Within the gated Sea Pines community, on the southernmost tip of the island, this property resides within 5,500 acres and 4 miles of beach. This crisp white three-story clapboard and shingle property offers an alternative to the houses and condominiums in one of the U.S.' most successful condominium developments. This upscale, residentially styled inn caters to golfers and small corporate retreats. Note: The hotel is a long walk from the beach, and a short shuttle ride to the harbor that gives the hotel its name.
The guarded gatehouse admits guests (but charges an entrance fee to nonresidents), and complimentary valet parking eases guests' arrival and departure. The small reception desk adds to the residential feel, as does the attentive staff. A wide paneled hall opens to a sitting room with attractive floral arrangements, gleaming wood floors and chandeliers. Its wide bay of windows overlooks fountain, terraces and the golf course. To one side, a small library boasts fireside seating, a TV and a few books.
Guests take all meals at the cozy Heritage Grill, which is located across the parking lot from the hotel. It displays deep paneled walls, vintage golf posters and views of the greens. The dinner menu focuses
on steak and seafood specialties, including a two-person chateaubriand. The cocktail hour draws guests and locals alike. In addition, more than a dozen additional restaurants and lounges are on this side of the gated entry. Harbour Town, where one finds the majority of the dining and entertainment, is a 10-minute stroll from the hotel. Complimentary afternoon snacks are offered in the bar.
Recreational options include free access to the small fitness center. Guests can utilize 42 tennis courts, numerous pools, three golf courses, two marinas and an equestrian center. Complimentary bicycles are loaned out first-come, first-served. They are popular for exploring the 40 miles of trails and 600 acres of forest preserve. Shuttles run from the hotel to the sand every 30 minutes or so.
Meetings for up to 300 people can be held in the conference center. Additional amenities include laundry service and shoeshine.
Guest rooms show classic styling in custom contemporary furniture and neutral color schemes brightened with coordinating spreads, drapes and throw pillows. All overlook either the immaculate golf course or the racquet club. Standard throughout are armoires with TVs, king or queen beds, top-notch linens, desks, ample seating, luggage benches, refrigerators, coffeemakers and large closets with irons. Rounding out the conveniences are laptop-sized safes, dual-line speakerphones with voice mail and data ports, and high-speed Internet access. Large modern baths have deep soaking tubs, stall showers and aromatherapy toiletries. Balconies are furnished. Room service runs 24 hours a day, turndown is available, and a butler is stationed on every floor.
With so much to do within the grounds of Sea Pines, most guests do not leave the property until it is time to go home. Unlike the condominium rental pool, this place does not require a four-night minimum stay, and maintenance is more stringent.
