Just because Atlanta is located inland -- about 250 miles, in fact -- doesn't mean locals and visitors can’t enjoy a day at the beach. Man-made beaches on a lake can be found relatively close to the Southern metropolis, but for those desiring real waves and the Atlantic Ocean, several beaches can be reached by car in about five hours or less from Atlanta along the barrier islands that hug the Georgia and South Carolina coasts.
The closest ocean beach to Atlanta, Tybee Island is a little more than 250 miles from downtown. Off the coast of Savannah, Tybee has long been known for its laid-back beach town vibe. Visitors have been coming here each summer since the 19th century, mostly on the southern end of the island around the pier and pavilion. This is also where beachgoers can find most of the dining and shopping on the island. The north end of Tybee Island is less populated, but does have a museum, fort and lighthouse visitors may want to explore.
At 282 miles away from Atlanta, Hilton Head has 14 miles of family-friendly beaches just over the Georgia state line. This charming South Carolina island also features charter fishing and touring cruises. The main attraction, however, is golf. Known as a resort destination, the island is mostly populated with private gated developments, many with their own golf courses. The beach remains public and there are nine public access points, but because the island is spread out a car is essential. The quaint Harbour Town has shops and restaurants that cater to the resort clientele the island usually sees. Other sports such as kayaking and tennis are popular on the island as well.
About a five-hour drive and 312 miles from Atlanta, St. Simons Island on the Georgia coast has plenty of historic landmarks to explore, including a 1872 lighthouse which is said to be haunted and the Fort Frederica National Monument which dates back to colonial times. St. Simons Island has two public beaches -- Coast Guard Station/East Beach and Massingale Park Beach. The beaches are popular spots for seashell hunting, especially during the late summer when frequent storms off the coast bring plenty of shells to the shore.
Once the private retreat for America’s elite, such as the Rockefellers and the Vanderbilts, Jekyll Island off Georgia’s coast is known for its white beaches and crystalline blue waters. Located about 322 miles from Atlanta, the island is now controlled by the Jekyll Island Authority which charges a small fee to visit. The 10-mile stretch of beach is ideal for finding sand dollars and shells, but golf and tennis are also popular on-island attractions. Jekyll Island is home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which serves to rescue and rehabilitate the local turtles. The center is open for tours.
