The Cloister at Sea Island

Absolutely beautiful resort. It was definitely the most amazing hotel room I have ever stayed in. You will feel like royalty! Every server and resort employee was responsive and helpful. We stayed at the beach mostly. The attendants quickly set up our chairs and umbrella. The Cloister adult pool was also a favorite. It was fairly empty and overlooked the river and marsh. One gripe- we went to the beach club around noon. You could not get a chair at any pool (family and adult) AT ALL unless you go early. I can’t imagine paying that much money to stay at a resort and not be able to get a chair by the pool. It says they have a 30 minute rule for leaving towels on chairs to save, but I didn’t really see it enforced. If not for the Cloister pool, I would have been really disappointed. Yes everything is expensive but you will be treated like royalty. .

Our family stayed at the Beach Club over Easter weekend. While there were some memorable highlights, our overall experience was disappointing, especially considering the standards typically associated with Sea Island. We understand that the holiday weekend likely contributed to the high volume of guests, and we hope some of the issues we encountered were due to that unusual level of activity. Areas of Concern: Service at The Cloister and Beach Club: Upon check-in at The Cloister, we were met with a rather unwelcoming reception. The front desk staff offered no greeting, information about the property, or assistance. The only comment was a curt, “Your room is not ready.” There was no offer to store luggage or help with parking. Fortunately, as returning guests, we were already familiar with the property and able to navigate on our own. Our room at the Beach Club was not ready until after the 4 p.m. check-in time, and no apology or explanation was provided. That said, the suite itself was clean and well maintained. Dinner at the Georgian Room: This was the most disappointing aspect of our stay. While the service was attentive, the quality of the food did not meet expectations. Both my husband and son ordered the ribeye, which unfortunately resembled something from a roadside diner in both presentation and taste. In truth, the quality was comparable to what one might expect from a chain restaurant, not a fine dining establishment. Given Sea Island’s reputation, the overall level of service across the resort—and particularly at the Georgian Room—was underwhelming. Highlights: Bowling at the Beach Club: This was a delightful experience. The staff was warm and accommodating, and the food options were enjoyable for the children. Easter Brunch at The Lodge: This was the standout of our visit and the reason we are willing to consider returning. From valet to reception, dining staff to golf shop attendants, every team member at The Lodge provided truly exceptional service. A special thanks to Blair Webb, the Lodge Manager, who went above and beyond to ensure a five-star experience, even on a busy holiday weekend. His leadership and dedication were evident, and we are truly grateful for the memorable brunch. If not for our children's preference for the beach, we would likely stay at The Lodge on our next visit. Thank you again, Mr. Webb, for ending our trip on such a high note.

⭐️⭐️ The Cloister on Sea Island is set in a stunning location, but sadly, the experience didn’t live up to the five-star reputation. The service throughout our stay was consistently disappointing. Poolside bartenders seemed uninterested and almost annoyed to be approached. The valet staff routinely overlooked guests unless you went out of your way to track them down, and the shuttle service was always late, whether we called ahead or asked in person. The food was also a letdown—lacking the quality and attention to detail we expected. On top of that, the property itself is showing noticeable wear. The moldings in our bathroom were rotting, and both the guest rooms and pool areas are clearly in need of an update. The natural beauty of Sea Island is undeniable, but the service, food, and aging facilities simply didn’t match the price or the resort’s five-star promise. I truly hope the property addresses these issues because it has the potential to offer a much better guest experience.

We were given a room with a beautiful river and marsh view but even the view couldn’t overcome the fact that the Cloister on Sea Island is in desperate need of a renovation from top to bottom and inside out. The HVAC puts out cold wet air and is very noisy. Everything becomes damp — bedding, clothes even the rugs. It smells like mildew through the hotel and rooms. Bathrooms are old and moldy. It isn’t the beauty it once was and we’ve been coming here every year for years. Additionally the staffing has really suffered. Everyone is on temporary visa at a place that was known for having long standing employees. The only highlight is the kind housekeeping team. Food is dismal. Service is meh. The Cloister at Sea Island isn’t measuring up and its glory has faded. I hope a southerner with a sense of Sea Island’s significance and a lot of money buys it and returns it to its glory. It is a shame to watch it fade so much and so quickly.

I am from out west and was not familiar with Sea Island before landing here for a business conference. I was expecting a peach and turquoise coastal theme and instead I landed in a southern landscape of magnolia trees, Spanish moss covered oaks, and barking frogs among lily pads. What a delight! I took what room was assigned, in the garden wing, which I realize now is at the lower end of the price scale. But I never would have known these were the least expensive rooms because the garden wing is so elegant and peaceful and the room spacious and beautiful. The only thing I can say is if I ever get the opportunity to return, next time I would request a garden wing room NOT overlooking the main drag, because while it is quiet at night, sitting on the deck in the afternoon can be quite noisy. Better yet, I might upgrade to a room along the river, my favorite place to be, other than perhaps the solarium with the cute love birds!