The Sanctuary, Kiawah, SC

South Carolina's sea islands have always been a desirable place to live and an attractive area to vacation, thanks to the unique combination of beautiful beaches, abundant nature and world-class golf courses. This past August, Kiawah Island, the collection's premier island, became both more desirable and attractive thanks to the opening of The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island - an ultra- luxurious ocean-front hotel and spa.

Since it opened, The Sanctuary (which is owned and operated by Kiawah Island Golf Resort) has enjoyed a continuous stream of visitors, as well as a wealth of critical acclaim and media coverage. For area residents, The Sanctuary offers an array of new amenities, including two oceanview restaurants, a nature-based spa, boutique shops and stunning special event space.

Reminiscent of a 19th century seaside mansion, The Sanctuary features 255 luxurious guest rooms and suites, including a 3,100-square-foot Presidential Suite. Because of its unique design, 90 percent of the rooms have ocean views. To help create the impression that The Sanctuary has been a part of the island's fabric for centuries, the resort transplanted over 400 trees to line its entrance driveway, including 160, 50-foot-high live oaks. Inside, the hotel enjoys a richly residential atmosphere - from the lobby decor to the guestroom furniture.

The Sancturary features two restaurants with ocean views. Showcasing the talents of Chef Chris Brandt and his imaginative New American Cuisine, the Ocean Room promises an inspired evening of dining. The food is overwhelming in its flavor and simplicity, while the service is warm and friendly, yet unobtrusive. Enveloped with rich mahogany, intricate ironwork and a layer of lush comfort, the dining room offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Bar at The Ocean Room is a distinctive setting for enjoying a scotch, martini or an extensive list of wines, as well as lighter fare from Chef Brandt's dinner menu. Sink into an oversized leather chair while relaxing next to a roaring fireplace.

With walls of authentic exposed brick, wide oak-planked parquet floors and wrought-iron lanterns, Jasmine Porch offers casually elegant seaside dining. The beachside terrace provides incredible views of the gentle, rolling waves, as well as soothing ocean breezes. The extensive menu is composed of traditional Lowcountry and regional favorites with a nod to fresh seafood.

Outside, Loggerhead Grill serves an appealing menu with stunning views of the beach, ocean and pool, while the Lobby Bar offers nightly piano entertainment and a grand stone fireplace creates a warm and inviting haven.

The Spa at The Sanctuary enjoys a nature-based theme and features 12 treatment rooms, all with natural light. The spa offers treatments based on the ocean, maritime forest and botanical gardens and specialties include the Mint Julep Facial, Lowcountry Verbena Body Polish, and Toning Seaweed Body Treatment. The spa also features a special private treatment suite, steam and sauna rooms, solariums and vitality mineral whirlpools in the relation areas. A full salon and fitness center complement the spa.

The Sanctuary guest experience also includes five championship golf courses, including The Ocean Course - home to the 1991 Ryder Cup, 2003 WGC-World Cup and the 2007 Senior PGA Championship.

For reservations or more information, call 877-683-1234 or visit www.TheSanctuary.com