Georgia

This GA island is the South’s best beach destination, Southern Living says. Here’s why

Golden Isles, Georgia.
Golden Isles, Georgia. Golden Isles website

While spring is just around the corner, summer is already calling. So, get your beach bucket list ready and get ready to book your trip to this Georgia island because it was named the number one best beach destination in the South by Southern Living.

Here’s what to know:

Which southern beach destination is the best?

While the list named 20 of the South’s best beach destinations, the Golden Isles in Georgia made the top spot, but why?

“There’s something magical about this stretch of islands off the coast of Georgia. Comprised of St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and the mainland city of Brunswick, the Golden Isles are named for the honey-colored marsh grass that surrounds the area’s many winding waterways,” wrote Tara Massouleh McCay with Southern Living. “The beaches here are quieter and less developed, which is a big part of the appeal.”

McCay also noted the walkable downtown area, historic attractions, home rentals and a special eco-lodge with a “one-of-a-kind, nature-centric experience” and “undeveloped natural sanctuary.”

Which other beaches made the list? Let’s take a look:

Other beaches that made the list are:

  • Number 2: Gulf Shores, AL
  • 3: Destin, FL
  • 4: Hilton Head, SC
  • 5: Tybee Island, GA

What do you think about the Golden Isles? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com

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Chelsea Madden
The Telegraph
Chelsea is a service journalism reporter who began working for McClatchy in 2022. She was born and raised in Middle Georgia and lives in Forsyth. She attended Wesleyan College for undergrad and a few years after that, went to SCAD for an MFA in writing. Outside of work, Chelsea likes to watch Netflix, read books in the thriller genre and chase her toddler around.
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