Atlanta, Georgia Beaches: Best Spots for a Day at the Water Near the City

Atlanta doesn’t sit on the ocean, but if you live in the metro area or you’re visiting the city, you still have plenty of ways to enjoy a “beach day” near Atlanta, Georgia. From sandy lakeside shores inside the Perimeter to full coastal getaways a few hours’ drive away, you can absolutely find sun, sand, and swimmable water.

This guide breaks down the closest beaches to Atlanta, how far they are, what to expect, and tips for planning a relaxing (and realistic) beach trip from the city.

Is There a Beach in Atlanta, Georgia?

In short: no true ocean beach is in Atlanta itself, but there are man‑made lake beaches and waterfront parks that give you a similar experience:

• Sandy swimming areas
• Designated swim zones
• Picnic areas and grills
• Restrooms and nearby parking

If what you want is saltwater and waves, you’ll need to drive to the Georgia or Florida coast. If you’re fine with freshwater beaches, you can stay much closer to Atlanta.

Closest “Beach” Experiences to Atlanta

These are the most popular lake beaches and sandy waterfronts within about a 1–2 hour drive of downtown Atlanta.

1. Lake Lanier Beaches (Northeast of Atlanta)

Lake Lanier is one of the best-known beach options near Atlanta, with several designated swimming areas.

Common public beach-style areas include:

• Margaritaville at Lanier Islands / Lanier Islands Beach
• Laurel Park
• Little Hall Park

Many Atlantans use Lanier for:

• Day trips with kids
• Boating and jet skiing
• Lakeside picnics and grilling

💡 Tip: Check parking fees, swim hours, and any water quality advisories before heading out, especially in peak summer months.

2. Lake Allatoona Beaches (Northwest of Atlanta)

Lake Allatoona, just north of Atlanta near Cartersville and Acworth, is another popular freshwater option with several sandy lakeside areas.

Well-known public spots include:

• Red Top Mountain State Park – Has a designated swimming beach, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
• Acworth Beach at Cauble Park (on Lake Acworth, near Allatoona) – A family-friendly lakeside beach with sand, volleyball, and a roped-off swim area.

Why Atlantans like Allatoona:

• Shorter drive for many on the northwest side of the metro
• Multiple boat ramps and marinas
• Mix of shaded picnic areas and open sandy shoreline

3. West Point Lake (Southwest of Atlanta)

West Point Lake, near LaGrange, offers beaches that feel a bit quieter than some of the more crowded lakes closer to Atlanta.

Common uses:

• Day trips from south and southwest metro Atlanta
• Camping and fishing weekends
• Family swimming and picnics at designated recreation areas

It can be a good pick if you want more space and less congestion than some of the lakes directly surrounding Atlanta.

4. Local “Urban Beach” Feel: City Pools & Splash Areas

If you just want water and sun without driving far, parts of Atlanta offer a loose “beach day” feel with:

• City of Atlanta public pools (such as those in Grant Park or Piedmont Park)
• Spraygrounds and splash pads in city parks
• Rooftop or hotel pools (often more for adults or guests)

These aren’t beaches in the strict sense, but for families living in town, they’re practical ways to cool off without planning a full-day trip.

For up-to-date pool locations and hours, residents often check information from the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation.

Ocean Beaches Nearest to Atlanta, Georgia

If your goal is a true ocean beach from Atlanta, you’ll need to plan a longer drive. Below are commonly chosen coastal destinations for Atlantans and approximate drive times (from downtown, depending on traffic).

Popular Georgia Ocean Beaches for Atlantans

Tybee Island (Near Savannah)

• Approx. drive: About 4–4.5 hours east of Atlanta
• Why go: Walkable, classic beach town feel, close to historic Savannah
• What to expect: Wide sandy beach, gentle surf, public parking areas, pier, and nearby restaurants.

Jekyll Island

• Approx. drive: About 4.5–5 hours southeast of Atlanta
• Why go: Calmer, more natural atmosphere, bike paths, and family-friendly beaches
• What to expect: Several distinct beach areas (some more developed, some more natural), a mix of sand, dunes, and maritime forest.

St. Simons Island

• Approx. drive: About 4.5–5 hours southeast of Atlanta
• Why go: Charming island feel, shops and dining, popular with families and groups
• What to expect: Long stretches of beach, tidal changes, and pier area.

Nearby Florida & Alabama Beaches Often Used by Atlantans

Many Atlantans also drive to Florida and Alabama beaches, especially for longer trips.

Common options include:

• Panama City Beach, FL – About 5–5.5 hours
• Destin, FL – About 5.5–6 hours
• Gulf Shores / Orange Beach, AL – About 5.5–6 hours

These areas are known for white sand and clear Gulf water. They are not in Georgia, but they’re realistic “beach weekend” or vacation options if you’re based in Atlanta.

Quick Comparison: Beach Options for Someone in Atlanta

Planning a Beach Trip from Atlanta: Key Considerations

1. How Much Time You Have

• Half-day or single day:
  Stick to nearby lakes (Lanier, Allatoona, West Point). You’ll avoid spending most of your day in the car.

• Long weekend (2–3 days):
  Georgia coast or Gulf Coast starts to make sense. You’ll have time to actually enjoy the beach instead of just driving.

• Week or more:
  You can go further (Florida Atlantic coast, South Carolina beaches) and still feel unrushed.

2. Who’s Going With You

Think about:

• Kids: Look for lifeguards (when available), shallow swim areas, restrooms, and playgrounds. Many Atlanta-area lake beaches cater to families.
• Pets: Some beaches are not dog-friendly, especially during peak season. Check pet rules for both lakes and ocean beaches.
• Large groups: Lakes with pavilions and grills can be better for group gatherings.

3. What Kind of Beach Experience You Want

• Relaxed lakeside afternoon:
  Choose a lake beach near Atlanta with picnic tables and shady spots.

• Boardwalks, restaurants, and nightlife:
  Consider Tybee Island, St. Simons, or Florida/Alabama Gulf beaches.

• Nature-focused and quieter:
  Look into places like Jekyll Island or less crowded sections of Georgia’s coast.

4. Heat, Sun, and Seasonal Timing

Atlanta summers are hot and humid, and that carries over to nearby lakes and coasts:

• Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, shade, lightweight clothing).
• Expect crowds on weekends and holidays; going early in the day can help with parking and getting a good spot.
• Check for seasonal openings at lake beaches, as some operate mainly in late spring through early fall.

Practical Tips for Atlanta Residents and Visitors

• 🚗 Traffic planning:
  Leaving Atlanta early (especially on Friday afternoons or holiday weekends) can significantly cut drive time to both lakes and beaches.

• 💵 Budgeting:
  Consider parking fees, entrance fees to state parks or recreation areas, and tolls where applicable.

• 🚿 Facilities check:
  Not every lakeside access point has restrooms, changing areas, or concessions. Look up your specific beach or park before you go.

• 🌊 Safety awareness:
  At both lakes and oceans, pay attention to posted signs, swim area boundaries, and any current or hazard warnings.

How Someone in Atlanta Can Decide Where to Go

When you search for “Atlanta Georgia beach”, what you really need to decide is:

1. Do you want a quick lake beach day near Atlanta or a true ocean experience?
2. How far are you willing to drive from the city?
3. Are you planning a few hours out, a day trip, or a longer vacation?

• For fast, low-effort beach vibes:
  A lake beach near Atlanta (Lanier, Allatoona, West Point) is usually your best bet.

• For waves, ocean air, and coastal towns:
  Plan for Tybee Island, Savannah area beaches, Jekyll Island, St. Simons, or Gulf Coast resorts, and give yourself at least a few days.

With a bit of planning around drive time, facilities, and the kind of experience you want, it’s completely realistic to enjoy a “beach day” or full beach vacation from Atlanta, even though the city itself isn’t on the coast.