With so many styles and materials, selecting the perfect countertops for your home isn't always easy. Your counters must be practical enough for everyday use and unique enough to complement your style. They hold a demanding role as the go-to area for food preparation and cleanup and are often front-and-center when snacks are needed for parties. The very best kitchen countertops in Kiawah Island, SC mix beauty and style, setting your kitchen apart from your neighbors. But they must also be durable and useful, so you and your family can enjoy them for years to come.
At Stone City Kitchen & Bath, we create countertops and kitchen cabinets that make a statement in your home where other features fall short. You've worked hard to foster an attractive appearance throughout the rest of your home, so why should your countertops be any different?
Here at Stone City KB, we combine the durability and elegance of natural stone with personalized attention for each of our valued customers. Unlike other countertop fabricators, we source our materials from across the globe, searching high and low for the best stones available. In doing so, we are able to produce some of the finest remodeling and renovation products in our industry, from granite, marble, quartzite, quartz, and recycle glass countertops to new kitchen solid wood cabinets.
By providing high-quality materials and unmatched customer service, our clients have the chance to make informed decisions they feel great about. Our mission is to provide:
Impeccable Quality: You can count on Stone City KB to design and craft your countertops and cabinets exactly as you imagined, with globally-sourced, high-quality materials.
Honesty & Integrity: Trust is a must when you invite someone into your home to discuss new kitchen renovations. We are privileged to serve you, and our technicians are dedicated to treating your home like it was our own.
True Craftsmanship: When we say personalized service, we mean it. Our artistry lies in getting the details of your project right, whether we're installing custom countertops or completely remodeling your kitchen.
As our testament to creating a better product for our clients, we use innovative technologies and the brightest minds in the business to create stunning countertops and cabinets. Because when it comes to your home, it needs to be as close to perfect as possible.
We offer a wide selection of stones and materials for your next kitchen renovation project:
If you're in need of a professional, fast, reliable company for kitchen cabinets, countertops, and remodels, look no further than Stone City Kitchen & Bath.
When you're remodeling your kitchen or having new countertops installed, there are a lot of decisions to be made. From countertop material choices to counter placement preferences, each decision is impactful, making for an overwhelming experience. Luckily, at Stone City Kitchen & Bath, we have a team of countertop experts who are more than happy to offer assistance and advice on your new countertop journey.
Most of our clients start by selecting the type of countertop material they want to use. If you're at this stage and aren't sure what to choose, ask yourself these questions:
Still unsure? Swing by our showroom and let us help. Our kitchen remodeling experts can give you a rundown of the features and advantages of all our countertop materials, from durability to upkeep. Once you have those questions answered, you can begin narrowing down your selection. And what better way to do that than with a breakdown of our most popular countertop material choices?
Granite countertops are, without a doubt, the most popular choice for homeowners who want to install new kitchen countertops. Granite has held that position for years, and while it has competition, buyers love its luxurious looks and natural composition. Like some countertop materials, no two granite slabs will look exactly alike, giving your kitchen a unique aura.
Granite is a great choice for families, especially if you have children, as it has a hard surface that can withstand chips and scratches. Pricing on granite can vary depending on where it's sourced and how large the slab is. But one thing is for sure - if you're in need of a reliable countertop material for day-to-day use, granite should be atop your list.
One of the biggest reasons granite countertops are so popular is because they can be quite affordable. That's especially important for families trying to stick to a kitchen remodeling budget. Prices of granite can vary, so be sure to speak with one of our expert associates at Stone City KB for the most accurate pricing.
Another popular reason to choose granite countertops over other materials is granite's resistance to scratches and chips. If you're like most folks, you'll be using your new countertops every day. Over time, counters can take a beating, especially when you have younger children. Fortunately, granite can withstand many scratches and chips, making it a popular choice for longevity and beauty. Remember, though - never use your granite countertops for dicing, cutting, or slicing. Use a cutting board instead, or you may damage your new countertops.
When sealed properly, your granite countertops in Kiawah Island, SC can resist stains. In fact, if a spill dries on your counters, you should be able to scrape them off gently with a plastic scraping tool. That's not to say that granite can't be stained at all - acids and alkaline can do a number on granite, so avoid spilling those substances on your counters. With that said, if you seal your granite counters every year and clean up spills quickly with soap and water, you should be able to avoid most long-lasting stains. At Stone City KB, we are trained and certified for a permanent sealer with additional cost, that is warranty for 15 years. Don't forget to ask your sales representative for this permanent 15 years sealer as an option so you can be worry free.
Like stains, granite countertops are also resistant to heat. Granite is formed in nature with heat and pressure, so it makes sense that it would have inherent heat-resistant properties. This is great news if you use your oven or toaster oven to cook dinner. If you accidentally place a hot pan on your granite counters, you don't have to worry. While we recommend placing oven-hot pans on potholders, you should be safe to use your granite counters too.
Granite has many practical benefits over countertop materials, but it also has an aesthetic advantage. At Stone City Kitchen & Bath, all our granite slabs are unique. If your neighbors have new granite countertops installed, you can rest easy knowing their granite won't be exactly like yours. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, cost-conscious option for your kitchen countertops, granite is a fantastic choice.
Marble is a timeless material that exudes luxury. It has dynamic, detailed hues and is a very popular choice for homeowners in need of a high-end feel for their kitchen. Unlike granite counters, marble needs regular upkeep to maintain its beauty and durability.
Like granite, quartz are engineering countertops are durable and don't require too much maintenance. It is non-porous and doesn't need to be sealed, so scratches and stains are minimal. However, unlike granite, you should avoid placing hot items on quartz countertops or you could risk damaging them. If you like marble with white and gray vein movements, quartz countertops is your best choice.
No kitchen remodeling project would be complete without installing new cabinets. At Stone City Kitchen & Bath, our experienced craftsmen have created and installed hundreds of new cabinets. We know that deciding on your new kitchen cabinets' material, finish, and style can be hard. That's why we're here to help every step of the way!
Our team has the tools, training, and experience to help you choose the best cabinets for your kitchen. We'll consider your current kitchen layout, your color preferences, and more to provide personalized options for your project. And when it's time to install your new cabinets, you can rest assured we'll get the job done right at a price you can afford.
When it comes to kitchen remodeling in Kiawah Island, SC installing new kitchen cabinets is a great idea. If you're already upgrading or replacing your kitchen countertops, having new cabinets that match the aesthetics of your kitchen makeover is a no-brainer.
At Stone City KB, we believe that everyone deserves an elegant, versatile kitchen with stunning cabinetry. That's why our team will work closely with you to discover the material, texture, and style of cabinets you're craving. Once we do, we handle all the heavy lifting, including cabinet design and installation in your home.
So, why should you install new kitchen cabinets alongside your countertops? Here are just a few reasons:
Many customers install new kitchen cabinets because they're already remodeling their kitchen and need their cabinets to match the aesthetics of their updated space. Do you want your kitchen to feel more open and airier? Do you have specific lifestyle requirements that necessitate a particular cabinet material? Our kitchen cabinet experts can help you find the perfect cabinet setup for your needs.
Having a uniform aesthetic throughout your kitchen and home is important. But from a practical standpoint, new kitchen cabinets often mean more kitchen storage. That's a big deal for families, especially when younger children are involved. If you find that your countertops are magnets for clutter, new cabinetry can help remove the mess and stress less. The more storage your kitchen has, the easier it will be to use your kitchen for cooking and entertaining.
Take a few moments and check out the bones of your current cabinets. Low-quality, cheap cabinets are often a turnoff for potential buyers. If you plan on selling your home in the next few years, one of the best ways to boost resale value is with new cabinetry.
Is it a pain in the side to cook in your kitchen? Whether it's due to clutter, design, or something else, many of our customers want new cabinets so that their kitchen is functional again. New cabinets give you more storage, as mentioned above, but they can also make your kitchen more functional, depending on design and remodeling preferences. If you love to cook for your family and get-togethers, investing in new kitchen cabinets can help you do more of what you love.
Whether you're looking to "wow" a new client or work colleague or just want to make your neighbors a little jealous, upgrading your kitchen cabinets is a great way to do so. Of course, first impressions have always mattered, but particularly so in real estate. When the time comes to sell your home, having custom cabinets and countertops in your kitchen can set you apart from other sellers.
Here at Stone City Kitchen & Bath, we specialize in custom kitchen countertops and cabinets designed especially for you. Whether you've been dreaming of traditional wood cabinets or need sleek, elegant granite countertops, we've got you covered. We are committed to affordable options while holding true to our craftsmanship and skills, providing customers with the best kitchen renovations in South Carolina.
If you're looking for the largest selection and the best prices, visit our showroom or contact us today. You've worked hard to make your home special, so why not your kitchen too? From design to installation, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
There are 34 islands off the coast of South Carolina, including six major landforms. This well-known chain of islands is famous for its rich history, breathtaking views, and abundant activities. In this southern state, visitors can find everything from popular resort islands to small, secluded paradises. Check out this list of the five must-visit islands in South Carolina, including things...
There are 34 islands off the coast of South Carolina, including six major landforms. This well-known chain of islands is famous for its rich history, breathtaking views, and abundant activities. In this southern state, visitors can find everything from popular resort islands to small, secluded paradises. Check out this list of the five must-visit islands in South Carolina, including things to do, where to stay, and what to eat.
Part of the Lowcountry region, Hilton Head Island is just north of the Georgia border and about a two-hour drive south of Charleston. This resort island is known for its laidback, family-friendly atmosphere, featuring spectacular beaches, golf courses, and abundant wildlife. And it has a small-town charm with plenty of delicious food and comfortable lodging options. Hilton Head is 12 miles long and five miles wide and contains more than 100 miles of walking and biking trails. You can get to the island via car, boat, or plane.
Things to do and see: Coligny Beach Park, Harbour Town Lighthouse, Coastal Discovery Museum, Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Folly Field Beach Park, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, Burkes Beach, Stoney Baynard Ruins
Where to stay: Sonesta Resort (sleek 4-star lodge), Beach House Resort (casual 3-star beachfront hotel)
Where to eat: Hudon’s Seafood House on the Docks (downhome fish eatery on the water), Old Oyster Factory (seafood restaurant with scenic views)
This barrier island is near Charleston and features some of the best beaches in the area. Folly Island is 12 square miles of endless things to do, see, and eat. And it’s only a few minutes’ drive from Charleston’s historic downtown area. This charming beach community features shopping, restaurants, outdoor activities, and stylish waterfront resorts. And its scenic beach features a famous 1,000-foot fishing pier, where you can stroll and take pictures way out in the water.
Things to do and see: Folly Beach County Park, Morris Island Lighthouse, Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, Folly Beach Pier, boat and sea kayak tours, Graffiti Boat
Where to stay: Tides Folly Beach (3-star beachfront hotel with scenic dining), Beachside Boutique Inn (whimsical inn near the beach)
Where to eat: Rita’s Seaside Grill (traditional American food with live music), The Crab Shack (casual local seafood)
Edisto is a hidden sea island just south of Charleston but north of Hilton Head. It’s in Lowcountry and features a rich history and unique experience. Despite its secluded location, Edisto Island is a popular beach getaway. Edisto Beach is 4.5 miles. You can swim, lounge on the beach, and go shelling.
Things to do and see: Edisto Beach State Park, Edisto Island Serpentarium, Botany Bay Heritage Preserve, King’s Farm Market, Boat tours, fishing, watersports, golfing, Edisto Island Historic Preservation
Where to stay: Wyndham Ocean Ridge (laidback all-villa resort with multiple pools)
Where to eat: Seacow Eatery (all-day diner with a focus on seafood), The Waterfront Restaurant (nautical-themed diner with seafood and steaks)
Located 25 miles southwest of Charleston, Kiawah Island is a primarily private community with a lush resort, golf courses, restaurants, and shopping. Visitors can check out the beachfront park and walk or bike to shops and restaurants. But some parts of the island are only accessible to residents or those with reservations for golf or dinner. You can also get a renter’s pass if you book a stay at one of the condos or villas.
Things to do and see: Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Turtle Point Golf Resort, Night Heron Park, Cougar Point Golf Course, kayaking, fishing, biking
Where to stay: The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort (luxury 5-star beachfront resort), rent a private condo
Where to eat: Jasmine Porch at The Sanctuary (elegant Southern dining at the resort), The Ocean Room (steakhouse and sushi lounge)
This town and island are in Charleston County, north of Folly Island. This charming community features award-winning restaurants and beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy the warm water at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, where you can swim and participate in watersports. Even though this island is only two and a half miles long, there is plenty to do.
Things to do and see: Fort Moultrie National Park, Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, Fort Sumter National Monument, Thomson Park, Sullivan’s Island Beach, Shem Creek Park, Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail
Where to stay: There are no hotels on the island, but you can stay in nearby Charleston.
Where to eat: Poe’s Tavern (Literary-themed bar with American food), The Obstinate Daughter (eclectic menu and brews)
Just 25 miles from downtown Charleston, Kiawah and Seabrook islands are the destinations for anyone looking to escape the bustle of the city.These islands offer so much more than beautiful beaches. They have sports, spas, top restaurants and amazing shopping.We’ve compiled a guide for tourists and locals drawn to the islands’ natural beauty. Whether you like fine dining or a relaxed day on the golf course or the beach, we have a guide for you.ExploreThe two barrier islands each offer world-class golf...
Just 25 miles from downtown Charleston, Kiawah and Seabrook islands are the destinations for anyone looking to escape the bustle of the city.
These islands offer so much more than beautiful beaches. They have sports, spas, top restaurants and amazing shopping.
We’ve compiled a guide for tourists and locals drawn to the islands’ natural beauty. Whether you like fine dining or a relaxed day on the golf course or the beach, we have a guide for you.
The two barrier islands each offer world-class golf courses that have been featured in major sporting events. Anyone looking to live out their professional golf fantasy can find a home at Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Ocean Course. The resort has twice hosted the PGA Golf Championship, in 2012 and in 2021.
The resort renovated all of its courses in preparation for the 2021 tournament which brought thousands of fans to the island.
Those looking for a golf membership should also consider the Seabrook Island Club. The club’s two courses, Ocean Winds and Crooked Oaks, are open to members, group outings and events.
The two islands aren’t just for golfers; they also feature world-class beaches. Kiawah alone has 10 miles of beaches. The Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission operates Beachwalker County Park, the only beach on the island open to the public.
Seabrook’s Pelican and North beaches also offer views of the sunset and sunrise, although they are not open to the public. The rest of Kiawah’s beaches are privately owned, so those looking for a longer stay should consider all-access options.
The islands are also a great place to explore Lowcountry wildlife. Those looking to get up close to dolphins should visit the northernmost tip of North Beach during low tide at Seabrook or Captain Sam’s Inlet on Kiawah. Bottlenose dolphins are known to strand-feed there — a technique the dolphins used to trap fish and drive them onto sandbars and shorelines.
Kiawah’s brackish and freshwater ponds are also home to alligators throughout the island. They can be seen lying on pond edges, basking in the sun.
The islands also serve as nesting grounds for sea turtles. From mid-May through early August, female turtles come ashore to lay anywhere from 100 to 150 eggs in nests they dig in the sand. Island patrol members and wildlife officials work to protect the nests from human interference throughout the season.
Interested in shopping? All Kiawah visitors need to do is travel to Freshfields Village near the island’s entrance.
It has a plethora of high-end clothing chains such as Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines and Johnny Was. It also has boutiques such as Signature Oak, SHOWROOM and Holly & Brooks.
There are shops offering apparel and wares for both men and women, including Southern Tide, and stores for outdoor enthusiasts, such as SeaCoast Sports and Outfitters.
Seabrook also offers many shopping options for visitors. Seabrook Shoppe offers an array of souvenirs.
The islands have restaurants for every type of foodie.
Kiawah offers high-end fare such as Jasmine Porch and The Ocean Room at the Sanctuary hotel.
People can also visit Beaches & Cream for coffee and dessert or grab Italian food at Tomasso at Turtle Point.
The island also offers more casual eateries like La Tela Pizzeria, Fuji Sushi Bar & Grill for Japanese lovers, and Cantina 76 for Mexican fans.
Seabrook boasts relaxed food like McCann’s Irish Pub and Kiss Cafe.
Nestled between the incredible beaches of South Carolina lies a true gem of Kiawah Island, known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and abundant wildlife. However, beyond its natural beauty and luxurious amenities, this charming island offers numerous activities and experiences that will make the trip even more memorable. From exploring the island's rich history to indulging in local cuisine, the article lists some of the ...
Nestled between the incredible beaches of South Carolina lies a true gem of Kiawah Island, known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and abundant wildlife. However, beyond its natural beauty and luxurious amenities, this charming island offers numerous activities and experiences that will make the trip even more memorable. From exploring the island's rich history to indulging in local cuisine, the article lists some of the best things to do in Kiawah Island, South Carolina, to make one's trip to this stunning spot all the more memorable.
Located on the western end of Kiawah Island, Kiawah Beachwalker Park is a public beach and one of the many popular and magical island getaways in the US, thanks to its pristine white sand shoreline and all-year-round recreational activities. The park features outdoor showers, picnic areas, and a beautiful boardwalk with an observation deck offering incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, the park is a popular spot to enjoy sunbathing, beachcombing, birdwatching, swimming, and playing volleyball at the beach.
With over 30 miles of paved bike trails and countless scenic beaches, biking is a great way to explore the island's natural beauty and unique ecology. Tourists can rent a bike from several places on the island to ride through the beautiful trails winding through the island's beautiful parks and golf courses with incredible views of the beach and island skyline. The most popular biking routes on the island include the Marsh View Trail, Beachwalker Park Trail, Night Heron Park trail, and Ocean Course Loop, offering visitors a glimpse of the island's beautiful landscape.
Located on Kiawah Island, Kiawah Island Golf Club is a world-renowned golf resort known for its five championship golf courses, namely the Ocean Course, Turtle Point, Osprey Point, Oak Point, and Cougar Point. Besides the beautiful golf courses, the resort has several other amenities for visitors, including a pro shop, practice facilities, and various dining options serving delicious local and continental cuisines. Guests can also enjoy various recreational activities while taking nature tours around the resort to explore the island's natural beauty.
Related: 10 Reasons South Carolina Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Mingo Point is a popular fishing point and outdoor event venue on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, featuring beautiful views of the scenic marshes, surrounded by tall grass and live oak trees, with gleaming waters of the Kiawah River. During summer, Mingo Point hosts weekly events, such as oyster roasts, barbecues, and live music performances, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, crabbing, and kayaking. The venue also has an outdoor restaurant that serves classic Lowcountry cuisine for guests to enjoy scrumptious meals under the shade of lush green trees, overlooking the stagnant waters of the river.
Kayaking is a popular and enjoyable activity in watersports on Kiawah island for visitors of all ages. There are several kayaking tour companies and rentals on Kiawah island, offering visitors a unique perspective on the area's abundant wildlife and stunning scenery. The popular kayaking destinations on the island include the Kiawah River, the Stono River, Bohicket Creek, and Folly Beach (which is beautiful in the fall), winding its way through marshes and creeks, offering an opportunity to see dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species, including, pelicans, egrets, and ospreys.
Taking a sunset cruise from Kiawah Island is one of the best ways to experience the island's natural beauty while soaking in the breathtaking views of the sunset and local wildlife on the coast of South Carolina, including various seabirds and marine animals such as sea turtles and dolphins. During the cruise, the guests can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery while sipping a drink with light snacks. Some companies even offer dinner or dessert cruises, allowing passengers to enjoy a full meal while relaxing with the incredible sunset vistas.
Related: 10 Awesome Things That You Can Do In South Carolina
Located on the southern end of Wadmalaw Island, just a few minutes' drive from Kiawah Island, Rockville Historic District is one of the well-preserved and beautiful 19th-century towns in South Carolina. Established in the 1800s, the district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, giving visitors a glimpse into the early life of the inhabitants of the region. Some of the main attractions in the district include the Rockville Presbyterian Church and the Toogoodoo Plantation House, and the Rockville Center, a popular spot for visitors to purchase local goods and souvenirs.
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort features a luxurious spa offering a wide range of treatments and services designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate, making the vacation even more memorable. The spa facility has a serene and relaxing ambiance featuring various treatment rooms, a couple's suite, a relaxation room, a sauna facility, and whirlpools. The spa offers various services, including facials, body treatments, and other salon treatments, for the visitors to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing retreat after a tiring sightseeing seeing session at Kiawah island.
Freshfields Village is a shopping and dining destination on Kiawah Island, South Carolina, offering a diverse food scene. The place is a pedestrian-friendly, open-air district offering a variety of upscale restaurants and casual eateries, including Ladles Soups and King Street Grille, and Obstinate Daughter. Visitors can also enjoy a number of other activities, including live music, concert holiday celebrations, and seasonal festivals taking place throughout the year.
Related: These Waterfalls In South Carolina Are Some Of The Most Stunning
Marsh Island Park is a small island on the Kiawah River, accessible only by boat or kayak, featuring a boardwalk and hiking trails winding through the island's natural marshland and forested areas. The highlight of the park is a wooden lookout tower offering panoramic views of the beautiful salt marshes and surrounding landscape. Visitors to the park can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, crabbing, and other outdoor activities with various picnic tables and benches to relax and enjoy the scenic views, making for a peaceful spot for nature lovers and enthusiasts.
One of South Carolina's favorite spots along the coast has been ranked among the top 10 beaches in the country.Kiawah Island's Beachwalker Park in Charleston County is listed as No. 8 on the 2023 list of best U.S. beaches released this week by “Dr. Beach,” aka coastal scientist Stephen Leatherman.(Above video is the Friday morning headlines.)The pristine beach is on the west end of Kiawah...
One of South Carolina's favorite spots along the coast has been ranked among the top 10 beaches in the country.
Kiawah Island's Beachwalker Park in Charleston County is listed as No. 8 on the 2023 list of best U.S. beaches released this week by “Dr. Beach,” aka coastal scientist Stephen Leatherman.
(Above video is the Friday morning headlines.)
The pristine beach is on the west end of Kiawah Island, and gives visitors ocean and river views, according to the Charleston County Parks website.
Charleston County Parks
Beachwalker is also the only public beach access on Kiawah Island, which is a 45-minute drive south of Charleston between Folly and Edisto beaches.
The park is operated through a cooperative agreement among Kiawah Development Partners, Charleston County Council, and the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission.
2 men charged after body found burned inside car in Spartanburg, South Carolina, officials say
North Carolina's Lighthouse Beach, in Buxton on the Outer Banks, came in at No. 5 on the list.
Located along Highway 12, Lighthouse Beach is about a six-hour drive from Myrtle Beach.
National Parks Service
Once the site of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the beach is convenient and renowned for its good shelling and great waves, according to the National Parks Service.
Florida’s St. George Island State Park earned the top slot on the best beach list.
The barrier island park offers nine miles of pristine beaches along the Gulf Coast.
With nature trails for biking and hiking, plus birding, fishing, boating and camping, St. George offers excellent swimming and sunbathing and is also a prime spot for stargazing with limited light pollution, the list says.
Leatherman has been ranking America’s best beaches since 1991.
He uses 50 criteria to evaluate hundreds of public beaches in the United States. The criteria include beach width, sand softness, water temperature and color, wildlife and more.
Half of the top 10 beaches in the United States for 2023 are in Florida and Hawaii.
None of Florida’s Atlantic beaches appear in the 2023 top 10; Leatherman pointed out that the Atlantic coastline is being affected this year by sargassum seaweed.
Top 10 U.S. Beaches for 2023
A low-key conference that brings together high-level global executives from the sports, media, technology and finance industries has returned to the South Carolina coast for its second go-round.The corporate summit, organized by the investment firm Bruin Capital and the Sportico online news outlet, kicked off April 11 on Kiawah Island.More than a dozen commissioners of professional sports leagues and about 40 team owners from around the world are expected to be in attendance, among other movers and shakers. Boris Johnson, Brita...
A low-key conference that brings together high-level global executives from the sports, media, technology and finance industries has returned to the South Carolina coast for its second go-round.
The corporate summit, organized by the investment firm Bruin Capital and the Sportico online news outlet, kicked off April 11 on Kiawah Island.
More than a dozen commissioners of professional sports leagues and about 40 team owners from around the world are expected to be in attendance, among other movers and shakers. Boris Johnson, Britain’s former prime minister, and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy were set to speak at early sessions.
The only publicly identified participant other than the CEOs of the sponsors was financier Marc Lasry of Avenue Capital Group, who is a co-owner of the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks.
The conference is described as an off-the record gathering but not entirely. CNBC was granted access to the first event held last May at Kiawah Island Golf Resort and again this week.
A beachfront interview with Lasry that aired on the cable news network Wednesday was devoted not to basketball but the banking crisis.
A separate discussion with summit organizers George Pyne of New York-based Bruin Capital and Jay Penske of Sportico parent Penske Media Corp. touched on the fast-rising values of professional sports franchises, the likely sale of the NFL’s Washington Commanders and the use of artificial intelligence in newsrooms.
In a December profile of Pyne, the Boston Globe described the Kiawah conference as a “super-sized” version of an annual luncheon he put together for 13 years in the private dining room at Le Bernardin in New York City.
The South Carolina summit last spring included “14 commissioners, 30 team owners and about 50 others … . Former President George W. Bush headlined a list of VIP speakers,” according to a copy of the article posted on Bruin Capital’s website.
The moderator of a talk with cryptocurrency experts last year offered a few more details.
“I host panels at conferences all the time, but this event was a little different: the attendees included the biggest power brokers in sports and finance,” wrote Dan Robert, editor-in-chief of Decrypt.
He added that Bruin Capital and Sportico are “aiming for the event to become the Sun Valley or Davos of sports business,” he added, referring, respectively, to a long-running media finance summit held in Idaho and a global economic forum in Switzerland.
They seem to be well on their way.
“NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, MLS Commissioner Don Garber, ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro, and more than a dozen team owners were there,” according to Roberts.