On 24 acres at the quieter northern end of the island, flanked by Marriott Vacation Club condos, this hotel ranks at the top here because of its complete range of facilities and slowly evolving contemporary design. Though the Marriott provides attractive, upscale plantation elegance, its commercialism is trumped by this hotel's hip sophisticated decor, at least in the newer part of the hotel. Compared with the other resorts in Hilton Head, the Westin looks fresh and engaging, with bold use of color and contemporary design not seen here until now.
The grand facade complements the massive columns, stucco walls, and green copper roof and cupola. Elaborate flowerbeds and a fountain dress up the circular driveway. Plush sitting areas, colorful area rugs, designer seating and modern art lend elegance to the lobby. Guests relax in two handsome lounges, one in a rotunda that overlooks the pool. Its flavorful urbane styling offers up a fresh twist on the aristocratic southern theme hereabouts. An art gallery on the mezzanine has a good collection and features a few regional artists.
Beneath vaulted brick ceilings lies the inviting Barony Grill, one of the island's best restaurants, which closes during the quiet season. The all-day low-country Carolina Cafe is renowned for its extravagant seafood buffets and seats diners year-round in an open, airy and muraled room that spills out onto a terrace in fair weather. The casual beachfront bar and grill is open year-round but offers entertainment only during the peak seasons. The casual poolside outlet opens as needed.
Opening to the beach, the beautiful courtyard is graced by weathered wooden promenades, waterfalls, tropical greenery, an enormous pool with a dolphin sculpture, a large fountained children's pool, several redwood decks with comfortable lounge furniture, bronze sculpture and two live-in swans: Rhett and Scarlett. Diversions here are well-rounded and include beach activities, watersports, an indoor pool and children's programs. The chain's signature Westin Workout gym offers weight machines, aerobics classes, personal trainers, steam rooms, a sauna, a whirlpool and massage services. Shuttles 
run to three golf courses, and guests also enjoy privileges at Port Royal Racquet Club, one block away, with 16 grass, clay and Har-Tru tennis courts. Meeting facilities seat 1,600 delegates.
Guest rooms line hallways dressed with brass light fixtures, elaborate valanced window treatments and plush carpeting. Most of the units were renovated over the past two years and feature subdued traditional southern decor and floor-to-ceiling triple-draped windows, along with loveseats or easy chairs, and Heavenly Beds envelop guests in multiple layers of high-thread-count sheets, plump duvets and half a dozen cushy pillows. Electronic locks, desks, large TVs, radios, minibars, refrigerators and padded headboards enhance the amenities list. Baths have phones, hair dryers and inadequate lighting, but the Heavenly Shower, with its dual showerheads and curved shower rod, is the best feature. Balconies are angled for views. One fifth-floor wing is a premium level with a private lounge serving complimentary Continental breakfast, tea and cocktails. Rooms on this level are preferable for their sofas, 
coffee and end tables, three phones, armoires, silk flowers, two-poster king beds with lacquered headboards, oversized closets and larger balconies overlooking the ocean. Baths add scales, marble vanities and extra-long tubs. Suites offer even more space and finer furnishings. The units closest to the ocean are a long walk from the lobby. The 72 privately owned villas at the tennis center are ideal for those desiring the same posh amenities in more homey environs.
The entire property is now smoke-free. Room service is on call until midnight.
The excellent management here inspires the can-do staff to go beyond the call of duty. This property competes with the renovated Marriott for "Best Resort on the Island."
