When Southern Living readers were asked to rate their favorite places in the South, a destination that many outside the region have never heard of landed at No. 1. With an ideal mix of quiet beaches, charming walkable downtowns, and delicious fresh-caught fare, Georgia’s Golden Isles was named the very best.
A series of barrier islands located between Savannah and Jacksonville, they include Jekyll Island, Sea Island, St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island, and the mainland city of Brunswick. Defined by undeveloped beauty, their name comes from the vast salt marshes that are transformed into a brilliant golden-amber hue in the fall. Much more tranquil and less populated than the beaches along the South Carolina and North Carolina coasts, in the 19th century, its colorful landscapes inspired Georgia poet Sidney Lanier to describe a sunbeam over the woods as “a lane into heaven that leads from a dream.”
Each island offers something unique of its own, including some legendary resorts.
St. Simon’s Island and Little St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island is a developed, easily accessible resort and residential barrier island, tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Frederica River. Creeks wind through the scenic landscape where one can enjoy a myriad of activities, from paddling the marshes while watching for wildlife to cycling the over 20 miles of picturesque paths beneath a canopy of oaks. History enthusiasts can explore churches, battle-site landmarks, and the 1872 St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. Of course, there’s plenty for beach lovers too, with three miles of contiguous sands that stretch from the pier to East Beach.
Little St. Simons Island is a privately owned nature preserve located just northeast. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is the only accommodation, providing an all-inclusive stay for a minimal number of guests who can enjoy 10,000 acres of unspoiled natural beauty. That includes seven miles of shell-strewn beaches with opportunities to swim, fish, kayak, and embark on free birding expeditions, with some 280 bird species inhabiting the area, including bald eagles.
Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is ideal for beachgoers and history buffs, with 10 miles of spectacular shoreline and a 240-acre historic district. At the north end of the island, you’ll find iconic Driftwood Beach with its ancient gnarled driftwood and trees giving it an otherworldly look. The island is home to the state’s only rescue and rehabilitation facility, where visitors can learn about endangered sea turtles that visit the coast. In June and July, the nesting months, nightly turtle walks are available. A walking, carriage, or tram tour provides a fascinating glimpse of life during Victorian times, when millionaires enjoyed wintering here. By staying at the 1888 Jekyll Island Club Resort, you’ll be staying where families like the Astors, Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts all once slept.
Sea Island
Sea Island is a private coastal resort renowned for its luxurious white-glove service accommodations: The Cloister and The Lodge, part of the Sea Island Resort. Guests enjoy five miles of private beaches, world-class championship golf, activities like horseback riding and falconry, a lavish spa, and an oceanfront infinity pool.
