The Cloister at Sea Island

I've been to Sea Island a number of times but had not stayed at the Cloister recently. The common areas and our room were beautiful. However, I was very disappointed by the cleanliness, service, and food quality during our stay. Our room's cleanliness left much to be desired. The bathroom smelled strongly of either mold or urine, the shower handle was broken, and some furniture in the room wasn't as clean as it should have been. The dining experience was equally disappointing. Despite some highlights, the food was flavorless and overpriced. Breakfast service was also frustratingly limited, as it did not stay open past 11 am, which seems unreasonable for a resort hotel. The service experience was inconsistent—at times uncomfortably obsequious, and at others cold and almost bordering on hostile. My girlfriend, who is Asian, mentioned that she felt uncomfortable during certain interactions. And while I want to believe this wasn't intentional, it does seem that this hotel caters predominantly to a certain "type" of clientele, which can result in an atmosphere that is less welcoming than one would hope. In general, I expect a hotel of this caliber to uphold much higher standards in cleanliness, maintain facilities properly, and provide consistent and genuine hospitality to all guests. I was extremely disappointed by my stay.

Fabulous in all regards. Worth the cost. Not a single complaint. Many lovey sitting areas. We enjoyed a river-view room off the main building. The room was perfect. Service attentive. Had a great dinner in the River Room. Wish we could have stayed longer.

If you want to visit the overall best resort east of the Mississippi give The Cloister a try. I personally love winter trips - cooler temps and so peaceful and quiet.

Lovely grounds, impressive, comfortable accommodations, friendly staff in all areas without exception. Treated like royalty!

Perfection. I needed someplace to stay on a long drive -- and instead of spending the night I spent three days. My room was a cocoon in blue and beige. My puppy got his own Barbour bed and room service menu. My balcony in the garden wing was sunny and very private. Worth every penny and did some great shopping. Literally every detail is attended to so that your stay is luxurious and trouble free. The art, architecture and grounds are lovely. Like a home away from home. I need to make this an annual event.