Experience Low Country Leisure at Wild Dunes Resort
The Carolinas are known for their southern hospitality and no place does it like the Isle of Palms in South Carolina. Located a mere half hour from the heart of Charleston, this charming barrier island is home to the welcoming Wild Dunes Resort, a sprawling retreat encompassing 1,600 acres of oceanfront property. Not only do they offer luxurious private condos and home vacation rentals, but the resort has numerous guest rooms for travelers, as well. The Residences at Sweetgrass offer one to three bedroom suites and penthouses; the Boardwalk Inn is centrally located and has guest rooms, suites, and junior & presidential suites; but the star of the show is the newly opened - and highly anticipated - Sweetgrass Inn.
The new hotel boasts 153 rooms across four acres of property and features state-of-the-art amenities. The resort, which has been a top Southern destination for decades, modernizes its beloved beach aesthetic at this new hotel, drawing in a whole new crowd of visitors. Perfect for a family-friendly vacation, a girls' or guy's getaway, or even a solo exploration, the Sweetgrass Inn at Wild Dunes has a little somethin' somethin' for everyone.
If you're in South Carolina to bask in all that low country leisure, hit up the 10,000-square-foot spa, where an afternoon lounging in the chic and soothing courtyard is more than enough to destress and unwind from everyday life. Or, opt to go full steam ahead with one of their many spa services, including massages, body rituals, facials, or one of their 105-minute signature journeys, which each include a body ritual, massage, and hand, scalp, and foot ritual. Sounds divine, right?
Keep the repose going by strolling along the pathways at Sweetgrass, where you will come upon plenty of spots to relax, including The Gallery at Sweetgrass. Here, you will find beautiful pieces of artwork and jewelry made by local artisans throughout the region. The Gallery is also home to an artist-in-residency program. Stumble in at the right time and you might be able to see one of their talented artists at work on their latest masterpiece. It's not a bad place to pick up a souvenir or two, and you don't even have to leave the resort to do it.
Of course, no one goes to the coast without actually experiencing it. Wild Dunes is situated right on the beach, and even though it seems to go on for miles (seven to be precise), somehow it manages to feel like your own private paradise. Unlike the more northern beach destinations in places like New Jersey and Rhode Island, the landscape here is uncrowded with humans, making it one of the more tranquil spots to hunker down for a sunny day. But if sand between your toes isn't quite your bag, stick to one of the resort's many pools, where you can still get your quota of fun, sun, and splashing in the water.
For a more active getaway, there are plenty (and I mean plenty) of things to do on property. One of the greatest things about Wild Dunes is that you can choose whichever kind of vacation you want here -- whether that's getting pampered or staying active. Recreational activities abound, with a 36-hole golf course designed by Tom Fazio, tennis and pickleball courts, a fitness center, bike rentals, and winding bike and running paths throughout the property.
In between activities, refuel at one of the resort's many restaurants and cafes (there are 12 in total, plus in-room dining). Coastal Provisions is a favorite, specializing in seafood, chops, and craft cocktails. Overlooking the pool at the Boardwalk Inn, it provides a serene ambiance to diners day and night. Aim higher, literally, at The Nest Rooftop Bar, which provides unparalleled views of the Isle of Palms, and just so happens to be the area's only rooftop bar. With a tiki vibe and unique cocktails, this is the perfect spot to enjoy happy hour and watch the sun set.
Explore Off-Property
Since there's so much to do at the resort, you could certainly spend your whole vacation without ever setting foot off property. However, you'd be missing out on more of the charm of South Carolina if you didn't get out and explore. Wild Dunes is more than happy to arrange outdoor activities like stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and eco-tours. A short drive from the resort to the local marina is where you will find Barrier Island Eco Tours. Their boat excursions are led by knowledgeable and friendly naturalists who offer an array of excursions, from beach-side cookouts to low country boils, or even a sunset dolphin cruise. Journey to Capers Island, one of the undeveloped barrier islands nearby, where you can get off the boat and explore the natural world of Isle of Palms and walk through the at once eery and beautiful boneyard beach. Since it's only 30 minutes outside of Charleston, you'd be remiss not to venture downtown and enjoy the Best City in the U.S. for the 10th year running, according to Travel + Leisure. Here's what you should do:
Stroll the city streets and do some window (or actual) shopping. Blue Bicycle Books, which you will have no problem finding thanks to the - you guessed it - blue bicycle topped with books out front, houses rare, used and local books and is a great place to browse for any bibliophile. If you're a Bravo fan, you can stop in Craig Conover of Southern Charm's Sewing Down South storefront.
Pick your food plans wisely. There is no shortage of good food down south, but there are definitely a few restaurants you won't want to miss. Hall's Chophouse is an institution in Charleston, and for good reason. The scene-y locale has a prime location on King Street, and has outstanding eats on the menu, including one of the best steaks I've ever had. It's so popular that you'd be wise to plan ahead and snag a reservation as soon as you book your vacation. Cru Café is a great lunch or dinner destination, serving up gourmet comfort food, while Felix Cocktails et Cuisine is a Parisian-style haunt that provides a charming backdrop to a happy hour cocktail and small plate or two.
Adopt a local! That's right, check in with locals or friends who frequent Charleston to get the best tips and recommendations for things to do and see in the area.
And while Charleston is hopping with vibrant energy, it's always nice to get back and unwind in your room and remember what lowcountry leisure is all about.