Get in the Holiday Spirit at Sea Island, GA

Sea Island Resort caters to all demographics, from young families to retirees and everyone in between. Their accommodation offerings are diverse depending on what you are looking for. During the holiday season, their cottages offer wonderful options for multi-gen families or groups of friends looking to toast the New Year together. The Cloister, where I stayed during my visit, was just jaw-dropping at every turn. Their lobby epitomizes the holiday spirit — that tree! For those looking to get a few rounds in over their vacation, The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club has two championship courses right outside your door. Regardless of where you stay, you have beautiful waterways. You will find rivers, marshes and the ocean all provide a sense of much-needed calmness and clarity during the hectic holiday season. Luxury service is evident as the resort is the recipient of 80 (!) Forbes Five-Star Awards. My personal favorite touch was the nightly gifts left bedside by the housekeeping team, along with notes of encouragement. Who doesn't need a bit of that!

Sea Island has no shortage of holiday happenings that take place on a daily basis. To be a child lucky enough to enjoy a visit here during this season is something special. Pay a visit to the Sea Island Gingerbread House after you write your letter to Santa in the Colonial Lounge. Enjoy carolers at The Beach Club, or take a bike ride through the grounds with Santa himself! For those kiddos with extra energy to burn, there are Kids Night Out evenings as well so that parents can enjoy a well-deserved reprieve from the excitement. Should you be using the school vacation to brush up on basics, Sea Island also offers Mini Manners classes — a lost art!

For the adults looking to get into the spirit, holiday wine tasting and seasonally themed cooking classes are available. Check a few people off your list while browsing the twelve retail shops on property- personal shopping experiences are offered as well.The spa is a must during your stay — a true escape from the hustle and bustle. Even their refreshments are on theme — enjoy a poinsettia spritz upon check-in for your service! In addition to golf, there are an abundance of tennis courts and festive fitness classes as well.

Whether you want fine dining, casual fare or bar food from their bowling alley located on property, the options are plentiful. The Oak Room stands out among the offerings for both the cozy atmosphere and personalized service. Though I didn't know it at the time, my visit with my Dad was one of the last trips we took together. A low-maintenance dessert-eater, he was always happy with a nice and simple raspberry sorbet. Tavola, offering homemade pasta and Italian fare with a southern twist, was another memorable bite. Be sure to note any particulars around hours of service and dress code before heading out for dinner!

The holidays are a wonderful time to start a new tradition. Sea Island Resort is the perfect backdrop for you and your family to do just that. Known to them as the month of merry magic, you will find lasting memories from your time at this gorgeous southern resort.

This trip report is part of a collection of Kathryn Brennan's Southeast Explorations. You can find more here.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Georgia page.