Spring Break 2021: Kiawah Island

The view from the eighteenth hole at the legendary Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort is one of the most spectacular views in golf.

Spring is finally in the air again! The coastal South is home to many of the nation’s greatest spring break destinations—and is welcoming travelers after a year-long winter. Visitors are sure to find that same Southern hospitality rings true as ever, from Myrtle Beach down to Daytona.

Written by: Lauren Flemming • Photography: D. Paul Graham and Miranda Osborn

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Just under an hour south of Charleston, the beauty of the coastal South is on full display at Kiawah Island. The abundant wildlife is well-preserved on this primarily privately owned island, making for a sublime retreat. The island boasts five championship-calibur golf courses at the renowned Kiawah Island Golf Resort. While the boys are away, the girls come out to play at the Forbes five-star spa at The Sanctuary. The resort is racking up top travel awards, making it the ideal island to unwind in low-key luxury. charlestoncvb.com/beaches/kiawah-island/

Kiawah Island Golf Resort 

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is the premier hospitality destination on the island. Most famously home to the Ocean course, the resort offers luxury hotel style rooms as well as villa and home rentals. Enjoy any of the tennis courts, three pools, five golf courses, 12 dining establishments and tranquil spa during any given stay. kiawahresort.com

Photo: Kiawah Island Golf

Andell Inn 

For those seeking a more intimate stay, the Andell Inn is the picture of coastal Southern tranquility. Lounge on the wrap-around porch and look out over the Andell Lake at sunrise or sunset, browse local artwork in the Great Room and enjoy access to one of the top beaches in the country. andellinn.com 

Photo: Andell Inn

Kiawah Island Getaways 

Perhaps the best way to experience Kiawah yet is through a true escapist-style retreat. Kiawah Island Getaways is a boutique vacation rental company that specializes in oceanfront and beachside properties, perfect for taking in the well-preserved natural splendor of the island. kiawahislandgetaways.com

Family-friendly vacations with Kiawah Island Getaways

The Spa at The Sanctuary

Kiawah Island is a destination for retreat. The Spa at The Sanctuary, of Kiawah Island Golf Resort specializes in the art of getting away. Inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding island, treatments at The Spa are every bit as relaxing, restorative and revitalizing. kiawahresort.com/the-sanctuary-spa

Photo: The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort

The Ocean Course 

Although the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is home to five championship-caliber courses, the Ocean Course is the most famous. Discover a chapter of golf history and play at the site of the epic “War by the Shore” Ryder Cup, or scope out the greens ahead of the 2021 PGA Championship tournament. kiawahresort.com/golf/the-ocean-course

Photo: The Ocean Course

Kiawah Island Boat Charters

A coastal vacation is not complete without seafaring excursions. Kiawah Island Boat Charters make it easy to embark on shell-hunting excursions and private oyster roasts, or marine sightseeing rides—not to mention, catching stunning sunsets. kiawahresort.com/recreation/boat-charters 

Jasmine Porch 

Known as the “Best Downhome Cookery,” the Jasmine Porch serves certified organic, local, seasonal seafood in a true, downhome ambiance. Charleston brick walls, hewn oak floors and briny ocean air set the tone for an ultra-relaxed, eat-local meal. kiawahresort.com/dining/jasmine-porch

Photo: The Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary

Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House

A stop on the South Carolina BBQ Trail, Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House serves up top-quality meats smoked over local hardwoods, rubbed with signature seasonings and tangy, house-made sauces. The restaurant’s selection of more than 60 local, imported, draft and craft beers are the perfect complement to the authentic BBQ dishes. kiawahresort.com/dining/cherrywood-bbq-and-ale-house 

Photo: Cherrywood BBQ and Ale Houses award-winning pulled pork barbecue sandwich topped with Carolina coleslaw

The Atlantic Room at the Ocean Course 

The Atlantic Room is the signature seafood restaurant at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, serving modern American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh regional catches procured through partnerships with local fishermen—all complemented by an extensive wine list of classic favorites and exciting new selections. kiawahresort.com/dining/the-atlantic-room

Photo: The Atlantic Room at The Ocean Course

Freshfields Village 

Freshfields Village is Kiawah’s unique open-air dining and shopping experience within a relaxed Lowcountry setting. Browse national favorites like Lululemon, Southern Tide and Bluemercury and local boutiques and shops for authentic, upscale Southern style. freshfieldsvillage.com

Photo: Freshfields Village

To read this story in its entirety, subscribe now to the print edition for the full article or get instant access to our interactive digital edition.