The Sanctuary dates to 2004, but the resort is fashioned to resemble an antebellum mansion with wide-plank walnut floors (placed on sleepers in such a way that they creak underfoot). Beyond its fabricated interiors lies a natural environment of wetlands and tidal marshes, sand dunes lined with sweetgrass, and a 10-mile-long beach that passes directly in front of the resort. Accommodations The 3,000-square-foot Presidential Suite affords the finest vantage, but 85 percent of the 255 guest rooms look out over the Atlantic. Recreation Golfing on Kiawah Island’s five public courses—including Tom Fazio’s Osprey Point and Pete Dye’s Ocean Course. Dining Eight restaurant options include the Ocean Room a steakhouse; Shrimpers for seafood; and Beaches and Cream for ice cream and frozen yogurt. Worthy Diversion Take a Gator Walk with one of Kiawah’s resident naturalists, who will lead you on paved paths to the reptiles’ favorite island haunts. Rates From $300 for a standard room to $4,500 for the Presidential Suite.
