The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

HOTEL OVERVIEW

So here’s the thing about The Westin on Hilton Head – it’s one of those places that actually delivers on what you’re picturing when you book a beach resort. I mean, you pull up to 2 Grasslawn Avenue and immediately get that “okay, this is happening” feeling. The lobby hits you with that perfect balance of upscale without being stuffy, and honestly, the staff seems genuinely happy to see you, which isn’t always a given at these bigger properties.

What really got me was how they’ve managed to feel both polished and relaxed at the same time. The rooms – well, they’re exactly what you’d expect from Westin, which is to say really comfortable beds (those Heavenly beds aren’t just marketing hype) and bathrooms where you can actually spread out your stuff. But here’s what I appreciated: the balcony views are legit. You’re not looking at a parking lot or the back of another building. You’re getting actual ocean or marsh views, and during those Lowcountry sunsets? Yeah, you’ll be out there with your drink just watching the whole sky turn colors. The spa is worth mentioning too – I usually skip hotel spas because they’re overpriced and underwhelming, but this one actually knows what it’s doing. After a day of walking around Harbour Town or dealing with the crowds at Coligny Beach, those treatment rooms become pretty appealing.

Location-wise, you’re right in the sweet spot of the island. You can walk to the beach without any drama, but you’re also close enough to hop over to Sea Pines or drive down to Shelter Cove when you want to mix things up. The resort’s pool area gets busy during peak season (basically March through October), but there are enough spots that you’re not fighting for chairs at 7 AM. One thing to know – parking is included, which might sound obvious but isn’t always the case at beach resorts these days. The restaurants on-site are solid, though honestly, with places like The Crazy Crab and Hudson’s Seafood House just a short drive away, you’ll probably want to venture out for at least a few meals. Check-in can get backed up on Saturday afternoons when everyone’s arriving for their week, but the lobby bar makes waiting less painful. Overall, it’s the kind of place that makes Hilton Head feel like the vacation you were hoping for – polished enough that you feel like you’re treating yourself, but comfortable enough that you’re not worried about getting sand on something or your kids being too loud by the pool.