With over 100 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, Georgia's white sand beaches are awesome travel destinations for beach goers and families. The Peach State is situated in the Southeast region of America. As a result, the state's climate offers favorable weather and water temperatures throughout the year.
Georgia residents, as well as traveling tourists from surrounding states, know and love the beach culture along the state's 15 different barrier islands. The Georgia coast offers crowded beach towns, plus state parks with stretches of empty beaches. Several of the coastal islands are accessible only by boat—so visitors from cities like Savannah and Atlanta must conduct research before picking their beach destination. Before a road trip getaway along Georgia's coast, readers should consider the following travel guide to find the best, family-friendly beaches to lay out on the Georgia sand (in no particular order)...
Best Georgia Beaches to Excite the Whole Family
1. Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is a fan-favorite travel destination; this barrier island is perfect for a family-friendly and pet-friendly day trip to the beach. For example, Driftwood Beach is a popular option for individuals, couples, and families with kids who want to hang out on a sunny day. Travelers often choose other public beaches like St. Andrews Beach or Great Dunes Beach Park—the latter featuring a beachfront trail and shaded pavilion. What's more, Glory Beach Boardwalk is another great spot to bring the family to admire the surrounding scenic area.
2. Tybee Island
Tybee Island is just 30 minutes from downtown Savannah, Georgia. Families headed to North Beach can walk along the Savannah River as it empties into the Atlantic Ocean. What's more, tourists will find the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum close by. While in this historic area, individuals should check out Fort Screven, which was used as a U.S. Military post from 1897 to 1947. Moving down the island, beach goers can lay out on South Beach or go fishing off the Tybee Beach Pier.
3. St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island is part of Georgia's Golden Isles. When traveling to this area, tourists often begin in Brunswick, GA just off the island. From Brunswick, families will have access to Golden Isles' towns like St. Simons, Little St. Simons Island, and Sea Island. Popular beaches in this region include East Beach, Sea Island Beach, Gould's Inlet Public Beach, and the Coast Guard Station, which has a public beach access point. Tourists in need of info can stop at the Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau in town on St. Simons Island.
4. Cumberland Island
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Right above the Florida state line is Cumberland Island. The preserved shoreline and wilderness area known as Cumberland Island National Seashore has opportunities to hike undeveloped beaches, go camping, biking, fishing, catch a ferry ride, and view historic cultural ruins. When traveling to Cumberland Island, visitors often stop in the St. Mary's area to view the St. Mary's Submarine Museum and/or explore the Crooked River State Park. This region is well-known for its distinct environment and wildlife viewing opportunities. Wild horses stomp the empty beaches, and sometimes visitors will get to see a friend from the local sea turtle community!
5. Sapelo Island
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Sapelo Island is yet another popular beach option for travelers. With sand dunes as far as the eye can see, families often choose to visit Sapelo Island Wildlife Area as well as Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge. There are opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding on Blackbeard Creek. When it's time to relax, many people lay out on Nanny Goat Beach on the South end of the island.
Any family with kids is liable to have an awesome beach day when travelling to any of these Georgia beaches. Enjoy traveling the GA coastline!
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