The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island

OTR Rating: 96 | Epic Road Marker
A Full-Service Resort Experience | Kiawah Island, South Carolina

The Sanctuary is an oceanside resort on Kiawah Island, South Carolina—part of the larger Kiawah Island Golf Resort. It’s elegant, warm, and low-key luxe. The kind of place that doesn’t shout wealth, just quietly sets the standard.

The resort is home to five golf courses, including The Ocean Course, best known for hosting the Ryder Cup and Phil’s final Major win in 2021. Funny enough, that was also my first time on the island—May 2021—during a quick trip to Charleston. Back then, I didn’t have a golf game. Not even a glimpse of one. I remember eating at the grille on the 18th, watching the course from afar. This time? Different story. Different swing. And I played four of the five courses.

The Stay

Check-in was smooth. They hand you a personalized key card that works like a cruise pass—one card to charge everything across the resort: golf, restaurants, spa, shops. Super convenient.

My room? Ocean-view, top floor, corner tucked nearest the main building. Perfect perch for sunrise coffee, lawn music, and sunset people-watching. The bathroom was spacious and spa-like: double sinks, soaking tub, walk-in shower, separate toilet room, and those collapsible shutters that open into the bedroom. Wet bar had everything—coffee setup, water, fridge, ice bucket. TV and bed were dialed-in for post-round coma naps. Heavenly.

Dining

I didn’t eat at The Ocean Room Steakhouse—sport coat, slacks, dress shoes required, and I was running light in that department. But it’s highly regarded and on my list for next time.

Jasmine Porch was the daily go-to. Patio or indoor seating, even a private dining room if that’s your thing. I had breakfast and dinner here—always solid. My morning ritual: classic eggs Benedict. Dinner? Oysters, filet, mashed potatoes, asparagus. No notes.

The poolside bar & grill had easy eats and my favorite drink—Painkillers. Can’t go wrong.

In-room dining was reliable: always on-time, food always warm. Sometimes after 18 holes, that’s all you need.

There’s also an ice cream shop tucked near the pool—tried the praline, mint chip, and chocolate (no regrets). Morning bakery had great pastries, sandwiches, and banana bread I’m still thinking about. Also macaroons. Just saying.

The Vibe

The valet crew—my people. Every resort has a heartbeat, and it usually starts at the entrance. These guys remembered me, asked about the day’s course, and became my morning crew for the week. We traded small talk, laughs, and weather reads. I actually got a little sad saying goodbye.

Inside the resort, you’ll also find a golf shop, a full spa, and a few real estate offices if you’re feeling impulsive (I was).

The Golf Courses

Osprey Point

My favorite of the bunch (note: I didn’t play Oak Point). For a 19-handicap like me, this course plays fair and fun. Great variety, multiple tee boxes, scenic but playable. It’s the kind of round where you actually want to go back out for more.

Turtle Point

This one’s tough. Tighter fairways, fewer safe bailout areas, and water lurking just enough to mess with your head. The final stretch runs along the Atlantic, transitioning from low-country marsh to open coast. Beautiful, but bring your focus.

The Ocean Course

This is the main event. Long, fast, windy, and downright intimidating. Even the cart ride from the range to the first tee sets the tone. If you’re walking, a shuttle takes you and your forecaddie to the tee—same thing at the turn. It’s the bucket-list round everyone talks about, and yeah… it delivers.

Cougar Point

A fun, flowing layout. Tons of water and massive oaks frame the fairways. Feels a little more “resorty” with homes lining some holes, but still a solid round. The clubhouse here is one of the best—great pub, excellent pro shop, and a nice view of the 18th approach. Welcoming vibe all around.

Oak Point

Did not play this course. An off-island track, just didn't hit the right vibe. Maybe next time.

Final Thoughts

The Sanctuary isn’t flashy. It’s poised. It’s where luxury and Southern hospitality shake hands and never let go. From the personalized touches to the championship golf to the banana bread… this place gets it.

I came back to Kiawah with a better swing, a clearer head, and a few more stories to tell. And now, one of them ends here.

🔰 OTR RATING SCALE: 96 Epic Road Marker

What the Numbers Mean

These scores aren’t just technical—they’re emotional. It’s about how a place fits into the On the Road lifestyle. Each number reflects a memory, a feeling, a moment you want to take home with you.

Rating Guide:

90–100 | Epic Road Marker – A destination you’ll never forget. Bucket-list stuff.

80–89 | Worth the Detour – Scenic, memorable, worthy of your time and lens.

70–79 | Scenic but Flawed – Still a solid choice, just not life-altering.

60–69 | Roadside Stop – Fine in a pinch, but probably not worth a second lap.

Below 60 | Missed Turn – Keep the engine running.