Today’s meeting attendees crave experiences beyond the boardroom, and the South offers a wealth of island retreats for meeting escapes. With breathtaking views, fresh ocean air, and built-in relaxation, the region offers the perfect blend of productivity and paradise. Whether it’s an executive retreat on a secluded shoreline, a conference at a luxury resort, or a teambuilding adventure steps from the surf, these destinations turn ordinary gatherings into extraordinary experiences. If you’re looking to boost attendance and engagement, it’s time to trade fluorescent lighting for golden sunsets and shift your agenda to island time.
Dauphin Island, Ala.
Dauphin Island is a barrier island off the Alabama coast, and it’s a haven for those immersed in nature. Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay, this serene retreat is known as the “Sunset Capital of Alabama.” With no traffic lights and a strong dedication to preserving its natural beauty, the island encourages visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in its unspoiled landscapes. For groups meeting in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach—which are located just across Mobile Bay and boast more than 18,000 rentable units and full-service beachfront convention properties—the island makes for a memorable offsite excursion.
In Dauphin Island, groups can wander the pristine shoreline at West End Public Beach, discover marine life at the Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, or explore the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, a key stop for migrating birds and home to diverse wildlife. Seasonal visitors might even spot bald eagles soaring overhead or sea turtles nesting along the beach. Golfers can enjoy a round with a view, while fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast a line offshore. Whether planned into the event schedule or as a way for attendees to unwind before heading home, a visit to Dauphin Island offers a peaceful retreat and a refreshing change of pace.
Big Talbot Island, Fla.
Just outside of Jacksonville is the nature-immersed retreat of Big Talbot Island. Known for its untouched coastal beauty, this barrier island paradise blends picturesque scenery with unique outdoor experiences, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional event spaces.
One of the island’s most captivating attractions is Boneyard Beach, where massive driftwood “sculptures” line the quiet shoreline, creating an almost other-worldly setting. Groups can also explore the island’s lush salt marshes by kayak, enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the tide, or take advantage of the miles of biking and hiking trails, which wind through shady maritime forests and open to sweeping marshland vistas.
For those needing nearby accommodations, One Ocean Resort & Spa offers luxury beachfront lodging with an onsite spa and 3,800 square feet of elegant meeting space. Just a short drive away, Jacksonville provides vibrant city amenities, from Prime Osborn Convention Center and the historic Florida Theatre to the Hyatt Regency Riverfront Downtown, the largest event venue in northeast Florida—ensuring a perfect balance of untamed nature and modern convenience.
Gasparilla Island, Fla.
Tucked along southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, Gasparilla Island offers a pristine escape for meetings and events blending business with breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its unspoiled beaches, world-class fishing, and Old Florida charm, this seven-mile-long barrier island provides an unforgettable setting for gatherings of all sizes.
The Gasparilla Inn & Club, a historic Old Florida resort, exudes elegance and offers a variety of meeting spaces, from intimate boardrooms to the grand beach club, along with 142 guest rooms. Nearby, Boca Grande Hotel provides a laid-back yet comfortable stay for attendees looking for a relaxed island vibe. Just a short boat ride away, Palm Island Resort is perfect for smaller retreats, while Manasota Key Resort offers a picturesque backdrop for corporate escapes and family celebrations. For larger conferences, Sunseeker Resort on the Charlotte Harbor provides 60,000 square feet of event space, just a short trip from the island.
Attendees can unwind with premier fishing excursions in the “Tarpon Fishing Capital of the World” or explore the island’s waterways by kayak and boat. A can’t-miss attraction is Gasparilla Island State Park, which boasts opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation and is home to the Boca Grande Lighthouse.
Key Biscayne, Fla.
Just across the Rickenbacker Causeway from the bustling energy of Miami, Key Biscayne feels like a world away. Surrounded by Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, this hidden gem offers a rare mix of tropical tranquility and easy access to the city, making it an ideal destination for groups seeking the best of both worlds.
The island offers the ultimate in luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, Miami. In addition to multiple pools, a spa, a private beach, and half a dozen bars and restaurants, the MICHELIN-selected resort provides more than 25,000 square feet of indoor state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces, including 26 event rooms, and 35,000 square feet of outdoor venues.
Beyond the resort, attendees can indulge in the relaxed atmosphere and natural paradise of Key Biscayne, whether that’s exploring pristine beaches, snorkeling or diving at Neptune Memorial Reef, playing a round of golf at the 18-hole Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne, or visiting the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. Groups can immerse themselves in nature at Marjory Stoneman Douglas Biscayne Nature Center, for guided or self-guided tours of Bear Cut preserve to check out the mangroves and fossilized coral reef.
Little St. Simons Island, Ga.
For an exclusive and immersive retreat, Little St. Simons Island offers a secluded paradise where meetings and events become unforgettable experiences. Accessible only by boat, this privately owned, 11,000-acre barrier island is a haven of natural beauty, sustainability, and Southern hospitality.
The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island provides an intimate setting, with six historic cottages that accommodate up to 32 guests at one time, making it ideal for executive retreats, leadership summits, and small incentive trips. Attendees can trade conference rooms for guided nature walks, kayak through winding tidal creeks, or unwind on seven miles of pristine, undeveloped beach. The island’s professional naturalists lead engaging eco-tours, offering a unique opportunity to see conservation efforts in action. Farm-to-table dining—featuring ingredients harvested from the island’s gardens—elevates the experience, while evenings spent rocking on breezy porches or watching the sunset over the marsh add to the island’s tranquil allure.
For groups looking to foster collaboration and inspiration in an unspoiled, off-the-grid setting, Little St. Simons Island delivers an unparalleled mix of adventure, relaxation, and exclusivity. Whether for a multi-day gathering or a carefully curated day trip, this hidden gem is the ultimate destination for a meeting with nature.
Sea Island, Ga.
Nestled on Georgia’s scenic coast, Sea Island is the ultimate luxurious experience. For nearly a century, this Forbes Five-Star luxury resort has perfected the art of gracious hospitality, offering an exclusive setting where business blends seamlessly with the beauty of nature. From live oaks draped in Spanish moss to five miles of private beaches, every corner of Sea Island exudes sophistication and tranquility, making it an unforgettable backdrop for corporate gatherings, executive retreats, and special events.
With 30,000 square feet of flexible indoor meeting space and a variety of guest rooms among The Cloister, The Lodge, and The Inn, Sea Island caters to groups of all sizes. The elegant Cloister Ballroom, with its rich woodwork and crystal chandeliers, accommodates up to 600 guests in its 7,855 square feet of space, while Mizner Ballroom, featuring large arched windows and crystal lighting, offers a refined atmosphere for up to 500 and its own adjacent private courtyard. For more intimate gatherings, the Lodge Wine Cellar provides an Old World ambiance, and the Trophy Room immerses attendees in golf history. Even the Golf Performance Center offers unique meeting spaces with panoramic views of St. Simons Sound.
Beyond the boardroom, Sea Island delivers world-class experiences, from championship golf and spa retreats to shooting schools and horseback riding. At Sea Island, meetings don’t just happen—they inspire.
Tybee Island, Ga.
Just 30 minutes from Savannah, Tybee Island merges coastal charm with modern meeting amenities, offering a setting where productivity meets relaxation. Its diverse venues cater to gatherings of all sizes, whether you’re planning a beachfront corporate retreat, a formal reception, or an intimate networking event.
Hotel Tybee, the island’s largest beachfront hotel with 208 guest rooms, provides flexible meeting spaces with ocean views and group-friendly accommodations. The Tybee Island Wedding Chapel & Grand Ballroom offers an elegant, light-filled space perfect for large receptions and corporate banquets. For a more intimate setting, the historic Tybee Post Theater delivers a unique backdrop for events as it was originally constructed in 1930 as a movie house for soldiers stationed at the local Army base. Those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere can opt for beachfront vacation rentals or boutique hotels, like Beachside Colony Resort or DeSoto Beach Hotel—the island’s only beachfront hotel—allowing attendees to stay just steps from the sand.
Beyond the boardroom, Tybee Island’s laid-back charm invites attendees to unwind with dolphin-watching tours, shark-tooth hunting, and scenic biking trails. History buffs can explore nearby Fort Pulaski, while the island’s quaint shops and seafood restaurants offer plenty of local flavor. With easy access from Savannah and the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), Tybee Island sets the stage for memorable and engaging gatherings.
Grand Isle, La.
Tucked away along Louisiana’s picturesque shoreline, Grand Isle is a coastal escape where meetings come with a side of adventure. As the state’s only inhabited barrier island, this hidden gem delivers breathtaking Gulf views, miles of sandy beaches, and a front-row seat to some of the best fishing and birding in the country. It’s where Louisiana’s wild beauty meets rich maritime heritage, making it a one-of-a-kind destination for groups seeking to embrace the great outdoors.
Grand Isle offers unique meeting venues that put nature front and center. With 6,700 total square feet of space, the Grand Isle Town Hall and Multiplex provide flexible meeting spaces. For a waterfront experience, Tarpon Rodeo Pavilion and Bridge Side Marina offer space with a view, and Hurricane Hole Marina & Resort can accommodate a range of events with its new boutique event center.
Attendees can savor fresh Gulf seafood at local favorites like Starfish Restaurant and Hurricane Hole Restaurant, tour the Oyster Research Lab, or explore the island’s renowned fishing waters.
Solomons Island, Md.
Nestled at the mouth of the Patuxent River on Maryland’s Western Shore, Solomons Island offers a distinctive blend of history, natural beauty, and waterfront charm, making it an inviting destination. Just 90 minutes from Washington, D.C., and two hours from Baltimore, this picturesque island provides a refreshing change of pace while remaining easily accessible.
Solomons Inn Resort + Marina serves as the island’s largest event venue, boasting 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, making it ideal for conferences, receptions, and executive retreats. Additional lodging options, including a historic lighthouse keeper’s cottage, add a unique touch to nearby offerings.
The island also offers a wealth of group-friendly activities. The Calvert Marine Museum features hands-on exhibits, a river otter habitat, and sightseeing cruises aboard a historic Chesapeake Bay oyster buyboat. For a deeper dive into environmental research, the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory offers educational insights into the Bay’s ecosystem. Art lovers will enjoy the nearby Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center, which provides indoor and outdoor event spaces amid stunning artistic displays.
Tilghman Island, Md.
Tucked between the Chesapeake Bay and the Choptank River, Tilghman Island is a hidden gem on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, offering a serene and authentic setting for smaller meetings and corporate retreats. Just a short drive from major metropolitan areas, this three-mile-long island feels worlds away, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Meeting planners will find a variety of lodging and event spaces embracing the island’s maritime charm. Wylder Hotel, Knapps Narrows Marina & Inn, and Tilghman Island Inn offer waterfront accommodations with a relaxed, boutique feel.
Beyond the meeting room, attendees have numerous opportunities to immerse themselves in the local culture. Groups can embark on sailing charters, fishing or crabbing excursions, powerboat or jet ski adventures, or kayak through scenic water trails. The Tilghman Island Watermen’s Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich maritime history.
Dining on Tilghman Island is a true Chesapeake Bay experience, with fresh-caught seafood and locally sourced ingredients taking center stage. For those craving more nightlife or culinary variety, St. Michaels, Oxford, and Easton are just a short drive away, rounding out the perfect mix of business and leisure.
Ship Island, Miss.
For groups gathering in Biloxi or Gulfport, a visit to Ship Island, part of the Mississippi Gulf Islands National Seashore, offers an unforgettable teambuilding experience. Just 11 miles offshore, this undeveloped barrier island is only accessible by ferry or private charter, making the journey part of the adventure. Along the way, groups might spot dolphins playing in the Gulf waters before arriving at pristine white-sand beaches.
Ship Island blends history, nature, and relaxation. Attendees can tour Fort Massachusetts, a well-preserved Civil War-era fort where National Park Service guides share stories of the island’s past. For those seeking recreation, the island boasts lifeguarded swimming areas (summer only), beach rentals, and scenic trails perfect for wildlife spotting. Whether it’s an afternoon of shelling, a picnic by the shore, or simply unwinding and taking in the spectacular Gulf Coast sunset, Ship Island provides a refreshing retreat from the business of a meeting.
With top-tier meeting spaces available in Biloxi and Gulfport—like the Beau Rivage, Golden Nugget, IP Casino Resort, Centennial Plaza, and the soon-to-open Markham Hotel—plus 16,000 hotel rooms in the area, groups can seamlessly mix business with a rejuvenating escape to one of the Gulf Coast’s most treasured coastal adventures.
Carolina and Kure Beaches, N.C.
Nestled along the southeastern coast of North Carolina, Pleasure Island is a barrier island just south of Wilmington. Home to the coastal towns of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach and the Wilmington Beach and Hanby Beach communities, this island escape provides a relaxed yet dynamic setting for meetings, retreats, and corporate gatherings.
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Wilmington, Pleasure Island offers the best of both worlds: an easily accessible coastal retreat with modern meeting facilities, oceanfront accommodations, and various offsite activities encouraging networking and teambuilding. The 144-room Courtyard Marriott Carolina Beach Oceanfront—the only oceanfront Marriott in North Carolina—features a spacious ballroom and stunning ocean views, while Golden Sands Beach Resort provides an intimate beachfront venue with 1,200 square feet of meeting space. For a more unconventional setting, groups can host events at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, one of the state’s most popular attractions. Trip Advisor has also named it one of the top aquariums in the country.
When the meetings wrap, attendees can explore Carolina Beach State Park, visit the historic Fort Fisher State Site, or take advantage of the many water activities, such as surfing, standup paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Hatteras Island, N.C.
Nestled at the southern tip of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Hatteras Island is a sought-after destination, thanks to its
natural beauty and rich maritime history. Known for its pristine beaches, world-class fishing, and iconic lighthouse, this coastal retreat offers a refreshing escape from the typical meeting destination.
For an exceptional event venue, Hatteras Marlin Club stands out. Originally founded in 1959, this private club has a legacy rooted in sport fishing and camaraderie. Following a 2023 renovation, the venue now boasts a two-story clubhouse with panoramic views of Pamlico Sound, offering ample space for meetings, dining, and networking. With indoor and outdoor spaces, in-house catering, and a capacity of 125 guests, it’s an ideal spot for corporate retreats, strategic planning sessions, and executive gatherings.
While on the island, attendees can enjoy offshore fishing excursions, horseback rides along the beach, the iconic Hatteras Lighthouse, or visit the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum, which honors the thousands of shipwrecks resting in the state’s coastal waters.
Daufuskie Island, S.C.
Tucked between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, Daufuskie Island is a secluded paradise steeped in history and natural beauty. Just one nautical mile from Hilton Head, this boat-access-only island feels like a secluded gem with its unspoiled landscape and timeless charm. Daufuskie’s charm lies in its pristine landscapes, rich Gullah heritage, and slower pace of life.
For those looking for a unique excursion from Hilton Head, a Daufuskie day trip is the perfect escape. Visitors can explore the island’s history with a guided tour from Sallie Ann Robinson, a Gullah chef and native islander who brings the island’s culture to life through storytelling. Touring by golf cart is the preferred way to experience Daufuskie’s unpaved roads, leading to landmarks like the First Union African Baptist Church and Bloody Point Lighthouse. After soaking in the island’s history, visitors can enjoy a laid-back waterfront lunch at Freeport Marina.
With its untouched beaches, artistic enclaves, and deep cultural roots, Daufuskie Island is both a destination and a journey, making it an inspiring escape—perfect for an unexpected morning or afternoon getaway built into an event agenda.
Folly Island, S.C.
Situated on Folly Island, just 11 miles from downtown Charleston, Folly Beach is a quintessential coastal retreat blending business with the easygoing charm of a beach town. Known as the “Edge of America,” this barrier island offers a unique setting for meetings and events, where ocean breezes and breathtaking views set the stage for productive gatherings and memorable experiences.
The Tides Folly Beach Hotel offers oceanfront meeting spaces with stunning Atlantic vistas and approximately 5,500 square feet of banquet space. The Pelican Watch Pavilion at Folly Beach County Park offers a 1,200-square-foot open-air venue just steps from the sand. For smaller gatherings, local favorites like Rita’s Seaside Grill provide private dining options in a relaxed, Lowcountry atmosphere.
When visiting Folly Beach, attendees are drawn into the island’s vibrant culture, and the options to do so are plentiful. Some popular activities include strolling along the newly rebuilt Folly Beach Pier, dining on fresh seafood at Pier 101, and embracing adventure with surfing lessons, eco-tours, or paddleboarding through serene tidal creeks. The island’s walkability ensures easy access to unique shops, lively bars, and beachside dining, making downtime as enjoyable as the main event.
Mustang Island, Texas
Stretching 18 miles along the Texas Gulf Coast, Mustang Island is a true island escape, with Port Aransas as its only developed city. Known for its laid-back charm and beautiful beaches, this barrier island offers a perfect mix of productivity and relaxation.
Accommodations cater to every preference in Port Aransas, from beachfront condos and charming cottages to luxury stays at Palmilla Beach or Cinnamon Shore, which also offers indoor and outdoor space to host gatherings. Planners seeking an offsite meeting venue will appreciate Port Aransas Civic Center, which can accommodate more than 1,000 attendees.
When it’s time to unwind, attendees can enjoy everything from kayaking and paddleboarding to birdwatching and boat tours to the Lydia Ann Lighthouse. Seafood lovers will appreciate the town’s fresh-off-the-boat dining scene, while those looking to explore can check out local attractions like the Port Aransas Museum or Farley Boat Works.
Pelican Island, Texas
A one-of-a-kind waterfront setting just 50 miles from Houston, Pelican Island offers a secluded yet convenient escape. Connected to Galveston by a small bridge, this hidden gem features stunning views of the Galveston Ship Channel, making it a picturesque backdrop.
At the heart of Pelican Island’s event offerings is Texas A&M Galveston’s Aggie Special Events Center (ASEC), a state-of-the-art venue with 38,000 square feet of meeting space, including seminar rooms and a grand ballroom. For a more picturesque waterfront experience, the Waterfront Pavilion and Amphitheater—one of Galveston’s only venues off the Galveston Bay Channel—boasts glass walls on three sides and a 310-foot outdoor amphitheater.
Groups looking for a more intimate setting or outdoor opportunities can find just that at Seawolf Park and the Galveston Naval Museum, where history meets the open air.
For those wanting to extend their event beyond the island, nearby Galveston offers a wealth of attractions, from the iconic Pleasure Pier and historic Grand Opera House to the immersive experiences of Moody Gardens—ensuring attendees enjoy both work and play.
Browns Island, Va.
With riverfront views, ample green space, and easy access to Richmond’s urban energy, Brown’s Island delivers a one-of-a-kind experience. Nestled within the James River Park System, this expansive outdoor venue provides a picturesque setting for large gatherings, particularly in the spring and fall, when the weather is ideal.
Boasting uninterrupted views of the city skyline and the serene waters of the James River, Brown’s Island often hosts some of Richmond’s most iconic festivals, including Riverrock and the Richmond Folk Festival. On the island, guests can take in the sights of North America’s only urban Class III and IV whitewater rapids, stroll across the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge, or explore nearby cultural landmarks like the American Civil War Museum and Virginia War Memorial.
Located just minutes from downtown Richmond, Brown’s Island is within walking distance of more than 2,000 hotel rooms, ranging from boutique stays at Quirk Hotel Richmond to luxury accommodations at The Jefferson Hotel. For groups needing a more traditional setup, the Greater Richmond Convention Center, the largest in Virginia, is just one mile away, ensuring a seamless blend of outdoor beauty and urban convenience.
Chincoteague Island, Va.
Virginia’s only resort island, Chincoteague Island is a tranquil retreat where natural beauty and coastal charm meet. Free from high-rises and the hustle of larger beach destinations, this serene island on Virginia’s Eastern Shore is the gateway to Assateague Island and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, home to the world-famous wild ponies. With miles of unspoiled beaches, scenic trails, and breathtaking sunrises over the Atlantic, Chincoteague offers an inspiring backdrop for groups seeking a unique destination that’s close to nature yet still conveniently located to most major cities in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Chincoteague Center is a multipurpose venue on the island that provides a flexible and well-equipped meeting space of approximately 9,000 square feet. While the island does not have a large convention center, its accommodations offer top-tier hospitality just minutes from Chincoteague Center. The award-winning Hampton Inn, along with Comfort Suites, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and Marina Bay, ensures attendees enjoy a comfortable stay with stunning waterfront views.
Beyond the meeting space, Chincoteague invites guests to experience its famed coastal cuisine—fresh oysters, clams, and local seafood—along with boat tours, kayaking adventures, and boutique shopping.
