Just 21 miles from the buzzing streets of Charleston, South Carolina, Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers a seismic shift in pace and atmosphere. Driving over the connecting bridge with my family and entering the property, we were immediately dropped into a tropical scene that slowed our cadence and reminded us to breathe. Ten miles of pristine coastline is surrounded by a diverse natural ecosystem of lagoons, lush marshlands, and dense maritime forests, and of course, the wildlife that flocks to that natural flora. In all, there are 10,000 acres of beautiful bucolic playground to explore—and we did just that on bikes supplied by the hotel, peddling the trails that weave through the very-lively landscape, eyes peeled for exotic birds, turtles, lizards, and other creatures. It’s no wonder the resort has pledged to preserve this vibrant barrier island environment, receiving certification by Audubon International, a leader in environmental protection.  

The resort hotel, called The Sanctuary (the only hotel on the island), has another energy: it’s a commanding presence, resembling a grand seaside estate that has been around for centuries. This impression is no accident. The design involved transplanting over 400 trees, some as tall as fifty feet, and elevating the hotel site to ensure sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The architecture blends Charleston brick, slate, and intricate ironwork, which goes with the prominent swirly staircases, antiques, and portraits that decorate the interior spaces. To call it elegant is an understatement. And yet, somehow, having a glass of wine by the fire in one of the stately lounges isn’t one bit stuffy.  This is low-country luxury; It’s a comfortable-luxe aesthetic and tone that radiates through the 255 guest rooms as well.  

The spa at The Sanctuary is a sanctuary all of its own, tranquil and pampering. 

I had a Signature Massage that did away with months of tension, and the Holistic Facial customized to my skin using Natura Bise products. There are also treatments designed to highlight local elements, like the Amethyst Geo Lift Facial incorporating South Carolina’s native gemstone to enhance your skin, and the Sea Essence Fusion massage, which combines global sea salts and warm seashells to revitalize your body.

As for dining, you have choices. Many!  The various restaurants are rooted in the culinary heritage of the South Carolina coast. Our dinner at Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House fulfilled all of our smoked brisket dreams. Meanwhile, Jasmine Porch offers authentic low-country dishes with high-end ingredients and techniques. The breakfast buffet is almost impossible to pull yourself away from. If you like biscuits, no matter where you eat, you’re in for a real treat. 

Of course, one of the biggest reasons we headed down to Kiawah Island Golf Resort was for the golf. We are not unique—the five championship courses (that’s right—five) draw players from around the world and have hosted major tournaments; they’re designed by some of the biggest names in the sport. Each course offers specific challenges and spectacular views, especially The Ocean Course, named for its many seaside holes. These are greens that even if you can’t swing a club, you’d be thrilled to just wander through, taking in the stunning scenery. And like us, spotting an alligator or two. 

Fun fact: Golf is so stellar here, and always top of mind, they’ve even created the Kiawah Golf Ball Massage at the spa, using a golf ball to target muscle knots, combining deep tissue methods with the sport’s tools.  For any enthusiast, that’s the trappings of true love: Luxury+nature+spa+golf.