These Are the Best Beach Towns in Georgia, According to Locals

Tybee Island

“Tybee Island is considered to be ‘Savannah’s beach,’ but it has its own personality and sense of community that sets it apart from Savannah,” says Pam Brand, co-founder of Discovering Coastal Georgia, who describes the beach town as “a bit quirky, with an almost boho-style vibe.” Outside of the beaches, she shares there’s also an active arts and music scene and all sorts of events—from the Tybee Beach Bum Parade, an island-wide water gun fight, to the Tybee Island Pirate Festival and the YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest. According to Cook, “Visitors can kayak tidal creeks, go dolphin watching, eat a plethora of very fresh seafood, or take a boat to Little Tybee for secluded beaches and untouched beauty.” Brand echoes the latter sentiment, noting that “seafood is the reigning cuisine, but you’ll find lots more, from great pizza to long-standing breakfast spots.” Don’t miss the waffles at Breakfast Club or the grab-and-go biscuit sandwiches from The Window.

St. Simons Island

If you’re searching for a classic beach town with five-star amenities, look no further than St. Simons Island. “St Simons Island is a mix of small-town charm, amazing fresh seafood, and coastal beauty,” says Cook. “The quaint little town has great historic landmarks, oak trees, famous hotels, and gorgeous beaches.” One of those aforementioned hotels is The Lodge at Sea Island, a 43-room luxury property famous for its milk-and-cookies turndown service. 

“I like to say Spanish moss is in my blood,’’ says Brand, and you’ll certainly find plenty of it in St. Simons. “The towering oak trees dripping with moss are just the backdrop for all of the history, activities, and food. At the north end, you’ll find the remote Cannon’s Point Preserve, traveling south to historic Christ Church and Fort Frederica. At the far south end of the island is the village, complete with our lighthouse, fishing pier, museums, restaurants, and shops,” she explains. Like most Southern towns, delicious fare is never far away. Start your day at Palmer’s Village Cafe—get the PVC combo pancakes (made with toasted oats, nuts, and blueberries)—then enjoy fried chicken at Porch, followed by the world-famous barbecue at Southern Soul Barbeque.

Jekyll Island

History meets stunning beach views and a generally laid-back atmosphere on Jekyll Island. “Jekyll Island is where you want to go if a natural setting is your style. Much of Jekyll is owned by the state of Georgia, and development is kept to a minimum,” says Brand. “There are miles of walking and bike trails and several golf courses,” she adds, but there’s one location in particular that travelers flock to. “Driftwood Beach is the iconic must-see that you’ll want to book family portraits around when visiting this quaint island,” says Cook. Here, you’ll find what remains of a maritime forest: gnarled branches, roots, and weathered tree trunks buried in the sand.  

“A compact historic district is centered around the Jekyll Island Club Resort—now a hotel, but once the clubhouse of America’s wealthiest families,” says Brand. In between hours lounging by the resort pool, exploring nearby beaches, and riding bikes around the island, shop around the Historic District (which includes the resort) and the Beach Village, the epicenter of the island.

Sea Island

It might be a stretch to call Sea Island a beach town—it’s technically a resort island—but once you’ve arrived at this beach and riverfront destination, you’ll find there’s always something to do, whether you’re interested in shopping, fishing, riding bikes, or jumping the waves. “This exclusive South Georgia destination features private beaches, a luxury resort, and world-class golf. It’s the ultimate in coastal elegance, with upscale dining, spa experiences, and exceptional service. You can stay the weekend or buy your luxury dream home,” says Cook. If you go with the latter option, you’ll be able to access this pocket of paradise all year round.

St. Marys and Cumberland Island

Brand also recommends St Marys, but with one caveat. “Just be aware that there is no beach in St. Marys, but it is the gateway to Cumberland Island via the ferry,” she says. Cumberland Island, the remote barrier island where the late John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy married, is known for its pristine beaches and maritime forests. If you’re coming over on the ferry, be sure to pack all your own gear and food, including sunscreen, water, and snacks. Back in historic St. Marys, which became part of Georgia in 1763, you can find a variety of fun activities to fill your itinerary, plus plenty of waterfront views. Walk the nature trail at Crooked River State Park, stroll along the St. Marys History Walk, and visit the St. Marys Submarine Museum.