The Cloister at Sea Island

The 18 Best Family Resorts in the U.S.

"Tucked in the Golden Isles, this private coastal retreat presents a broad slate of family activities showcasing local wildlife and scenery: sea‑turtle patrols, birdwatching, tidal‑marsh dolphin spotting, fishing and crabbing from the dock, kayaking tours, and numerous kid‑friendly dining options (including a pub with a built‑in bowling alley and a Beach Club Snack Shack with kids’ boxes). The property’s candy shop/ice‑cream parlor is a particular draw, and on‑site nature programming and recreational facilities support multi‑generational stays. As special projects editor Elizabeth Rhodes put it: “The young and young at heart will love learning about local wildlife at the nature center, bowling at Sea Strike & Pub, splashing around in the ocean, and diving into a signature Gold Brick Sundae (trust me, it’s delicious).” Accessible rooms are available; rates start at about $359 per night." - Sarah Bruning Sarah Bruning Sarah Bruning is the special projects and surveys editor at Travel + Leisure, where she has been on staff since 2018. She assigns stories across the magazine, primarily for the Experiences section and feature well. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines