Beaches in Georgia: Enchanting Coastal Treasures

Imagine, golden sand warm beneath your toes, turquoise waves lapping the shore and seabirds gliding overhead as the salty breeze tousles your hair. This is the magic of Georgia’s beaches.

Stretching along the state’s Atlantic coastline, Georgia’s beaches offer a delightful mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back charm. Whether you seek a bustling seaside town or an unspoiled island sanctuary, Georgia’s diverse beaches have something for every type of beach lover. Let’s dive in and discover some of the best beaches to visit in Georgia.

1. Tybee Island’s North Beach

Just 30 minutes from historic Savannah, Tybee Island’s North Beach is a vibrant stretch of sand known for its stunning views and unique amenities. It’s a favorite spot for sunbathing, beach yoga, and spotting dolphins frolicking offshore. Enjoy the swings right on the sand and watch massive cargo ships cruise by on their way to the port.

• Address: 33 Meddin Dr, Tybee Island, GA 31328, USA
• Timings: Open 24/7
• How to reach: Drive east on US-80 from Savannah, following signs for Tybee Island
• Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing, beach yoga, dolphin watching, picnicking, swinging
• Best time to visit: Summer (June to August)
• Accommodation:DeSoto Beach Hotel, Beachside Colony Resort, Hotel Tybee
• Top restaurants:The Crab Shack, A-J’s Dockside Restaurant, Sundae Cafe

2. Great Dunes Beach, Jekyll Island

Part of Jekyll Island State Park, Great Dunes Beach is a family-friendly spot known for its wide, flat beach, gentle waves, and ample amenities. Enjoy activities like swimming, sand volleyball, and mini-golf, or spread out a picnic under the shade of a live oak. It’s also one of the few Georgia beaches where you can ride horses right on the sand.

• Address: Beachview Dr N, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, USA
• Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM daily
• How to reach: Drive south on I-95, take Exit 29 to Jekyll Island via US-17
• Things to do: Swimming, sand volleyball, mini-golf, picnicking, horseback riding
• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Accommodation: Jekyll Island Club Resort, Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island, Villas by the Sea Resort & Conference Center
• Top restaurants: The Wharf, Zachry’s Riverhouse

3. East Beach, St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island’s East Beach is a picturesque stretch of sand framed by natural sand dunes. With its wide beach, rolling waves, and pristine sand, it’s perfect for swimming, body surfing, and long walks at sunset. Enjoy the convenient amenities like restrooms, showers, and beach rentals.

• Address: Beachview Dr & Bruce Dr, St Simons Island, GA 31522, USA
• Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM daily
• How to reach: Drive south on I-95, take exit 38 to St. Simons Island via GA-25.
• Things to do: Swimming, body surfing, beach walks, shelling, picnicking
• Best time to visit: Summer (June to August)
• Accommodation:The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, Hotel Simone, The Inn at Sea Island
• Top restaurants:Georgia Sea Grill, Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill, Tramici Restaurant

4. Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island

One of the most unique and photogenic beaches in Georgia, Driftwood Beach is a hauntingly beautiful spot strewn with weathered, twisted tree trunks and branches. It’s an otherworldly scene, especially at sunrise and sunset. Climb and pose on the sculptural driftwood for unforgettable vacation photos.

• Address: Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, USA
• Timings: Open 24/7
• How to reach: Drive south on I-95, take Exit 29 to Jekyll Island via US-17
• Things to do: Photography, beach walks, climbing driftwood, wildlife spotting
• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Accommodation:Jekyll Island Club Resort, Hampton Inn & Suites Jekyll Island, Home2 Suites by Hilton Jekyll Island
• Top restaurants: Tortuga Jack’s, Willet’s Lowcountry.

5. Sea Camp Beach, Cumberland Island

Accessible only by ferry, Cumberland Island’s Sea Camp Beach is a remote paradise of soft white sand, wild horses, and pristine maritime forests. As part of Cumberland Island National Seashore, it’s a protected haven for wildlife and a perfect spot for a rustic island adventure. Enjoy hiking, backcountry camping, and stargazing under some of the darkest skies on the Eastern Seaboard.

• Address: Cumberland Island, GA 31558, USA
• Timings: Daylight hours only, ferry departs St. Marys at 9 AM and 11:45 AM
• How to reach: Drive to St. Marys, park at Cumberland Island Ferry dock, and take a ferry to Sea Camp Dock
• Things to do: Beach walks, wildlife spotting, hiking, camping, stargazing
• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Accommodation:Greyfield Inn (only inn on the island), Cumberland Island Campgrounds (backcountry camping)
• Top restaurants: Pack a picnic lunch (no restaurants on the island)

Suggested Read: Unmissable Reasons to Visit the USA This Year

6. Buford Dam Beach, Lake Lanier

For a freshwater beach experience, head to Buford Dam Beach on Lake Lanier. Located at Lower Pool Park just below Buford Dam, this small sandy beach offers a scenic spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Enjoy views of the lake and dam while cooling off in the clear, calm water.

• Address: 6219 Shadburn Ferry Rd, Buford, GA 30518, USA
• Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM daily (summer hours)
• How to reach: Drive north on I-85, take exit 115 for US-23, and turn right onto Shadburn Ferry Rd.
• Things to do: Swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, fishing, boating
• Best time to visit: Summer (June to August)
• Accommodation:Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge, Bald Ridge Lodge, Lake Lanier House Rental
• Top restaurants:Fish Tales Lakeside Grille, Pelican Pete’s, Skogies Lakefront Restaurant

7. Red Top Mountain State Park Beach, Lake Allatoona

Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, Red Top Mountain State Park offers a scenic freshwater beach on Lake Allatoona. With its soft sand, clear water, and forested surroundings, it’s a peaceful spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The park also features hiking trails, a fishing pier, and lakeside cottages.

• Address: 50 Lodge Rd SE, Acworth, GA 30102, USA
• Timings: 7 AM – 10 PM daily
• How to reach: Drive north on I-75, take exit 283 for Red Top Mountain Road
• Things to do: Swimming, kayaking, fishing, hiking, camping
• Best time to visit: Summer (June to August)
• Accommodation:Red Top Mountain State Park Cottages, Red Top Mountain State Park Campground, Allatoona Landing Marine Resort
• Top restaurants:Barbecue Street, Dogwood Terrace Restaurant, Old Mill Restaurant

8. St. Simons’ East Beach

For a taste of coastal history, visit the old U.S. Coast Guard Station at the far end of St. Simons Island’s East Beach. Built in 1936, this restored white structure now houses the World War II Home Front Museum. After touring the museum, enjoy the quiet stretch of beach, perfect for long walks and watching shrimp boats on the horizon.

• Address: 4201 1st St, St Simons Island, GA 31522, USA
• Timings: Dawn to dusk (beach), 10 AM – 5 PM Monday-Saturday (museum)
• How to reach: Drive south on I-95, take exit 38 to St. Simons Island via GA-25
• Things to do: Visit WWII museum, beach walks, shelling, birdwatching
• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Accommodation:The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, Village Inn & Pub, Ocean Lodge
• Top restaurants:Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill, Halyards Restaurant, Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria

9. Savannah River Beach

Just north of Savannah’s historic downtown, Savannah River Beach (also known as River Street Beach) offers a unique urban beach experience on the Savannah River. While not a traditional swimming beach, it’s a scenic spot to relax on the sand, watch massive container ships, and enjoy live music and events. Explore the adjacent Rousakis Riverfront Plaza and its many shops, restaurants, and galleries.

• Address: Rousakis Plaza, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
• Timings: Open 24/7
• How to reach: Walk north on E River St from downtown Savannah
• Things to do: Relaxing on the sand, watching boats, exploring Rousakis Riverfront Plaza
• Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
• Accommodation:The Cotton Sail Hotel, River Street Inn, The Alida Hotel
• Top restaurants:Huey’s On The River, Vic’s On The River, Chart House

10. St. Simons Island Beach

The main beach on St. Simons Island stretches for miles along the island’s eastern shore. With its wide stretches of sand, gently rolling waves, and convenient amenities, it’s a perfect spot for families and beach lovers of all ages. Enjoy swimming, body surfing, sandcastle building, and long walks at sunrise or sunset.

• Address: Beachview Dr, St Simons Island, GA 31522, USA
• Timings: Open 24/7
• How to reach: Drive south on I-95, take exit 38 to St. Simons Island via GA-25
• Things to do: Swimming, body surfing, sandcastle building, beach walks
• Best time to visit: Summer (June to August)
• Accommodation:The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, Hotel Simone, Ocean Lodge
• Top restaurants:ECHO St. Simons Island, Georgia Sea Grill, Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill

11. Jekyll Island Beach

Stretching along the entire eastern shore of Jekyll Island, this expansive beach offers a mix of developed areas with amenities and wild stretches of untouched sand dunes and maritime forest. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and long beach walks, or explore the adjacent Jekyll Island Trail System for hiking and biking.

• Address: Beachview Dr N, Jekyll Island, GA 31527, USA
• Timings: Open 24/7, though specific attractions may have varying hours
• How to reach: Accessible via a paved causeway from the mainland; approximately 1.5 hours from Savannah, GA, and 2 hours from Jacksonville, FL
• Things to do: Beach walking, biking, guided tours of the Landmark Historic District, Summer Waves Water Park, Georgia Sea Turtle Center, hiking trails, birdwatching, golfing
• Best time to visit: Spring and Summer (March to August)
• Accommodation:Jekyll Island Club Resort, Jekyll Ocean Club, Hampton Inn & Suites Jekyll Island
• Top restaurants:The Wharf Restaurant & Bar, Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar, The Grand Dining Room

FAQs

Are there any entry fees for the beaches in Georgia?

Most beaches in Georgia are public and do not charge an entry fee, although some may have fees for parking or specific activities like water parks or guided tours. It’s always a good idea to check with the specific beach or park for any applicable fees before your visit.

Are Georgia beaches suitable for families with kids?

Absolutely! Georgia’s beaches are highly family-friendly, offering a range of activities and amenities for kids of all ages. Many beaches, such as those on Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, have playgrounds, picnic areas, and gentle waves that are perfect for little ones to splash around in. Water parks and nature centers also provide fun and educational experiences for the whole family.

Is there any dress code for visiting beaches in Georgia?

There is no strict dress code for Georgia’s beaches. Beachgoers typically wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing such as swimsuits, shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. However, it’s always a good idea to bring sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and cover-ups, as well as sturdy shoes for walking on sand or exploring nearby nature trails.

What are some must-try local dishes near Georgia beaches?

Georgia’s coastal cuisine is a delicious mix of Southern favorites and fresh seafood. Some must-try dishes include Low Country Boil, Shrimp and Grits, Fried Okra, and Peach Cobbler.

Is it safe to swim in the waters of Georgia beaches?

Georgia’s beaches generally have safe swimming conditions, with moderate waves and gentle slopes. However, it’s always important to check the current weather and water conditions before entering the ocean. Pay attention to any posted warning signs or flags, and avoid swimming during rough seas or thunderstorms. Beaches with lifeguards on duty provide an extra layer of safety for swimmers.

What facilities are available at the beaches?

Georgia’s beaches offer a range of facilities to make your visit comfortable and convenient. Most beaches have restrooms, changing rooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and shelters. Some beaches also have additional amenities like playgrounds, water sports rentals, snack bars, and souvenir shops.

What should I pack for a day at the beach in Georgia?

For a fun and comfortable beach day in Georgia, consider packing a swimsuit and cover-up, beach towels, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses, water shoes or sandals, a waterproof bag for valuables, and more. Bringing these essentials will help ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time at any of the best beaches in Georgia.