Sea Island Resort, Lion Street Style:
This past July I was lucky enough to join my parents for five nights at the Sea Island Resort. Sea Island Resort is a world-class destination located on the coast of Georgia. The resort is known for its luxurious accommodations, impeccable service, and wide array of activities and amenities. Guests can enjoy relaxing on the beach, playing golf on one of the resort’s championship courses, or indulging in a spa treatment at the Forbes Five-Star rated spa. Sea Island Resort also offers a variety of dining options,from casual beachfront restaurants to fine dining experiences. The resort is perfect for families, with a variety of activities for children, including the Sea Island Kids Camp. Sea Island Resort is also a popular destination for weddings and events, with stunning venues and expert event planners. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Sea Island Resort is the ultimate destination for luxury and relaxation.
Our trip was sponsored by our broker dealer, Lion Street, and owners were allowed to invite their families to join. Given that I work with my dad, he thought it would be great to have me join and meet some of my colleagues. We would love to bring the whole family on the next trip, which happens every three years. Rumor has it, the next trip is at Sea Islands sister resort (The Broadmoor) in Colorado Springs. Sign me up! I was really looking forward to figuring out exactly what Sea Island was all about. Growing up in a small coastal town outside of Boston, I had heard of Sea Island before. Folks that went there seemed to go there routinely and always with multiple generations of family. I’d soon find out just why this was an ideal family spot and understood quickly why you’d keep coming back.
This blog is unique to our event with Lion Street, and many of the things I mention below were customized for just that. However, there are more than enough activities to choose from during your visit to stay busy at all times. Or even better, catch some R&R by one of the many pools or on the beautiful beach. Read on to hear about my first (and hopefully not last) Sea Island Resort experience.
Day 1:
Flying from Boston to Jacksonville:
My parents and I flew directly to Jacksonville from Boston via JetBlue. The trip was quick and the ride from the airport to Sea Island resort was just over an hour. We didn’t mind the easy drive in our shuttle compliments of Lion Street and learned a bit about the area thanks to our driver. After a flight and a ride we were all ready to get there and freshen up before scoping the place out.
Arriving at Sea Island Resort:
Sea Island Resort is comprised of several distinct buildings, each offering its own unique charm and amenities. The Cloister is the resort’s main building, with luxurious accommodations, several restaurants, and the Forbes Five-Star rated spa. The Cloister also features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. The Beach Club is a more casual option, located directly on the beach, with oceanfront rooms and suites, as well as several restaurants and pools. The Lodge at Sea Island is a luxurious golf resort, featuring rooms and suites with views of the golf course, as well as several restaurants and a full-service golf pro shop. The Cottages at Sea Island offer a more private and secluded option, with spacious accommodations and access to a private pool and clubhouse. Finally, The Inn at Sea Island is a budget-friendly option, located off-site but offering access to all of the resort’s amenities. Each of the buildings at Sea Island Resort offers a unique experience and caters to a variety of guests, making it a truly versatile and accommodating destination.
We were staying in a suite at the Cloister Building and this was also where the Lion Street group check in was located. Right when we walked out of the shuttle it was clear Lion Street had already made their mark. There was a check in room filled with swag (thanks to all the provider sponsors) and goody bags for all. The best part was that the room was ready so we were able to get rid of our bags, freshen up, and head out to explore the grounds. Since we were all hungry after the journey, we settled for a (tasty) poolside lunch at one of the huts.
Dinner at the Lodge/Terrace Lawn:
The Lodge and Terrace Lawn at Sea Island Resort offer guests a luxurious and picturesque experience.The Lodge is a stunning building with classic Southern architecture, offering rooms and suites with views of the golf course or marshlands. The Lodge also features several restaurants, including Colt & Alison, which serves steak and seafood in an elegant setting. The Terrace Lawn is a beautiful outdoor space that overlooks the golf course, with stunning views of the sunset. The Terrace Lawn is the perfect setting for outdoor events, including weddings and receptions, with ample space for guests to enjoy the scenic views. Whether you are staying at The Lodge or simply visiting for an event, the Terrace Lawn is a must-see destination at Sea Island Resort.
The Lodge and Terrace Lawn were also the venue for Lion Street’s opening night reception. Shuttles took us from the Cloister to the Lodge in groups and we were welcomed to the grounds in style. There was a stunning backdrop with the golf course and sun nearly setting, made even more beautiful thanks to the bagpiper who played and strolled along the side of the course, putting on a show for all. My favorite part was that they had the putting green open for use. We were able to select a putter and start where you wanted. There were at least 18 holes and the place was packed from the start, right up until the end of the night. It’s hard to know who won, but my parents and I enjoyed making our way around and saying hello to fellow Lion Street members and their families.
Throughout the night there was no shortage of delicious food to choose from. There was also a live band playing, which had some folks up and dancing. The night cooled down as the sun went down, which allowed people to stay longer and hangout. Strung lights and lanterns made for a gorgeous first night on Sea Island as we listened to the band finish up.
Day 2:
Daily Breakfast Buffet in the Mizner Ballroom:
Our first full day began with breakfast and a welcome reception in the Mizner Ballroom. The breakfast buffet was a culinary wonderland, offering an impressive variety of fresh, wholesome, and delectable options. It seemed to only get better each morning. I loaded up my plate and found a seat at a table towards the back of the room with my parents. My main goal was to get outside in the sun and swimming as soon as possible but the food made the wait more bearable.
Checking out the many pools at Sea Island:
The pools at Sea Island Resort are a highlight of any visit to this luxurious destination. The resort features several pools, including the main pool, a family pool, and an adult-only pool. The main pool is a large, heated pool surrounded by lush gardens and features a water slide and a kiddie pool. The family pool is perfect for families with children and includes a splash pad and a lazy river. The adult-only pool isa serene retreat with a hot tub and private cabanas, making it a great place to relax and unwind. The pools at Sea Island Resort are impeccably maintained, and the attentive staff provides poolside service, including food and beverage options. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly pool or a quiet retreat, the pools at Sea Island Resort offer something for everyone and are sure to make your stay a memorable one.
Today’s main event was going to be what they were calling Beachside Fun, but to start I was headed to the pool. There was a group of chairs reserved at the beach where you could lounge, order food, and have a cold beverage, and so there was no real rush to get there right when it started. We also discovered that Lion Street had reserved some poolside cabanas at one of the adult only pools, so we planned to eventually make our way there. While I waited for my parents to be ready, I checked out the smaller adult only pool located at The Cloister. This looked out over the dock and was stunning. I had the place to myself and soaked up some of the hot Georgia sun, before needing to submerge myself for most of the day, in the water.
Beachside Fun:
The beaches at Sea Island Resort are a breathtakingly beautiful feature of this luxurious destination. The resort offers three miles of pristine, private beachfront along the Atlantic Ocean, with soft white sand and crystal-clear water. Guests can enjoy a variety of beach activities, including swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach staff offers complimentary chairs, umbrellas, and towels, making it easy to relax and enjoy the stunning views. For those looking for a more active beach experience, Sea Island Resort offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing. The beach at SeaIsland Resort is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Georgia coast.
On this particular day, it was quite windy, so the pools were a bit more appealing. We did want to at least check out the beach for a bit and see who was down there though, so we grabbed some loungers and posted up beachside for a bit. The ocean water was bath temperature, and the wind provided a welcome opportunity for the occasional cooldown. I loved that they had flags on the chairs to raise if you wanted to place an order, and I was incredibly impressed by the speed and efficiency of the staff working the beach. Props to them, especially in the hot sun.
After the beach we made our way to the cabanas where I had a chance to meet some of the Lion Street team from HQ in Texas. This seemed to be the fun crowd, so I guess we lucked out! I could have floated in the water all day, going back and forth from the fully stocked cabanas to chaise lounges, to the pool. My mom and I stayed a bit longer once my dad went back to catch up on a bit of work, then made our way to The Cloister for another dip in the adult only pool.
Dinner with PacLife at Colt & Alison:
Colt & Alison is a premier dining experience at Sea Island Resort, located in The Lodge. This elegant steakhouse offers a sophisticated ambiance and a menu featuring the finest cuts of meat and seafood. The restaurant is named after famed golf course architects, Colt & Alison, who designed the resort’s two championship golf courses. The interior of the restaurant features beautiful woodwork and leather accents, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of mouthwatering dishes, including dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and creative sides. The wine list is extensive, offering a wide selection of world-class wines to complement your meal. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Colt & Alison is a must-visit destination for food lovers at SeaIsland Resort.
Thanks to one of the insurance providers sponsoring the trip, PacificLife, we were treated to a group meal at Colt & Alison. We were once again shuttled to The Lodge from The Cloister and found our names atone of the three circle tables in a private room. Here we were seated with folks from all over and had the chance to connect with fellow Lion Street members, staff, and their families.
We shared a lot of laughs amongst the incredible spread of food. It seemed as though they served a bit of everything on the menu, family style. I really enjoyed this because it gave you the chance to try it all. None of the dishes disappointed. After dinner was perhaps my favorite. We took a group photo and then made our way outside to the Terrace Lawn. The sun was setting yet again, just in time for photos. I snapped a few of my parents, and we got group photos taken as well, but taking in the view was the best part. Another wonderful day on Sea Island.
Day 3:
Family Beach & BBQ:
After another delectable buffet and slow morning, we ventured off to todays main event. Lion Street had taken over The Beach Club grounds and made it into a full blown Family Fun & BBQ. They had everything from a sand sculpted Lion, climbing wall, dunk tank, live music, on site BBQ team, beverages,Olympics for the kids, and plenty more. We enjoyed the barbecue and catching up with some folks we know from the organization, which did not disappoint.
Golfing at Sea Island’s Retreat Course:
Golfing is one of the top activities to enjoy in Sea Island, Georgia, and The Retreat Course is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast. The course was designed by legendary golf course architect, DavisLove III, and is known for its stunning views of the marshlands and the Atlantic Ocean. The Retreat Course is a challenging course, with water hazards, bunkers, and narrow fairways that require precise shots. The course is also known for its excellent greens, which are fast and true. Whether you are an experienced golfer or a beginner, The Retreat Course offers a unique and challenging golfing experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Throughout the week they had offered up optional tee times but given that I hadn’t played in over a year, I wanted to play golf with just my dad, towards the end of the day. We chose to make a tee time at the Retreat Course, as it seemed least intimidating. Even with a 4:30 tee time, the temps were still high 80’s/low 90’s and we were HOT! I was pleasantly surprised with how I played, and we still found a way to enjoy it, even as we melted in the sun. I won’t rub it in too much, but I may or may not have beat my dad by one stroke. The course was beautiful, and I’d recommend playing it to anyone visiting.
Open Night in St. Simon’s:
Tonight’s dinner was an open night, and you could do as you please. We decided to take the quick ride via Uber into St. Simons. I had read about a few local places (many of them sadly closed when we were there) and determined we should head toward The Crab Trap.
Barrier Island Brewing, not a bad place to wait for dinner:
When we got to The Crab Trap there was about a 45 minute wait. This was okay with me due to its convenient location. Right across the way (close enough that they let you bring your table buzzer) was Barrier Island Brewing. We headed over and sat on their patio for an app and a bevy.
Barrier Island Brewing in St. Simons, Georgia is a popular craft brewery that is known for its delicious and unique beers. The brewery uses locally-sourced ingredients to create a variety of flavorful beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. Barrier Island Brewing’s flagship beer is the St. Simons Saison, a refreshing beer with hints of citrus and spice. The brewery also offers a variety of seasonal and limited edition beers, so there is always something new to try. The atmosphere of the brewery is laid-back and welcoming, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a cold beer with friends. Barrier Island Brewing is a must-visit destination for any beer enthusiast visiting St. Simons, Georgia.
Dinner at the Crab Trap:
Before we knew it, the table was ready, and we were seated inside at a nice quiet booth. The Crab Trap in St. Simons, Georgia is a seafood restaurant that is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and the fresh catch of the day. The atmosphere at The Crab Trap is casual and relaxed, making it a great place to enjoy a delicious seafood meal with family and friends. Whether you are in the mood for fresh seafood or a traditional Southern dish, The Crab Trap is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a great meal in a laid-back setting.
We were happy to have a casual dinner of fried shrimp and fries after filling up on BBQ and apps all daylong. Our Uber driver (from earlier) was a very nice local woman who even offered us her private card for a pickup later that night. She seemed reliable and safe, so we took her up on it! By the time we were paying our check, she was already waiting in the parking lot. Not too bad!
Day 4:
Sea Island Explorer:
Today’s highlight of the day was set to be a tour on The Sea Island Explorer. A small group of us made our way to the dock for a late morning departure. I spoke about the “fun crowd”earlier and we once again found ourselves with them on this excursion. As we boarded a few of them decided, we need mimosas! The captain agreed for a brief delay, and next thing we knew there was champagne and orange juice being handed over from the dock. Our final full day was off to a hilarious start.
The Sea Island Explorer is a must-try experience for anyone visiting Sea Island, Georgia. This eco-tour takes visitors on a guided journey through the island’s pristine marshlands, where they can observe a variety of wildlife, including birds, dolphins, and sea turtles. The tour is led by experienced guides who share their knowledge of the area’s unique ecosystem and history. The Sea Island Explorer tour is an excellent way to connect with nature and learn about the island’s rich history and culture. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly activity. The Sea Island Explorer offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and diversity of Sea Island’s natural landscape.We thoroughly enjoyed our ride and our conversation with one of the staff who is an expert guide. He told us not only about the stunning area he grew up in but also his travels, which eventually led him back where he began. I lost count of the number of dolphins that we saw, but each time was just as exciting as the last. Some things never get old.
Final Night Dinner & Dance:
After the tour we got some swimming time in and then it was back to the room to pack up, ahead of our early morning departure. We wanted to make sure we were all packed before the grand finale, tonight’s dinner and dance.
The night began with a cocktail reception in the ballroom area of The Cloister. I enjoyed meeting a few more of my dad’s colleagues and circling back with some that we had connected with throughout our time there. We were then directed to the ballroom to select a table for dinner. The CEO and Founder greeted everyone and remarked on what a wonderful trip it was before the food came out. Yet again, the staff and service were top notch, and the food was equally impressive.
After a feast, the dance floor sounded like the best way to digest. We found our way to the floor and danced for what felt like over an hour (thanks to the incredible live band who didn’t miss a beat all night) before snapping some pictures and calling it a night. I loved everything about the entire time at Sea Island and dancing the night away with new friends and my parents was the perfect way to cap it off.
Day 5:
Homeward Bound:
One final breakfast and a quick goodbye and thanks to some of the Lion Street Team gathered in the lobby, and we were off. Back to Jacksonville airport and headed for Boston. It’s hard to decide what the overall highlight was for this 5-star trip, but I think the uniqueness of it was special. It’s not often that someone with three siblings and a large Irish family (who love nothing more than to travel together)finds themselves with just their parents on vacation.
I’ve been fortunate to work with my dad (7+ years now!) which added a whole separate layer of special to this vacation getaway. Meeting my dad’s colleagues (some of whom have known him for 20+ years in the industry) is something I don’t often have the chance to do (marketing, working remote) and I found myself quite proud of him as they time and time again spoke so highly of him (and our company as a whole).
But being introduced not only as his daughter, but the Director of Marketing alongside him at ExecutiveBenefit Solutions (EBS), now that makes me proud. Little seven-year-old Meg that used to go around(long before I knew what my dad did for work or what marketing even was) telling everyone she was going to work with her dad one day, she was beaming with pride, the entire week.
Shoutout to Lion Street and Sea Island for making this week so memorable. I’ll be back!