photos: Kathryn McCrary for The Southern C and Waiting on Martha
The Southern C Summit will be here before you know it! In between all of the learning and networking, make sure you take some time to explore the natural and built beauty of our host resort, Sea Island. From the majestic oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, meditation gardens, classic cocktails, and sunsets overlooking the river I’ve narrowed down some insta-worthy scenes around Sea Island for you to enjoy.
The Cloister Lobby – From the grand staircases to the enormous flower arrangements, there is so much to see in the lobby alone. Wander through the halls and see photos from the resort dating back to the beginning in the 1920s.
The Spa – This is one of the most beautiful spots on the entire island and one of the most peaceful. The entrance alone is stunning with the boardwalk winding over koi ponds and fountains playing their soothing melody as you approach the entrance. If you don’t have time for a spa treatment, it is totally worth just going for a swim or steam. After you explore of course. There are also meditation gardens on both sides of the pool that are worth checking out too if it’s not too cold.
River Bar – Classic cocktails and southern charm. The cocktails are almost as beautiful as the space so you could easily get in a gram or to at this bar or in the neighboring lounge. They make a fabulous champagne cocktail and a mean mint julep.
Spanish lounge – I have many fond memories of exploring the hotel after late night Bingo sessions in the summer growing up here.My favorite room in the hotel will always be the Spanish Lounge. Re-created when The Cloister was rebuilt, it retains its original ceiling, hallmark stained glass windows, chandeliers, lamps, and fireplace surrounds.
Blank Banks River/Terrace – Take your cocktail out on the terrace and enjoy a sunset view of the Black Banks River from the dock.
The Clubroom – This ballroom is old-world elegance at its finest. Featuring Mercury glass doors, wooden floors, and exceptional crystal chandeliers. The Summit’s Thursday evening nightcap will be held here!
Life-Size Chess Board (North Patio) – Across from The Clubroom is the North Patio and the whimsical life-size chess board.
Rainbow Island – This area is reserved for private parties but if you’re attending the Summit you’re in luck because we are headed here for dinner on Wednesday night. I’m looking forward to sipping a cocktail by a firepit and taking in the sweeping views of the Black Banks River.
The Jetty – If you’re looking at the Beach Club from the water, look to your left and you’ll see the jetty. If you keep walking past the jetty you can enjoy a quiet beach walk all to yourself (for the most part). Nothing to see but dunes and sea oats and all you can hear are the gentle waves coming to shore.
Bagpipers at The Lodge- The Oak Room at the Lodge is a must if you have time to visit. Go at cocktail hour, sit on the terrace, and listen to the bagpipers.
See you in Sea Island and make sure to tag @thesouthernc #tscsummit + @sea_island #seaisland!