sea Island, The Lodge at Sea Island, The Inn at Sea Island, Sea Island Cottages, and Broadfield, a Sea Island Sporting Club and Lodge. The Cloister is the historic gem of the resort, designed by Addison Mizner in 1928.

The largest among Sea Island’s hotel-style accommodations, The Cloister has 265 lodging options ranging from traditional rooms and suites in the main building to three-bedroom spaces in The Cloister Ocean Residences. This historic property has been consistently ranked among the top resorts in the South, reflecting its enduring appeal. With Mediterranean-style arched windows, soaring wood-beamed ceilings, a fine dining restaurant, and a wood-paneled library, the resort is a fairy-tale setting for a waterfront vacation.

Another favorite among iBestTravel readers, The Lodge at Sea Island (located on nearby St. Simons Island with free shuttle service to The Cloister and the Sea Island Beach Club) is a more intimate property that feels like an English country house with golf course and ocean views. Guest rooms, common areas, and restaurants recently underwent renovations. The Lodge offers a 24-hour butler service, evening bagpiper performances, and a delightful cookies-and-milk turndown service.

Other accommodations include The Inn, a relaxed option also on St. Simons Island; Sea Island Cottages, with 140 homes ranging from three to eight bedrooms; and Broadfield, a 5,800-acre hunting and sporting club.

ADA rooms are available at various accommodations, and several locations feature pool lifts. It is advisable to call ahead to confirm availability based on specific needs.

Food and Drink

With an array of on-site restaurants and cafes, Sea Island offers diverse dining experiences with a Southern twist. Be aware that many dining venues have strict dress codes or age restrictions. Updated culinary destinations include the Georgian Rooms, featuring regal interiors and a new sushi lounge; highlights from the menu include chicken-fried oysters, steaks, and a unique dessert resembling a lit cigar.

The Lodge features numerous dining options, including Southern steakhouse Colt & Alison, and casual spots like the Oak Room. The Sea Island Beach Club offers additional dining experiences with several eateries, including Southern Tide, Sea Strike & Pub, Wonderland, and Snack Shack.

Activities and Amenities

A Sea Island stay can be a choose-your-own-coastal-Georgia-adventure; the resort is filled with activities for everyone. Options include boating, bowling, falconry, fishing, horseback riding, nature walks, pickleball, clay shooting, squash, tennis, and golf. The Sea Island Beach Club is a hub for oceanfront amenities, providing access to five miles of private beach, heated pools, a playground, and more.

During my visit, I participated in a fishing excursion and horseback riding. I highly recommend trying water activities, whether exploring the beautiful waterways or enjoying a sunset sail. Riding along the marsh on the beach was picturesque and serene.

Sea Island Golf Club

With stunning championship courses and pleasant weather year-round, Sea Island is a premier destination for golfers. The Seaside and Plantation Courses host the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic, and there is another option at the Retreat Course. The Sea Island Golf Performance Center features a tech-savvy facility that includes various instructional offerings.

For avid golfers, staying at The Lodge is recommended as it is centrally located near two championship courses and features an exclusive Men’s Locker Room, widely considered among the best in golf.

The Spa at Sea Island

Stretching over 65,000 square feet, The Spa at Sea Island offers a tranquil oasis by The Cloister and Beach Club. Expect treatments such as massages, facials, and baths, alongside amenities including a hydrotherapy pool and steam room, creating a sanctuary of relaxation.

Family-friendly Offerings

Sea Island is especially accommodating to families, with dedicated children’s play areas and engaging programming. Excursions like paint parties and Sea Turtle Dawn Patrol offer fun for guests of all ages. Junior Staff lead Camp Cloister for guests aged 3 to 14, while Kids’ Night Out provides supervised activities for ages five to twelve.

Location

Sea Island is located in Georgia’s Golden Isles between Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia. You can fly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) or Savannah International Airport (SAV) and rent a car to reach the resort. Additionally, a private St. Simons Island Airport is available close to Sea Island.

Value

The Cloister at Sea Island and The Lodge at Sea Island represent the highest-end hotel accommodation options, with rates typically ranging from $500 to over $1,000. The Inn at Sea Island generally offers lower rates. To secure deals, consider booking during the off-season or planning a midweek vacation.