News Summary
Coastal Georgia offers a variety of beaches, catering to families and nature lovers alike. From the bustling Tybee Island to peaceful locations like Savannah River Beach, each shore provides unique experiences. Hilton Head Island, Jekyll Island, and St. Simons Island also boast distinct features with their own charm, ensuring visitors enjoy the sun and surf along this beautiful coastline.
Coastal Georgia is a beach lover’s paradise, offering a diverse selection of beaches for all types of beachgoers, from families to nature enthusiasts. With options ranging from barrier islands to mainland coastlines, visitors can find their perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Among the highlight destinations are Tybee Island and Hilton Head Island, which each provide unique beach experiences. Tybee Island features five distinct beaches along its three-mile coastline: North Beach, South Beach, Mid Island Beach, Back River Beach, and Savannah River Beach. Beachgoers can enjoy these scenic shores, but parking on Tybee Island costs $4 per hour, available every day of the week. Note that dogs are not allowed on any of the island’s beaches.
For those seeking a quieter experience, Savannah River Beach, located at the northern end of Tybee, offers tranquility for nature lovers and birdwatchers, although public parking is not available. North Beach is less crowded and features the North Beach Grill and the iconic Tybee Island Lighthouse. Conversely, South Beach, home to Tybee’s Pier and Pavilion, draws larger crowds due to its proximity to restaurants and hotels, along with having public restrooms, making it family-friendly.
Beaches that appeal to locals include Mid Island Beach, known for its fewer crowds, although it lacks restroom facilities and public parking. Back River Beach stands out as the most subdued option on Tybee Island, perfect for quiet contemplation and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
The coastal region experiences semidiurnal tides, featuring two high and two low tides daily, with variations often seen between 4 to 6 feet, which may rise to over 9 feet during King Tides.
On Hilton Head Island, visitors will find several beaches such as Folly Field, Coligny, and Fish Haul, each promising unique experiences. Parking fees at most parks on Hilton Head cost $3 per hour, while Coligny Beach Park charges $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends. During peak hours from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day, animals are prohibited on the beaches.
Coligny Beach Park is family-friendly, equipped with facilities like a splashpad, benches, restrooms, and nearby restaurants. Fish Haul Beach Park, nestled in Gullah Geechee neighborhoods, boasts quiet sands ideal for relaxing and birdwatching, while Folly Field Beach Park is handicap-accessible featuring a boardwalk and ample swimming space, though it attracts fewer visitors.
Among the attractions on Jekyll Island are ten miles of shoreline with each beach park providing unique experiences. Parking on Jekyll Island costs $10 until midnight, and leash rules for pets are enforced. Notably, Driftwood Beach is celebrated for its stunning visuals and historical significance, connected to the Atlantic slave trade.
St. Simons Island, often recognized as an underrated gem, offers pristine coastlines with animal restrictions in effect during summer holidays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Families can enjoy Massengale Beach, known for its calm waters, picnic areas, and free parking. Coast Guard Beach, which requires a hike through a maritime forest trail, offers a secluded escape.
Additionally, Cumberland Island is famous for breathtaking views, rich history, and abundant wildlife, perfect for camping adventures. Visitors can explore Daufuskie Island to discover Gullah history and various beaches, accessible only by boat. Lastly, Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina is known for its extensive five-mile beaches and camping opportunities, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
In summary, the coastal region surrounding Savannah provides a rich tapestry of beaches and recreational options, appealing to both educational exploration and leisure. Each beach comes with its own charm, ensuring that visitors can create memorable experiences while enjoying the sun, sand, and surf.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rain and Thunderstorms Expected in Hilton Head Area
Heads Up, Southeast Coast: Potential Low Pressure System on the Horizon!
Hilton Head Island Celebrates Beach Recognition and Dog Restrictions
Charleston, SC Faces Severe Weather Alerts and Flooding
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued in South Carolina
Tragic Drowning Incident at Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head and Beaufort County Brace for Severe Thunderstorms
Severe Thunderstorms to Affect Hilton Head This Sunday
Hilton Head Island Celebrates Gullah Geechee Heritage
Tybee Island Faces Economic Challenges from Unusual Winter Weather
Additional Resources
- Savannah Now: Best Georgia and South Carolina Beaches
- Lonely Planet: Best Beaches in Savannah
- Southern Living: St. Simons Island Worth Visiting
- WSB TV: Georgia Beach Named One of the Best US Beaches 2025
- Google Search: Georgia Coastal Beaches
