Don’t Miss Georgia’s Gorgeous Islands
Georgia’s coast is so underrated. These hidden island gems have so much natural beauty. If you’re looking for less crowds, the beaches along Georgia’s coast are beautiful. Each island boasts unique charm, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs. Georgia’s coastal islands are truly underrated treasures worth exploring.
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Tybee Island
Tybee Island, is a coastal gem off Georgia’s Atlantic coast. It lies just 20 minutes east of historic Savannah. Its pristine beaches and vibrant community attract visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Beaches at Tybee Island
Tybee Island boasts several stunning beaches, each with its own charm. North Beach is known for its calm waters and is perfect for families. South Beach, with its lively atmosphere and iconic pier, offers fantastic views and opportunities for fishing and people-watching. Mid Beach is a quieter option, ideal for those seeking a more secluded beach experience.
Things to Do at Tybee Island
Visit the historic Tybee Island Light Station, Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, dating back to 1736. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean.
Take a dolphin-watching tour to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Enjoy a variety of water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Comb the beaches for shells during low tide.
Explore Fort Pulaski National Monument, a well-preserved Civil War-era fort that showcases military architecture and history. The fort’s grounds are perfect for picnicking and birdwatching.
Tybee Island’s blend of natural beauty, historical attractions, and outdoor activities make it an ideal weekend getaway from Savannah.
St. Simon’s Island
St. Simons Island is along Georgia’s Golden Isles, accessible via the F.J. Torras Causeway from Brunswick. Its proximity to Interstate 95 makes it easily reachable for travelers driving along the East Coast. The island’s laid-back ambiance and diverse attractions make it a popular destination for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike.
St. Simon’s Island Beaches
St. Simons Island boasts several picturesque beaches, each offering its own unique appeal. East Beach is a favorite among visitors for its expansive shoreline and gentle surf, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Gould’s Inlet provides a quieter atmosphere with opportunities for birdwatching and serene walks along the tidal pools. Massengale Park offers picnic areas and beach access, making it ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed beach outing.
St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
Climb to the top of the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, which dates back to 1872, for panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. Learn about the island’s maritime history and the role of the lighthouse in guiding ships along the coast.
Things to Do on St. Simon Island
Explore Fort Frederica National Monument, a historic site dating back to the 18th century, where visitors can learn about colonial Georgia’s military history and architecture. Stroll through the ruins and imagine life during the colonial era.
Rent a bike and explore the island’s scenic trails, such as the St. Simons Island Trail System, which winds through maritime forests and marshlands.
Tee off at one of St. Simons Island’s world-class golf courses, such as the King and Prince Golf Course, known for its challenging layout and stunning coastal views.
Take a fishing charter or boat tour to explore the island’s coastal waters and estuaries. Go fishing or watch dolphins.
St. Simons Island’s captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous exploration of Georgia’s coastal treasures.
Fried Chicken in Georgia
I truly believe Georgia has the best fried chicken in the USA. Grab some fantastic fried chicken at St. Simon Island’s, Porch. This laid back restaurant has great food.
Jekyll Island
Midway between Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida, this barrier island is easily accessible via the Jekyll Island Causeway. This island is part of Georgia’s Golden Isles and is a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Best Beaches
Jekyll Island boasts several pristine beaches, each offering its own unique charm and natural beauty. Driftwood Beach is renowned for its picturesque driftwood trees lining the shore. The trees create a stunning backdrop for sunset strolls and photography enthusiasts.
Great Dunes Beach Park offers expansive sandy shores ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing. Glory Beach, nestled near the historic district, provides a tranquil setting and opportunities for birdwatching along the marshlands.
Georgia Sea Turtle Center
One of our favorite stops in Georgia was the Georgia Sea Turtle Center in Jekyll Island. It is a rehabilitation facilities for injured sea turtles. We loved learning about sea turtle conservation and seeing all of the sea turtles in the facility.
Things to Do on Jekyll Island
Visit the Jekyll Island Historic District, once an exclusive winter retreat for America’s wealthiest families, including the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers.
Discover the island’s natural beauty through biking and hiking trails that wind through maritime forests, salt marshes, and coastal dunes. The Jekyll Island Trail System offers scenic routes for cyclists and walkers to explore the island.
Enjoy a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing along the island’s waterways and creeks. Local outfitters provide rentals and guided tours for adventurers of all skill levels.
Take a nature tour or birdwatching excursion to observe the island’s diverse wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and migratory birds.
Jekyll Island’s blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and outdoor activities makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing beach getaway.
Cumberland Island
This island isn’t part of Georgia’s Golden Isles, it is near the Florida/Georgia state line. We weren’t able to visit Cumberland Island on our last visit to Georgia, due to some physical limitations at the time. It is on our list for next time. Cumberland Island is home to a couple hundred wild horses. If you’re looking for a laid back nature-lover adventure, take the ferry to Cumberland Island.
