Renowned for its warm hospitality, the Southern region showcases its finest at family-oriented retreats scattered throughout. These establishments excel in catering to a diverse age range, ensuring that activities cater to the youngest tots without excluding teenagers, young adults, or those in their twilight years. They often feature expansive multi-bedroom lodgings, carefully crafted children’s programs, and meticulously designed amenities that leave every member of your group eager for a repeat visit.
Whether it’s a cherished seaside retreat or a year-round mountain escape, here are some of the top Southern resorts tailored for families, presented without any specific ranking.
Isle of Palms, South Carolina
For a quintessential family beach resort, look no further than Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms. Spanning 1,600 acres, this retreat offers a comprehensive array of amenities for a tranquil family vacation, including beachfront access, a spa, tennis facilities, golfing, on-site dining, and multiple resort pools. Accommodation choices range from spacious suites to beachfront condos and vacation homes, ensuring comfort and convenience for all.
hyatt.com/destination-by-hyatt/wilddunes-charleston-island-resort; 5 Seagrove Ln., Isle of Palms, SC 29451
Bath County, Virginia
Hot Springs, Virginia
Considered a well-kept secret, the Omni Homestead Resort & Spa stands out as a beacon of family-friendly hospitality in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia. Known for its natural hot springs and spa, it appeals to older guests, while its indoor pool, two-acre water park with slides and a lazy river, and lawn games attract younger visitors. With two 18-hole golf courses, clay tennis courts, and nightly films, there’s something for everyone. And for those with pets under 60 pounds, they’re welcome to join the family adventure.
omnihotels.com/hotels/homestead-virginia; 7696 Sam Snead Hwy, Hot Springs, VA 24445
Bluffton, South Carolina
Montage Palmetto Bluff, nestled in the charming town of Bluffton, is a cherished Southern destination among families. The resort boasts accommodations ranging from two-bedroom cottages to homes with two to five bedrooms, providing ample space for larger groups during their Lowcountry vacation. With activities tailored to different ages and interests, guests can explore treehouses, enjoy pools during warmer months, roast s’mores, and partake in golfing, beach cycling, and kayaking. The resort also offers Paintbox, a children’s program for ages 5 to 12, and the Stay & Stroll Program allows guests to borrow a complimentary UPPAbaby Remi™ Playard or Ridge® Jogging Stroller. Dog-friendly accommodations ensure that every family member can accompany you on your trip.
montage.com/palmettobluff; 477 Mt Pelia Rd., Bluffton, SC 29910
Greensboro, Georgia
The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, is a lakeside haven for family fun. Perfect for multi-generational groups, the resort offers a variety of activities to suit all tastes. Spend the day at the family pool with geysers and splashpads to beat the Georgia heat, or venture out onto the lake for paddleboarding, fishing, kayaking, jet-skiing, or a thrilling Double-Decker Tritoon ride with a slide. As the day winds down, gather for the resort’s complimentary s’mores celebration before heading to bed.
ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ahnrz-the-ritz-carlton-reynolds-lake-oconee; 1 Lake Oconee Trail, Greensboro, GA 30642
Sea Island, Georgia
Named one of the South’s Best Resorts in 2025, Sea Island has been a favorite destination for years. The Cloister, the most recognized property on the private island, is an ideal choice for families. With various accommodation options available, including those on St. Simons Island, The Cloister provides a perfect family retreat.
seaisland.com/stay/the-cloister; 100 Cloister Dr., Sea Island, GA 31561
Walland, Tennessee
Blackberry Farm, renowned for its romantic getaways, is also an exceptional choice for families. The farm offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and education. Children aged 4 and up can join Camp Blackberry, engaging in a variety of farm, culinary wellness, art, and outdoor activities. The Family Adventure Series, a program highlighting the region’s natural wonders, is also available for the entire family. Whether it’s geocaching, archery, or a farm tour, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
blackberryfarm.com; 1471 W Millers Cove Rd., Walland, TN 37886
Cashiers, North Carolina
High Hampton, with its storied history, is a haven for families of all ages. Managed by the Blackberry Farm team, the resort is both relaxed and luxurious, offering a wide range of activities. From croquet and tennis to fishing, kayaking, and hiking, there’s something for every member of the family. The resort also features a kids’ club, available by reservation, and a variety of multi-room suites and cottages to accommodate groups of various sizes.
highhampton.com; 1525 NC-107 #1525, Cashiers, NC 28717
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Winner of the 2025 South’s Best Resort title, Jekyll Island Club Resort has been welcoming families for decades. The resort, covering 5,700 acres, ensures guests have a wide array of accommodation choices, from the Jekyll Ocean Club with direct beach access to the Jekyll Island Club for a more immersive experience. An extensive range of activities includes biking, croquet, history tours, and picnics, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
jekyllclub.com; 371 Riverview Dr., Jekyll Island, GA 31527
Clearwater Beach, Florida
With the South’s whitest sand, Clearwater Beach is home to one of the region’s finest family resorts. The JW Marriott Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa offers the ultimate summer vacation experience with a rooftop pool, multi-bedroom residences, bike rentals, and exclusive beach access. The Hideaway Hangout JW Kids Club provides engaging activities for the children, while daybed rentals at the beach offer relaxation for all. The resort’s Residence Package includes a family breakfast, pre-arrival snacks, and a welcome bottle of wine.
marriott.com/en-us/hotels/tpajw-jw-marriott-clearwater-beach-resort-and-spa; 691 S Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach, FL 33767
Cataloochee Ranch
Maggie Valley, North Carolina
For families who love the outdoors, Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley is a must-visit. This Relais & Châteaux property, perched atop the Smokies, is a dream for adventurers. Enjoy trail rides through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, then return to the ranch for adventure courses or bird watching. The rustic-chic ranch cabins, with sleeper sofas and bunk beds, can comfortably accommodate up to eight guests.
cataloocheeranch.com; 119 Ranch Dr, Maggie Valley, NC 28751
