Coastal And Lake Getaways Near Atlanta

Living in Atlanta means you’re only a few hours from quiet lakeside coves, sandy Georgia coast beaches, and laid‑back waterfront towns that feel a world away from I‑285. On this page, you’ll find curated guides to day trips and short escapes, from Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona to Savannah, Tybee Island, Jekyll Island, and beyond—plus practical details on drive times, parking, fees, and what each spot is really like once you arrive.

Whether you’re planning a quick swim after work, a family-friendly beach day, or a low-key weekend by the water, these articles are designed to help Atlanta residents compare options, avoid common hassles, and choose the right getaway for their schedule and budget. Use them to decide when to leave to beat traffic, which lakes and coastal towns fit your style, and how to make the most of your next escape from the city.

Coastal And Lake Getaways
Callaway Resort And Gardens Robin Lake Beach
If you live in Atlanta and want a beach day without driving to the coast, Robin Lake Beach at Callaway Resort & Gardens is one of the most popular nearby options. It combines a classic sandy beach, lake swimming, and resort-style amenities in a setting that’s close enough for a day trip but relaxing enough for a full weekend getaway.
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
Jekyll Island Driftwood Beach (Weekend)
If you live in Atlanta and crave a salty breeze, quiet shoreline, and something more dramatic than a standard beach walk, Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island is one of the best weekend escapes you can make without getting on a plane. It’s wild, photogenic, and peaceful—about as far as you can feel from the city while still being a realistic Friday–Sunday trip.
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
Lake Allatoona Paradise Cove
If you live in Atlanta and crave a quick break from traffic, concrete, and skyline views, Lake Allatoona’s Paradise Cove is one of the closest spots where the city gives way to calm water, red-clay shoreline, and a laid‑back lake vibe. It’s close enough for a day trip from Atlanta, but peaceful enough to feel like you’re much farther away.
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
Lake Hartwell Dam And Big Water Marina
For Atlantans who want a quick break from city traffic and concrete, Lake Hartwell Dam and Big Water Marina offer a classic, laid‑back lake day without needing a full vacation. You get wide‑open water views, boating, swimming, fishing, and simple lakeside food — all within a realistic drive from the metro area.
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
Lake Oconee Ritz-Carlton Day Pass
If you live in Atlanta and you’ve heard people rave about spending the day at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, you might be wondering:
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
Lake Sinclair Watersports At Milledgeville
Looking for an easy lake escape from Atlanta that feels like a mini-vacation but doesn’t require an overnight stay? Lake Sinclair in Milledgeville is one of the most practical and affordable options for Atlantans who want a full day of boating, tubing, kayaking, and swimming without the heavy crowds of some metro lakes.
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
Tybee Island North Beach (Extended Day)
If you’re in Atlanta and craving a true beach day without committing to a full vacation, an extended day trip to Tybee Island’s North Beach is one of the most realistic coastal escapes you can pull off. It’s a long day, but with an early start and a smart plan, you can leave Atlanta in the morning, spend real time in the sand, and be back in your own bed that night.
Read More
Coastal And Lake Getaways
West Point Lake Fishing And Camping
West Point Lake is one of the easiest lake getaways from Atlanta if you’re looking for solid fishing, camping, and boating without a long drive. Straddling the Georgia–Alabama line near LaGrange, it feels like a real escape but is still close enough for a day trip or quick overnight.
Read More