A Timeless Escape

Calliope Collective is a curation of independent luxury hotels, golf resorts, and yachts that offer discerning travelers the finest experiences that result in ultimate travel memories. In May 2025, we arranged a FAM trip for six advisors to experience Sea Island first hand.

From the moment you arrive at Sea Island, you're wrapped in a warm sense of Southern hospitality. There’s an immediate feeling of tradition—one that’s not only deeply embedded in the property itself but also in the people who bring it to life. I was struck by how seamlessly Sea Island delivers elevated service without ever losing its gracious, down-to-earth charm and beauty.

Our visit began with a heartfelt welcome and a historical tour that revealed the rich legacy of Sea Island— both on property and throughout the surrounding Golden Isles. You could feel the pride and reverence the team holds for their home, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable few days. Our first evening was pure magic. We boarded the elegant Sea Island Explorer yacht for a sunset dinner hosted by the hotel’s sales and marketing team. The food was beautifully prepared, the atmosphere peaceful, and the company even better. It was the perfect way to ease into the Sea Island rhythm, followed by a cozy nightcap at the Library Bar.

The next morning began before sunrise but it was worthwhile. It started with a breathtaking beachfront experience: turtle nest hunting with Sea Island's expert naturalists. Watching the sun rise over the Atlantic as we searched the dunes for nesting sites was both humbling and awe-inspiring. I was touched by how many guests walking the beach enthusiastically joined in—this wasn't just an activity, it was a shared tradition, highlighting how closely the community is connected to the land and its preservation. Next came a choice of morning adventures, horseback riding along the shoreline or skeet shooting.

I joined the riding group, and trotting down a quiet, pristine beach atop a gentle, well-trained horse felt like something from a dream. Later in the afternoon, we dove into either golf or a pickleball lesson. I opted for pickleball and was surprised by how much I learned from Sea Island’s resident pro. What started as a casual match quickly turned into a lighthearted competition with plenty of laughs, and quite a few of us with a new hobby to continue to work on in the future!

Dinner that evening was a highlight in every sense. We dined at Colt & Alison, a refined Southern steakhouse where we were treated to an incredible culinary experience. The private dining room gave our group an intimate setting, made even more memorable by a visit from the restaurant’s sommelier, who thoughtfully paired wines with our courses and joined in on our dinner conversation. The restaurant and private room overlooks the stunning golf course views that lodge guests have direct access to. As we savored our beginning bites, we were surprised and delighted by the arrival of Sea Island’s iconic evening bagpiper. It’s a tradition rooted in the resort’s homage to golf’s Scottish heritage, and hearing the melody float over the grounds as the sun set was nothing short of enchanting.

The following morning delivered yet another unforgettable moment: the Hawk Walk, led by falconry expert Chris, whose passion for his craft was evident from the first moment. We had the rare opportunity to hold both a falcon and an owl Scout and even watched as the falcon soared into our arms on command. Chris’s storytelling and authenticity made it a deeply personal encounter, and one I’ll remember for years to come. We capped off the experience with a spectacular breakfast at Tavola, where I had quite possibly the best biscuits and jam of my life that I still think about to this day. The breakfast spread was delicious, and once again, we were joined by key members of the Sea Island team who shared insights into peak seasons, accommodation types, and the thoughtful ways the resort continues to evolve.

The accommodations at Sea Island are nothing short of inviting, inclusive to all different clientele, and luxurious. You have the luxury of choosing exactly what your client would have in mind as there is something for everyone. The Cloister is the perfect option for families as it features many different Suite types so families can all be together yet have their own space. It is also centrally located, which is always a plus for families with young kids so it is easy to get around. The Lodge is idyllic for couples and golf enthusiasts as guests are just steps away from both golf courses on property, having the best access. Just when you think that it already gives your client so many options, they also have 150 cottages that can be booked directly through Sea Island, ranging from two bedrooms up to eight bedrooms. We enjoyed an intimate happy hour with the Sea Island team in one of their charming cottages—perfectly designed for a multi-generational family. The layout featured a bedroom with a bunk bed and twin, another with two twins, and three rooms with king beds. Generous living spaces, a spacious backyard, and a private pool added to the comfort and convenience. At Sea Island, there’s always room for every generation to feel right at home.

A common theme during the FAM at Sea Island was how passionate the team members are, how you can tell they truly care for one another and the property. Almost everyone we met was from Sea Island or very nearby St. Simons, Georgia. The team exudes southern hospitality and the love they have for their home and property. We learned over 150 employees have been on the property for 20 plus years, and we could feel this before even knowing the fact. Sea Island isn’t just a resort; it’s a tradition in motion. It’s a place where generations come together, where time slows down, and where memories are made and cherished. For travel advisors seeking to give their clients an experience that transcends the ordinary—whether it’s a romantic escape, an adventurous getaway, or a multi-generational gathering to treasure for years—Sea Island delivers.

As I left the property, I carried with me not just memories of exceptional experiences, but a deep appreciation for a place that so beautifully honors its past while warmly welcoming every guest into its story.

Download our fact sheet to learn more about Sea Island.

If you’re interested in joining a group FAM to one of our outstanding Calliope Collective clients, please complete our form.