Wild Dunes Resort

This is a gated community, but it has a friendly, relaxed vibe that draws vacationing families and couples. The property is massive, extending from a main building known as the Boardwalk Inn to a village-style area with its own amenities, to private condos, cottages, and beach houses. There's a golf course as well, which means guests can choose to be situated near it, or by the beach or nationally ranked tennis courts. The property's buildings are beige siding or simple pastel-painted blocks, and while they're modern and clean, there's not a ton of decorative character here. Nonetheless, there are cozy spots around the property, particularly a circle of Adirondack chairs around a fire pit, and a long wooden boardwalk lined with lush plants. Another pleasant area is the living-room-style lobby with hardwood floors, lovely bright light, and chessboard cafe tables between sleek-lined contemporary chairs. A similar warm vibe can be found throughout the public spaces.

The Wild Dunes Resort is located in a gated community on the Isle of Palms, which is actually a city that offers miles of beachfront. It's connected to the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway and is about 30 minutes east of Downtown Charleston by car. There, guests can find lots of restaurants, bars, and attractions such as the historic City Market. Fort Sumter National Monument, known for being the place where the Civil War began, is about 25 minutes away by car and ferry from Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. Charleston International Airport is a half-hour drive away. 

The Boardwalk Inn holds 93 of the resort's rooms and suites, which have a breezy coastal decor that includes pale-aqua and navy chairs, carpeting, and headboards. Coastal photography and coral lamps are nice touches. Furnishings feel classic, including carpeted floors and dark-wood chairs and dressers. Bathrooms feature beige and white tile and shower/tub combos with wall-mounted toiletries. Robes are provided. Standard features include Keurig coffeemakers, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and small furnished terraces, as well as safes and free Wi-Fi. The Village offers a variety of suites, some with full kitchens, spacious patios, and ocean views. Families and groups can take advantage of rental homes, condos, and cottages, with access to all resort amenities. 

Along with a beach area, the resort offers five pools -- ranging from an Olympic-length outdoor pool to two oceanfront pools. A fitness center is bright and stocked with plenty of modern cardio and weight-training machines. Standout features also include a 36-hole golf course (upgraded in 2016), nationally ranked tennis courts, and bike rentals for use on the boardwalks and trails. There are several restaurants and bars, including a cluster around the Boardwalk Inn, such as Coastal Provisions, serving contemporary American fare like steaks and fresh seafood. A southern cuisine restaurant, bar and grill facing the ocean, grocery market, and meal-delivery service are also available. Spa services focus on seasonal ingredients, and there are also a kids' club and family activities such as kayaking and water sports.