Rain poured down as we packed the car to the brim and for 30 minutes attempted to get my toddler in the car. After a lot of deep breaths and breaking our screen time rules with a 7-hour tv binge, we arrived to The Wild Dunes in Isle of palms, SC.
We drove straight through the gate with our pass that had been emailed to our cottage and used the keyless entry code that was provided via text and email prior to our arrival. We had the choice of course to check in at the Inn as well but opted for the “it's been a long day” route. It was beyond easy and very much appreciated.
We walked into what would be our home for the next four nights; a 3-bedroom/2-bath cottage with a fully furnished kitchen, dining room, spacious living room, screened in porch and patio. We explored the books and board games in case of a rainy day (which luckily never came). The cottage offered space, privacy and was only a five minute walk to the beach and main hotel, The Sweetgrass Inn. After a long journey to the resort, we instantly kicked back and enjoyed yummy take-out from the property’s pizza shop, Coastal Crust.
The following morning we explored the pristine grounds decorated with palm trees, gorgeous flowers and beach grass. We ran around the expansive beach and splashed in the waves, soaking up the sun and all the first family vacation feels. After clearing a few handfuls of sand from my daughter’s swimsuit, we enjoyed a poolside lunch from Laughing Gull. The bartenders were divine, the drinks were stiff and the poolside fare was fab.
Each accommodation tailors a specific need...
The newest addition to the property is The Sweetgrass Inn. Rooms overlook the property, main pool; some with ocean views in the distance.
The Boardwalk Inn feature a bit more privacy and seems to attract more adults and families with older children. The rooms will be under renovation this winter floor by floor to be more in sync with the updated Sweetgrass accommodations. Two adult pools and a pool bar sit outside this building.
The Residences at The Sweetgrass are next to the main pool and the Sweetgrass Inn. Accommodations feature kitchens and living spaces.
Dining
In addition to the Coastal Crust and Laughing Gull, Wild Dunes have a variety of great dining options, markets and shops right on property. I really thought we would do more exploring on this trip popping over to Charleston and other islands in the area but we really had no desire to leave paradise.
Just off the lobby is Oystercatcher is a great place to get a cocktail or enjoy small plates and oysters. Both the indoor seating and outdoor seating are lovely and looks out to the lobby and pool area. We did not have an opportunity to try Coastal Provisions but heard from other guests that the surf and turf menu was perfect. Huey’s Southern Eats is another great place to get your grub on after a long day on the golf course. The markets on property featured snacks, ice cream, beer and wine, gifts and more.
Sullivan’s Island is about a 15-minute drive away and features some great local bars and restaurants, including my all time fave, The Obstinate Daughter. Ubers and Lyfts can be challenging to get on the islands so its most recommended to have a DD or get a ride with a local company. Guest Services referred us to Cart Me, which was such an awesome experience. We sat in the back of a twinkle light lined golf cart as reggae music and the perfectly painted sunset in the distance soothed our souls. Our driver, Jay was wonderful to talk to and a great resource of information.
Guest Services On Demand
Guest Services and the concierge were more than happy to help guests in the lobby, by phone or by text. It was so convenient to go through the day and if we had a question about literally anything, The Wild Dunes team was able to assist with a quick and easy text response. We were able to request additional housekeeping and cottage items, get info on bike rentals, golf cart rentals, dining reservations and local ride share companies all while sitting poolside sipping an aperol spritz.
Activities
There is truly something for everyone on property. Biking, tennis, golf, spa, fitness classes, state of the art gym equipped with Pelotons, paddle boarding, kayak tours, fishing and eco tours to name a few!
This property is wonderful for anyone but is especially great for a multigenerational family. Some family members can enjoy the luxe rooms at The Sweetgrass Inn while others enjoy more space and privacy in a private cottage rental. It’s a beautiful place to gather and reconnect with family with everything you need at your fingertips.
The following Hyatt Prive Amenities are available when you book with Meredith Riley Travel for accommodations in The Sweetgrass Inn, The Boardwalk Inn and The Residences at The Sweetgrass.
· Breakfast for 2 daily
· Upgrade if available at check in
· Early check in/late check out if available
· $100 Resort Credit