15 Georgia Beach Getaways That Make Perfect Weekend Trips
Picture yourself with sand between your toes and the sound of waves in the background.
Georgia’s coastline offers some of the most relaxing beach destinations you’ll find anywhere in the Southeast.
Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a place to unwind for a few days, these coastal spots deliver the perfect mix of sun, surf, and Southern hospitality.
1. Tybee Island
You’ll find yourself instantly relaxed when you arrive at this barrier island just 18 miles east of Savannah. The North Beach area near the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum at 30 Meddin Drive provides excellent swimming conditions and plenty of space to spread out your towel. Families love the gentle waves and lifeguard-protected zones that make this spot ideal for kids.
Dolphin watching tours depart regularly from the marina, giving you a chance to see these playful creatures up close.
The island’s laid-back vibe means you can grab fish tacos from a beachside shack or enjoy fresh shrimp at one of the local restaurants. Parking can fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early helps you snag a good spot.
Bike rentals are available throughout the island, making it easy to explore without dealing with car traffic. Sunset views from the pier create photo opportunities you won’t want to miss.
2. Jekyll Island
Once an exclusive playground for America’s wealthiest families, this island now welcomes everyone to enjoy its ten miles of pristine beaches. The Historic District at 100 James Road tells the fascinating story of the millionaires who once vacationed here. You can tour their restored cottages and imagine what life was like during the Gilded Age.
Driftwood Beach on the northern end creates an otherworldly landscape where ancient oak trees have fallen and been bleached by sun and salt. It’s become one of the most photographed spots in Georgia, and you’ll understand why when you see the twisted branches against the sky. The Summer Waves Water Park provides entertainment for families when you need a break from the ocean.
Biking is the preferred way to get around, with over 25 miles of paved trails connecting all the major attractions. Sea turtle nesting season brings special programs where you can learn about conservation efforts.
3. St. Simons Island
A climb up the 129 steps of the lighthouse at 101 12th Street rewards you with panoramic views of this beautiful island and the surrounding waters. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of room for long walks where you might spot sand dollars and starfish. Massengale Park provides beach access with amenities like showers and picnic areas that make spending the whole day comfortable.
The village area features boutique shops and restaurants where you can sample fresh Georgia shrimp prepared in dozens of delicious ways.
Kayaking through the salt marshes gives you a different perspective on the island’s ecosystem, with herons and egrets often keeping you company. The fishing pier extends into the ocean, creating a perfect spot for casting a line or simply watching boats pass by.
Oak-lined streets throughout the island create shady corridors that stay cool even on hot summer days. Evening ghost tours share spooky tales about the island’s history.
4. Cumberland Island National Seashore
Accessible only by ferry from St. Marys, this undeveloped island feels like stepping back in time. The ferry departs from 113 St. Marys Street, and the 45-minute ride across the sound builds anticipation for what awaits. Wild horses roam freely across the island, descendants of horses brought by Spanish missionaries centuries ago.
The pristine beaches see far fewer visitors than other Georgia destinations, giving you a sense of having the coast to yourself. Ruins of the Dungeness mansion create an atmospheric backdrop for exploration, with crumbling walls covered in vines telling stories of former grandeur. Camping is available for those who want to extend their stay and experience the island after day-trippers leave.
Hiking trails wind through maritime forests where armadillos rustle in the undergrowth and birds call from the canopy. The lack of development means you need to bring everything you’ll need for the day, including food and water.
5. Sea Island
Luxury defines every aspect of this private island resort community where The Cloister hotel at 100 Cloister Drive has been pampering guests since 1928. The beaches here are meticulously maintained, with staff ensuring the sand stays clean and inviting. Golf courses designed by legendary architects challenge players while offering stunning coastal views.
You’ll need to be a guest at the resort or know a property owner to access the island, which keeps crowds to a minimum. The spa services incorporate local ingredients like sea salt and Georgia peach for treatments that feel uniquely regional.
Five miles of private beach give you plenty of space to find your perfect spot for sunbathing or shell collecting.
Tennis facilities have trained some of the sport’s greatest champions, and lessons are available for all skill levels. Dining options range from casual beachside grills to elegant restaurants where dress codes apply and reservations are essential.
6. Little St. Simons Island
Only 32 guests at a time can stay on this 11,000-acre private island, making it one of the most exclusive beach getaways in Georgia. Access is by private boat from Hampton River Club Marina at 1096 Arthur J. Moore Drive in St. Simons Island.
Seven miles of shell-covered beaches remain virtually untouched, with your footprints often the only marks in the sand.
Naturalist-led excursions help you understand the complex ecosystem of barrier islands, from the smallest fiddler crab to soaring bald eagles. The island operates as a nature preserve, so development is minimal and wildlife thrives. Accommodations include comfortable lodge rooms and private cottages, all with porches perfect for watching sunsets.
Meals feature locally sourced ingredients, often including seafood caught that same day from surrounding waters. Kayaks and bikes are available for exploring at your own pace, or you can simply relax in a hammock with a good book.
7. Sapelo Island
Reaching this state-owned island requires taking a ferry from the Sapelo Island Visitors Center at 1766 Landing Road SE in Meridian. The Gullah Geechee community of Hog Hammock preserves African American culture and traditions that date back generations. You’ll learn about basket weaving, traditional foods, and the unique dialect that developed in this isolated community.
The beaches on Sapelo remain undeveloped, with no commercial establishments or modern conveniences to interrupt the natural setting. Guided tours are required for most areas of the island, and these educational experiences teach you about the ecology and history. The Reynolds Mansion, former home of tobacco heir R.J.
Reynolds, now serves as a conference center you can tour.
Shell middens left by Native Americans thousands of years ago can still be seen in some areas. The lighthouse, built in 1820, stands as one of the oldest structures on the Georgia coast and offers historical perspective on maritime navigation.
8. East Beach at St. Simons Island
Located near the Coast Guard Station at 206 1st Street, this beach offers calmer waters than other spots on the island. Families with young children appreciate the gentle slope into the ocean and the presence of lifeguards during summer months. The nearby pier provides a place to fish or simply watch pelicans dive for their dinner.
Parking is more accessible here than at some other island beaches, with a large lot that accommodates visitors throughout the day. Picnic tables under shady pavilions create perfect spots for lunch without leaving the beach. The playground equipment gives kids an alternative activity when they need a break from sand and water.
Local vendors often set up near the parking area, selling cold drinks and snacks that save you from having to pack everything. The beach’s proximity to the village means you can easily walk to restaurants and shops for an afternoon break. Restroom facilities are clean and well-maintained, which makes a big difference during a long beach day.
9. Gould’s Inlet at St. Simons Island
Dog owners consider this their favorite beach destination because it’s one of the few places where pets can run off-leash. The inlet creates a dynamic environment where tidal flows constantly reshape the sandbar and create pools perfect for wading. You can reach this spot by walking south from the Coast Guard Station or by parking at the end of Ocean Boulevard.
The unique geography means the scenery changes with every tide, giving you a different experience each time you visit. Shelling here can be exceptional, especially after storms have stirred up the ocean floor. The current can be strong near the inlet itself, so swimming requires caution and awareness of conditions.
Bird watchers bring binoculars to spot the many species that feed in the shallow waters and rest on exposed sandbars. The less developed nature of this area means fewer amenities, so come prepared with everything you’ll need for your stay.
10. Glory Beach at Jekyll Island
Named for the morning glory vines that grow in the dunes, this beach near the Jekyll Island Convention Center at 1 Pier Road offers a quieter alternative to busier island spots. The hard-packed sand at low tide creates an ideal surface for biking along the water’s edge. You might see horseback riders from nearby stables trotting past as you relax on your beach blanket.
The gentle slope and generally calm conditions make this a good choice for families introducing young children to ocean swimming. Beach wheelchairs are available for rent, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the sand and surf regardless of mobility challenges. The nearby bike path provides easy access without requiring a long walk from parking areas.
Restrooms and outdoor showers help you rinse off before heading to your next destination on the island. The absence of commercial development preserves the natural beauty and keeps the atmosphere peaceful and relaxing throughout the day.
11. South Beach at Tybee Island
The southern tip of Tybee Island near the intersection of Tybrisa Street and Butler Avenue attracts a younger crowd looking for beach volleyball games and social atmosphere. The beach widens considerably at low tide, providing extra space for activities like frisbee and soccer. Nearby restaurants and bars mean you’re never far from food and drinks when hunger strikes.
The pier extending into the water creates a landmark that helps you locate your spot after exploring the island. Fishing from the pier is popular, with locals happy to share tips about what’s biting and the best bait to use. The proximity to shops and entertainment makes this a convenient base for a day that combines beach time with other activities.
Parking fills up quickly on weekends and holidays, so arriving before 10 AM gives you the best chance of finding a space. The lively atmosphere continues into the evening, with live music often drifting from nearby venues as the sun sets over the water.
12. Neptune Park at St. Simons Island
This community park at 550 Beachview Drive combines beach access with other recreational facilities that make it perfect for groups with varied interests. The miniature golf course provides entertainment when someone needs a break from the sun, and the pool offers an alternative to ocean swimming. The playground equipment keeps younger children occupied while older siblings enjoy the beach.
Concerts and events happen regularly in the park’s pavilion, creating a festive atmosphere on weekend evenings. The snack bar serves simple fare like hot dogs and ice cream, perfect for casual beach dining. Ample parking and easy beach access make this a practical choice for families carrying lots of gear.
The beach here tends to be wider than other spots on the island, giving you more room to spread out. Shaded picnic areas under ancient oak trees provide relief from the midday sun and create pleasant spots for lunch or reading a book between beach sessions.
13. Back River Beach at Tybee Island
Facing the Back River instead of the open ocean, this beach at the north end of the island near Fort Screven offers calmer water ideal for paddle boarding and kayaking. The gentler conditions make it perfect for teaching children to swim or for anyone who finds ocean waves intimidating. You can access this area from the parking lot near the lighthouse at 30 Meddin Drive.
The river current is generally mild, but paying attention to tidal changes helps you plan your water activities safely. Dolphins frequently swim through the river, delighting visitors who happen to be in the right place at the right time. The beach’s orientation provides protection from afternoon winds that sometimes make the ocean side less comfortable.
Fishing from the shore can be productive here, with flounder and redfish among the species you might catch. The quieter atmosphere attracts people looking for a more relaxed beach experience away from the crowds at the main beaches.
14. Great Dunes Beach at Jekyll Island
True to its name, this beach features impressive sand dunes that create a dramatic backdrop and provide habitat for native plants and wildlife. Located on the eastern shore near the Jekyll Island Campground at 1197 Riverview Drive, the area offers both developed and more natural beach experiences. Boardwalks protect the dune ecosystem while providing easy access to the sand.
The beach’s width varies dramatically with the tides, sometimes extending hundreds of feet from the dunes to the water. Beachcombing after high tide often reveals interesting shells and sand dollars washed up by the waves. The campground proximity makes this a favorite spot for campers who want to be steps away from the beach.
Educational signs along the boardwalk teach you about dune ecology and the importance of these natural barriers in protecting the island from storms. The relatively undeveloped nature of this area means you’ll see fewer people than at some other island beaches, creating a more solitary experience.
15. St. Andrews Beach at Jekyll Island
Located on the north end of Jekyll Island near the St. Andrews Picnic Area at 1100 North Beachview Drive, this spot combines beach access with excellent picnic facilities. The covered pavilions protect you from sun and occasional rain showers while still letting you enjoy the ocean views. Grills are available for families who want to cook lunch or dinner right at the beach.
The beach here tends to be less crowded than the main beach area, making it easier to find your perfect spot in the sand. The northern location means you’re closer to the fascinating Driftwood Beach, which you can walk to at low tide. Parking is plentiful, and the facilities include restrooms and outdoor showers for rinsing off sand.
The picnic area’s proximity to bike trails makes it easy to combine beach time with island exploration. Sunset views from this beach are particularly beautiful, with the sun sinking into the marsh behind the island and painting the sky in brilliant colors.
