TRAVEL TALES: THE CLOISTER — SEA ISLAND, GA

I have been looking forward to visiting this property for years! The Cloister was originally designed by Addison Mizner and opened in 1928. Mizner did quite a bit of work in Palm Beach — hence the Mediterranean influence. Fun fact: The Cloister was was designed to be torn down one day! In the early 2000s the original structure was torn down, redesigned and reconstructed! Much of Mizner’s original design approach heavily influenced the new structure. My favorite room features the repurposed windows, fireplace and ceilings from the original Cloister. Transparently, I was slightly disappointed that the building was entirely “new”, but I truly felt as though the commissioned architects did a wonderful job. The attention to detail was fabulous! I’m personally drawn to the warmth of Mediterranean architecture and felt the plaster, terra-cotta, stone, and beams were really well done. Highly recommend taking the architectural tour with Wheeler Bryan!

The service throughout the property was exceptional. The spa was absolute perfection! Everything from the lounge area to the rooms and massages. I loved the atrium where we waited…..being surrounded by the water and trees in the courtyard was so peaceful. We had dinner at Colt and Alison. The food was delicious with lovely service, but for true ambiance check out the Georgian Room! 

We enjoyed room service one night and it was great as well. Perusing the shops onsite and off was so fun (loved that they had Hunter Bell items onsite)! We explored a couple of antique shops near the town of Brunswick: Olde Town Antiques and Broad Street Antiques. I hope that if we go back we get to explore more of the surrounding towns, bike rides, and get out on the water! Overall an incredibly charming and enjoyable stay!!

— Amy