Beaches Close To Atlanta That You Can Drive To!

Our family is definitely more beach life than snow and ski these days, and we’re always looking for great beaches within a six-hour drive from Atlanta. Hilton Head has become our go-to spot—its convenience is hard to beat! We spent Memorial Day weekend there and have some updates from our last visit, along with details on other nearby beaches worth checking out.

Where We Stayed

Hilton Head is our go to as the convenience is tough to beat. We visited over Memorial Day and have more details and updates from my last post. I am also including surrounding beaches that are within a six hour drive from Atlanta.

This visit we stayed north at the Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Club. To date this has been the best VRBO and location! Our cozy one-bedroom condo in Folly Field, complete with bunk beds in the hallway, was perfect for the three of us. Our host, Donna, was amazing—she stayed in touch throughout the booking process, made check-in a breeze, and even let us check in early (huge bonus!). The only downside? No washer and dryer, but honestly, that wasn’t a deal breaker. The condo was immaculate, fully stocked with everything we needed, and in a fantastic location. Even my husband, who critiques everything, had zero complaints!

Beachside Perks & Activities

Mornings started with coffee on the patio, taking in the beach views. The short walk to the beach made getting there effortless, but when we wanted a change of pace, the beachfront pool was a great option. The resort also had a restaurant, bar, and a snow cone stand, which made for easy and delicious snacks. One evening, we caught some live music, and on another, we enjoyed an outdoor movie—such a fun touch! While we didn’t get around to using them, there were also tennis and pickleball courts but we did not utilize them.

Where We Ate

Of course, no trip to Hilton Head is complete without revisiting our favorite restaurants! Our first stop was The Sea Shack—a must for fresh seafood. We also dined at Skillets, another favorite. This trip, we tried a new spot with some friends—The Frosty Frog Café. If you love frozen drinks, this place is a paradise, boasting 27 different daiquiris to choose from!

A Little Friendly Competition

A Hilton Head tradition for us is mini golf at Pirates Island—we never skip a round! It’s always a blast and a great way to end the day.

Looking for more beach getaways within a short drive? Here’s a comprehensive list of beaches near Atlanta, featuring some of our family favorites and must-visit destinations!

Destin, Florida

Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin is known for its stunning emerald-green waters and sugar-white sand. Just 5.5 hours from Atlanta, it offers 13 public beaches, making it easy to find the perfect spot to relax. But there’s more than just the beach! Destin is packed with family-friendly activities, including:

• Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park – A fun-filled waterpark with slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.

• Destin Harbor Boardwalk – A lively spot with waterfront restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.

• Buccaneer Pirate Cruise – A swashbuckling adventure for kids and adults alike.

• Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park – See dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life up close.

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St. Simons Island,

(5.5 hours from Atlanta)

A charming coastal destination, St. Simons Island is perfect for families. Must-visit spots include:

• Neptune Park – A beachfront playground, pool, and mini-golf course.

• St. Simons Lighthouse Museum – Climb to the top for breathtaking views.

• Tree Spirits of St. Simons – A fun scavenger hunt featuring 20 hand-carved faces hidden in trees.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

(5.5 hours from Atlanta)

Known for its natural beauty and historic charm, Jekyll Island is home to:

• Driftwood Beach – A must-see for its unique, otherworldly landscape.

• Georgia Sea Turtle Center – A chance to learn about sea turtle rehabilitation.

• Jekyll Island Club Resort – Once a retreat for Rockefellers and Vanderbilts, it’s now a great place to explore.

Tybee Island, Georgia

(5 hours from Atlanta)

Tybee is Savannah’s beach, offering long stretches of Atlantic Ocean shoreline. Don’t miss:

• Tybee Island Marine Science Center – A great place to learn about local marine life.

• Tybee Lighthouse – One of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in Georgia.

• Seaweed’s Ice Cream & Shaved Ice – Cool off with a delicious treat before heading to the Tybee Pier.

Cumberland Island

(5 hours from Atlanta)

For those looking for seclusion and adventure, take a ferry to Cumberland Island and enjoy:

• 18 miles of untouched beaches – No crowds, just pure natural beauty.

• Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum – Learn about the island’s history.

• St. Marys Submarine Museum – A fascinating spot for kids who love submarines.

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South Carolina Beaches

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

(6 hours from Atlanta)

One of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast, Myrtle Beach is packed with attractions:

• Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Thrill rides with ocean views.

• Myrtle Waves Water Park – Over 20 acres of water slides and pools.

• Broadway at the Beach – Shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Folly Beach, South Carolina

(5.5 hours from Atlanta)

Located near Charleston, SC, Folly Beach is perfect for kayaking, dolphin watching, and boat tours.

Kiawah Island

(6 hours from Atlanta)

A biker’s paradise with 30 miles of paved trails. Stop by Freshfields Village for great shopping and dining.

Florida Beaches

Panama City Beach

(6 hours from Atlanta)

A family-friendly destination with plenty to do:

• Pier Park – An entertainment hub with shopping and restaurants.

• Gulf World Marine Park – Interactive experiences with dolphins and sea lions.

• Shipwreck Island Waterpark – One of the top-rated waterparks in Florida.

Highway 30A

(6 hours from Atlanta)

Famous for charming beach towns like Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach, and Seaside. Ride bikes, grab a snow cone from an Airstream, or enjoy stand-up paddleboarding.

Pensacola Beach

(6 hours from Atlanta)

A great spot for dolphin cruises and exploring Gulf Islands National Seashore. Visit the National Naval Aviation Museum and watch the Blue Angels practice.

Jacksonville Beach

(5.5 hours from Atlanta)

Perfect for surfing, hiking, and fishing. Don’t miss:

• Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve – A nature lover’s paradise.

• Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier – No fishing permit required!

With so many incredible beach destinations within a short drive from Atlanta, there’s no shortage of options for your next getaway. Whether you’re craving gulf waters, historic beach towns, outdoor adventures, or just a relaxing spot to soak up the sun, these beaches near Atlanta offer something for everyone.

Got a favorite beach road trip? Let me know in the comments, and stay tuned for more updates from our upcoming Destin trip!