It’s the time of the year when everyone is solidifying their summer plans…or hey, even spring break! Last week I shared my top 10 Florida resorts and it was such a hit! This got me thinking, it could be fun to share some other favorite southeast resorts, beyond Florida, that we’ve traveled to and loved. So today I’m going to share the best resorts I’ve visited in the southeast, featuring 10 of my favorite vacation spots. Some of these resorts are great for families while others are perfect for a romantic getaway or a trip with friends – there’s a little something for everyone!
Southeast Resorts
Traveling has always been such a passion of mine. Some of my favorite memories are from trips all over the world including Spain, Switzerland, Portugal, and other incredible destinations. As much as I love exploring other countries, I love a good road trip right here in the USA just as much! Living in Florida, there is an abundance of excellent resorts to explore in our home state. Additionally, we have easy access to other southeast resorts, either by a quick flight or a fun road trip!
Beyond Florida, some of my favorite southeast resorts are found in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Louisiana, and Virginia. I think some of these locations are often overlooked, but there really are some hidden gems for vacations out there! There is also a good variety of options, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway in the south or a family vacation.
10 Best Southeast Resorts
If you’re feeling adventurous and ready to try out a new destination, I truly believe these southeast resorts are all great options. I always find firsthand experiences and reviews to be so helpful when planning trips and I can honestly say our getaways at each of these resorts were wonderful!
1. Old Edwards Inn & Spa in Highlands, NC
We traveled to Old Edwards Inn for a family vacation during the summer of 2020, making it a different sort of travel experience due to the pandemic. Upon arrival, we were immediately blown away by the staff’s hospitality and their attention to every little detail (including complimentary Dove chocolates!) The grounds are absolutely beautiful and the activities are endless for both adults and kids.
We stayed at the Piermont Cottage, which is a Victorian estate. From the timeless furnishings to the impeccably-kept grounds, everything at this southeast resort was truly luxurious. Plus, all private residences come with a personal concierge who set up everything from tee times to groceries. Be sure to check out my previous Old Edwards Inn post, in which I shared a list of our favorite activities for kids and adults including fishing, horseback riding, and golfing (they have one of my husband’s all-time favorite courses!)
2. Half-Mile Farm in Highlands, NC
If you’re planning a romantic getaway in the south and Old Edwards Inn sounds dreamy, then you should definitely check out Half-Mile Farm as well! This southeast resort is actually an Old Edwards Inn property, but for adults only. It is the perfect getaway for couples, whether you’re planning an anniversary trip, honeymoon, or just some special alone time.
Half-Mile Farm is beautiful. I mean, it is really, really beautiful! The location is incredibly romantic with a serene lake view and charming rooms. And there is so much for couples to do, including hiking, spa treatments, and a heated pool. We also loved the special social hours and freshly baked cookies, which were always available! Check out my previous post about our stay at Half-Mile Farm to learn more.
3. The Charleston Place in Charleston, SC
I’ve visited The Charleston Place twice, once with my sons and another time with my sister, Molly. Both trips were wonderful and left me feeling confident that this is one of the best southeast resorts if you’re looking for an adventurous trip exploring Charleston!
One of the biggest perks of The Charleson Place is its location. Personally, I think Charleston has some of the best shopping in the world and at this resort, you are literally steps away from it! The rooftop has beautiful views and I loved doing a little work there each morning. Molly and I also had so much fun riding their Linus Bikes and renting a Moke from the property. Plus, the Club Level provides snacks, champagne, and light bites throughout the day. Clearly, this is one of the best resorts in the south for a Charleston girls trip!
4. The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in Greensboro, GA
We visited this southeast resort during the holidays a few years ago and it was pure magic! From the moment we arrived, we felt like we were in a little southern winter wonderland. They had decorations everywhere, an incredibly real gingerbread house, letters to the North Pole (that got answered!), a fun ice skating rink with the best Christmas tunes, nightly s’mores, and fireplaces around every turn.
Obviously, the Ritz-Carlton Lake Oconee was great during the holidays, but I think it would be a wonderful southeast resort to visit year-round. There are tons of great amenities and activities for a family including three pools, sporting clays, off-road Jeep adventures, and pontoon rentals. Our boys also spent a day at their Ritz Kids Club and had a great time!
5. Jekyll Island Club Resort in Jekyll Island, GA
We traveled to the gorgeous Golden Isles as a family right before the pandemic hit. I was shooting an article for Garden & Gun and I’m so happy the boys came with us to explore! Jekyll, Brunswick, and St. Simons were all just as charming and beautiful as you would imagine!
During our trip, we stayed at two different locations – the Jekyll Ocean Club and the historic Jekyll Island Club. Both were wonderful! There is so much to do and explore in the area, making it one of the best southeast resorts for families. My boys particularly loved riding bikes and checking out the scenery, walking around downtown, and visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. And the dining around Jekyll Island was phenomenal! Be sure to check out my post all about visiting Jekyll Island with kids for more specifics.
6. Montage Palmetto Bluff in Blufton, SC
Located around 45 minutes from the Savannah airport and 40 minutes from Hilton Head, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a magical gem! The grounds are beyond stunning and every turn is more charming than the next. It’s impossible to put into words the incredible feeling this southeast resort evokes. I’ve found myself smiling the entire trip both times I have visited!
The property is unlike any other – it is just so beautiful and expansive. Set on the May River, it has views of the marshland, Hilton Head peeking through in the distance, and live oaks all around. It also has the cutest little downtown you’ve ever seen. Everything about this southeast resort is dreamy! And oh my goodness, the activities and delicious meals were abundant! Horseback riding, shooting club, archery, fishing, boat rides, s’mores, bike trails, tree house exploring…the list goes on and on. I covered more activities, food, and our daily itinerary in my previous Montage Palmetto Bluff post, so head there for more details!
7. Plantation on Crystal River in Crystal River, FL
The Plantation on Crystal River is only 2 hours north of us, but vacationing there feels like you’re stepping back in time! We have visited twice, once on an adult-only trip with friends and another time as a family vacation. It’s one of the best resorts in the southeast for either type of getaway!
For us, one of the main attractions of Crystal River is scalloping. I never really understood what was so special about scalloping until I went. It’s so peaceful and fun and seeing my kids enjoy it was even more amazing! Not to mention, the way the light hits the water down there is simply beautiful. The next time we go to this southeast resort we definitely plan on swimming with the manatees. How fun does that sound!? It really is such a unique place to visit.
8. The Windsor Court in New Orleans, LA
I grew up visiting family in the New Orleans area every summer and I actually lived down in the warehouse district on South St. Peters street for two summers during college. I love the feeling I get in this city – it’s beautiful, has the most delicious food, and there’s live music seemingly around every corner. It’s one of those places that makes you feel so alive.
I’ve stayed at The Windsor Court in New Orleans multiple times and always have a wonderful experience! I would describe this southeast hotel as “comfortable luxury”, which is such a nice treat, especially when traveling with children. And the staff is welcoming and attentive. When planning a family vacation, New Orleans might not be the first location that comes to mind, but the city is actually very kid-friendly. Check out this previous post to see 10 of our favorite things to do in New Orleans with kids along with 10 favorite kid-friendly restaurants in the city!
9. The Clifton in Charlottesville, VA
We visited this southeast resort for a friend’s wedding and I instantly fell in love with the dreamy venue. Located in the Virginia countryside, but only minutes away from Downtown Charlottesville, The Clifton is such a special place. It almost makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time and it’s impossible not to be in awe of the surrounding beauty of the grounds. Plus, the area is full of history (we toured Thomas Jefferson’s estate) and it would make for a quiet, romantic getaway in the south.
There is also so much to explore in the areas surrounding The Clifton. We visited the King Family Vineyards (the wine was delicious!), walked around the Charlottesville Historic Downtown Mall (which is actually not a mall, but an outdoor area full of shops and restaurants), and explored Pippin Hill. We also walked around the University of Virginia and both agreed that we want to take the boys here when they start looking at colleges!
10. Sea Island Resort in Sea Island, GA
If you’re not familiar with Sea Island, Georgia, you’re in for a real treat! Sea Island is a private, gated island that is accessible only to resort guests and club members. It is the epitome of luxury and absolutely one of the best resorts in the southeast!
I visited Sea Island many years ago and went back again just last year for the Southern C Summit. And I am so, so excited to head there again this summer with the family! It will be our first time visiting Sea Island as a family and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the magic of this southeast resort. Every single detail and activity about Sea Island is luxurious, from the golf courses and the spa to the views and the shopping. It is a truly special experience!
Best Vacation Spots in the Southeast
Honestly, after putting together this roundup of the best resorts in the southeast, I’m ready for a vacation ASAP. The only problem is, they are all so wonderful, it’s hard to pick just one! I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, getting the opportunity to travel for my job has been one of the biggest blessings and I am so grateful. I truly enjoy sharing these amazing destinations with you and I hope you find them to be helpful recommendations. Most of all, if you travel to one of these resorts, I hope your trip is full of magical memories!
If you’re looking for further vacation inspiration, be sure to check out my top 10 Florida resorts, my favorite resort outfits, previous travel posts, and family vacation posts. As always, if you have any questions feel free to leave them in the comments below or send me a DM!
