Posted in Georgia
December 27, 2021
While we might not have the Caribbean Islands as close as Florida, Georgia has its own set of islands that are worth exploring on a weekend. Georgia’s Barrier Islands are among the state’s top vacation destinations. With sandy beaches, gentle breezes and diverse wildlife, each of these barrier islands offers a little something different. Barrier Islands are found all along the eastern seaboard of the United States, and Georgia has several that people will come from all over to explore. We’re going to start this island hopping adventure from north to south, but really where you want to start is fine too. Ready for the perfect weekend adventure?
Note: Not all barrier islands in Georgia are open to the public. For example, Île Sainte-Catherine and Île Wolf do not allow public access.
In these uncertain times, keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket-to-visit list at a later date.
Tybee Island is easily one of Georgia’s most exciting and popular barrier islands. Popular since the late 1800s, people have headed to Tybee Island from Savannah to enjoy the white sands, historic sites, and the still-functioning lighthouse. This is the perfect place to start this island hopping adventure.

Visiting Wassaw Island won’t be as easy as visiting Tybee Island. Access to this wildlife refuge is by boat only and you must make your own arrangements or use your own boat. There are also companies that offer tours of this unspoiled barrier island, whether by boat or kayak.

Similar to Wassaw Island, Ossabaw Island is also pure unspoiled natural beauty. Widely known as a nature and heritage reserve, visitors cannot go beyond the dunes of this island unless their visit complies with the Heritage Preservation Act. But, you can still visit the beautiful beaches from sun to sunset.

Visitors to Sapelo Island can take the continental ferry to the Barrier Island for an afternoon of adventure. Just be sure to pre-register in advance! This state-run barrier island is the fourth largest in the Georgia chain and offers plenty of opportunities to stay, play, and enjoy the region.

Wolf Island, Georgia should only be enjoyed from afar – by that we mean never setting foot on the island. The waters surrounding this wildlife refuge are open for recreational activities like crabbing, fishing, etc., but the beaches and mountainous areas are closed to the public. But, you can still see from the water why this barrier island is so special.

What remains so fascinating about Little St. Simons Island, Georgia is the fact that it is almost virtually untouched in terms of scenery. With 11,000 acres of space, this fragile and delicate natural gem even offers overnight accommodations in historic cabins, as there is so much to do and see.

Sea Island is next on the list and this one is about as high end as it gets, especially with the resorts here. Since 1928, Sea Island in Georgia has grown into a coveted vacation spot, thanks in large part to the Sea Island Cloister. With five miles of private beaches, you’ll want to plan ahead if you’re going to be spending the night here.

Another incredibly popular barrier island in Georgia is St. Simons Island, known for its stretches of beach and delicious salt marshes. There are also tons of historic attractions to discover during your stay, from the St. Simons Lighthouse to the St. Simons Pier. Moreover, you will have plenty of opportunities here for shopping, dining and relaxing.

Jekyll Island is state-owned and known for its natural beauty, expansive beaches, and family-friendly activities. History buffs can enjoy an amalgamation of attractions across the island, while those looking to unwind can relax on the beach and sink their toes in the sand. While you’re at it, just be sure to check out places like the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and Driftwood Beach.

Save the best for last, don’t you? Cumberland Island is the largest of Georgia’s barrier islands and has plenty to do. Known for its roaming wild horses, natural beauty around every turn, and historic ruins worth a visit, this barrier island has it all. If you want to stay overnight, be sure to bring a tent. There is nothing quite like camping by the water, waking up to the sound of nature under the swaying Spanish moss.
Have you ever visited one of Georgia’s barrier islands? Share with us your favorite in the comments section! We would also like to know any excursions or adventures you have had on these islands!
Address: Tybee Island, Georgia 31328, USA
Address: Wassaw Island, Georgia 31411, United States
Address: Ossabaw Island, Georgia, United States
Address: Sapelo Island, Georgia, United States
Address: Wolf Island, Georgia 31522, USA
Address: Little Saint Simons Island, Little St Simons Island, Georgia, USA
Address: Sea Island, Georgia, United States
Address: Saint Simons Island, St Simons Island, Georgia 31522, United States
Address: Jekyll Island, Georgia 31527, USA
Address: Cumberland Island, Georgia, United States