Latest news with #TheGeorgeHotel
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Travel + Leisure
29-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Underrated Coastal Region in South Carolina Has Pristine Beaches and Tasty Local Seafood—and It's Still Quiet and Affordable
Stay at The George Hotel, an exciting new addition to Georgetown's hospitality scene. Pack your sunscreen, towels, and a picnic lunch for a beach day on Pawleys Island or at Litchfield Beach. Pick up some fresh shrimp at Seven Seas Seafood in Murrells Inlet to cook your own seafood feast. Buy a hammock from The Original Hammock Shop in Pawleys Island as a souvenir from your travels. Visit during the shoulder seasons—fall and spring—if you want to explore the area without summer crowds. While Charleston and Myrtle Beach have the name recognition when it comes to waterfront destinations in South Carolina, they're not the only places you can find gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood, and a generally laid-back atmosphere. In fact, the area between the two coastal cities was deemed the 'Hammock Coast' in 2010, harkening back to its relaxed nature and its history; a 19th-century boat captain, Joshua John Ward, created what's now known as the Pawleys Island Hammock, a comfortable rope hammock that's still made in the area today. The Hammock Coast is made up of six unique communities. Along with Pawleys Island, there's Garden City, Murrells Inlet, Litchfield, Georgetown, and Andrews. Though each has its own appeal, they all have one thing in common: waterfront views. 'Understandably, most people face east toward the salt marsh and Atlantic Ocean when they come here. That's great—it's the beach, after all. But what they don't always realize is that we've got this big, beautiful, historical river system to the west,' says Hastings Hensel, owner of River Reader Kayaking. 'The land here is really just a thin ribbon between two vast bodies of water, and two very different (but equally beautiful) ecosystems.' Whether you're venturing to this part of the Palmetto State for the rivers or the ocean, here's how to plan a trip to South Carolina's Hammock Coast. Colorful details in a guest room at The George Hotel. 'The Pelican Inn on Pawleys Island is a historic gem with access to both tidal marsh and oceanfront views. It's extremely special,' says Judith Puckett-Rinella, proprietor of Wicklow Hall, a boutique bed-and-breakfast in Georgetown. Open seasonally (Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day), the eight-room property is housed in one of the barrier island's original buildings; it dates back to the 1840s. The guest rooms accommodate between two and four people, and rates include a family-style breakfast and lunch for two. Opened in 2024, The George Hotel quickly became one of the top places to stay in Georgetown. 'It has brilliant design, an outstanding restaurant in The Independent, and a perfect location right on the water,' says Puckett-Rinella. Each of the 56 rooms is decked out in stunning colors, patterns, and all the modern amenities you could need, including Malin + Goetz bath products, cozy robes, and a coffee and tea station. 'The Sea View Inn is something right out of a dream. It's classic Pawleys Island—a clapboard salt-worn inn with a beach porch for sunrise and a marsh dock for sunset,' says Hensel. 'You can spend all morning in the sand and waves before they ring a bell for their family-style lunch, and then you retreat to your room for a box fan nap, only to wake up in time for an afternoon stroll before a breezy BYOB happy hour.' The property also comes recommended by Bruce and Corinne Taylor, owners of the neighboring Pelican Inn. The harbor in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. digidreamgrafix/Getty Images Technically, only the southern portion of Garden City is part of the Hammock Coast. Here, you'll find vacation rentals, beach access, Marlin Quay (a full-service marina), and the Gulf Stream Cafe. The latter is an institution in the area, serving up shrimp, oysters, and a daily local catch. 'Murrells Inlet has always been known as a little, close-knit fishing town. As many surrounding areas continue to grow and develop, the inlet has evolved while maintaining its unique, small-town, Southern charm,' says Katelin Lindrose, marketing director at Crazy Sister Marina. 'The Murrells Inlet salt marsh is one of the few true salt marshes on the eastern seaboard,' adds Hensel. 'That is, no freshwater rivers empty into it—the marsh is entirely fed by the ocean—so the salinity is high. This makes our oysters some of the tastiest and our barstool views some of the prettiest.' Murrells Inlet also claims the title of the 'Seafood Capital of South Carolina,' so you'll definitely want to venture to this part of the coast for at least one or two meals during your trip. South of Murrells Inlet is the community of Litchfield Beach. Named one of 2025's best places to retire, this is a destination that's all about relaxation—lounging on the beach, golfing, taking a leisurely bike ride, or immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Huntington Beach State Park, which sits directly to the north. 'What sets Pawleys Island, where we live and operate The Pelican Inn, apart from other parts of the Hammock Coast, is that it is a quiet residential beach that has tried hard to maintain its long-time title of arrogantly shabby,' the Taylors share. 'Life slows down when you cross the causeway onto the island.' The barrier island is about four miles long and, for the most part, one house wide. The shops and restaurants commonly associated with Pawleys are actually located on the mainland, which is connected to the island by two causeways. 'Georgetown is uniquely situated directly on the waterfront, and that access is open to everyone,' says Puckett-Rinella. The third-oldest city in South Carolina is also home to the Gullah Museum, which highlights local Gullah culture, and hosts the annual Georgetown Wooden Boat Show in October. The town of Andrews, South Carolina, is miles away from the ocean, but it draws in kayakers and anglers due to its proximity to the Black River. A boardwalk through a wetland in Huntington Beach State Park. One of Puckett-Rinella's favorite activities is a 'day trip to the white-sand beaches of Pawleys Island,' adding that you 'can even book a surf lesson with David from South End Adventures.' There are several public beach access points on the island, but you'll find the most parking at the South End. 'One thing visitors shouldn't overlook is the water. Be sure to work it into your plans, whether it be a boat trip, an eco kayak tour, a guided fishing outing, or simply a beach day,' says Puckett-Rinella. 'However you choose to experience it, the water is the soul of this region. You'll be grateful you made it part of your journey.' With his company, River Reader Kayaking, Hensel takes visitors on history, sunset, and nature tours along the Waccamaw River and through the Murrells Inlet marsh. Crazy Sister Marina also offers dolphin-watching tours, fishing charters, and sunset cruises, among other excursions. 'While you're there, you can also stop by any of the delicious restaurants on the MarshWalk for lunch or dinner, enjoy some live music, and take in the breathtaking views,' says Lindrose. 'Huntington Beach State Park is a favorite of mine. It's a nature lover's paradise where you can easily spend a day with the family. The park offers pristine beaches, multiple hiking trails, a chance to see the alligators along 'Alligator Alley,' and the opportunity to visit the historic and beautiful Atalaya Castle,' says Lindrose. The park is dog friendly, and admission is $8 for adults (plus an extra $2 to see the castle). The Taylors also recommend Brookgreen Gardens, describing it as a 'beautiful and educational respite.' The sculpture garden and wildlife preserve is just a few minutes from the state park, so you can easily check out both in the same day. 'After dinner, there's nothing better than a stroll along the historic waterfront,' says Puckett-Rinella, referring to the Harborwalk in Georgetown. There are several entry points to the 10-foot-wide, four-block-long boardwalk that sits between the harbor and Front Street, and it gives way to some pretty amazing views of the Sampit River. Left: Store front of Rice Birds; Right: China being sold at Rice Birds. Front Street in Georgetown is home to several shops that come recommended by locals. Puckett-Rinella favors Indigo Mercantile, noting that the store 'carries locally sourced everything, from art to specialty Carolina food products like grits, rice, honey, hot sauce, and even locally made charcuterie boxes.' 'We also adore Wildflower & Whiskey Clothing Co., also on Front Street. It's fun and fashion-forward, with playful pieces and a welcoming staff,' she adds. The Taylors also suggest Sara & Beth Gifts and Rice Birds on Front Street. And if you need a new beach read? Pop into Waterfront Books. If you're in a shopping mood, head to Hammock Shops Village in Pawleys Island, where you'll discover more than 20 stores. Snag a Pawleys Island rope hammock at The Original Hammock Shop, a new pair of sandals at Pawleys Island Shoes, or a bottle of artisanal olive oil at Pawleys Island Olive Oil. Bird's eye view of several plates from Frank's On Front. 'For dinner, 631 Frank's on Front has a lively, stylish crowd. We especially love that they welcome pets. Many of our guests staying in our cottages and cabins, which are dog friendly, enjoy alfresco dining with their fur babies on Frank's back deck right on the water,' says Puckett-Rinella. While 631 is the official name, locals fondly refer to the restaurant as 'Frank's on Front,' a reference to the owners' restaurants; Frank's and Frank's Outback are located on Pawleys Island. 'For lunch, we love Thomas Café in Georgetown. It has that small-town charm and delivers true local fare: fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and sweet tea on every table. Their daily po' boy, whether it's shrimp, oysters, or whiting, is always perfect,' says Puckett-Rinella. 'Our favorite restaurants are Chive Blossom, Frank's, and Bistro 217 in Pawleys,' the Taylors share. But if you're after a great burger, they have two can't-miss spots: BisQit and the Pawleys Island Tavern (The PIT). 'Since the area boasts a strong fishing culture, we have earned the title of the 'Seafood Capital of South Carolina,' so you'll be sure to find some of the freshest seafood options up and down the coast. The food is delicious, the views from the outdoor dining areas cannot be beat, and the live music at many of the restaurants really creates that perfect coastal vibe,' says Lindrose. Although there are a handful to choose from, start your restaurant tour with The Claw House or Russell's Seafood Grill. Or, you can follow Hensel's advice: 'Here's the move: Grab a coffee from Brown Fox on your way to Perry's Bait & Tackle, where you buy a dip-net, some chicken necks, a hand-line, and a six-pack. Catch some crabs in the salt marsh at Oyster Landing, then buy a few pounds of shrimp from Seven Seas Seafood to throw in the pot with them. Get your potatoes, corn, onion, and andouille sausage from Lee's Farmers Market. Voila—you've got all you need for our greatest local dish, a Lowcountry Boil, with all your ingredients purchased from small, family-run businesses.' Three birds in Huntington Beach State Park. 'There truly is no bad time to visit the Hammock Coast, but I always encourage visitors to check us out during the spring and fall. During that time of the year, the weather is almost always perfect as it isn't too hot or cold, the fish are biting, and the beaches are beautiful,' says Lindrose. 'It's a great time to rent a boat and explore, charter a fishing trip, or enjoy a relaxing cruise before the summer crowds hit.' While Hastings agrees with the suggestion to visit during the shoulder seasons, he also notes that winter is 'underrated.' 'It doesn't get so cold that we can't enjoy being out on the water, and the whole place is a little more relaxed without the summer crowds,' he says. If you do visit in the summer—and you can handle the South Carolina humidity—you're in for a treat. The Taylors share that along with the heat and humidity comes 'ocean breezes and fresh seafood.' A winding road through South Carolina. Beach International Airport (MYR) is the closest airport to the towns along the Hammock Coast; it's about a 20- or 30-minute drive to Garden City and Murrells Inlet, respectively. MYR is served by most major U.S.-based airlines, including American, Delta, Southwest, and United. Flying into Charleston International Airport (CHS) is also an option; it's about 75 miles from the Hammock Coast. There's also the option to travel to the region by boat, as there are a number of docks and marinas in Georgetown and Murrells Inlet. Some of the Hammock Coast towns are walkable, like the downtown areas of Georgetown and Pawleys Island, but, for the most part, you'll want to drive or rent a car. Once you've arrived at your destination, you can choose to get around on two wheels. Rent a bike from Pawleys Island Beach Service, Myrtle Beach Bicycles (located in Murrells Inlet), or Cyclopedia.
Yahoo
07-06-2025
- Yahoo
7 Waterfront Resorts That Prove Rivers, Lakes, And Bays Are Just As Good As The Beach
The 'waterfront' descriptor may be synonymous with beach access and hotels with ocean views, but it's not limited to seaside properties. You'll get all the same benefits—the gentle breezes, the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and a generally relaxed atmosphere—when staying somewhere that overlooks a river, bay, lake, creek, or any other non-ocean waterway. No, there are no rhythmic waves to watch, but the light reflecting off the water, the passing boats, and the occasional wildlife sighting are just as appealing. While we all wait for the highly anticipated opening of The Cooper on the eponymous river in Charleston later this year, there are several other waterfront resorts and hotels that aren't by a beach to check out—and we rounded up seven of our favorites below. Austin, Texas While Austin is technically landlocked, the Texan city has no shortage of bodies of water to enjoy—from Barton Creek to Lake Austin. The adults-only Lake Austin Spa Resort takes full advantage of its position on the water reservoir, created by a dam on the Colorado River. Spend your days wakeboarding, kayaking, or trying your hand at paddleboard yoga. And if you want to take it a little easier? The sunset cocktail cruise or a private wine cruise should suit you just fine. 1705 S Quinlan Park Rd, Austin, TX 78732 Georgetown, South Carolina Recently featured in The South's Best, The George Hotel has quickly gained notoriety for its creative design, culinary offerings, and its location on the Sampit River, just a 2-minute walk to the Harborwalk Marina. After an afternoon strolling through Historic Georgetown, come back to the hotel for a quick change and a pre-dinner drink at Eliza's, the relaxed, open-air waterfront bar at the back of the property. Pro tip: Book one of the water-view rooms or a suite with a private balcony for even more magical views. 615 Front St, Georgetown, SC 29440 Bluffton, South Carolina Montage Palmetto Bluff has a reputation that precedes itself. It's luxurious, family-friendly, and its lineup of amenities and activities is nearly unrivaled; there's sporting clays, horseback riding, golf, complimentary bicycles, and all sorts of water-based activities that revolve around the property's position along the May River. Take a kayak or canoe out right before sunset, fly fish in the salt marsh flats, learn more about the local wildlife on a Dolphin Discovery Cruise, or join a naturalist on a guided paddleboarding tour. 477 Mt Pelia Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910 West Palm Beach, Florida You stay on Palm Beach for the beach access, but West Palm Beach's views of the Lake Worth Lagoon, filled with luxury yachts, aren't ones to scoff at. Head up to the outdoor pool or the rooftop bar and restaurant at The Ben, Autograph Collection to soak up the Florida sunshine without having to worry about any of the sand or not-so-pleasant wind you'd experience while at a beachfront property. Select rooms look out onto the Palm Harbor Marina, so you can continue your boat-watching from bed. 251 N Narcissus Ave, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Johns Island, South Carolina The Dunlin, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, opened its doors to guests in the summer of 2024 and immediately became one of the top places to stay in the greater Charleston area. Located on Johns Island, the 72-key resort overlooks the meandering Kiawah River and its spartina grass, marsh flats, and neighboring oak trees. Guests can take to the waterway via a sea kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, getting a closer look at the birds, fish, and bottlenose dolphins that call the river home. There's also the option to embark on a river safari, or go fishing and crabbing along the tidal creeks with local anglers. 6000 Kiawah River Dr, Johns Island, SC 29455 Lake Toxaway, North Carolina The Greystone Inn is everything a lake retreat should be: cozy, intimate, and filled with places where you can sit and stare out onto the water. The Western North Carolina gem is a year-round getaway for those escaping to Lake Toxaway, but the fresh mountain waters are particularly inviting in the summertime. Guests can access canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to navigate the largest private lake in the state, or rent a motorized boat from the Lake Toxaway Marina for a few rounds of tubing or waterskiing. 220 Greystone Ln, Lake Toxaway, NC 28747 Robbinsville, North Carolina As you can probably tell from its name, the Historic Tapaco Lodge has been around for a while—since 1930, to be exact. Tucked into the Great Smoky Mountains in Robbinsville, North Carolina, the property covers about 120 acres along the Cheoah River, a tributary of the Little Tennessee River. The sound of the rushing water, the cabin-like rooms, the riverfront restaurant, and the nightly bonfires work together to create a guest experience that's equally nostalgic as it is comforting. 14981 Tapoco Rd, Robbinsville, NC 28771 Read the original article on Southern Living
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Stormtroopers descend on Oxfordshire town for Make-A-Wish
Jez Allinson with his Star War character assistants at the Wallingford event (Image: Jez Allinson) An Oxfordshire town got a visit from Star Wars' Darth Vader, Stormtroopers and more this weekend in a hugely successful charity event. The Running stormtrooper, also known as Jez Allinson, visited The George Hotel in Wallingford on Sunday for an event raising money for children's charity Make-A-Wish. It's the latest on the beloved character's exploits around the UK, which has so far raised more than £83,000 for children's charities. READ MORE: Oxfordshire racing stable assistant found dead at home With the sell-out event in Wallingford, including ticket sales, a raffle and three auctions, Mr Allinson thinks that an additional £2,300 has been raised, bringing the total up to more than £85K. ADVERTISEMENT He said: "The George Hotel were brilliant, they donated the function room and we had all the tables and everything laid out. Stay connected to the heart of Oxford for less! 🚨 Our flash sale is ON: get trusted local news for just £5 for 5 months or 40 per cent off an annual subscription. Don't miss out — subscribe now! 🗞️👇 — Oxford Mail (@TheOxfordMail) April 29, 2025 "It pretty much looked like a Make-A-Wish wedding by the time I was finished with it! "I'm really, really pleased with the money raised. The whole evening went so well." He thanked the "brilliant and generous" businesses who donated prizes for the raffle held at the family-friendly event. ADVERTISEMENT READ MORE: Oxford University receives share of £1.1m for new project Described as a "wonderfully unique event," Jez shared the Running Stormtrooper Story, "one of the most positive and inspirational Star Wars fan stories in the Galaxy. In the past, he's run the London Marathon, Ultra Runs at Pinewood Studios, and took on a 1000-mile challenge in 2020. In Wallingford, Jez was supported by several Star Wars characters, and auctioned off must-have prizes for franchise fans, including a framed Return of the Jedi 1982 storyboard donated by PropStore.
