We checked into our huge upgraded rooms, a 1 bedroom Riverfront Suite, and felt right at home. The whole time we were treated like royalty. If you want a definition of over the top southern hospitality, just find your way to Sea Island.
The Cloister has 3 different divisions. The Cloister Main Building, The Beach Club, and The Lodge. Each accomodation caters to the guests needs. We stayed in the main building, which is absolutely stunning. You definitely do not see this sort of hotel just anywhere. It is 3 floors with beautiful old fashioned decor. The ceiling is really something. The lobby is as if there are 7 living rooms combined into one. The Beach Club is for families. It is walking distance from the main building (or they can take you in a golf cart) and is right next to the beach. They have a candy store, buffet breakfast, and everything there is kid friendly. The Lodge is for the golfers. I like to describe it as a big "man cave." Filled with leather, cigars, and well..men!
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| Cloister Ceiling |
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| Back of The Cloister |
Since we had a long day, we got a casual dinner at Southern Tide, which is located in the beach club. Anything with "southern" in it, you know we will be there! It is classic southern seafood overlooking the oceanside. Be aware, that this whole island is very buggy, during this time of year! They have bug spray, but quite frankly, I think the bugs like it. But since it was by the ocean and just a gorgeous view, we sat outside below a fan, which kind of helped get rid of the mosquitos. Coming around to the tables was the Raptor Patrol. Their job is to walk around with a raptor or bird of prey, on a gloved fist. They are licensed Master falconers, and will answer any questions you may have or just speak with you about the wildlife around the island. 
There are 3 golf courses associated with the property. Plantation, Retreat, and Seaside. Seaside holds the McGladrey Classic, however, unfortunately it was being maintenenced while we were there! Really sucked, for lack of better words. So we could only play the Plantation and Retreat Courses, but a golf course is a golf course! First we tried Plantation. Although it was nice to play again, it was rainy and buggy, surprise, surprise. We only got 9 holes in, when it started to pour on us. So what do we do the rest of the day? Drink! Bloody's were needed and consumed fast, and were actually very good.
I guess after the drinking, we needed to eat. We ate at the most casual place in the main building, Tavola. My dad and I are Italian food fiends. I cannot believe we even went that long without having a bowl of pasta. The place was loud as there are tons of families, but who cares, the food very much made up for it. We had a WONDERFUL waitress who was an absolute charm to be around. My dad thought everyone there was taking "nice pills." We're from NYC and we are definitely not used to people being this nice. Our food was served hot (one of the first throughout the trip) and it was just great to get some pasta love in.
The following day, we played the Retreat Course... well attempted. It was renovated by Davis Love III and his brother, Mark. What a beautiful course! It's a very forgiving course with open fairways, but make sure you do not hit the ball behind a tree (unless you're my dad and play better from there). We only got in 9 holes before it started to pour on us. We sat in our cart under a tree, hoping for it to pass....it did not. So what do we do? Obviously eat at the Davis Love Restaurant.
Later that night, we decided to try a Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives (triple D) restaurant, Blackwater Grill. What sold me was the Brunswick Stew on the menu. My boyfriend, who is from Georgia, said we could not leave with out having it. So, I decided to listen to him (rare occurance). And I'm not going to lie, I was impressed! Everything else was OK, but they do have very speedy service! Although, that is just my opinion, it was in Triple D for a reason.The shrimp and grits were very different and actually quite good. I just personally can't eat very heavy food like that. Here is fun fact about me: I do not like butter or cream in my food. I've always been a semi-healthy eater (meaning no fast food) and I've always loved to cook (take that on after my dad as well). I am a firm believer that butter does not make everything taste better. If you are actually a good cook, you do not need Paula Dean status butter.
Unfortunately, we had to go home the next day. We got a late enough flight where we could play a round a golf (actually got in 17 holes!) and eat before we left for the Jacksonville airport. On our way to the airport, we had to make one more stop at another "Triple D" restaurant, Southern Soul BBQ. I have no words to describe this place. The Brunswick Stew was even better, and the BBQ was on point. They start smoking the meat bright and early in the morning and can smell it on your way to the golf course...gives you something to look forward to after your possibly bad golf game.
So eventhough Sea Island was rainy (just our luck), we still had a great time experiencing the golf courses and being somewhere new. I can honestly say, I would like to go back to play there again. Next time Seaside course!
The trip over all was very different than the ones I normally take. Usually I travel outside of the US to experience other cultures (and get a stamp in my passport), but I'm starting to realize I need to learn more about the Country we live in. We are very lucky to live here and it's about time I see what the big fuss is about! We had a great time, and I would recommend both Kiawah and Sea Island to anyone. Both are not only great for golfers, but for families and groups as well. Between the southern hospitatlity and the food, you will not be disappointed.
Happy Friday and have a great weekend!
Mar
Photos by Stanley Silberstein, Maren Silberstein, Sea Island
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