Part of the National Wildlife Refuge system, this barrier island features diverse habitats including pristine beaches. Accessible only by boat, offering primitive camping, hiking trails, and excellent fishing opportunities. Important nesting area for loggerhead turtles.
Georgia Beaches
King’s Beach (Wassaw Island)
Located on Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge, one of Georgia’s most pristine barrier islands. Accessible only by boat, featuring seven miles of undeveloped beaches, maritime forest, and salt marshes. Day use only with no facilities or overnight camping.
Wolf Island Beach
Designated National Wildlife Refuge and Wilderness Area, closed to public access to protect critical habitat for migratory birds and nesting sea turtles. Can be viewed from the water by boat or kayak tours. Important ecological research site.
Great Dunes Beach (Jekyll Island)
Jekyll Island’s most accessible beach with parking, restrooms, picnic pavilions, and beach wheelchair access. Features the Great Dunes Park with volleyball courts and picnic areas. Popular for swimming due to its typically calm waters.
South Beach (Tybee Island)
The liveliest area of Tybee Island, featuring the Tybee Pier and Pavilion, numerous restaurants, shops, and the island’s main nightlife scene. Popular with surfers and swimmers with lifeguards present during peak season. Offers beach chair and umbrella rentals.
Massengale Park Beach (St. Simons)
Family-friendly beach park featuring picnic facilities, a playground, and easy beach access. Popular with locals and visitors with children. Offers shaded areas for relaxation and public restrooms. Located in a residential area with limited parking.
Plum Orchard Beach (Cumberland Island)
Located near the historic Plum Orchard Mansion on undeveloped Cumberland Island. Accessible by ferry and then hiking or biking several miles. Features pristine, untouched shoreline with excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife including wild horses.
Coast Guard Beach (Cumberland Island)
Located near the Sea Camp ranger station and campground on Cumberland Island. Accessible via ferry and a short walk. Features wide, flat beaches with opportunities to see wild horses and other wildlife. Limited facilities available at the Sea Camp area.
Mid Beach (Tybee Island)
Central beach area on Tybee Island stretching from around 5th Street to 14th Street. Features numerous beach access points, nearby restaurants and shops, and a mix of vacation rentals and small hotels. Popular for swimming and beach volleyball.
Raccoon Island Beach
Part of the Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge, this remote beach is accessible only by private boat. Features pristine shoreline, excellent bird watching, and opportunities to see loggerhead sea turtles during nesting season. No facilities available.