Kent Island, Md.
Just an hour from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, and situated on the shoreline of Queen Anne’s County, Kent Island, Md., is the largest island in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. “Kent Island is where country rhythms meet Chesapeake vibes,” says April Plummer, marketing and destination development specialist for Queen Anne’s County Maryland. “Breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay and lush landscapes offer a serene backdrop that fosters creativity and productivity. And with plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, from waterfront dining to outdoor adventures, attendees can rejuvenate their minds and bodies amid the tranquil surroundings.”
History buffs will delight in Kent Island’s colonial beginnings and maritime heritage, as well as quaint towns brimming with charming architecture. Miles of shoreline provide plenty of opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and crabbing, while scenic nature trails offer glimpses of native wildlife and breathtaking vistas.
Planners will appreciate the meeting options, particularly the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club. The venue offers waterfront and garden-inspired meeting space, a luxury boutique hotel with 77 guest rooms, two restaurants, and a spa. In addition, the versatile property offers 5,000 square feet of space at The Inn, 16,000 square feet of waterfront event space, and 12,000 square feet of outdoor space.
Outer Banks, N.C.
The Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, is a captivating destination known for its natural beauty and rich maritime history. Stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, the picturesque region boasts 100 miles of public beaches, quaint seaside villages, and plenty to explore when the meeting ends.
“There is something magical about crossing the bridge from the North Carolina mainland onto these islands that sweep way out into the Atlantic Ocean,” says Aaron Tuell, public relations manager for the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. “Every experience that meeting planners have access to has been born and raised on the Outer Banks. Between meeting sessions, explore a land of beginnings—from the first English colony at Roanoke Island to the first flight near Kitty Hawk at Wright Brothers National Memorial. Go hang gliding at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the largest sand dunes on the East Coast, or tour America’s first national seashore at Cape Hatteras by horseback.”
Conveniently located just minutes from many of those popular attractions is the Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks Kitty Hawk. A 180-guest room property that recently completed a $4 million renovation, the property features 7,500 total square feet of flexible meeting space and the historic Kitty Hawk Fishing Pier and Pier House, which is exclusive for hotel guests.
“Imagine hosting your meeting or event literally over the Atlantic Ocean,” says Jamie Chisholm, director of sales for the hotel. “The Kitty Hawk Pier offers year-round fishing opportunities, and our private Pier House offers the most unique meeting space that the Outer Banks has to offer, turning your meeting into an experience your guests will not forget.”
Hilton Head Island, S.C.
Hilton Head Island, S.C., is much more than beautiful beaches, verdant landscapes, and rich culture; it is rooted in eco-consciousness and preservation, setting it apart as a destination that truly cherishes its natural splendor. “Hilton Head was an eco-planned destination, and because of that it looks much different than many other destinations,” says Charlie Clark, vice president of communications for Hilton Head Island Visitors and Convention Bureau. “Preservation is taken very seriously here. As a result, we have many groups that want to give back while they are here. One of our most popular options is oyster reclamation.”
At the heart of Hilton Head’s charm lies the Beach House Hilton Head Island, the only oceanfront boutique hotel resort on the island. Featuring 202 guest rooms, the Beach House includes multiple indoor meeting spaces and 10,000 square feet of private beach. Recently, the property underwent an $11 million renovation, which updated its on-the-beach live music venue and its pool and also added The Dunes, an outdoor pavilion located directly on Coligny Beach, which is ideal for groups seeking an event space with seaside views.
Isle of Palms, S.C.
A barrier island situated along the picturesque coastline of South Carolina, the Isle of Palms features pristine beaches, a laid-back atmosphere, and Lowcountry charm that provide a serene retreat for meetings and events. “Isle of Palms is one of the more intimate beaches you will find in Charleston,” says Luke Sicard, interim media relations manager for Explore Charleston. “But it also is only 12 miles from Charleston proper, so it’s not too far if visitors want to venture out and take in Charleston’s local history.”
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Isle of Palms offers an array of recreational activities to enjoy pre- or post-meeting, from kayaking to boating excursions, many of which can be booked through the concierge at Wild Dunes Resort, an ideal backdrop on the island for gatherings seeking to blend business with leisure. A 396-guest room property situated on 1,600 stunning acres, Wild Dunes Resort
offers a variety of onsite amenities—including golf, tennis, pickleball, and a spa—along with numerous dining options and 35,000 square feet of meeting space, fully capable of hosting everything from corporate retreats to large conferences.
“Our resort resonates with those seeking an authentic Southern experience that evokes true hospitality and connection to the unique history and culture of the Lowcountry,” says Danielle Koeller, director of marketing at Wild Dunes Resort. “Our guests get the best of both worlds, and our resort experience serves as the backdrop for countless meetings and events, with our robust amenities and teambuilding activities providing unmatched opportunities, each tailored to meet the needs and goals of any group.”
Kiawah Island, S.C.
Tucked away on the coast of South Carolina, Kiawah Island is a premier destination that blends upscale amenities with a relaxed coastal vibe. “The commute from the airport to the island is a scenic 45-minute drive along a rural road lined with live oaks dripping with Spanish moss,” says Mary Rieger, director of Southeast sales for the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. “Once here, guests are greeted by our lush, green barrier island. There are no high-rises, neon signs, or stop lights—just an escape from the frantic activity of everyday life, keeping attendees relaxed, with uncluttered thoughts, to stay on task for business meetings; yet there are plenty of opportunities and inspiring vistas to encourage networking during free time.”
Kiawah Island is renowned for its top-tier golf courses with pristine fairways and stunning ocean views, including the acclaimed Ocean Course. Beyond the greens, the island boasts a wealth of options for meetings and events, from state-of-the-art conference facilities to idyllic beachside venues at Kiawah Island Golf Resort. The resort features 16,500 square feet of flexible space within The Sanctuary, a Forbes Triple Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond oceanfront hotel with 225 rooms and suites, as well as 23,000 square feet of space at the West Beach Conference Center. In addition, its three golf courses include flexible meeting space. Mingo Point, an outdoor Lowcountry venue, offers oyster roasts and barbecues, features weather back-up onsite, and can accommodate 300 attendees, Rieger adds.
Galveston, Texas
The allure of Galveston, Texas, is easy to understand, thanks to its 32 miles of beachfront and diverse natural beauty; but its appeal goes much deeper. The barrier island is one of the oldest cities in Texas, having once served as a prominent port city and an important part of the westward expansion of the country. “We have a tremendous amount of history here, including one of the largest collections of Victorian architecture and the largest private collection of Southwestern artifacts in the country,” says Bryan Kunz, director of sales and services for Visit Galveston. “We celebrate that at every turn, and that is what sets us apart.”
Galveston’s history is reflected in Grand Galvez, a 219-guest room property that first opened in 1911. Often referred to as “Queen of the Gulf,” Grand Galvez offers modern amenities in ways that highlight its Gatsby-era allure and charm, such as the harlequin black-and-white marble flooring, black framing, crystal chandeliers, and royal burgundy carpets. Many of those characteristics are evident throughout the meeting and event space, including the 5,000-square-foot Music Hall, East Parlor, and West Parlor. There is also outdoor meeting space as well, including the Terrace and Veranda, which offer another 2,500 square feet of space.
“When I acquired the iconic Hotel Galvez, I renamed it Grand Galvez to represent my vision and the renovations that would restore it to its grand beginnings. All combine to present a glamorous destination for meetings and conventions,” says Mark Wyant, owner of Seawall Hospitality LLC and Grand Galvez. “Grand Galvez embraces its longstanding, rich mark as an iconic and revered business and social destination.”
South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island, Texas, has emerged as a vibrant destination for meetings and events. A barrier island situated off the state’s southern tip, South Padre features 34 miles of stunning white sand and emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico. “The island is just 2.5 miles from the mainland, but it offers an authentic island experience when you are here,” says Harmony Heard, director of sales for Visit South Padre Island. “When you cross the Queen Isabella Causeway over onto the island, it is truly island life with worry-free days.”
The island is home to numerous properties suited for hosting meetings and events, including five beachfront resorts and a convention center that is set to start an expansion later this year. A new major property to the South Padre scene is Margaritaville Beach Resort, which opened earlier this year with 253 guest rooms and condominiums, along with 8,500 square feet of flexible space between multiple ballrooms.
“Our entire philosophy is about ensuring we are bringing people together,” says Daniel Haughan, general manager of Margaritaville Beach Resort. “We want to ensure that people from all areas get to experience the beauty of South Padre, and then after work have the opportunity to relax and have fun. We believe that work-life balance is vital to having a fulfilled life, and that is our goal for all groups that we are afforded the opportunity to host.”
