Just returned from an enchanting stay at the Cloister. Had a third floor room overlooking the marsh, thick walls made sleeping a dream (pardon the pun), little touches throughout the room such as vanity seats in the bathroom, double bathroom doors for privacy, a cigar room to die for in the main hotel. Food was outstanding as was the service. Breakfast was limited to the formal dining room which was one of the few downsides. Spa for both women and men was five star as were the grounds. We will be annual visitors to the Cloister.

Amazing, luxurious rooms that are large, well designed and filled with beautiful furniture. The staff are friendly, professional and very competent. Some have been at Sea Island for many years. But the food and beach club are not up to the standards of the property and the people. But our sense was that the people who go there regularly think it's so great but it really isn't.

This was our second time here. Spent 3 days on our travels down south.
The Good: The Ocean view suite at the beach club was stunning! Spacious and beautifully appointed with a gas fireplace and magnificent view. 2 bathrooms and small but efficient kitchen.
Truly, this is where The Cloisters excel! Great Fitness Center and stunning spa. The property and amenities are all top drawer and very well taken care of.
The Bad: In my opinion the food is just not up to the heights the rest of the resort is. Found this on our first visit and the situation has not been improved. Disappointing! In a property as wonderful as The Cloisters, the food should be a lot more than glorified country club fare.
It is a major missing link. The other issue , though small in comparison, is the $20 charge to use the fitness facility. Really, at $600 a night for our room, this charge seems petty and unnecessary.
Have stayed at many high end resorts, ie. Four Seasons, Peninsula etc. and none of them charge to use the Fitness Centers.
Again, this is where I feel The Cloisters is a Country Club first that welcomes outsiders in but nickels and dimes them for the privilege while reminding them during breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The new Cloister may not be quite what the old was, but times have changed and it is still a lovely and elegant resort. The lobby and public rooms are gorgeous and the guest rooms very spacious and well decorated. Staff was friendly enough but service and food at Tavola and at breakfast left a lot to be desired. These issues need to be addressed before this becomes a five star resort.