Georgia has a magnificent coastline which is adorned with family friendly beaches against a backdrop of unique, stunning and often dramatic landscapes. Here are four beautiful beach destinations, all within easy reach of Atlanta, which offer plenty of activities, coastal walks and the opportunity to see some remarkable wildlife!
St. Simon’s Island
From gorgeous beaches, to wide- ranging activities including family friendly entertainment, St Simon’s Island is the perfect choice for a beach get-away. Located in Glynn County on the South Eastern Georgia Coast, around three hundred 
miles from Atlanta, the Island retains a charming atmosphere thanks to its natural beauty, which is intertwined with historical sites such as its famous lighthouse and a stunning array of wildlife including Alligators, a variety of birds and Terrapins.
There are plenty of activities on offer including tennis, golf, and an abundance of water-sports including paddle boarding and surfing. Bike riding is highly recommended and is a brilliant way to catch glimpses of St Simon’s undoubted beauty – there are plenty of bike trails which criss-cross the island making this an excellent, and environmentally friendly mode of transport.
Children will love Neptune Park, which offers fishing opportunities from its very own pier and a swimming pool. There is an emphasis on fun in Neptune Park, however both children and adults alike will also enjoy bird spotting and one of the many nature tours on offer.
Eating is diverse and caters well for both adults and children – from sleepy outdoor settings to fine dining options, the cuisine on offer will suit all taste buds.
There is an emphasis on history in this quirky beach location, and naturally there are some great historical tours which will give you an amazing insight in to St Simon’s interesting past, including the Frederica National Monument and the beautiful Christ Church.
St Simon’s has managed to retain its old world charm which makes it appealing to everyone! Our favorite place to stay while visiting St. Simons Island is The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort.
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is located in Chatham County, Eastern Georgia and is around two hundred and sixty miles from Atlanta. It is only around eighteen miles from Savannah and is blessed with gorgeous beaches and lakes.
The Northern part of the beach is quieter than its southern counterpart and has a very relaxed family friendly ambience. Swimming is a delightful activity for families thanks to its calm seas and makes paddle boarding and other water-sports very enjoyable. However, for those that don’t mind a vibrant atmosphere, the southern part of the beach has a good selection of shops and restaurants and there are wonderful walks which are undertaken by the Marine Science Centre.
Bikes are readily available and are an excellent way to discover the Islands rich, and natural beauty. You may be lucky enough to spot dolphins frolicking in the calm waters, however there are several dolphin tours which can be an excellent way to spot these marvelous animals.
The Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is highly recommended and children will enjoy eating out at the very unique Crab Shack which has an Alligator pond!
Jekyll Island
This barrier shore island is around three hundred and twenty miles by car for Atlanta and is particularly beautiful thanks to its outstanding natural beauty and unique heritage – the beaches are quite simply stunning. Whether you decide to visit the popular Driftwood Beach or escape to the sand and shores of Glory Beach on the southern tip of the island, a visit to Jekyll Island makes for a very special vacation.
Well suited for families, Great Dunes has a good array of activities on offer – from water-sport based activities to several child play areas, this area caters well for visitors thanks to its particular emphasis on ensuring a fun, yet safe 
environment for every visitor.
A visit to the Sea Turtle Centre will light up the eyes of both children and adults, and it is a wonderful way for children to interact and learn about these beautiful creatures. Golf is award winning on the island, and golf enthusiasts will not be disappointed. However, the island is extra beautiful thanks to the beautiful oak trees which surround this, and many of the other beaches in Georgia. Bike riding is a great way to soak up some of the natural attractions on offer and you may find some hidden gems whilst doing so!
The Museum is the perfect way to immerse yourself in some of the renowned, and rich heritage of Jekyll Island, but even a laid back boat ride is a lovely way to enjoy the peaceful surrounds of this delightful area.
Eating here is truly unique and offers a good mix of both fine, and laid back dining. People that like shopping will fall in love with the boutique style shops.
Callaway Gardens
Whilst not a coastal beach, Callaway gardens, located in Pine Mountain in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains, is a resort complex which offers unique activities in beautiful settings. From the man made, but stunning Robin Lake Beach, to activities such as golfing, children will thoroughly enjoy the Tree Top Adventure and obstacle course. Day passes and longer stays makes this a flexible attraction.
From the Pioneer Cabin Log and butterfly center, to the fantastic array of water-sports on offer, there is something for everyone in this diverse resort. There are plenty of walking trails and opportunities to learn about, and get up close and personal with wildlife, and the overall natural beauty that this resort is surrounded by.
Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful gardens or dine on the Banquet Menu with locally soured, fresh ingredients which has a focus on sustainability and the environment.
There are some great stores which have a good mix of unique items, including food, all within the beautiful backdrop of this special family vacation destination.
