Coastal Georgia Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Coastal Georgia including must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, and where to stay, along with information on the food, culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia is a stunning region located in the southern part of Georgia in the United States. Known for its charming historic towns, beautiful beaches and coastal islands, and rich cultural heritage, it’s a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the southern charm of the United States.

List of Places to Visit in Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia has no shortage of amazing places to visit, and here are just a few of our top picks:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force - located in Pooler, this museum showcases the history and legacy of the Eighth Air Force in World War II.
  2. Savannah Historic District - a must-visit destination for history buffs, the district features beautiful architecture and numerous museums and historical sites.
  3. Tybee Island Light Station and Museum - climb to the top of Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse for stunning views of the coast.

Natural Attractions of Coastal Georgia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Jekyll Island - known for its beautiful beaches, nature trails, and historic landmark such as the Jekyll Island Club and Millionaire’s Village.
  2. Cumberland Island National Seashore - the largest and southernmost barrier island in Georgia, offers beautiful beaches, hiking, and biking trails.
  3. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge - a vast wilderness area known for its swamps, wildlife, and scenic boat tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and here are some of the top hiking/biking routes to explore:

  1. McQueen’s Island Trail - a 6-mile stretch of paved trail along the Savannah River that’s great for biking and hiking.
  2. Skidaway Island State Park - features several hiking trails that traverse through the park’s salt marshes and maritime forests.
  3. Fort Frederica National Monument Trail - this easy 1.5-mile trail leads visitors through the historic town of Frederica.

Best Things to Do in Coastal Georgia: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a trolley tour in Savannah - a great way to explore the city’s historic district.
  2. Kayak through the salt marshes - several tour operators offer guided kayak tours through Georgia’s scenic salt marshes.
  3. Take a sunset boat tour to Cumberland Island - enjoy stunning views of the sunset on a boat tour from St. Mary’s to Cumberland Island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coastal Georgia

Day 1: Explore the charming town of Brunswick and visit the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation State Historic Site.

Day 2: Head to Jekyll Island and spend the day at Driftwood Beach and the Jekyll Island Club.

Day 3: Take a guided boat tour of the Okefenokee Swamp and visit the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

Day 4: Visit historic Savannah and explore its museums, parks, and public squares.

Day 5: Go on a hike in the Skidaway Island State Park or bike along the McQueen’s Island Trail.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Cumberland Island and explore its beaches, historic sites, and wildlife.

Day 7: Relax on Tybee Island and visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum or go kayaking and paddleboarding.

Food and Drink Scene of Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia is known for its delicious food, local seafood, and sweet tea. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Shrimp and grits - a classic southern dish that’s a staple on many restaurant menus.
  2. Low Country Boil - a seafood feast that typically includes shrimp, crab, and sausage, boiled with corn and potatoes.
  3. Fried green tomatoes - a tasty appetizer or side dish made from unripe green tomatoes, battered and fried.

Local Beverages

  1. Sweet Tea - a southern classic made with black tea and sweetened with sugar.
  2. Georgia Wine - Georgia has a growing wine scene, and there are several vineyards that offer tastings of their locally produced wines.
  3. Savannah Craft Beer - several breweries in Savannah brew their craft beers that are worth trying out.

Where to Stay in Coastal Georgia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Coastal Georgia offers a variety of accommodations for every budget. Here are some of our top picks:

  1. Jekyll Island Club Resort - located on Jekyll Island, this historic resort offers luxurious accommodations and beautiful ocean views.
  2. Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort and Spa - a great choice for a relaxing getaway, located on the Savannah River with plenty of amenities and facilities.
  3. McMillan Inn - located in the heart of the Savannah Historic District, this bed and breakfast offers charming accommodations and an authentic southern hospitality experience.

What to Buy in Coastal Georgia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Local Honey - Georgia has several beekeepers who produce delicious honey that’s perfect for tea or cooking.
  2. Georgia Peanuts - a southern snack that’s perfect for road trips or for an afternoon snack.
  3. Savannah Taffy - a classic candy that’s made fresh in Savannah and comes in a variety of flavors.

Local Culture and Customs of Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors should take some time to experience and learn about the local customs and traditions such as:

  1. Gullah Culture - the Gullah people are a unique African American community that has preserved their culture, language, and traditions for centuries.
  2. Southern Hospitality - southerners are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality, so don’t be surprised if strangers offer a friendly smile and a kind word.
  3. Sweet Tea - Southerners love their sweet tea and often offer it to guests as a form of hospitality and welcome.

Best Time to Visit Coastal Georgia

The best time to visit Coastal Georgia is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are lesser than the peak summer season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coastal Georgia

Do:

  1. Respect the historical sites - many of the historical sites are sacred to the people of Coastal Georgia, and visitors should respect them and follow guidelines.
  2. Try the local cuisine - Coastal Georgia has some delicious food and drinks, so don’t miss out on the local culinary experience.
  3. Be open to learning about the local customs and traditions - Coastal Georgia has a rich cultural heritage, so be open to learning and experiencing it.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the environment - Coastal Georgia’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions, so visitors must ensure not to litter or damage the environment.
  2. Disrespect the locals - Southerners are known for their hospitality and kindness, so visitors should be respectful and polite.
  3. Disrespect the historical sites or monuments - Coastal Georgia has many historical sites and monuments, many of which represent the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors should be respectful and follow local guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia is a generally safe destination, but visitors should take necessary precautions such as:

  1. Be aware of wildlife - Coastal Georgia is home to numerous wildlife species such as alligators and bears, so visitors should exercise caution when exploring nature areas.
  2. Be aware of the weather - Coastal Georgia can experience occasional hurricanes and tropical storms, so visitors should stay informed and follow local guidelines in case of any weather-related emergency.
  3. Be aware of crime - like any other tourist destination, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and keep their valuables safe.

Health in Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia has good healthcare facilities and services, but visitors should take necessary precautions such as:

  1. Drink plenty of water - the southern heat can be intense, and visitors should make sure to stay hydrated.
  2. Wear sunscreen - the sun can be strong in Coastal Georgia, and visitors should protect themselves from sunburn and skin damage.

Getting to Coastal Georgia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Coastal Georgia is well-connected and easily accessible by air, road, and sea. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Coastal Georgia

  1. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport - located about 6 miles from downtown Savannah, it serves several major airlines and destinations.
  2. Brunswick Golden Isles Airport - located in Brunswick, it has regular flights from several regional and charter airlines.

Bus Stations Near Coastal Georgia

  1. Greyhound - has several stations in Coastal Georgia, including Savannah, Brunswick, and St. Mary’s.
  2. Megabus - has several stops around Coastal Georgia, including Savannah and Atlanta.

Other Options

  1. Car Rentals - Coastal Georgia is easily accessible by road, and car rentals are available in major cities and airports.
  2. Taxis and Ride-sharing Services - several taxi and ride-sharing services operate in Coastal Georgia.

How to Get Around in Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia is a beautiful and scenic area to explore, and visitors can get around by:

  1. Rental cars - car rentals are available in major cities and airports in Coastal Georgia.
  2. Buses - several bus services operate in Coastal Georgia, including Greyhound and Megabus.
  3. Taxis and Ride-sharing Services - several taxi and ride-sharing services operate in Coastal Georgia.

Where to Go Next from Coastal Georgia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Coastal Georgia is a great launching pad to explore other nearby destinations such as:

  1. Charleston, South Carolina - a charming historic town famous for its architecture, museums, and fine dining scene.
  2. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina - a popular resort town known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and outdoor adventures.
  3. St. Augustine, Florida - America’s oldest city is well-known for its historical landmarks and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Coastal Georgia is a charming and fascinating destination that has something to offer for all types of travelers. From the beaches and nature trails to the historic towns and cultural attractions, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful region.



    Brunswick (Georgia)
    Cumberland Island National Seashore
    Midway (Georgia)
    Port Wentworth
    Saint Simons Island
    Skidaway Island
    Tybee Island
    Waycross