SEA ISLAND
TheVirginia Explorer
In southern Georgia, Sea Island offers
an all-encompassing resort experience,
including distinctive layouts that are
sure to test a player’s mettle.
Sea Island, Ga.
S
Situated in the Golden Isles,
a chain of barrier islands
along the Georgia coast
an hour’s drive from Savannah, Sea Island
is a time-honored property with modern
flourishes that endures as one of the nation's
most exclusive resorts. This is an enclave of
refinement and prestige favored by CEO’s,
honeymooners and families seeking a
gracious getaway.
The resort’s assets are nearly an
embarrassment of riches: beautifully
appointed accommodations at The Cloister,
The Lodge and private Cottages; superlative
dining in seven venues; a five-star spa and
fitness center; world-class squash and tennis
facilities; planned activities for kids and
teens as well as fishing, boating, horseback
riding and a shooting school.
At the stone-and-shingle Lodge, located
on St. Simons Island 10 minutes from the
main complex, players can roll out of bed
and onto the first tee of the Plantation
Course, a delightful parkland-by-the-sea
creation by Rees Jones. Or brace yourself for
a stiffer challenge on the Seaside Course, a
windswept Tom Fazio-designed layout that
hosts the PGA Tour’s McGladrey Classic.
Staked out by sandy ridges, tidal creeks and
30
salt marsh, Seaside is a Lowcountry links
that plays firm and fast. The Retreat Course,
the former St. Simons Island Club reworked
by native son Davis Love III, provides an
excellent third option.
Need a swing fix? The Sea Island Golf
Learning Center, patronized by the likes of
Zach Johnson, Brandt Snedeker and Matt
Kuchar, is exceptional.
Inside the luxurious Lodge, 40 guest
rooms occupy the upper two floors, their
spacious marble baths larger than most
standard hotel rooms. A grand staircase
leads to an impeccably-styled living
room highlighted by blue slate floors, soft
leather chairs and polished cherry paneling.
Enjoy a cocktail in the Oak Room, an
oceanfront tavern with a wood-burning
fireplace and an outdoor terrace overlooking
the fairways. For a another treat, savor
a steak in Colt & Alison, a sumptuous
dining room named for the English design
duo that built the original Seaside nine.
Many campaigners never get past the fine
appointments in the men’s locker room. In
addition to rainfall showers and a steam
room, the spot offers lunch service daily, a
full bar, a cigar room, leather lounge ch Z\