Coastal Georgia is known for sandy dunes, salt flats, marshlands and intricate ecosystems treasured and protected by the state's residents. Strips of sugar-white beaches are not the first things that comes to mind, but rest assured, that there are plenty of places to enjoy wind, water and waves in the coastal regions of the Peach State. From barrier islands to state parks and a vast national seashore, the lakes and Atlantic Ocean waters provide a ring of sandy play space open to the public year round.

The Golden Isles

Perched in an enviable spot of the Golden Isles region of Georgia, the beaches of Jekyll Island have hosted some notorious visitors over the decades. The island gained a reputation in the late 1800s and early 1900s as the winter retreat for America's wealthiest and most influential families. The 10 miles of sandy beaches on Jekyll Island are still a favorite vacation destination, generally relaxed and uncrowded because of development limits. Great Dunes Park spans 20 acres with a prime beachfront location and access to biking trails, bocce ball and volleyball courts. It is also home to the annual three-day Beach Music Festival in August. Driftwood Beach mesmerizes nature lovers and photographers, while Glory Beach, the host to the Civil War film starring Morgan Freeman, stars as a movie set location.

Near Savannah

Just a 20-minute drive from the historic river town of Savannah, Tybee Island beckons with five miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches backed by natural windswept sand dunes. A pier on the south end of the island stretches over the waves, providing the chance to add some fishing to your day at the beach. In the warm months, the pier and surrounding beaches host special events and live music. The colder months still draw visitors to the beach with a Polar Bear Plunge on New Year's Day and a beach run as part of the annual winter Run Fest.

State Parks

West Georgia is home to the 138-acre John Tanner Park, known for its large sandy beach and swimming lake. Campsites provide a way to have an affordable family beach vacation complete with pedal boats, volleyball, horseshoes, miniature golf and fishing. A nature trail and paved lake loop invite long walks and cycling excursions. If you prefer to sleep indoors, a small motel near the beach offers six units with full kitchens and living areas.

National Seashore

Ferry or private boat gets you to Cumberland Island, a national seashore. Camping is available near the beaches, which are a favorite spot for shelling and beachcombing, especially after a storm or strong surf surges. Visitors can collect shark's teeth, coquinas, moon snails and heart cockles at Dungeness Beach or nearby marshy regions at low tide. Kayaking and boating is prime, and hiking trails traverse the sandy beaches, maritime forests and interior wetlands. More than 335 species of birds have been recorded on the island, which is a stopping point along the transatlantic migratory flyway.

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